Target acne, aging, or melasma with a custom serum, microneedled deep into your skin using SkinPen® or Collagen P.I.N. ― then boosted with the Lutronic Glo® laser for maximum absorption and radiant results.
Take your associates to Rome or Buenos Aires nonstop in this Falcon 7X!
Also, simple solutions are available for Rome, GA.
Paying too much for a timeshare/fractional?
Tired of dealing with airline delays and cancellations?
Missing family events?
CONSIDER A MANAGED CO-OWNERSHIP
Exclusive use during your week/s
Know your crew and maintenance providers May have 100% depreciation again
Do you want to build flying time?
Local rentals available
Great model selection
Stylin' Memphis Musicians
Since 1946
Musician Jason D. Williams
wearing " e Killer" Sportcoat
CONCERTS IN THE GROVE
THURSDAYS | MAY 15 - JUNE 26 | MUSIC AT 6:30 PM | GATES OPEN AT 5:30 PM
ENJOY MUSIC AND FOOD TRUCKS ALL IN THE BEAUTIFUL, PARK-LIKE SETTING OF THE TRUGREEN LAWN. COCKTAILS AND DRINK SPECIALS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE FIRST HORIZON FOUNDATION PLAZA.
FRIDAYS | 5PM - 8PM STARTING MAY 16 FREE ADMISSION
JOIN US ON FRIDAYS FOR GOOD-TIMES MUSIC FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
SCAN HERE TO SEE ALL EVENTS IN THE GROVE KIDS ARE FREE!
SATURDAY | JUNE 7 MUSIC BY MIGHTY SOULS BRASS BAND!
Cyrena Wages
photo by Ziggy Mack
Financial Freedom begins with a strategy
Discover the Ways you can Succeed
Jim Walker
Michael Agee
Thomas Christenbury
George Coleman
Charles Hardee
Rick Humphreys
Staci Jackson
Jacob Jackson
Guy Lo in
Jennifer Moerbe
Brooks Monypeny
Three Stories Jewelry
Monica Rich Kosann
Jude Frances
Michele Watch
Lika Behar
Shy Creation
Armenta
John Hardy
Sydney Evan
Julie Vos
eNewton
Cynthia Ann
901-482-2929/901-679-6818
901-488-4050
Paula Sansom
Gordon Stark
Jennifer “Bird” Williams
Winchester
MAY / JUNE 2025
OUTTAKES
24 Movin’ In Memphis Gala
28 GPAC Gala
30 Art of Caring
34 Physicians’ Gala
36 Memphis Farmers Market
42 Live at the Garden Season Announcement
56 The ICON: Babbie Lovett, Fashion Legend
58 Easter Parade Luncheon
69 Huey’s 55th Anniversary Block Party
74 Barrel to Barrel Grand Auction
75 Spring for Forrest Cocktail Party
76 Masquerade Ball
77 Party on the Patio
78 Toast to Ave Maria
79 Walkin’ in Memphis
80 Women’s Auxiliary Founder’s Day Luncheon
81 Business and Industry Salute Luncheon
81 Tabletop and Tastemakers
82 Healing Soles Outreach Day
82 The Memphis MahJong Club
83 Orpheum Broadway Season Reveal Celebration
83 Black Violin Sidewalk of Stars Installation Ceremony
84 Krewes for Kids
FEATURES
27 Buster’s 4 Meat and Wine Pairings
32 Novel's 4Reads
38 The Local Buzz: Bee 901 Co. Making Life Changing Honey
40 Farmers Market Smoothie Bowl
46 Experience Memphis Gardens: Cultivating Beauty, Growing Community
COLLECTED BY ELIZABETH MALMO - COTTON TAILS - DINSTUHL’S
EAST MEMPHIS ATHLETIC CLUB - FLEET FEET SPORTS - FROST BAKE
SHOP - GOETZE ART & DESIGN (OPENING THIS SUMMER) - HIGHTEE
HOT YOGA PLUS - J. MCLAUGHLIN JAMES DAVIS - J. JILL - JOSEPH
JOSEPH MEN - KING FURS AND FINE JEWELRY - KITTIE KYLE - LIBRO
LISA MALLORY · SARAH SPINOSA INTERIOR DESIGN - LORI JAMESNOVEL - ORVIS - PANERA BREAD PAVO SALON - PIGTAILS AND CREWCUTS - RESTAURANT IRIS - SACHI - SISSY’S LOG CABIN
STOVALL COLLECTION - VIGNETTES INTERIORS - ZÜPMED
MAY/JUNE 2025
May/June 2025
Volume XI • Number 3
PUBLISHER
Jim Walker jim@4memphis.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Sandi Butler Hughes sandi@4memphis.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Lesley Harris Colvett lesley@4memphis.com
ART DIRECTOR McKendree Walker mckendree@4memphis.com
ARTS CONTRIBUTOR
Ken Hall ken@4memphis.com
ADVERTISING
Cathy Farrell cathy@4memphis.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Daniel Kallaher
WEBMASTER
Eddie Bates webmaster@4memphis.com
PHOTOGRAPHERS AT LARGE Frank Chin
Bryant Cummings
Ken Hall Steve Roberts CONTACT 6465 Quail Hollow Memphis, TN 38120 4memphis.com
Movin’ In Memphis Gala Madonna Learning Center
Photography by Ken Hall
You’ve never seen the Agricenter like this! The magical transformation took scores of hours over three days and the result was a spectacular Movin’ In Memphis Gala for Madonna Learning Center. The agency provides a nurturing educational and social environment for special needs children and adults. Over 700 guests enjoyed a dinner, auction, and dancing for the great cause. madonna-learning.org
1. Britni & Michael Christie 2. Dena & Gary Dodson, Donna Infurchia 3. Janet & Matt Mulroy 4. Lizzie & Justin Foreman 5. Taylor Weaks & Carter Sanders 6. Brittany & Will Patterson 7. David & Shelby Bodine 8. March & Mike Palazzola 9. Matt McDonald, Jack McDonald, Andrew Douglas, Annie McDonald, Joe & Mary McDonald, Tia Douglas 10. Elizabeth & Giles Coors
BUSTER'S
Meat & Wine Pairings 4
Shimmering wine glasses and long-shadow afternoons are synonymous with summertime grilling with family and friends. Whether you are hot-dogging for the kiddos or dialing in a masterpiece recipe for your favorite delicacy, Buster’s Butcher has all the meats to get the job done right. We’re also pairing up some wines from Buster’s Liquors. -Josh Hammond
Homeplace Pastures Dry-Aged Pork Loin + 2022 Sean Minor Sonoma Pinot Noir
Cabernet is the perfect match for beef as the strong intense flavors for meat integrate well with cabernet. This Daou will impress! $19.99
Creekstone Farms 100% Prime Filet Mignon + 2023 Daou Paso Robles Cabernet
Joyce Farms Whole Chicken + 2022 Alma del Cattleya Sonoma Chardonnay
This chardonnay is sublime perfection balancing similar in style white-burgundy acidity, weight, and soft buttery flavors. $25.99
This is currently the highest-rated pinot for this price range in the shop. Lighter style red pinot with finesse and subtle power allows the pork to shine. $29.99
Zinfandel is ideal to match up with savory flavors of our premium steak grind in your burgers. $29.99
GPAC Gala
Photos by Fomoloop Photography
The GPAC Gala was an evening to celebrate 30 years of artistic excellence! The party was on April 5, and if you recall, that was the weekend of record rainfall, but a little rain couldn’t dampen a party 30 years in the making! With a short delay of the start time, partygoers enjoyed a wonderful night of live entertainment, delicious food, dancing and “FUNdraising.” Check out the Concerts in the Grove series May-June and the Fried Chicken Fest on June 7. gpacweb.com
A former CPA and financial auditor, Kelly found her true calling in real estate when she joined Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty in 2005. Originally from Memphis, Kelly moved to 30A after several visits, drawn by the laid back beach community feel. Blending her financial expertise with a
Art of Caring Baptist Centers for Good Grief
Photography by Ken Hall
The 2025 Baptist Art of Caring event and auction raised nearly $128,000 for the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief. Over 300 Art of Caring attendees enjoyed a fun Rio Carnival theme with delicious food and drinks, live music, a photo booth, and live guest portraits from Mandy Berry Fine Art. In addition to the night-of-attendees, other supporters placed bids online for the artworks from 68 participating local and regional artists. Camp Good Grief was created to support children who have lost a sibling or parent dealing with difficult emotional trauma, and has expanded to serve families and the larger community with grief counseling. baptistgriefcenters.org
1. Wanda & Ron Walborn 2. Aaron & Nikki Jones 3. Becky McRae & Sandra Horton 4. Missy & Jimbo Rainer 5. Lillie Flenorl & Kim Alexander 6. Marjorie Campagna, John Lewis & Jennifer Balink 7. Melissa Smith & Amy Waycaster 8. Lindsey Huff & Alexis Oetter 9. Salman & Komal Noordin 10. Allison & Jason Little 11. Laura Cantrell & Miranda Griffin
THE DEVIL THREE TIMES
By Rickey Fayne, $30
Yetunde awakens aboard a slave ship en route to the United States with the spirit of her dead sister as her only companion. Desperate to survive the hell that awaits her at their destination, Yetunde finds help in an unexpected form-the Devil himself. The Devil, seeking a way to reenter the pearly gates of heaven, grants her a piece of his supernatural power. In return, Yetunde makes a bargain that will extend far beyond her mortal lifespan. Over the next 175 years, the Devil visits Yetunde's descendants in their darkest hour of need, offering each of them his own version of salvation. Steeped in the spiritual traditions and oral history of the Black diaspora, The Devil Three Times is a baptism by fire and water, heralding a new voice in American fiction.
Novel will host rural West Tennessee native Rickey Fayne for a discussion and booksigning on Saturday, May 24 at 2pm.
4Reads
RUN FOR THE HILLS
By Kevin Wilson, $28.99
Ever since her dad left them twenty years ago, it's just been Madeline Hill and her mom on their farm in Coalfield, Tennessee. Then one day Reuben Hill pulls up in a PT Cruiser and informs Madeline that he believes she's his half sister. Reuben-left behind by their dad thirty years ago-has hired a detective to track down their father and a string of other half siblings. And he wants Mad to leave her home and join him for the craziest kind of road trip imaginable to find them all. Infused with deadpan wit, zany hijinks, and enormous heart, Run for the Hills is a sibling story like no other-a novel about a family forged under the most unlikely circumstances and united by hope in an unknown future.
Novel will host Kevin Wilson for a discussion and booksigning on Friday, May 16 at 6pm.
WORLD WITHOUT END: ESSAYS ON APOCALYPSE AND AFTER
By Martha Park, $24
In illustrated essays, Park's debut explores the intersections of faith, motherhood, and the climate crisis across the South and chronicles the ways the faith in which she was raised now seems like an exception to the rule, exploring this divide with compassion and empathy. For fans of Margaret Renkl and Lisa Wells, World Without End considers the ways religion shapes how we understand and interact with the world-and how faith can compel us all to work to save the places we love.
Novel will host Memphis writer and illustrator Martha Park in conversation with David Waters for a launch party to celebrate the release of World Without End on Tuesday, May 6 at 6pm.
BODOCK: STORIES
By Robert Busby, $30
In 1994, the real Mid-South Ice Storm strikes the fictitious town of Bodock in Claygardner County, Mississippi. In the wake of the storm, what is left unbroken, and what broken things can be rebuilt? Hailed by Maurice Carlos Ruffin as "leaving no feeling untouched," Robert Busby's debut balances grit with heart, violence with depth, and tragedy with humor.
Novel will host a launch party for Memphis author Robert Busby on Tuesday, June 3 at 6pm.
Physicians’ Gala Memphis Medical Society
Photography by Ken Hall
The Memphis Medical Society held its annual Physicians' Gala at the Memphis Botanic Garden to celebrate the doctors who keep our city healthy. The evening included a silent auction, dinner, dancing, and a rare opportunity for these busy medical professionals, their families, and teammates to catch up. mdmemphis.org
1. Katie Yaun, Caitlyn B. Lillard & Stephanie Johnson 2. Dr. Chris & Anne Fleming 3. Nicholas & Dr. Missy Barnhart, Jenny Bartlett-Prescott 4. Amit & Dr. Daniella Ramratton 5. Dr. Pallavi Rawtani, Dr. Jeff Warren & Dr. Indurani Tejwani 6. Allison & Dr. Parker Jones 7. Dr. Michelle Kitson, Carol Langley, Dr. Shirin Mazumder, Alicia Barnes & Dr. Jara Best Jones 8. Tony Williams & Amy Herbers
$1,695,000
7807 Radford Ridge Road
Jennifer and Joel Hobson (Hobson Realtors) represented the buyer. Melanie and Jeff Blakely (Marx-Bensdorf) represented the seller.
Joel 901-482-2929
Jennifer 901-679-6818 @jenhobson
2596 Orchard Grove Cove
Jennifer and Joel Hobson (Hobson Realtors) represented the seller. Elizabeth Duke (The Firm) represented the buyer.
Memphis Farmers Market
Photography by Frank Chin
Saturday mornings at the Memphis Farmers Market is the place to be! With fresh flowers, produce and proteins, a variety of baked goods, live music, artisans and crafters - it’s a smorgasbord of local delights! Food trucks are also on-site, so plan to linger for a bite in the food court. It’s “Ripe Downtown” at the Central Station Pavillion, 8am-1pm. Bring your shopping bag and join the fun! memphisfarmersmarket.org
The Local Buzz: Bee 901 Co. Making Life Changing Honey
By Sandi Butler Hughes | Photos courtesy of Bee 901 Co.
“We are the most overpriced and undervalued honey in Memphis,” laughs Kevin Woods, co-founder of Bee 901 Co. But when the mission of your business model is to give away 100% proceeds generated by the sale of honey and bee-themed merchandise, paying a little more for local, raw honey makes it even sweeter. “By supporting Bee 901 Co., you're not just investing in honey; you're investing in a community-driven initiative that empowers individuals in need while promoting the crucial role of bees in our ecosystem,” Kevin explains.
This altruistic business came about in 2016 when Nathan Bland, Kevin’s partner, was given a sum of money. Rather than simply donating the money, he wanted to use it as seed money to start a business that would continue to generate dollars to donate to Memphians in need. Nathan has known Kevin since high school, and so he called his very creative friend to talk about ideas. After a couple of weeks, Kevin said, "What about honey? We won't have to make anything. Bees can do that." Not that either of them knew anything about beekeeping, but they could learn. The symbolism of the hive, of working together for the good of all, was also important because it supported their vision for this business. “Bees are selfless, hardworking, and committed to their community,” Kevin explained. “This is the purpose of Bee 901 Co., and we are creating better lives for Memphians.”
Nathan and Kevin joined the Memphis Area Beekeepers Association, were mentored by an experienced beekeeper, bought a couple beehives, and so it began. The bees began doing what they do best: making honey, and in 2017 they made their first donation to King’s Daughters and Sons Home, a skilled nursing facility
in Bartlett. They made monetary donations, provided needed equipment, and in 2022 they donated a transport van. The most recent beneficiary is Shepherd's Haven, which provides care and programming for special needs adults. Since their first donation eight years ago, Bee 901 Co. has donated a total of $100,000 through the sale of honey, merchandise, and outreach.
Kevin and Nathan both have professional careers, and Bee 901 Co. is a side hustle founded purely to give back to the 901. The slogan on the bottle is “life changing honey.” Neither owner pays themselves from the proceeds; all of it is donated. “Honey is a symbol. It represents the output of thousands of bees working together over an extended period of time so that all members of the hive can thrive,” Kevin explains. “One bee makes 1/12 teaspoon of honey in her six week lifetime, but collectively the small amounts create about 5 gallons of honey in each harvest.” Doing small things consistently and working together results in positive effects. Ultimately, Bee 901 Co. strives for the good things in Memphis while making life a little sweeter for Memphians in need. “To ‘Bee 901’ means to be loving, supportive, and generous to everyone and provide them with an encounter of unconditional love,” Kevin shared. “Think of Memphis as your hive. Think of Memphis as our hive.”
Bee 901 Co. honey and merch is available at bee901.co, at Restaurant Iris in Laurelwood, and Hive Bagel & Deli in Downtown.
Kevin Woods
Farmers Market
Smoothie Bowl
It’s a smoothie - but even better because you can eat it with a spoon! The smoothie base is more like soft-serve ice cream, and using frozen fruits and less liquid help to make a thicker consistency. Our local farmers markets have in-season fruits and other ingredients to take your bowl to the next level. Jones Orchard has strawberries and blackberries; Falcon Ridge has blueberries; Hayes Farm has muscadines. Toppings to keep your bowl local, choose Nine Oat One Granola and Bee 901 Co. honey (see page 38). Use your imagination and all the goodies from the farmers markets.
Smoothie Base:
• 1½ cups frozen strawberries
• 1 frozen banana
• ½ cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Blend all smoothie base ingredients until thick and creamy. Pour into a bowl.
Toppings:
• Fresh sliced strawberries
• Granola or rolled oats
• Honey drizzle
• Freeze-dried raspberry pieces
• Chia or hemp seeds
• Dried goji berries
Live at the Garden Season Announcement
Photography by Steve Roberts
Another great Live at the Garden season will kick off June 21 with Third Eye Blind, and the concerts are some of the best parties of the summer. So of course there is a party-before-the-party to announce another stellar lineup. Get your best picnic basket ready, chill your favorite libation, and join the fun and dance under the stars at the Radians Amphitheater! radiansamp.com
Julie Lansky, Earle Farrell, Hal Lansky
Photography by Steve Roberts
Experience Memphis Gardens 2025:
Cultivating Beauty, Growing Community
By Emily Adams Keplinger
Photos courtesy of Experience Memphis Gardens
In 2016 the Cooper-Young Garden Walk began as a fund-raising event by the Cooper-Young Garden Club. But it was intended to be so much more. The neighborhood garden walk was meant to showcase the beauty of the eclectic Cooper-Young neighborhood, bringing people from other parts of town to see what was so special in that part of Midtown. It was also intended to build a stronger sense of belonging and community pride among the area residents.
With a known tagline of “Where Art and History Meet,” CooperYoung is a vibrant inner-city neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and a variety of charming, turn-of-the-20th century homes. It is also home to a cornucopia of creative souls who enjoy a range of artistic expressions, including gardening.
That first year Cooper-Young played host to its inaugural garden walk with 23 gardens on display throughout the area. In time, what started as a two-day tour grew into a six-week event called Experience Memphis Gardens. While the Cooper-Young area is still a mainstay, the walk now includes gardens from across Shelby County and is recognized as the largest city-wide garden tour in the South.
The seed of the original idea to host a garden walk has germinated and grown exponentially. For this year, the third year for the citywide garden walk, there will be over 250 gardens showcased across over 30 neighborhoods. The rich tapestry of gardens and green spaces that reflect the diversity of Memphis will be on display from May 1-June 15 (on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays). Participants in
the garden walk will have the opportunity to see a range of gardens, from expansive estates to charming, smaller plots in historic neighborhoods. And there will be “secret gardens” to tour. These are homeowners’ captivating backyard gardens that are usually hidden from public view. Making this year’s tour all the more alluring, the price of admission is FREE. The garden tour tickets are being generously underwritten by the Dr. Rudy Campbell Foundation. It is hoped that by removing any financial barriers that the event will engage more people than ever before. This garden walk is all about showcasing the wonderful neighborhoods of Memphis and giving people an engaging way to learn more about their city.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring together garden lovers, families and community members for inspiration, education and neighborhood pride,” said Kim Halyak, co-founder of Experience Memphis Gardens. “This garden walk is intended to bring people out of their own neighborhood to explore other parts of town. Featured gardens include a wide variety of private homes, businesses, schools, churches, community spaces and both urban and rural gems. Each day offers a fresh mix of gardens to explore. Participants can learn about pollinator gardens, native plants, tree gardens, growing food, aquaponics, raising chickens, garden art, and incorporating sustainability practices into their own gardens.” Kim added, “On May 29, there will be a special evening garden tour (4-8 p.m.) that will put the spotlight on gardens that were intentionally planted to sparkle in the moonlight.”
To Register for Free Tickets:
Go to ExperienceMemphisGardens.org to enter your information. Bring your registration to any of the lanyard pickup sponsors, and the lanyard will serve as your passport to all of the gardens on the tour, with the addresses accessible by scanning a QR code on the lanyard. The gardens are open rain or shine, and guests should also wear comfortable walking shoes.
Proceeds from Experience Memphis Gardens go toward numerous neighborhood projects, including funding for CY We Beautify grants, Southern Avenue Hell-O Gateway, beautification plantings, tree plantings, arboretum expenses and garden walk expenses.
Emily Adams Keplinger is a Memphis-based freelance writer and editor.
Rolling Out the Green Carpet
Something amazing is going to happen in Memphis this summer. From June 5-9, a prestigious group of garden writers, podcasters, bloggers, TV/radio hosts, speakers and garden industry representatives is coming to our fair city. This group is known collectively as The Garden Flingers. Each year, they set their sights on visiting one city in the United States — only one. And this year they chose MEMPHIS.
Previous cities visited have included Asheville, Austin, Buffalo, DC, Denver, Madison, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Portland, Puget Sound, San Francisco, and Toronto. The organizers of Experience Memphis Gardens believe that Memphis will stack up well by comparison. It’s a golden opportunity to show why Memphis is a garden destination to remember.
The purpose of hosting this group of Flingers is to put Memphis on the map when it comes to Garden Tourism. For the last three years this sector has been the fastest growing tourism sector. All of this translates into not only enjoyable experiences for our guests, but also into a new revenue stream of tourism dollars for our city.
The theme for this year’s garden walk is “Blooms, Blues, Brews, and BBQ.” In addition to the area’s botanical beauty, these distinguished guests will have a front row seat to survey another aspect that makes Memphis shine — our architectural heritage. From Mid-century Modern to Art Deco to bungalows, mansions, historic homes and quaint cottages, there’s sure to be something to capture their hearts. The four-day agenda includes a special breakfast gathering at Memphis Botanic Garden, an evening cocktail/charcuterie party at The Dixon Gallery & Gardens, and a barbecue buffet at Central BBQ. The highlight will be an evening reception at the historic 1850s Italianate villa, Annesdale Mansion, with foods that represent “A Taste of Memphis.” And as they end their stay, the Flingers will be treated to fabulous Southern fare in the incomparable surroundings of the Bobby Lanier Farm Park.
Experience Memphis Gardens is excited to roll out its “green carpet” for the Garden Flingers. After their tour, it is hoped that the Flingers will return home brimming with excitement, ready to help spread the word that Memphis is THE place to visit for botanical beauty.
- Emily Adams Keplinger
Native Plantings for a Buzzing Backyard
By Hannah Hooks, Horticulturist, Memphis Botanic Garden
With Spring in full swing and Summer just around the corner, it's the time to be on the lookout for your favorite pollinators! You can find countless pollinators all over the Memphis Botanic Garden. From My Big Backyard all the way back to the Pollinator Garden, crossing all 96 acres, you’ll find a wealth of captivating wildlife.
Pollinators are very important to the growth of our food, our ecosystems, and our overall biodiversity. Pollinators are essential to the reproduction of plants, which support these numerous facets of our lives. We tend to think of bees and butterflies when we think of pollinators, but we can’t forget about wasps, flies, hummingbirds, beetles, and many more!
Many native plants, or plants that naturally occur within a specific region and have adapted to the specific environment, are hosts for our local pollinators. These host plants support the life cycles of numerous organisms by providing them with food, shelter, or even a place to lay eggs. Many butterflies and moths use certain plants to lay larvae or munch on their leaves as caterpillars. Bees and wasps will collect nectar and pollen from these plants as a food source for themselves and their young.
While choosing my favorite pollinator plant seems akin to choosing a favorite child, below you will find those that are just a bit more special in my eyes!
Milkweed / AsclepiAs
There are several kinds of milkweed including, but not limited to, butterfly weed, swamp milkweed and common milkweed. Monarch butterflies rely on milkweed in their migration. They use it for both the caterpillar stage and the adult stage of their life cycle.
This showy vine is known for attracting the Gulf Fritillary caterpillars, which munch on their leaves for food.
Photo courtesy of Memphis Botanic Garden
Passion Vine
Goldenrod / solidAgo
You are probably familiar with the classic Canada Goldenrod, but there are many other species of Solidago that aid various insects, particularly butterflies and moths. This is an example of Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’.
Pipevine / AristolochiA
This vine is a food source host to the Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly. Its unique, pipe-shaped flowers attract hummingbirds and other insects as well.
Golden Alexander / ZiZiA AureA
This spring-blooming perennial is a host to the Black Swallowtail and Ozark Swallowtail butterflies. The caterpillars use the leaves for a food source.
Little Bluestem / schiZAchyrium scopArium
This native grass is a beautiful showy addition to a garden, with blades that start out with a blue hue and fade to almost purple in the fall. Numerous skipper butterflies call this grass their host. It also creates good habitat for insects that need to overwinter.
Mountain Mints
There are also several amazing species of mountain mint. Between the two genera Pycnanthemum and Monarda, the bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds have a feast! Their beautiful blooms are a hot spot for pollinators.
All of these examples can be found in My Big Backyard, but there are so many more to discover all over our 96 acres. You can find the bees buzzing in the Urban Home Garden, the caterpillars crawling in the Arboretum, and the butterflies bouncing around in the Pollinator Garden! You can also help support your local pollinators and wildlife by planting some of these plants in your home garden. Happy hunting!
Retail in Retrospect: COLLECTABLES
By Sandi Butler Hughes
WhenBabbie Lovett was a child, her father was in the cotton business, and he often drove to Memphis for business from their home in McCrory, Arkansas. Many times Babbie and her mother made the 150-mile-round-trip with him to shop all the Downtown stores. “Daddy made the money with the cotton brokers along Front Street, and we spent it on Main Street,” Babbie laughed. “As we crossed the bridge, he would ask, ‘Do you want to go to big heaven - Goldsmith’s - or little heaven - Levy’s?’” It was on these trips to Memphis she fell in love with the retail stores along Main Street and all their beautiful wares, and the seeds were sown for Babbie’s life-long “passion for fashion.”
Babbie’s love of fashion fully blossomed when she began modeling. Louise Hays, Fashion Coordinator for Goldsmith's, first asked Babbie to model when she was in her teens. Louise became her mentor throughout her career. She modeled in the first Memphis Fashion Week shows in the late 1950s, countless trunk and runway shows. She wore Oleg Cassini, Halston, and Geoffrey Beene, often working with designers themselves. The clothes Babbie wore on the runaway were expensive, and she couldn’t afford such luxury as a young wife and mother of two. So she honed one of her many pearls of wisdom or “Babbieism”: Fashion versus Style. “Style doesn’t have to mean couture prices,” she said. (For more Babbieisms, see Fashion 4Ward on page 68) Babbie realized this concept could be her niche for her own boutique. With Tish Outlan Ballard, her friend and business partner, they opened Collectables.
The shop was a curated mix of antiques, fabrics, designer samples, and imported fashions, located at 1501 Union Avenue. From the early 1960s through the 1980s as retailers moved east from Downtown, Union Avenue was the Mid-South’s shopping destination - Julius Lewis, LaClede’s, Helen of Memphis, Mamselle’s, and many others were along this fashion row. When buying inventory for the boutique, Babbie said, “Tish and I had an agreement that we wouldn’t sell anything we wouldn’t wear.” Tish would shop estate sales to find the best pieces to resell in the store. Designer Gayle Kirkpatrick and Babbie became friends when he attended the Memphis Art Academy. Gayle went on to a successful career in NYC with his own
collection of mens and womens lines, and Collectables sold his samples. “These were New York designer fashions at an accessible price,” she said. The most popular item ever sold at the shop was dubbed the “Memphis pants.” The simple, drawstring pants were made of white muslin, making them breezy, cool, and comfortable. What could be better for Memphis summers? Not only were they easy to wear and in keeping with their business model, the pants cost $10! They were imported from India, and Babbie ordered them from an importing firm in Rhode Island. Mothers bought them, then their daughters bought them too. Fashionable men also wore them including interior designer Bill Eubanks and artist Dolph Smith. “They were so easy to wear with a gauze top or a tshirt,” Babbie recalled. “We sold them as fast as we could get them.” She placed so many orders, the importer started writing “Memphis pants” on the order, and a Memphis-centric, 1975 fashion phenomenon was created.
In addition to fashions and antiques, the boutique gave other artists a place to show and sell their work. They hosted book signings for local authors, jewelry trunk shows, and art on the walls was created by artists from the Memphis Art Academy. Babbie said “Collectables was about art, artists, and clothes with prices that people could afford.” Yes, it was about fashion but it was about style, and it didn’t have to be expensive.
In looking back at this time, Babbie notes what a pivotal time it was to be in Memphis. “The twentieth century belonged to Memphis. We are in the heart of America, and just think of all the things we’ve given to the world - Kemmons Wilson and Holiday Inns, Danny Thomas and St. Jude, Fred Smith and Federal Express, Elvis, Jerry Lee, and Isaac Hays. Before there were markets in Dallas and Atlanta, all the fashion buyers came to Memphis.” Babbie was in the midst of this creative energy when she and Tish opened Collectables. “We didn’t know what we couldn’t do. We were innocent.”
During her life in the fashion industry, Babbie has gathered 3,000 garments in her personal collection. It’s an archive of history. “Fashion tells the story of our culture,” she said. It is no wonder she chose to name her boutique “Collectables” because Babbie herself is a collector.
Photo courtesy of Memphis and Shelby County Room, Memphis Public Library & Information Center
Big Cypress Lodge Celebrates 10 Years
By Hailey Walter, Murphy O’Brien | Photos courtesy of Big Cypress Lodge
Big Cypress Lodge is a one-of-a-kind wilderness-inspired hotel located inside the iconic Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid in Downtown. Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, this truly unique property brings the outdoors inside, offering rustic-elegant accommodations designed to evoke the feeling of a luxury log cabin nestled deep within the woods. From the moment guests step inside the towering Pyramid, they are surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, enhanced by the property’s distinctive interior design.
The centerpiece of Big Cypress Lodge is the breathtaking 535,000-square-foot Cypress Swamp, an indoor wilderness environment complete with towering cypress trees, flowing waterways, and aquariums teeming with fish, turtles, and even
alligators. This immersive setting sets the stage for an unforgettable stay and perfectly captures the spirit of the Mississippi Delta. Whether visitors are avid outdoors enthusiasts or travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, Big Cypress Lodge offers the perfect combination of adventure and comfort.
The Pyramid itself is an architectural marvel, soaring 32 stories into the Memphis skyline. Situated along the scenic Mississippi River and the Mississippi Flyway, the Pyramid stands as a defining feature of the city’s landscape. Guests can take in the panoramic views of both the skyline and the river from the two sky-high culinary outlets: Mississippi Terrace and The Lookout. Both dining destinations offer open-air seating, craft cocktails, and delicious cuisine, making them
popular spots not only for hotel guests but for locals and tourists alike.
Big Cypress Lodge offers far more than just exceptional accommodations and scenic dining. The resort is home to a wide variety of attractions both on-site and nearby. One of its standout entertainment options is the Fishbowl—an underwater-themed bowling alley and bar. It is also home to the world’s only Wahlburgers Wild, a wilderness-themed spin on the popular Wahlburgers restaurant chain.
For those with a passion for outdoor sports, guests can also partake in on-site shooting and archery ranges. In addition, hotel guests can also book a Memphis Fishing Guide, where they can fish the Mississippi River in the shadow of the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid. Matthew Burdine with CanoeMemphis.com takes adventurous travelers on private charter canoe excursions for an unparalleled River experience. Guests can also ride the nation’s tallest free-standing elevator to the Pyramid’s glass observation deck.
Big Cypress Lodge’s accommodations are designed to be as memorable as its attractions. The property features 103 guest rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated and crafted to reflect the beauty and tranquility of nature. Nestled high in the indoor cypress trees, the Treehouse adjoining room suite invites guests to relax in a private wilderness retreat complete with vaulted ceilings and a screened-in balcony overlooking the heart of Bass Pro Shops. Another signature suite is the Fly Fishing Lodge, designed to capture the rustic elegance of an angler’s cabin, and the Duck Cabin offers a nostalgic retreat that feels like stepping into a vintage waterfowl hunting lodge.
Adding to the lodge’s appeal is its newly launched Whiskey Trail Package, which invites guests to embark on a behind-the-scenes adventure through Memphis’s rich whiskey heritage. The package includes an exclusive tour of the renowned Old Dominick Distillery, the first stop on the statewide Tennessee Whiskey Trail. The tour celebrates the city’s longstanding connection to whiskey-making, which dates back to the 1800s when Memphis was a thriving hub for distilling and river trade.
Whether seeking adventure, whiskey tastings, history, music or relaxation, there is no shortage of things to see and do during a visit to the Bluff City or having a weekend staycation.
Art events MAY / JUNE
And you thought the art world went on vacation during the summer? Not so! There are several art shows to see – two are by much beloved instructors from the old Memphis College of Art, Fred Rawlinson and Dolph Smith, and must absolutely be on your to-do list. There is a national opera conference coming to Memphis, the smallest city ever to host the annual gathering; this is happening as acknowledgement of the leading innovation of Opera Memphis for the whole genre of this arts sector. Fashion will be showing up and out at the Brooks. Symphonies in various configurations are offering multiple concerts. In short, you have staycation opportunities until (and after) your vacation that should keep all entertained. - Ken Hall
May events
Memphis Art & Fashion Week
Brooks Museum, Symposium, exhibits, runway show, and more, through 5/10.
Works of Paper by Annabelle Meachem
Jay Etkin Gallery, through 6/28
Chalkfest
Brooks Museum
Fred Rawlinson art opening
Louis Ruleman Gallery at Church Health. Rawlinson will not only exhibit favorite paintings but will also live paint at the reception on 5/4. The show remains up through 6/11.
The Drop That Contained the Sea
Scheidt Center at U of M, Memphis Symphony
The Blues Music Awards
Renasant Convention Center, The Blues Foundation
Jin & John Powell art opening ANF Architects
Cabaret the Musical Germantown Community Theatre, through 9/25
Wizard of Oz
Music & Murder Beethoven Club, Elmwood Cemetery 5/2 5/3 5/4 5/8 5/9 5/9 5/10 5/11 5/13 5/15 5/16
Youth Ballet Memphis, Ballet Memphis
Chicken & Biscuits
Church Health, Crosstown West Atrium, 3-5pm
Spring Celebration of Dance Buckman Dance Conservatory, Buckman Performing Arts Center, through 5/11
Side By Side
Memphis Symphony and Memphis Youth Symphony, Scheidt Center at U of M, through 5/11
Symphony in the Gardens
Dixon Gallery & Gardens
The Sound of Your Own Wheels art by Leslie Holt
David Lusk Gallery, through 6/14
Memphis Wind Symphony GPAC Grove
The Iris Collective Strings Green Room at Crosstown
Arkansas Sunset by Fred Rawlinson on exhibit at the Louis Ruleman Gallery at Church Health through June 11
Walk in the Light
art by Colleen Couch & Dolph Smith
artist reception
Dixon Gallery & Gardens
In addition to this exhibition reception, Couch will present an artist’s talk on June 18 at noon as part of the Lunch & Learn series.
Music by the Lake Bartlett Performing Arts Center
Free family fun and live music; another concert on 6/13.
Planet LUMINARUS art opening
Off The Walls Arts Gallery
An afternoon of art, music, art making, projection art, aerialists, and more.
OPERA America annual conference
The annual national opera conference comes to Memphis for the first time, through 5/23.
La Calisto
Opera Memphis & Playhouse on the Square; additional performance on 5/23.
Summer Break group show
Sheet Cake Gallery
Works by Justin Tyler Bryant, Sai Clayton, Coulter Fussell, Carl E. Moore, and Melissa Wilkinson.
Whet Thursday: Overton Park on the Bluff Metal Museum
Pops Concert GPAC Grove, Germantown Symphony Orchestra
Memphis Potters Guild Spring Show & Sale St. Anne Highland, through 6/1
June events
A Collage of Classics Theatre Memphis, through 6/29
Ain’t Misbehavin’ Fogelman Contemporary Gallery, U of M, 5-7pm
The Screwtape Letters
C.S. Lewis classic dramatized on stage.
Summer Dance
Buckman Performing Arts Center, New Ballet Ensemble
A Bronx Tale Playhouse on the Square, through 7/13
Art by Carroll Todd David Lusk Gallery, through 7/26
Todd & Amy Boyce art opening ANF Architects
Mystic Pizza Harrell Theater, Collierville, through 6/29
An Afternoon with Misty Copeland Cultural Arts for Everyone, The Cannon Center
Misty Copeland, the first African American female Principal Dancer with the American Ballet Theatre.
Whet Thursdays: Ballroom on the Bluff Metal Museum
Sounds of Memphis with Steve Lee Brooks Museum
Do you have a visual or performing arts event coming up?
Contact ken@4memphis.com
Here’s to the
Thank you to all of the sponsors, the Host Committee, restaurants, and hundreds of guests who gathered to celebrate and support Mid-South wish kids. As long as kids face critical illnesses, we know they'll have the life-changing impact of a wish... and it's all thanks to you.
PRESENTEDBY:
The ICON: Babbie Lovett, Fashion Legend
Tennessee Ballet Theater
Performance photos by Fomoloop Photography
Event photography by Ken Hall and Bizzy Walker
The ICON was the aptly named show produced to chronicle the life and fashion career of beloved Babbie Lovett, and featured an amazing multimedia production of Tennessee Ballet Theater written and directed by Erin Walter, Artistic Director of TBT. It was a brilliantly interwoven show of dance, singing, photos – both displayed and projected - narration, music, fashion, and even audience participation. For most people it could have been overwhelming to even imagine putting this together, but the visionary team including Erin Walter, Mary Van Dyke, Jimbo Lattimore, Paul Thomas, Camilla Curran, Leila Dodge, and more, pulled off a one-of-a-kind, once-in-a-lifetime showcase worthy of the honoree. Guests for opening night were also treated to a reception with sips from Buster's Liquors and nibbles from Owen Brennan's. The dancers and performers excelled before packed houses of Babbie fans for each showing over two weekends in April. A few pieces from Babbie’s collection of 3,000 garments were used during the performance, as well as displayed on frieze models. It was truly inspirational - because as Babbie says, “The mind is like a parachute. It’s not useful unless it’s open.”
The Tennessee Ballet Theater brings inspiring, intimate and unique contemporary ballet shows to the stage, often bringing Memphis and Southern history to life through dance. In addition to performances, TBT provides free ballet classes for youth at the Frayser Dance Project, providing creative outlets and valuable skills for the next generation. A contribution directly supports performances and youth programming, enriching the cultural landscape of Memphis. tennesseeballettheater.com
1. Harrison Lee , Ashley Lee, Joe Lee, Babbie Lovett, Deborah Lee, Kyle Lovett & Lance Lee 2. Daniela Griffin & Aiyana Sakari 3. Cathy Farrell, Leila Dodge, Kathy Sapp, Gail King & Cindy Gambrell 4. Camilla Curran 5. Lynn Mellor & Mary Mellor Clark 6. Joe Lee & Lelia Dodge 7. Sophia & Joshua Spotts 8. Joe Lee & Paul Thomas
9. Jim & Sheila Wilson, Meg & Mike McCord
Easter Parade Luncheon
The Josephine Circle
Photography by McKendree Walker
The annual fundraiser for The Josephine Circle was held April 7 at the Hilton Memphis, and the Easter Parade Luncheon was an extravaganza of spring beauty. There was an abundance of great silent auction items. Betty Hays presented a fashion show of the latest looks from local boutiques for Spring and Summer. It was a delightful afternoon to celebrate the season and raise funds for the scholarship and interest-free loan programs for young men and women seeking a college degree. josephinecircle.com
1. Nancy Williams, Rita Garrigan, Sarah Bettandorf, Leslie Darr & Cheryl Howell 2. Susan Sullivan & Donna Kilpatrick 3. Amy Lindeman, Bill Russell & Amy Bell
4. Gayle Spence, Jenny Madden, Betty Padgett & Elizabeth Madden 5. Patti Russell & Lynn Russell 6. Linda Ashmore, Mary McDonald, Mindy Johnson & Harriet Strasberg 7. Rory Theeuwes, Eileen Joe, Linda Photopulos & Dot Ousley 8. Betty Hays & Lori James 9. Leslie Olswanger, Elaine Dudley, Elma Schnapp, Peggy Gattas & Cindy Goodman
An Edge District Afternoon
By Sandi Butler Hughes | Photography by McKendree Walker
Itwas the kind of mid-March, blue-sky afternoon that Memphians long for in the sticky heat of mid-August, and the Edge District was the ideal place to spend the afternoon. The Edge Motor Museum was our first stop for a photo opp with the iconic Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. The Wienermobile was created in 1936, and it is a classic car combined with kitschy Americana. Adding to their collection of American sports cars, the Museum unveiled their latest addition. It’s a 2021 Ford GT Mk II, and is #44 of only 44 built! This is an ultimate American supercar, and it is a visually stunning machine. It was said this car will “undoubtedly go down as one of the most collectible and coveted Fords in history.”
Next, we grabbed sandwiches at the Hard Times Deli. Yes, it is as good as you’ve heard it is, and yes, it is worth the wait in line to get it! While waiting on our order, we mosied into the Slowdown Dry Goods Pop-Up Shop. They have lots of cute things including the “I Like Memphis” tees I’ve spotted people wearing. Yes, I bought one, and I get compliments every time I wear it.
After lunch, we walked down the block to the combo taproom for Flyway Brewery and High Cotton Brewing. They still have several of the favorite HCB beers plus the Flyway beers too - lots of options and from our “research,” all really good. Flyway has reopened the restaurant space that once was Edge Alley. The menu is basically bar food - but really done really well. The new Memphis Made popup taproom is also in the Edge. Actually, it’s a bit below the Edge - it’s tucked away in the Ravine. Street parking and the steps into the Ravine are on Madison. On the afternoon we visited, a band was playing, little kids were riding scooters and bikes, and the grownups were enjoying a beer and sunshine. We also stopped to watch an artist painting a new mural on Monroe. Check out this beautiful work on Instagram @cody.critt.
Our afternoon in the Edge was winding down, and we didn’t get to shop, eat, or drink everywhere, but we had a perfect and relaxing day. And we’ll be back. Soon.
2021 Ford GT Mk II
The Edge of Style
Thank you to Richard Vining and the entire Edge Motor Museum staff!
Dress, purse, bracelets, and earrings: THE PINK DOOR
Shoes: Aiyana's own
Shorts and sweater: OAK HALL Necklace and jacket: LANSKY 126
Knit tank, shorts, sunglasses, and bag: LANSKY 126
Earrings: KITTIE KYLE
Dress, earrings, and hat: KITTIE
Shorts, top, necklace and purse: KITTIE KYLE
Fashion Ward:
By T. Rendy
Babbie
Lovett! If you don’t know her, I hope you get the chance. I had the lucky fortune to have a lunch date with her and learned quite a great deal at our tiny table at Libro inside Novel, one of Memphis’ favorite bookstores.
With a name like “Babbie” how can you not be interesting? I googled the word “Babbie” and it said the name is an alliterative girl’s name, bubbling with personality!
That says it all, because this 93-year-old is “bubbling” with sayings she has followed and believed all her life. I’m calling them “Babbieisms” and they relate not only to style but also everyday life lessons. Babbie believes fashion is like show business: every day we get dressed and step on the “stage” of life. How we are dressed that day dictates who we are and how we act. Think about all the different things we do and how we dress for that occasion. We are truly characters in our own “play” called life.
I thought long and hard about the scary character I play on days that I have to go to the grocery store. It is one of the things I hate the most, and I dress accordingly. Babbie says, “when you look good, you act better.” This advice can be quite valuable when going to the grocery store. It’s actually valuable regardless of where you are going. Babbie’s passion is fashion. She says, “The one thing we all have in common is we are born naked, and we all cover up.” Fashion is choice, and style is what you choose. According to Babbie everyone has style. She states that style depends on our purse, our personality, and our need.
When I think about style, I see Jackie Kennedy, Diane Keaton and even Lady Gaga. All of these people have undeniable looks. Babbie believes it is truly who we are. She says that fashion gives us choices. Style is your choice of fashion and how you live and interpret life. It’s this interpretation that makes it your own. Style is who we are and is always your personal choice. Babbie says if you can flip up your collar or roll up your sleeve another way or button (or unbutton) your shirt – go for it!
I asked Babbie if there was some rule on fashion to always remember. She said to find your basic and work around it. Always keep it simple. Whenever I see Babbie out and about, she is usually wearing all black. This simple style choice with her long white-haired ponytail identifies her completely. I asked her about that famous ponytail, and she told me it all started in the '80s when she was modeling, working, and very busy. It became a necessity for saving time. It was also all about the clothes, not the hairstyle.
Her main rule is to remember always how you carry yourself and stand out from the rest. It’s not just what you wear; your outfit and “overall look” communicates a non-verbal expression.
I think the key to Babbie’s long, fabulous life is her enthusiasm for all she does, including fashion. She says loudly, “you must follow your passion!” Babbie’s optimism and outlook are contagious. Despite her recent loss of sight, she plays “let’s pretend” by making blindness a new challenge, a new experience, a new passion to be the best at navigating being blind.
The lesson of watching Babbie Lovett is one for the books. As she leaves the room she sometimes whispers in your ear “peace and beauty.” When it comes down to it, isn’t that what we all want?
Don’t you “Lovett”? Until next time, T Rendy
SOME IMPORTANT BABBIE-ISMS TO REMEMBER:
“Pennies make dollars.”
“If you feel good about yourself, you feel good about other people.”
“Be as judgmental of yourself as you are to other people.”
“What we remember about each other is the differences.”
“When things are falling apart, get out of the way.”
Huey’s 55th Anniversary Block Party
Photography by Frank Chin
It doesn’t get anymore “Memphis” than Huey’s, and their 55th Anniversary Block Party was a big party to celebrate at their original Midtown location! There was live music on the Overton Park Shell’s Shell on Wheels stage, a Kid’s Zone, community vendors, and lots of local food and beer. A foundation of Huey’s is to give back to Memphis, and a portion of proceeds from the party were donated to Church Health.
SUMMER GIFT GUIDE
4Memphis enlisted our local shops, boutiques, and places we love to feature the ideal gift.
Graduations, weddings, and Mother’s and Father’s Days - so many reasons to celebrate. Shop local - shop for everyone!
dry martini handkerchief, $60, Lansky at the Peabody 2. Silk mallard tie, $165, Lansky at the Peabody 3. Tack bow tie, $245, Lansky Needlepoint coaster sets, $95 per set, Oak Hall 5. William Yeoward Crystal Skye box of 4 whisky tumblers, $495, Southern Guitar cufflinks, $40, Lansky at the Peabody 7. Tribute to Memphis Icons belt, $125, Lansky at the Peabody 8. Filson medium rugged duffle bag, $595, Oak Hall
11. 15. 16. 17.
FOR Her: 9. Scalloped Beach Towel, $54, The Pink Door 10. of Germantown 12. Simitri bags, $295, Kittie Kyle 13. Calleen Cordero belt, $240, Kittie Kyle Sarah Spinosa 15. Designer inspired dog toys, $16.99, Lori James dog bowl, $75, Lori James
Peacock Alley special occasion towel sets of two, $95, Lisa Mallory William Yeoward Fern Cake Stand, $580, Southern Avenue Company 21. Linnea 2 Wick Candle, $42, Lisa Mallory Sarah Green Gazelle Hand Poured Candle, $50, Social on the Square Annieglass Butterfly square plate, $116, Babcock Gifts
Experiences for everyone: 26. Concerts in the Grove at GPAC, May-June 27. Memphis Botanic Garden, open daily 28. Buster’s Butcher and Buster’s Liquors Gift Cards 29. Orpheum Theatre, Broadway show Kimberly Akimbo, June 24-29 30. Live at the Garden, season opener, Third Eye Blind, June 21 31. SkinBody Memphis, wrapped and ready gift card 32. Overton Park Shell, free concert series through June 32. Little Saints non-alcoholic cocktail, $4.99 per can, Eden Spa and Laser
Barrel to Barrel Grand Auction Brooks Museum
Photography by Ken Hall
Brooks Museum’s annual Barrel to Barrel wine auction has always been exciting, but this year the rising tide raised all the fun levels. After several years in a large and elegantly decorated tent on the museum lawn, organizers made the decision to move to a much larger space, The Kent. All the familiar elements were there – key purchases, live & silent auctions, a great meal, plus room to really mix, mingle, and shine. brooksmuseum.org
1. Lisa & Hugh Mallory 2. Dabney Collier, Kellie Jo Graves, Ginger Collier & Mitch Graves 3. Dr. Scott & Mary Morris 4. David & Ashley Bradford 5. Meredith & Jeremy Park 6. Lindsey & Josh Hammond 7. Lucia & Ricky Heros 8. Johnny Pitts & Mickell Lowery 9. Rob & Jenny Carter, Dan Kosta 10. Cynthia & Andrew Saatkamp
Spring for Forrest Cocktail Party Forrest Spence Fund
Photography by NLA Projects
The 10th Annual Spring for Forrest Cocktail Party was an elegant evening of fundraising for the Forrest Spence Fund. The party and auction was held at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park, and guests enjoyed scrumptious foods, fine wines, and live music. Be sure to save the date for the 18th Annual Forrest Spence 5K on August 23 also at Shelby Farms. These events raise dollars to support the mission of the Forrest Spence Fund of assisting with the non-medical needs of critically or chronically ill children and their families. forrestspencefund.org
11. Simone & Logan Meeks 12. Jonathan & Suzanne Scarff, RD & Vickie Singh 13. Laurel Williams & Milton Lovell 14. Sam & Ellen Lucchesi 15. Donna & Jimmy Wright 16. Megan & Matthew Kolb 17. Dustin & Emma St. Pierre
Masquerade Ball Alpha Omega Veterans Services
Photography by Bryant Cummings
It was the Mardi Gras event of the season! Alpha Omega Veterans Services hosted their 9th annual Masquerade Ball at Orion Hill Events in Arlington to raise funds for our military vets. The elegant evening brought a little NOLA to Memphis with masks and beads, a second line, and cajun-style cuisine from Chef Kelly English. Proceeds from this gala event benefit Alpha Omega’s mission to empower veterans who are displaced or experiencing homelessness across the Mid-South with tools, skills, and services they need for successful reintegration into life after their service. alphaomegaveterans.org
1. Jill Ballard, Jeri Rayburn & Susan Lampley 2. Garlinda Burton & Rodell Milam 3. Eli Bernstein & Becky Anderson 4. Cole & Shelby Lewis 5. Doug Green & Rona Mogil 6. Susan Elswick & Brian Witkowsky 7. Monique & John Sorrell 8. Sarah & Hartwell Strain 9. Dee Williams & Kendrick Thomas
Party on the Patio Collierville Chamber of Commerce
10. Sharmin Moss & Luanne Yeley 11. Derron & Victoria Ragland 12. John & Kelly Ellington 13. Brett & Toni Bueltemann 14. Debbi Wood & Shelly Cheng
15. Kat Curtis & Sharon Amerose
Photography by Cathy Wilhelm
Toast To Ave Maria Ave Maria Home
Photography by Jennifer Gionfriddo
Ave Maria Home held their Dinner Celebration and Gala, Toast to Ave Maria, on March 23 at CBHS. This special event is dedicated to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and toasting the future of Ave Maria Home. The 2025 Ave Maria Guild Award honorees were Joe Evangelisti, Martha Podesta, and Anna Vescovo. They were presented this award to recognize them for exemplifying the heart and mission of Ave Maria Home. Congratulations and cheers to Ave Maria! avemariahome.org
1. Anna Vescovo, Joe Evangelisti & Martha Podesta 2. Blair & Alana Sellers, Emma Vescovo & Katie Silverfield 3. Jackie MacDonald, Anne Culpepper & Debra Koeneman 4. Thara & Dottie Burana & Warren Johnson 5. Brother Joel McGraw & Linda Woodley 6. Carol Fleming, Barry & Jennifer Vescovo 7. Barbara Evangelisti & Kay Johnson
Walkin’ in Memphis Down Syndrome Association of Memphis & Mid-South
Photos by Caroline Johnson Photography and Ryan Johnson
Each year on March 21 on World Down Syndrome Day, Josh Greer walks across Memphis to support the Down Syndrome Association of Memphis & Mid-South. This year marked the 8th Walkin’ in Memphis: Down Syndrome Annual Awareness Walk. Josh begins his trek at the Big River Crossing at 5:30am, and for the next 14+ hours he walks 21 miles with stops at 21 iconic locations including the Peabody Hotel (where he is honorary Duckmaster), Overton Park Shell, and Children’s Museum of Memphis. The day concludes with the World Down Syndrome Day Gala at the Renasant Convention Center to celebrate with Josh, kids and families served by DSA! dsamemphis.org | walkininmemphis.org
1. Rachel, Josh, Willow, Marley & Dawson Greer 2. Kristen Colvin & London Singleton 3. Jason & Emma Watson with newborn Ruth 4. Natasha & Phoenix Davis 5. Kristina Eddings, Angela Xiques, Nicole Kitchens, Blake Eddings, Braxton Vincent & Olivia Kitchens 6. Ebonee & Ivan Blanchard 7. Lori, Jeff & Ruth Ricketts with Adalee Walker 8. Jewel & Jerica Phillips 9. Ilena, Cesar, Sylvia & Cesar Real
Women’s Auxiliary Founder’s Day Luncheon The Salvation Army
Photography by Ken Hall
Smiles and hugs were on the menu when the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary of Greater Memphis held its annual Founder’s Day Luncheon on April 2 at Memphis Country Club. Smiles and hugs were not only served by Memphis Country Club’s culinary staff but also by the ever effervescent Christina Roberts. Roberts was honored with the 2025 TSA Sallie Award in recognition of her great heart for service to the Auxiliary and to many other causes in the community. The keynote speaker was Leisha Pickering, the founder of Musee Bath, and she told her inspiring story about starting from nothing as a single mother to building a sought after product line and manufacturing company. The Salvation Army is an international movement of the universal Christian Church, and this year is celebrating 125 years. Motivated by the love of God, they are fighting hunger, homelessness, addiction, poverty, abuse, and suffering. southernusa.salvationarmy.org/Memphis
1. Mason & Jane Ezzell 2. Betha Gill, Sarah Black, Julie Ellis & Joanie Lightman 3. Stephen & Vickie Cruzen 4. Nancy Klepper & Nancy Coe 5. Dr. Neumon & Harriet Goshorn 6. Major Cheryl Gilliam, Major Tim Gilliam & Teresa 7. Dorothy & John Collier, Richy Roberts 8. Christina Roberts & Amy Speropoulos 9. Dan & Pam Shumake
Business & Industry Salute Luncheon Carnival Memphis
Photos by Keith Renard/Skipworth Photography
Over 500 guests attended Carnival Memphis 38th Business & Industry Salute Luncheon at the Hilton Hotel to honor the leaders in the industry of Non-Profit Youth Empowerment. This wonderful luncheon celebrated the outstanding achievements of organizations making a difference for youth in Memphis. The funds raised during the event support the 2025 Carnival Memphis Children's Charities: Liza's Light, Porter-Leath, and Stax Music Academy. carnivalmemphis.org
Tabletop and Tastemakers Memphis Garden Club
Photography by Whitney McNeil
The Memphis Garden Club presented the beautiful Tabletop and Tastemakers at Dixon Gallery & Gardens. The two-day event featured the 2025 Tastemaker, Alex Papachristidis. Guests “ooo’d and aahh’d” at the fabulous tablescapes created by Memphis Garden Club members and floral designers. Everyone enjoyed Alex’s informative lecture and discussion, and perusing the pop-up shop with items from his Everyday Elegance Collection.
1. Patrick Lawler & Eric Ballentine 2. Estella Mayhue-Greer 3. Doug Weissinger, Neely Mallory IV, Jennie Robbins, Estella Mayhue-Greer, Patrick Lawler, Ephie Ballard Johnson, George Sousoulas & Chip Campbell 4. Ephie Ballard Johnson
Julie Azar, Ellie Dooner & Hope Dooner
Max & Kathryn Painter
Healing Soles Outreach Day
Campbell Clinic Foundation
Photos by Roundabout Photography
On March 4, Dr. David Richardson and a team of 12 volunteers provided foot and nail care at the Hospitality Hub in Downtown Memphis for the second annual Healing Soles Outreach Day. More than 60 Hub clients received foot care, new shoes and socks, snacks and essentials kits. Many individuals facing housing insecurity have limited access to health care, but Campbell Clinic Foundation staff and first and second-year medical students from UT Health Science Center offered comfort, warmth and encouragement. This initiative highlights the Campbell Clinic Foundation’s commitment to orthopaedic outreach and strengthens community connections. campbell-foundation.org
The Memphis MahJong Club
Photography by Ken Hall
The Memphis MahJong Club went retro at a recent game night at Memphis Country Club. The '80s attire ran the gamut from roller skates to plaid & pleats. Founded by Jennifer Hobson, JJ Keras, Lindsay Adams, and Colleen Canale, the club makes game nights fun and festive.
1. Colleen Canale, Jennifer Hobson & JJ Keras 2. Kara Nunn, Dupree McDonald, Laura Stafford, Daisy Jones & Lindsey Tayloe 3. Ginger Britain, Whitney Bricken, Katherine Flinn & Chauncey Thompson 4. Tracy Putnam, Bethany McRae, Meade Wilson & Sarah Ross 5. Melinda Liles & Elaine Spear 6. Betsy Horn, Katherine Dobbs & Jennifer Estes
The Orpheum Theatre Group
Photos courtesy of Orpheum Theatre Group | orpheum-memphis.com
Broadway Season Reveal Celebration
The next season of Broadway shows coming to the Orpheum may be the best yet! We say this every season and, well, it is true! The season kicks off in October with A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, followed by The Notebook The Musical, & Juliet, and more in 2026. Brett Batterson, President & CEO of the Orpheum Theatre Group, said “We have timeless stories, timely stories, time traveling stories and everything in between. The new season has something for everyone.” And that is always the best!
Black Violin Sidewalk of Stars Installation Ceremony
The Sidewalk of Stars at the Orpheum Theatre is an impressive roster of legendary performers who have graced the Orpheum Theatre stage since 1928. On April 1, Black Violin was honored with a star. The installation ceremony took place ahead of their 5th performance at the Orpheum held later that evening. Black Violin combines classical training with hip-hop to create the unique “classical boom” sound. From Duke Ellington to Black Violin, the Orpheum congratulates Black Violin’s Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus as you are enshrined in Orpheum history!
Krewes for Kids Carnival Memphis
Photography by Keith Renard/Skipworth Photography
It was an evening of glamour and major fundraising at the Casino De Monte Carlo annual Carnival Memphis Krewes for Kids. Held April 25 at the Children's Museum of Memphis, this evening is the largest single fundraiser combining the efforts of the 10 Grand Krewes and Carnival Memphis. This fantastic party with a purpose benefitted the charities for the 2025 season: Liza’s Light, Porter-Leath, and Stax Music Academy. carnivalmemphis.org
King George Sousoulas
Queen Claiborne Collier
President Jennie Robbins
Committee Members
Chair
Vaughan Stewart Dorothy Collier (co)
Sponsors
Galfsky
Woodson (ch) Selden Sarinoglu
Presenting Sponsor
Diamond Sponsors
Ginger and Dabney Collier
George Sousoulas
Cindy and Edward Dobbs
Kirby and Glenn Floyd
Peggy and Chip Campbell
Delta Field Services LLC
Katherine and John Dobbs
FedEx Express
Platinum Sponsors Gold Sponsors
Jennie and Walker Robbins The Mallory Group
The Marston Group
Memphis Delta Waterfowl
General Truck Sales & Service, Inc.
Jaguar Land Rover Bluff City
Jimmy Humphreys
Jim Keras Subaru
Jim Robbins and Associates
Anne and Mike Keeney
Kimery Wealth Management
Anonymous
Susan and Damon Arney
Athens Distributing Company
Susan Beaird
Boll Weevil Charity Foundation
Chris Brubaker
Beth and Ben Buffington
Elizabeth and Chase Carlisle
Laura and Kenny Charbonnet
Dorothy and John Collier
Contract Group, LLC
Crosstown Brewing Company
Madeleine and Metcalf Crump
Leslie and Bryan Darr
Laura and Buddy Dearman
Duncan Williams Asset
Management FORVIS MAZARS, LLP
Julie and Robert Hussey
Lisa and Will Abbay
Avison Young
Julie and Keith Barton
Elizabeth and Giles Coors
Fertility Associates of Memphis
Ed Galfsky
Kelly Jo and Mitch Graves
Karen and Kirk Johnston
LSI Graphics LLC
Lisa and Hugh Mallory
Kathie and Albert Alexander
Coleman Barton
Sara and Bob Black
Karolina and Jim Calhoun
Floy and Dr. Jeff Cole
Anne and Kemp Conrad
Pat Demere
Lauren and Scott Douglass
Amy and Joey Dudek
Kim Escue
Carol and Matt Fields
FIVE ONE
Casey and Dr. John Gleysteen
Dr. Molly and John Goggans
Martha and Mike Hess
Tealy and Taylor Hewgley
Catherine and Ron Kastner
Kelly and Christopher Lamberson
Leslie Leatherman
Silver Sponsors
Michael Lightman Realty Trish
Rhonda
Susan
Stacey and Thomas Hussey
Independent Bank
Ruthie and Micah Layman
Camille and Bobby Leatherman
Kate and Neely Mallory IV
Bonner and Worth Morgan
Old Dominick Distillery
Toni and Greg Parker
Randy Jefferson Catering
Christina and Richy Roberts
Self Foundation
Courtney and Bryan Smith
Vaughan and Joe Stewart
Dr. Shelly and Michael Thannum
Carol Wasielewski
Waymar Gin
Patty and Steven Welch
Abbie and Duncan Williams
Barbara and Lewis Williamson
Bronze Sponsors
Marion Marr Carolyn Mayo
and Fred Montesi PURE Insurance
and Dr. Jamie Riney
and Jim Taylor
Supporting Sponsors
Tait and Brian Mellone
Katie and Rick Powell
Lisa and Ken Roberts
Martha and Terry Robertson
Bill Ross
Kathy and Clayton Sapp
Dr. Chrisann Schiro-Geist
Sharon and Josh Shipley
Caroline and Greg Sones
Chuck and Mary Stewart
Lauran and Jack Stimac
Leanne and Mark Sykes
Dr. Olivia and Victor Torres-DeLozier
Mary and Corey Trotz
Shea and Alex Wellford
Stephanie and Jamie White
Lauren and
THIS FATHER’S DAY, DRESS HIM LIKE THE LEGEND HE IS
