ASHLEY HYLBERT.
Dee Patel
Our annual list of trailblazing women are creating lasting legacies for themselves and for the city of Nashville. Now they’re sharing their stories, their triumphs, their setbacks, and their advice with us. Prepare to be inspired.
Early Aspirations
Growing up in England, I was curious, played sports, and loved to learn and explore. I was fortunate to travel internationally which fed my imagination. At Johnson & Wales University, I discovered my passion for hospitality and my proclivity for operations and strategy. I learned not only the finer points of a five-star guest experience, but also the practices that enable a hotel to operate as a successful business.
Challenges Faced
Early-career positions are about learning and proving yourself. I approached my early positions as a student and gave myself grace when faced with challenges. I immersed myself in the experience, remembering that even the not- so-fun moments were fantastic teachers guiding me to where I hoped to land professionally. Years of experience have instilled maturity, confidence, and perspective that enable me to navigate challenges and stay focused on the most important objectives. This perspective has been especially valuable during the events of the past year.
The Definition of Success
Success, to me, happens when your professional life and personal life are in alignment. I am fortunate to have built a career around things that I’m passionate about—hospitality, creative cuisine, mentoring and empowering others, and serving the community. This enables me to bring joy to the work. I’m very fortunate to have a husband and family who support my professional and personal passions. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to find fulfillment in all aspects of my life.
Work Perks
I love the diversity of the hospitality business. My position enables me to work with a team of professionals with diverse backgrounds and a variety of perspectives. I am also fortunate to collaborate with a variety of community partners, business leaders, and creative partners. I have a truly fulfilling opportunity to touch people’s lives and my community in many ways. It’s a privilege to help usher in The Hermitage’s next chapter and weave a beautiful experience with history, design, cuisine, and sense of place that will be enjoyed for many years to come. I think the process can be compared to an art curator who works to create the perfect collection of pieces to tell a story, evoke emotion, and create a memory.
Advice to Others
Be intentional with your work and your life. In order to thrive in a community and build a professional life there become a stakeholder in your community. Find causes and groups that interest you on a personal and professional level and volunteer, seek out mentors, build relationships, identify people who inspire you, and do your best to surround yourself with them. Always speak up, raise your hand, and trust your gut.
Meet Dee Patel and other women in the local community who are the best in their fields at our annual Women in Business event.
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The mix and mingle reception will be held on August 24 from 5-7:30 p.m., to network with our Women in Business honorees plus 200 other local business professionals. Throughout the evening, we will be doing live Q and A sessions with each woman!
Guests will enjoy hors d'oeuvres from Virgin Hotels Nashville along with wine from Biltmore Winery and cocktails from Tito's Handmade Vodka. Beverages from a full bar will also be available for purchase (credit cards only).