Capitol Records commandeered the cavernous carriage house at Nashville’s Belle Meade Mansion Wednesday (July 24) for a party to celebrate the gold certification of Cyndi Thomson’s debut album, My World. (The gold designation signifies that 500,000 copies of the album have been shipped to record stores.)

Correctly anticipating that it would be hot in the un-air-conditioned building, the record label passed out decorative cardboard fans to the arriving guests. Adorning one side of the fans was a picture of the red stiletto-heeled shoes that have become the glamorous singer’s trademark. The reverse side bore the Thomson quotation: “I hope this album transports you to a place you’ve never been, a place that allows you to escape everything around you. These songs are about my life. And I’m so blessed to be able to share them with you. Welcome to my world.”

Capitol president Mike Dungan told the crowd that achieving gold status “doesn’t happen a lot in our format any more. And we don’t take these things lightly.” “This is beautiful,” said Thomson, as she accepted her gold plaque. “It’s amazing.” Dressed informally for the occasion, Thomson wore a tiered, off-the-shoulder pink blouse and a snug, knee-length denim skirt.

Dungan also presented plaques to Tommy Lee James and Paul Worley, who co-produced Thomson’s album, and to Ron Baird, her booking agent.

Thomson became increasingly emotional as she thanked her parents, Russ and Pat Thomson, for their unconditional support of her career choices. By the time she beckoned them on stage to give them their own gold plaque, she was crying. “I have four beautiful daughters I’m proud of,” said her beaming father, “but this tops it all.”