Stella Parton’s Red Tent Women’s Conference took place April 18-20, 2014

Several years ago, Stella Parton, envisioned an event that would empower women from all walks of life – with the theme ‘Renew – Restore – Revive’. That dream became reality this month at the DoubleTree Hotel in Downtown Nashville, Tennessee. The inaugural Stella Parton’s Red Tent Women’s Conference was comprised of a Friday night concert, Saturday speakers and a Sunday brunch. On Friday evening, famed announcer and television host, Keith Bilbrey brought the dazzling and radiant Red Tent Founder/CEO, Stella Parton to the stage where the attendees welcomed her with enthusiasm and appreciation. She proceeded to rock the excited audience with her anthem, “Tell It Sister, Tell It,” which is also the title of her inspirational memoir. Following her dynamic performance, Stella brought to the stage an all-star female band featuring Robin Ruddy (steel guitar/utility), Anita Cochran (guitar/vocals), Nancy Gardner (drums), Michelle Poe (bass/vocals), Catherine Marx (keys), Jonelle Mosser (vocals), and Odessa Settles (vocals). From there, country torch singer, Mandy Barnett charmed the crowd; after which, Stella welcomed her sister and keynote speaker, Dolly Parton, to the stage. After Dolly’s rousing performance and keynote address, Stella rejoined Dolly on stage along with their sisters, Rachel and Laura as well as niece, Hannah to perform a song co-penned by Stella and Dolly entitled “More Power To Ya.” That was only the beginning with Saturday featuring renowned speakers Patricia R. Miller (Vera Bradley), Genie James, Sherry Deutschmann (LetterLogic), Kate O’Neill, Julee Jones, Marcela Gomez, Lisa Quigley, Shayna Humphrey, Pat Shea, Gretchen Peters, and Chef Margot McCormack. These illustrious and successful women shared their personal experiences with messages geared toward inspiring other women. A diverse group, the lecturers covered a range of topics from business, politics, and finance to entertainment and spirituality. The celebration ended with a beautiful and delicious Easter Sunday brunch. Stella addressed the audience with sincerity and appreciation – inviting all back for the next Red Tent Women’s Conference, for which plans have already begun. “The weekend was magical,” Stella comments. “This event was a dream come true for me and to see and hear how this conference impacted women makes all the struggles to get here worthwhile. Plus having the support of my family means the world to me. It truly was a weekend to Renew – Restore – Revive!”