Creativity, Community, and Hidden Gems: Renaissance Center Nashville at the 2025 State Fair Tablescaping Contest
Participants standing next to the Renaissance Center entry in the 2025 State Fair Tablescaping competition.
At Renaissance Center Nashville, we know that creativity has no age limit—and our participants proved it once again at the 2025 Tennessee State Fair tablescaping contest! With a mix of imagination, teamwork, and a dash of flair, our group created a stunning tablescape that not only wowed fair visitors but also told a special story about the heart of our Center.
Treasures from the Thrift Shop
What made this year’s entry even more meaningful? Much of the design was built with items discovered in our very own Thrift Shop. From vintage linens to unique décor pieces, our participants showed how hidden gems - sometimes overlooked by others - can be repurposed into something extraordinary.
By using thrifted items, the tablescape carried a message we love: creativity doesn’t have to be expensive. It can be about seeing the beauty in what’s already around us, and finding joy in giving new life to well-loved treasures.
Creativity in Action
Our participants poured their personalities into every detail:
Mixing colors and textures with thrift shop finds.
Adding flair with floral touches and thoughtful themes.
Working together as a team, laughing and collaborating from start to finish.
The result? A table that not only celebrated the Fair but also showcased the talents and imagination of Nashville’s vibrant 60+ community.
Why the Thrift Shop Matters
The Renaissance Center Thrift Shop is more than just a place to shop - it’s a place to:
Find affordable treasures that spark joy and creativity.
Support the Center’s mission, with proceeds going back into free programs like fitness classes, tech workshops, and volunteer initiatives.
Connect with the community, whether you’re donating, shopping, or volunteering.
This contest gave us the perfect stage to show off what’s possible when you combine resourcefulness with artistry—and reminded us just how valuable our Thrift Shop is for fueling both creativity and community.