"I'm wearing Cavalli" blurted  Jennifer Nettles of   Sugarland  when I complimented her black leather lace-up pants. She was rockin' them! Her Sugarland counterpart, Kristian Bush and I talked about the upkeep of grooming beards and Kristian's brother, Brandon Bush , and I, caught up - we're old friends. Once neighbors.

Sugarland is nominated for Best Country Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals.

The venue was the W Downtown and the event was the Grammy VIP reception. The excitement of a nomination was evident. The ballroom was decorated elegantly with live orchids, lavish catering and (the best part) an open bar.

Keri Hilson, Best New Artist Nominee, was high stylin' too. She was a showstopper on the red carpet. I took a moment to admire and comment about the fabulous hand bag she was sporting -- over-sized, black & white houndstooth. Fab!

After the rush on the red carpet, the flash photography and film camera's took a break for the evening's presentation hosted by the Senior Executive Director of the Recording Academy, Michele Caplinger. Every nominee was recognized on stage with a token from the Recording Academy. The ceremony was short and sweet, leaving plenty of time for partying, which spilled over to Drinkshop.

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