Warner Tidwell
On June 7, Nashville’s annual white-tie gala, Swan Ball, returns benefiting Friends of Warner Parks. The invitation-only event includes cocktails, a seated dinner, an unforgettable performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Patti LaBelle, a featured fine jewelry exhibit by Sidney Garber, and the presentation of the Swan Award to philanthropist Brooke Garber Neidich. We chatted with the 2025 chairs, Melanie Baker and Laura Niewold, to learn more about the prestigious event. (swanball.com)
Nashville Lifestyles: What made you want to chair Swan Ball?
Melanie Baker & Laura Niewold: Swan Ball, established in 1963, is renowned internationally as one of the premier white-tie charity balls in the United States. Recognized for its rich tradition of uniting volunteers, we are honored to chair this event and to continue a celebrated legacy.
NL: How are the funds raised from this event utilized?
MB & LN: This year, the proceeds from the Swan Ball will benefit Friends of Warner Parks (FOWP) and SB Initiative, Inc. FOWP has directed net proceeds from Swan Ball 2025 to its Children’s Nature Discovery Program. Funds will be transformative for FOWP, providing resources for staffing and transportation, and expanding programs that inspire appreciation and conservation of the Parks for our city’s youth who might otherwise be unable to enjoy nature to the fullest.
NL: Why is supporting Swan Ball important and why is Friends of Warner Parks vital to our community?
MB & LN: Swan Ball is a 100 percent volunteer-driven organization with a mission statement to enhance the quality of life in our community through financial support to nonprofit institutions whose purposes contribute to that end. Friends of Warner Parks is dedicated to the preservation, protection, and stewardship of Percy Warner and Edwin Warner Parks. They fund and oversee trail maintenance and restoration, invasive plant control, support Warner Park Nature Center’s educational programs and staff, and fundraise on behalf of the needs of the Warner Parks and its many facets.
NL: What inspires you to utilize your time, talents, and treasure to support nonprofits?
MB & LN: Volunteer work and giving back to the community have been a large part of our lives for many years. Making a difference is very inspiring and meaningful to both of us.
NL: What in your background do you think most prepared you to chair an event of this magnitude?
MB & LN: We have both chaired numerous nonprofit events and have enjoyed demanding careers, which have helped us navigate the challenges of creating a ball of this magnitude in a new venue.