You won’t want to miss the Friday evening reception at the Medley of Roses – ARS National Convention & Rose Show! The reception theme, “I Never Promised You a Rose Garden,” may sound familiar. It comes from Lynn Anderson’s legendary 1970 hit song, “Rose Garden.” The song earned Lynn a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance in 1971 and went gold.
This very special evening will be hosted by Lisa Sutton and Melissa Hempel, Lynn Anderson’s daughters, who will share a glimpse into their mother’s remarkable life and legacy.
Lynn’s early life was intertwined not only with music, but also with horses. An accomplished equestrian, she competed successfully and earned more than 700 trophies throughout her riding career.
Her love of horses and music came together beautifully in Maverick, a life-sized replica horse commissioned by Lynn. At her father’s suggestion, Maverick was painted as a magnificent Palomino, adorned with beautiful pink roses inset with rhinestones. He wears Lynn’s grandmother’s gorgeous, custom-made, ornate silver parade saddle, which is more than 100 years old.
Not Maverick’s First Rodeo!
The Medley of Roses convention isn’t Maverick’s first rodeo! Rose enthusiasts may remember him from his appearance at the 2019 Miniature Rose Convention in Franklin, Tennessee, where he was quite a hit. We expect Maverick to once again be one of the evening’s most popular photo opportunities. Be sure to bring your camera!
But Maverick won’t be the only special feature of the evening. The evening will include a cash bar, appetizers, special convention announcements, entertainment, and opportunities to learn more about the exciting events during the weekend ahead. We will enjoy an hour of live musical entertainment by Karen Walrup – you can see Karen’s video and hear her music here.
Reception Schedule
The reception will begin at 4:30pm. Enjoy a drink (cash bar), appetizers, and time to mingle with fellow rose enthusiasts as the evening gets underway.
At 4:45pm we will have the Convention Kick-Off with welcomes from our Janie and Liz, our Convention Co-chairs, announcements, and important information about Friday night’s special outing to the Grand Ole Opry the Grand Ole Opry Birthday Weekend, featuring the Oak Ridge Boys and Ricky Skaggs.
From 5:00–6:00pm we will enjoy an hour of live musical entertainment by Karen Walrup.
Before heading out at 6:30pm for the evening, take advantage of this final half-hour to visit, linger, and get your picture with Karen and, of course, Maverick!
Come celebrate an unforgettable evening where roses, music, horses, memories, and Nashville come together. You may not have been promised a rose garden — but we think you’ll find that the Medley of Roses Friday reception comes pretty close! If you have not included the Reception on your registration, but would like to attend, send an email to diane@medleyofroses.org.