Nfocus December 2023

DECEMBER 2023

Holiday Gift Guide Winter social events, the official 2024 Swan Ball jeweler and more!

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“ O N CE I D R E A M E D TO B E CO M E TH E FA S TE S T D R IV E R .

TO DAY, I A M A D R IV E R O F CH A N G E .”

LE WIS HAM I LTO N , 7 TI M E FO R M U L A 1 T M WO R LD CHAM PIO N

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IW3894 THE REFERENCE.

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3 19.10.23 10:14

home for the holidays WHAT DOES HOME MEAN TO YOU?

For many, home is the favored setting for the holidays, where we gather with those we hold most dear. Home is a haven decorated with tinsel, lights, and cherished tokens of years past. Home is a safe place where a familiar smell draws forth fond memories of recipes and treasured traditions. Home is an archive of our lives, storing a compilation of laughable, teachable, and transformational moments. Home is so much more than its “four” walls. Home is a feeling.

We hope you feel especially at home this holiday season.

1321 WOLVERTON DR IVE • FRANKLIN

3606B WILBUR PL ACE • NASHVILLE

5 BD | 3 BA | 2,975 SF | $750,000

4 BD | 3 BA | 3,278 SF | $1,425,000

priced to sell • cul-de-sac home • primary suite on main level • abundant

rare cottage near Green Hills • coffered ceilings • additional casual living

kitchen storage • spacious recreational room and flex room • fenced-in

space with a wet bar • home theater • screened-in second-story deck •

back yard • minutes away from Brentwood, Nashville, and Cool Springs

vast covered back patio with stacked stone fireplace and built-in grill

LARRY LIPMAN | 615.364.3333

ANNA ALTIC | 615.423.7267

102 BLUEBELL WAY • FRANKLIN

4037 LIBERTON WAY • NOLENSVILLE

3 BD | 2/1 BA | 2,301 SF | $650,000

4 BD | 3 BA | 2,229 SF | $590,000

two-story Sullivan Farms home • freshly painted • office/library with

brand new flooring and fresh alabaster paint throughout • three

beautiful built-ins • open-concept kitchen and living room • vast primary

bedrooms on the first floor • second story hosts a bedroom, bathroom,

suite • huge upstairs bonus room • fully fenced private back yard

and bonus room • fully fenced-in back yard • fire pit • covered patio

KENDRA NITZ | 423.322.5467

KENDRA NITZ | 423.322.5467

LARRY LIPMAN

4

ANNA

KENDRA

|

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1358 PAGE ROAD $13,500,000

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FRENCHKING.COM

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615.292.2622

SELL I CONSIGN I TRADE 3 8 0 5 G R E E N H I L L S , N AS H V I L L E , T N 3 7 2 1 5 I STO R E 5 A .CO M

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W he re Nashvi lle Me n D re ss

Step into a new season.

Calm. Cool. Confident.

Winners start early.

TH E OXF OR D SHOP IS Y OU R HEA DQU A R T ERS FO R TH E H OL I DAYS. PUT YOUR BE S T FOOT FO R WA RD FO R 2024. SHOP ONL I NE OR C OM E B Y.

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

3 8 3 0 BE D F OR D AV E NASHVILLE, T N 37215 | 615.383.4442 | T HEOX FOR DSH OP.C OM

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T h e Ox fo rd S h o p Na sh vi ll e

PHOTOGRAPH: NATHAN WESTERFIELD

A GAYLORD HOTELS ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE

Step inside a holiday showplace like no other as you wind your way through the larger-than-life sculptures of ICE! featuring The Polar Express™, zoom down thrilling frozen slides, and traverse mesmerizing passageways.

Escape to Gaylord Opryland to enjoy the splendor of the holiday season.

NOV. 10 - JAN. 1 | ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

12 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

BRANDON JENKINS 615.642.9992

GROVEPARK.COM

1509 CARLYBROOKE LANE 5 BEDROOMS, 5/1 BATHS, 5,912 Sq. Ft. $4,999,900

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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Private Dining Rooms Available Now booking parties for up to 170 guests Please visit DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com 14 >>www.theriverhouserestaurant.com/private-dining for more information

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30YEARS

Contents December 2023 | Vol. xxx, No. 12

features 23

37

52

70

Gift Guide

This year’s go-to guide for holiday shopping

73

Collector’s Corner

Collectibles span a vast array of passions

74

Enduring Legacy

Swan Ball announces the official jeweler of the 2024 Swan Ball

76

parties 57

61

65

78

Writers Meet Readers

The 35th annual Authors in the Round captivates with conversation

80

A Celebration of One Earth

The Land Trust for Tennessee celebrates Once in a Blue Moon

83

We Can Endure

Sunday in the Park celebrates a walk in the park

departments

Don’t Stop Believin’

The Theater Bug has got the beat with the Bug Ball

16

Sit, Stay, Shop

The Nashville Humane Association presents Cause for Paws

19

Keys to Success

Goodwill’s Impact Awards shine a light on achievement

20

Star Light, Star Bright

The Centennial Park Conservancy reimagines fundraising with art

90

Dream Machine

Pick Your Poison returns to raise funds for Broadway Dreams

92

Culture Club

The 1929 Club at Cheekwood welcomes Patrick McIntyre

94

These Precious Days

The Nashville Public Library Literary Award honors Kate DiCamillo

96

In Our Words

A reflection on the year that has been and the gift of what is to come

Nstyle

The latest from style gurus Bentley Caldwell & Carson Love

Step Inside

Step inside the elegant Reed Smythe & Company

30 Years of Nfocus

A look back at memories of Symphony Ball

Taking Vows

Anna LeBleu marries Jay Winkelman

Pencil In

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events

Nretrospect

A look back at 30 years of dance

73 20 ON THE COVER

Left to right: Riley Reed, Ellie Faucette, Elizabeth Sellers, June Holzen, Nerea Pardeshi of Nashville Ballet’s Nashville’s Nutcracker photographed at the Nashville Ballet by Eric England.

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IN OUR WORDS

30YEARS Editorial founding editor

Herbert Fox, Jr. editor-in-chief

Janet Kurtz contributing editors

Lindsey Lanquist, Jack Silverman social correspondent

Gloria Houghland contributors

Beth Alexander, Emily Bache, Jessica Baladad, Abigail Breslin, Bentley Caldwell, Whitney Clay, Melissa Corbin, Carson Love, Sandra Nelson, Nancy Vienneau

Art art director

Christie Passarello

This Lovely World A reflection on the year that has been and the gift of what is to come So often around the holidays, I find myself reflecting on the year that’s about to conclude and looking forward, with hope and optimism, to the one that lies ahead. There is a shedding of the year that has passed — a wrapping up in a tidy box with a neat bow of the memories and experiences that have left their imprints like footprints in the snow. The days that go by in a hurry are as much of a gift as the days spent idly.

In this issue, we celebrate gifts — both physical and experiential. For our holiday gift guide, the cochairs of the Symphony Ball, La Bella Notte, Ballet Ball, Symphony Fashion Show and Swan Ball share their favorite gift ideas, which include presents for under the tree and giftable experiences. Nancy Vienneau sits down with Nashvillians who support collectors and their hobbies in our Collector’s Corner. And the Swan Ball gives our readers a peek at the 2024 official Swan Ball jeweler — Kentshire Galleries. We also take you inside some of the wonderful events of the fall and winter social season.

This month, we visited with writers at Authors in the Round, celebrated preservation at Once in a Blue Moon, enjoyed an evening of mystique at Pick Your Poison, and listened as award-winning author Kate DiCamillo captivated us with stories about reading, writing and discovering fellow children’s author E. B. White.

As the year closes, so does our celebration of “30 Years of Nfocus.” We have truly enjoyed sharing the column with you each month as we mark our 30th anniversary. We have heard stories directly from those who have graced the pages of Herbert’s beloved “little pamphlet.” This month, we’ve asked a group of Nfocus friends — all past co-chairs of the Symphony Ball — to regale us with memories from their time spent organizing one of Nashville’s remaining white-tie galas.

Lastly, as is our tradition, we celebrate the arts by featuring a Nashville arts institution on our December cover. This year, we spent a joy-filled evening with the youngest of the Nashville Ballet’s Nashville’s Nutcracker characters — the baby mice. Their enthusiasm and innocence brought the characters to life right before our eyes, making the photo shoot fun and laughter-filled.

It seems only fitting to close out our last letter of the year with the words from Charlotte’s Web that Kate DiCamillo used to close out her speech. As we look ahead to the gift of the new year, we do so with an understanding of the preciousness of each day.

“These autumn days will shorten and grow cold. The leaves will shake loose from the trees and fall.

Christmas will come, and the snows of winter. You will live to enjoy the beauty of the frozen world …

Winter will pass, the days will lengthen, the ice will melt in the pasture pond. The song sparrow will return and sing, the frogs will awake, the warm wind will blow again. All these sights and sounds and smells will be yours to enjoy, Wilbur — this lovely world, these precious days.” —E. B. White

senior photographer

Eric England staff photographer

Angelina Castillo contributing photographers

Michael Scott Evans, Lorenzo Huerta, Hamilton Matthew Masters graphic designers

Sandi Harrison, Mary Louise Meadors, Tracey Starck

Marketing events and marketing director

Olivia Moye Britton marketing and promotions manager

Robin Fomusa

Advertising publisher

Jennifer Trsinar Jezewski advertising solutions consultants

Teresa Birdsong, Maddy Fraiche, Michael Jezewski, Carla Mathis, Allie Muirhead, Heather Cantrell Mullins, Niki Tyree, Alissa Wetzel, Keith Wright associate account executive

Kailey Idziak sales operations manager

Chelon Hasty advertising solutions associates

Audry Houle, Jack Stejskal

Circulation circulation manager

Gary Minnis

Business president

Mike Smith chief financial officer

Todd Patton IT director

BY JANET KURTZ

Janet moved to Nashville 25 years ago. She is an avid reader, traveler and collector of fountain pens, and she lives in downtown Nashville with her husband, Ron, and their dog, Julep. Email her at jkurtz@nfocusmagazine. com or follow her on Instagram @musiccitytraveler.

John Schaeffer

Owner FW Publishing, LLC

Bill Freeman

Nfocus is published monthly by FW Publishing, LLC. Advertising deadline for the next issue is Tuesday, December 12, 2023. A limited number of free copies, one per reader, are available at select retail establishments, listed on the website: nfocusmagazine.com.

First-class subscriptions are available for $100 per year. Send your name and address along with a check or credit card number and expiration date to: GARY MINNIS, FW PUBLISHING, 210 12th Ave. S., Suite 100, Nashville, TN 37203 or call Gary at 615-844-9307.

For advertising information, call JENNIFER TRSINAR JEZEWSKI at 615-844-9261. Copyright ©2023 FW Publishing, LLC.

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Richard Bryan O: 615.327.4800 | M: 615.533.8353 richardfbryan@gmail.com

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HOMES FOR THE

Holidays

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H O L I D A Y

S H O P P I N G Over 120 Stores & Restaurants.

55+ Unique to Nashville.

APPLE • ARITZIA • ATHLETA • BREITLING • BURBERRY • CHANEL • CRATE & BARREL FREE PEOPLE

•

MARC JACOBS

GOLDEN GOOSE •

NORDSTROM

•

•

GUCCI

•

LULULEMON

NORTH ITALIA

•

OMEGA

LOUIS VUITTON

• •

PSYCHO BUNNY

RH GALLERY AND RH COURTYARD RESTAURANT AT THE MALL AT GREEN HILLS SPORTS & SOCIAL

•

SAINT LAURENT

•

TIFFANY & CO.

NORDSTROM • DILLARD’S • MACY’S • RH NASHVILLE

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•

VANS

•

ZARA

NSTYLE

Her Style

Tackle the holiday party circuit in style Getting dressed up for a holiday party or festive occasion doesn’t mean you need to buy a whole new outfit. As a personal stylist, I want to help you cut down on unnecessary shopping, while still feeling special in your clothes. (That automatically earns me a spot on the nice list, right?) By following a few tried-and-true styling rules, you can sparkle more sustainably this holiday season.

His Style

Give him a holiday gift he’ll love Gents! Holiday season is upon us. And with it comes an array of holiday gifts — some good, some bad. It’s almost inevitable that someone in your life will buy you a terrible gift this season. But you and your friends can reduce your chances of being bad gift-givers by avoiding a few presents that often disappoint.

Resist the urge to buy anyone a tie Since the dawn of the Christmas holiday, men have received an assortment of ill-colored and ill-patterned ties as gifts. The problem? These ties rarely pair well with the rest of the man’s wardrobe, leaving him in the uncomfortable position of wearing something just to make everybody happy. So he wears it once — then offers it up to the Closet Gods, never to be seen again.

Never, under any circumstances, gift someone underwear Do you know how awkward it is to open a pair of underwear in front of your family on Christmas morning? Spare everyone the embarrassment. Just don’t do it — especially if the underwear is holidaythemed. Sure, your man’s current underoos are as thin as parchment paper, but let him deal with his own holly twig and berries!

Treat him to a stylist — not a fashion subscription box In theory, a fashion subscription box is a great idea. You pay a monthly fee, clothes arrive on your doorstep, and you keep what you want and return what you don’t. Easy, right? But in practice, these subscription boxes seem to fall short. (The amount of subscription box clothing I’ve removed from clients’ closets is unbelievable.) Subscription boxes tend to paint with a broad brush, sending people one-style-fits-all clothing that doesn’t really suit them. Also, who has time to make returns?

If you want to give your man the gift of great style, you’re better off hiring an in-person stylist. If only you knew one ;).

Steer clear of these three gift ideas, and you should be good for the holiday season. Remember, holiday season is a time for giving and receiving. Give love, give life and give joy. Everything else will work itself out! Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! Peace and love.

BY BENTLEY CALDWELL

Bentley Caldwell is a Nashville-based men’s personal stylist who helps guys up their style and confidence and take the guesswork out of dressing themselves.

Have a fashion or styling question? Visit his website: BentleyCaldwellStyling.com or follow him on Instagram @bentleycaldwell

Layer something festive over your favorite base I’m a huge advocate for maximizing pieces my clients already own and love. To make your everyday style feel more elevated for the holidays, slip on one of your favorite outfits, and add a festive piece to polish it off. This could be a statement blazer or jacket, a fun headband or even a bold shoe choice.

Rent special occasion items you won’t wear again Clothing rental companies continue to grow in popularity. And they’re perfect places to score special occasion items that don’t need permanent space in your closet. Avid online shoppers can enjoy rental websites, like Rent the Runway, Nuuly and FashionPass. But my favorite is our local rental destination The Showroom Nashville.

Use hair and makeup to freshen up your favorite looks Although I’m not a hair and makeup expert, I recognize both as key pieces in the personal style puzzle. These finishing touches are like unsung accessories, offering a low-to-no investment way to upgrade your final look. Just by switching up your lip color or styling your hair with a different touch, you can make your favorite holiday ensemble feel fresh and new.

BY CARSON LOVE

Carson Love is a wardrobe & personal stylist based in Nashville. Her main goal is to help clients present and feel like their best selves, so they are ready for whatever life brings them. Find her online: CarsonLove.com or follow her on Instagram @carsonmlove

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STEP INSIDE

Artistic Gifts Step inside the elegant Reed Smythe & Company Amidst cars whooshing by on Charlotte Avenue and under a brown-and-white awning lies an unexpected little jewel box of a shop, filled with home furnishings and handmade artisan pieces. Elegant but unpretentious, Reed Smythe & Company provides visitors a brief respite from the outside world.

“I love the idea that if you walk in, you’re going to get offered a drink and a cheese straw,” says owner Keith Meacham. “You’re going to feel immediately like … somebody is welcoming you into their home.”

Keith and her longtime friend, the late writer Julia Reed, started Reed Smythe & Company as an online venture in 2018. The business has since added a 1,400-square-foot brick-and-mortar store so Nashvillians can experience the founders’ affection for Southern design in person. Think “rush mats with oriental rugs on top of them, white slipcover [ furniture] and dogs lying in front of the fireplace,” says Keith. She describes the store’s signature style as “this unfussy, unpretentious way of decorating, but [one] that uses antiques and things that have been handed down.”

Visitors can expect an eclectic assortment of commissioned pieces and found gems, including a bright green metal table with a scalloped top, oak taper candles cast from branches from the North Carolina woods, and handblown glass wine rinsers replicating 19th-century originals. While the shop carries items from all over the world, there is a particular focus on Southern artisans. Most pieces are made specifically for the store, often to replicate favorites in Keith’s and Julia’s own collections.

The business has grown so much that they need more room. On Feb. 1, they’ll move into the space previously occupied by Nashville Holistic Pet in Paddock Place on White Bridge Road. The new shop promises to be equally inviting and infused with the founders’ Southern sensibility.

Both women grew up in Greenville, Mississippi. But because Julia was 10 years older, it wasn’t until they both moved to New York City that they got to be close friends.

“I like to think that I was sort of studying under her tutelage, because she was such an incredible designer, decorator, entertainer, writer,” says Keith. “She had incredible style. And even though I’m making myself sound like Pygmalion or something, I was young enough that I was kind of 10 years behind her setting up a house, learning how to entertain and being kind of a grown-up — rather than just some college kid putting out bottles of cheap wine.”

BY WHITNEY CLAY PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

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’TIS THE SEASON With the holidays fast approaching, coming up with the perfect gift for everyone on your list can be stressful. Luckily, at Reed Smythe & Company, they’ve done the work for you.

There are gift boxes tied with satin bows — one with Julia’s famous milk punch recipe, two hand-blown emerald-green goblets, homemade cheese straws and a bottle of Belle Meade Bourbon. Another has a bronze oyster knife, a mini bottle of Tabasco sauce and an oyster-shucking glove.

HEADING SOUTH Eleven years ago — after nearly two decades in New York City — Keith, a former educator, and her husband, author and historian Jon Meacham, moved to Nashville with their three children. “I’m from Mississippi, Jon is from Chattanooga, and we wanted to be in the South raising our kids with a yard and dogs and a house,” says Keith. Her home life and business life intertwine in beautiful ways: Handed-down glassware inspires new additions to the shop, and family recipes end up tucked inside Red & Smythe Company gift boxes.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME What began on Charlotte Avenue as a fulfillment center for an internet business has since become a bustling retail shop. Through the month of December, store hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and there will definitely be Champagne and milk punch on hand. During the holidays and throughout the year, a book club (or just a group of friends!) may reserve the store for a “shopping cocktail party.” There’s no pressure to buy, says Keith. “It’s just a nice way … to welcome people into your home.”

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11/15/23 4:43 PM

GIFT GUIDE

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Gift-giving season is upon us, and our days and nights seem more full than ever. To keep you from getting caught in the scramble for holiday gifts, we asked members of our community — known for giving their time, talent and treasure to others — to curate our annual gift guide. In the spirit of the season, the co-chairs of Symphony Ball, La Bella Notte, Ballet Ball, Symphony Fashion Show and Swan Ball came together to recommend gifts sure to please even the hardest to shop for.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

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GIFT GUIDE

Gifts for Every Interest

CHARMING KNICKKNACKS

Katy’s Hallmark Shop is a gift giver’s paradise. In addition to its array of expected holiday goods, the store offers special finds, like lovely felt stockings you can personalize, figurines of adorable carolers in period costumes and a wide selection of taper candles. The store also has a fabulous selection of paper products for your entertaining needs. Available at Katy’s Hallmark Shop. (Suann)

Suann Davis and Kayla Counts Co-chairs, Symphony Ball

Symphony Ball co-chairs Suann Davis and Kayla Counts are prolific gift givers. Since the two are known to give gifts throughout the year, we asked them to dream up a broad range of gift ideas.

Whether you’re shopping for a local collector or friends far and wide, you’ll find something to suit every interest in this guide.

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ENTERTAINING ESSENTIALS

Corzine & Co. is my go-to for gifts yearround, but its holiday entertaining pieces are especially lovely. The store carries dishware in adorable holiday patterns, featuring Santa Claus, evergreen trees and more. The formal Herend holiday china or the deep blue Hanukkah pattern might be just right for someone special on your list.

Available at Corzine & Co. (Suann)

GIFT GUIDE

SKI BUNNY SWEATERS

These Draper James Ski Shop sweaters are adorable holiday presents for those who like hitting the slopes — and those who like lounging in the lodge. If you want to give someone a unique experience, Draper James has a special partnership with The Hermitage Hotel — “Spillin’ Tea with Draper James” — that includes afternoon tea service (and a glass of Champagne). Available at Draper James. (Kayla)

TRAVEL-WORTHY TOTE

This Filson duffle in Flyway green is exceptionally durable and weather-resistant — ideal for a special man in your life. I am consistently amazed by the range of products featured in White’s Mercantile. There is truly a gift there for everyone.

Available at White’s Mercantile. (Kayla)

STYLISH STOCKING STUFFERS

The team at Gus Mayer is always ready to help you find the perfect gift. The store carries Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s renowned Baccarat Rouge 540 line, which includes a perfume, candle, hair mist and cleansing gel. All of them make luxurious stocking stuffers. Available at Gus Mayer. (Kayla)

BOXES OF BISCUITS

The Loveless Cafe is a Nashville treasure. For years, as a beloved holiday tradition, we’ve sent Loveless Cafe boxes of goodies to all our out-of-town friends. We often send the “Jammin’ Biscuits” box — and sometimes choose the bundle that comes with delicious bacon. Everyone appreciates a little love from Nashville in their pantry.

Available at The Loveless Cafe. (Suann)

PERSONALIZED POTTERY

Brushfire Pottery Studio is a wonderful place to make personal gifts for any occasion, and it’s especially sweet during the holidays. My daughter and I used to go several times throughout the season. She would make ornaments for her teachers, while I made holiday platters for relatives and friends. Available at Brushfire Pottery Studio. (Suann)

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GIFT GUIDE

Gifts for Entertaining GUIDING LIGHT

The key to throwing a magical event is finding the right lighting. As an alternative to candlelight, I love these tabletop lamps, which offer an intimate ambience and make a statement in any tablescape.

Available at AshBlue.

DARLING DÉCOR

When decorating for the holidays, you can never have too much sparkle or color.

These glass trees from Color remind me of my grandmother, and they’ll make a fabulous addition to any holiday décor scheme.

Available at Color.

Julie and John Schneider Co-chairs, La Bella Notte

As hosts with the most, Julie and John Schneider — co-chairs of La Bella Notte — love giving the gift of a party to their friends and family. Offering ways to spruce up the table and harness the expertise of event planners, this guide is a perfect list for the entertainer in all of us.

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BOTTLE SERVICE

This pewter beverage tub keeps your drinks perfectly chilled, while looking sleek and stylish. More importantly, it doesn’t leak, so you can use it without thinking twice.

Available at Corzine & Co.

GIFT GUIDE

A PERFECTLY PLANNED PARTY

The best gift is a holiday party — and a planner to go with it. Our go-to event planner is Henry Uribe of Jackson Durham, a full-service design house rich in experience.

With a talented team of visual and floral artists, Jackson Durham delivers an impeccably designed event. Available at Jackson Durham.

COCKTAIL COLLECTION

Who doesn’t love a festive cocktail or two? These stunning glasses are surprising and delightful, and the unique trays complement them perfectly. Add just the right cocktail or mocktail, and make guests feel special at any holiday fête. Available at Color.

STATEMENT SERVEWARE

Serveware is a great way to make a statement. If your grandmother’s silver is stuck with an out-of-state relative, Corzine & Co. serving pieces will dress up any dish. These are two of my favorites, because they remind me of spring and embody the simple elegance that makes every meal a special event. Available at Corzine & Co.

SETTING THE TABLE

The perfect holiday table starts with a special place setting — one that sets the tone for the meal guests are about to enjoy. The gold accents on this setting are truly special and seasonally appropriate, and they’ll make friends and family feel appreciated as you celebrate the holidays. Available at Corzine & Co.

CHEESE AND CHARM

A cheese board always draws a crowd. Whether you prefer cheddar or brie, this unique cheese board will elevate your charcuterie presentation and offer a nice welcome at any event. Pair it with gold serving pieces, and invite guests to dig in.

Available at Color.

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GIFT GUIDE

Beauty and Wellness Gifts RELAXATION AND REFLEXOLOGY

Having lived in Southeast Asia while in the Peace Corps, I believe that reflexology is both healing and preventative. Bucca Reflexology and Foot Spa is a hidden gem.

Go for the one-hour package and you won’t be disappointed. Available at Bucca Reflexology and Foot Spa. (Evelyn)

FIT FAN

The gift of fitness can last a lifetime.

Whether you’re trying to gain muscle or increase dexterity through stretching, being active is associated with a range of lifelong benefits. My gym of choice is Boost FitClub, which has a great selection of free weights and cardio equipment.

Available at Boost FitClub. (Bob)

Bob Deal, Evelyn Cate Galletti, Jason Bradshaw Co-chairs, Ballet Ball

Ballet Ball co-chairs Bob Deal, Evelyn Cate Galletti and Jason Bradshaw know a thing or two about being busy. But one thing the trio shares — in addition to a passion for supporting the arts — is a focus on health and beauty. The three came together to share ideal gifts for those looking to get fit and stay beautiful this holiday season.

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SAY ‘AHH’

There is really nothing like a great massage.

Whether you prefer Swedish, hot stone or deep tissue massages, Juan Lopez at Spa Haus Nashville is my go-to massage therapist when I need a great massage.

Available at Spa Haus Nashville. (Bob)

GIFT GUIDE

PRIVATE EDITION ESSENTIALS

Ballet Ball prep is incomplete without a visit to Private Edition to get my makeup done. The shop carries incredible skin care and beauty lines, like Omorovicza, Laura Mercier, Trish McEvoy and more. I especially love the Therapy Systems line of products — my favorite this time of year is the Perfect Skin Hydration + moisturizer.

Available at Private Edition. (Evelyn)

BARRE3

As a former dancer, I truly believe Barre3 is a workout for life, combining strength, cardio and mindfulness. Barre3 is the place where I check in with myself weekly — you’ll find me at the Paddock Place location. Available at Barre3. (Evelyn)

HEAD START

I swear by Aveda products. They smell great, they’re safe for the environment, and most importantly, they work. This Shampure nurturing shampoo is one of my favorites — I’ve used it every day for over 30 years. Derived from natural ingredients like Abyssinian oil and organic lavender, the shampoo is great for lathering and has a very pleasant, clean scent. Available at Aveda. (Jason)

STUNNING STYLE

Aveda’s Phomollient styling foam starts as a liquid. But when pumped, it turns into a lightweight mousse that works wonders for my curly hair. I actually started using this as a styling aid in the late ’90s. And I still use it every day, working it through my towel-dried hair. Available at Aveda. (Jason)

STRESS-FREE SKIN

Created to address the skincare needs of the modern man, Jack Black makes some of my favorite skin care products — all of which make great stocking stuffers. These non-complicated, non-cosmetic and never-tested-on-animals products are great go-tos for men at all stages of their lives. Available at Nordstrom. (Bob)

MANI PEDI

Winter is the perfect time to stock up on moisturizers, and Aveda makes two of my favorites. I use the brand’s Hand Relief moisturizing creme at bedtime. It keeps my hands smooth, helps with dark spots and has a nice citrus smell. I also frequently use the brand’s Foot Relief moisturizing creme — it’s great for soothing tired feet.

Available at Aveda. (Jason)

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GIFT GUIDE

Gifts You Would Give Yourself GLASS GOODS

Nestled in the community of Leiper’s Fork, The Copper Fox Gallery is full of special finds curated by Talbott and John Grimm. Among the artisanal treasures is a collection of glass pieces created by Thomas Spake of Jasper, Tennessee. All the artist’s work captures the beautiful colors of the season, and this handblown glass bowl truly speaks to me. Available at The Copper Fox Gallery. (Tracy)

AUTOGRAPHED BOOKS

Some of my favorite presents to give and receive are books, and the staff at Parnassus Books always has helpful recommendations for any reader. One of my favorite things about the store is that you can purchase signed copies of books from local authors like Ann Patchett and Jon Meacham. Available at Parnassus Books. (Tracy)

Tracy Frist and Emily Humphreys Co-chairs, Symphony Fashion Show

Symphony Fashion Show co-chairs Tracy Frist and Emily Humphreys know that we often focus on others more than we focus on ourselves. Both are staunch supporters of the community. So we asked them to curate a guide of gifts worth giving yourself — or mentioning to anyone buying you a gift this holiday season.

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ARTISANAL EARRINGS

This bracelet and earring set was handcrafted by the Quillionaire Society, whose owners represent the Lakota and Dakota nations. Each piece represents the art of quillwork — a craft that Siouxsan Robinson, president of The Red Road, introduced me to. You can request pieces through the Quillionaire Society’s website or Instagram page (@quillionaire.society).

Available at Quillionaire Society. (Tracy)

GIFT GUIDE

CANDLELIT NIGHTS

Nothing connects us to memories and emotions quite like scent, and these handpoured Voyage et Cie candles can make any room feel like a sanctuary. Available in fragrances like Bergamot, Homme and Noël, the candles glow with up to three wicks and tower as high as 16 inches. Light them to create a beautiful entrance to your home.

Available at White’s Mercantile. (Emily)

LUXURY LOUNGEWEAR

There are two reasons you might wake up wearing less than you put on. The bad one? You’re not sleeping in luxurious silk clothing that naturally keeps you cool. I adore Bella Linea’s contemporary yet timeless loungewear, with its luxurious colors and delicate details. And this silk bed jacket with refined rosettes is my latest nighttime craving. Available at Bella Linea. (Emily)

LIGHTWEIGHT LAYERS

A dickey is a little layer with a big impact — a small piece of clothing you slip under your jacket to add style without bulk. The Veronica Beard founders have mastered the dickey, reimagining it every season with new colors and fabrics. And stepping inside the brand’s new store in Nashville opened a whole new world to me.

Available at Veronica Beard. (Emily)

FRIENDSHIP BLANKET

I love Pendleton blankets from Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post. Made of 100% wool, these beautiful woven blankets continue the Native tradition of gifting a special pattern to celebrate a life achievement. These blankets will wrap you — not only in warmth — but also in friendship and love. Available at Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post. (Tracy)

HANDCRAFTED COPPER

Local artisan Ben Caldwell crafts one-of-a-kind pieces from copper, silver and natural materials with the intention of helping you bring nature into your home.

All of Ben’s pieces are special, but I especially love this hand-forged copper bowl held up by a shed antler. Available at Ben & Lael. (Tracy)

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GIFT GUIDE

Gifts for Children CYCLING STUNTS

My father loves motorcycles, and I was no stranger to them growing up. When Evel Knievel periodically attempted a crazy new feat on television, my family watched with great anticipation. This Evel Knievel stunt cycle takes me back to that time. I wish I’d had it when my kids were little, but I’m going to have fun with it anyway. Available at Tabla Rasa Toys. (Sally)

CAPTIVATING CHAPTERS

The first in a projected trio of chapter books by two-time Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo, The Puppets of Spelhorst is an original fairy tale about five puppet friends “who confront circumstances beyond their control with patience, cunning and high spirits.” The story comes to life with illustrations by Julie Morstad and is dedicated to Ann Patchett. Sounds like a winner! Available at Parnassus Books. (Sally)

Sally Nesbitt and Carolyn Taylor Co-chairs, Swan Ball

Swan Ball co-chairs Sally Nesbitt and Carolyn Taylor are passionate supporters of the Nashville community. They also love to let their fun side shine through.

They were so excited to curate a gift guide for children — and boy, does it show.

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WHEELY BUG TIGER SCOOTER

If your little one always needs to be on the move, this adorable scooter will keep them going and going. It’s comfortable, safe, and available as a mouse, ladybug or tiger. Sit back, relax and enjoy their ride! Available at Phillips Toy Mart. (Carolyn)

GIFT GUIDE

DINOSAUR DOMINOES

Kids have always been fascinated by dinosaurs. This Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Award winner is a matching dominoes game that will teach kids to recognize dinosaur species while developing matching skills — all while they think they’re just playing a game. Available at Parnassus Books. (Sally)

BLOOMING BEAUTIES

Children love to pick flowers, so invite them to grow their own!

This colorful glass terrarium includes everything but the water, so your budding gardener can easily create a colorful living bouquet. Available at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens gift shop. (Carolyn)

PUPPET PLAYTIME

A few blocks from the historic East Nashville home of Cora Howe, whose storied native wildflower garden was relocated to Cheekwood in 1968, is another East Nashville treasure, Tabla Rasa Toys. Owner Austin Bauman's favorites are those that ignite the imagination, like this puppet stage and array of puppets of every description. Available at Tabla Rasa Toys. (Sally)

A NIGHT AT HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Bundle up and create a new family tradition with Cheekwood’s Holiday LIGHTS. The vibrant display transforms Cheekwood into a magical wonderland — complete with candy cane trees and toy trains hauling presents. No stroll through the lights is complete without s’mores and cocoa by the fire. Even the reindeer show up for this fun event! Tickets available at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. (Carolyn)

PLAYFUL PUZZLES

Have you ever seen a cuter bumblebee? These bugs are welcome on my floor any time, and I will happily join my kids as they put together this floor puzzle. The bright colors and clever illustrations are sure to engage children 3 and up, helping them work on their problem-solving skills and learn about the precious critters that live outside. Available at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens gift shop. (Carolyn)

MASTERING MAGIC

Kids love to put on a show for anyone who will watch. This little bag of magic tricks comes with everything kids need to “amaze … friends and family.” The bag promises to teach them up to 15 magic tricks, and I imagine they will master more than a few along the way. Available at Parnassus Books. (Sally)

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Created out of a love for unique & effortless style.

Always searching for a new perspective.

WOMEN’S

CLOTHING &

ACCESSORIES

SHOP ALICE NASHVILLE 6949 CHARLOTTE PIKE SUITE 201 (BEHIND WHITE ORCHID FLORIST) NASHVILLE, TN 37209 (615) 390-3331 S H O PA L I C E N A S H V I L L E . C O M

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Photographs Nathan Westerfield / Drawing Colin Del Santo

BOUTIQUE

956 TYNE BOULEVARD | O AK HILL Timeless Elegance | Custom Built in 2016 | 5 Beds | 4/2 Baths | 6731 SF | $5,999,999 Gorgeous Setting on 4.52 Acres

1111 ELLER L ANE | N ASHVILLE

213 LYNNWOOD TER | BELLE MEADE

4 Beds | 4 Baths | 4953 SF | $5,800,000 Privacy and Proximity on 47.40 Acres

6 Beds | 3/1 Baths | 5859 SF | $2,690,000 French Normandy Stone House on 1.26 Acres

V AUGHN R D

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3302 TREVOR ST

“Tree House” with 360 Views 11 Acres in Williamson County

Multiple Building Sites on 150 Acres $15,000,000

4 Beds | 3/1 Baths | 3300 SF $999,999

Additional Acreage Available*

Trudy Byrd Mobile: 615.294.0055 trudy@trudybyrd.com

Office: 615.327.4800

Rita Puryear Mobile: 615.403.2878 rita@ritapuryear.com nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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F E AT U R E

COLLECTOR’S CORNER Collectibles span a vast array of passions

Why collect? We do so for pleasure, for investment, for art, for nostalgia, for social connection, for history and for legacy.

It is said that our brains are hard-wired for collecting, and anything — coins, cameras, comic books — can be collected.

The following three Nashvillians understand the collector’s mind. Master collectors themselves, they are also master guides for collectibles that tap into all the reasons we collect. Curious about vintage guitars, luxury Swiss watches or stateof-the-art fountain pens? Read on.

BY NANCY VIENNEAU PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

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F E AT U R E

GUITARS Kim Sherman, managing partner, Carter Vintage Guitars, powered by The North American Guitar

The Carter Vintage Guitars showroom on Eighth Avenue South will have you agog. But if you have the opportunity to step into Kim Sherman’s office, you’ll be shoulder-to-shoulder with 60 or so guitars, which have been placed there for protection — away from the more active showroom floor. Boutique instruments hand-built from makers all over the world . A lineup of

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Collings guitars, renowned for their expert craftsmanship in varying natural finishes. A 1939 Martin D-18 (valued at $60K), displayed next to a 2018 Gibson Les Paul Custom 1958 Standard (selling for $4,200), next to a Santa Cruz made from rare 1930s spruce and mahogany.

“There’s a guitar for every player and a player for every guitar,” says Kim. “Instruments will speak to you.

They will find you. My role is to listen to my customers, learn what they are looking for and present possibilities.”

Considered worldwide as one of the most knowledgeable in the business, Kim came to it first as a player. “I remember my first guitar purchase, an Ovation, from Hewgley’s Music Shop downtown in 1981,” she says. “I am honored now to be part of a long tradition of wonderful shops.”

It’s a powerful lineage that started when Richard Cotten opened Cotten Music Center in 1961. Kim started visiting the store in the early ’80s while a student at Belmont Unversity and became fast friends with Richard and his wife Darcy. In a series of unexpected turns — including Richard’s untimely death — Kim joined Darcy at the helm of Cotten Music Center in 1996. Twenty-three years later, she met Ben Montague of the London-based company The North American Guitar. Aligned in their reverence for guitars, be they high-end vintage or premium new builds, the two independents merged to become stronger and expand their reach. Growth and change continued unabated. During the pandemic, they realized it made better sense to consolidate to one base of operations — and Nashville was the place. Ben relocated to Nashville and brought his family. Not long after, Christie and Walter Carter of the much-loved Carter Vintage Guitars decided to retire. In March 2022, the transaction was announced: They sold their business to The North American Guitar.

“That merged traditional, boutique and vintage,” Kim says. “We have an amazing inventory. It’s like Cotten Music on steroids!”

A guitar is a beautiful, collectible asset — “usable art,” Kim says. Many of her customers are collector-players, like her, but her client base runs the gamut: professional musicians, guitar enthusiasts and confirmed collectors.

Maybe you want a parlor guitar from the 1800s. Or you love Brazilian rosewood and want an instrument built out of it. There truly is a guitar for every person seeking one, and Kim has the ability to connect with and serve customers all over the world.

“I feel grateful to be surrounded by folks who know and love these instruments,” she says. “I’m proud to be a part of an incredible team keeping a Nashville tradition alive. It’s an interesting process: accrue, enjoy, divest — and often, start all over again. We can be there to assist, every step of the way.”

Home is where love resides, memories are created, friends always belong, and laughter never ends.

To each of you who allowed us to be part of your home this year, we wish you much happiness and continued blessings this Holiday Season and throughout the New Year!

Missy Brower Realtor® 615.476.5455

Sara Ludlam Realtor® 615.686.1577

5904 Sedberry Road | Hillwood Estates

4909 Dakota Avenue | Sylvan Park

6 BD | 11.2 BA | 14,547 SF – $6,700,000

4 BD | 4.1 BA + DADU | 3,723 TOTAL SF – $2,200,000

2918 Westmoreland Drive | Vandy/West End

260 Wisteria Drive | Franklin

4 BD | 3.1 BA | 3,715 SF – $1,900,000

3 BD | 2.1 BA | 2,681 SF – $690,000

ZEITLIN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Nashville: 615.383.0183 | zeitlin.com

Nothing compares to what’s next.

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F E AT U R E

PENS

Joe Crace, owner, The Gentleman Stationer Joe Crace has always been a pen-and-paper guy. But his aha moment came in the early 2000s when he spent a year studying in Strasbourg, France — his first time abroad. In the French university system, students used fountain pens for notes, essays, papers — everything.

Joe experienced not only the fluid pleasure, but also the intrinsic value, of working in this manner.

“You learn better,” he says. “You are forced to slow down, so the brain processes the information better.

When you write by hand, you retain that information.”

Born in 1980, the native Nashvillian finds himself in a unique place. He’s of the last generation that remembers the world before it went digital. The year 1997 is the point of demarcation, when mainstream computer technology took over.

“That technological progress doesn’t mean it’s the best,” Joe says. “Skills have been lost. Analytical thought. I’m an attorney, and I write a lot. I may take notes on the computer, but then I’ll write them out to get to the core, to distill the information into an argument.

That kind of formulation — brain to hand to paper — is a very different, very valuable practice.”

Joe didn’t become an avid fountain pen enthusiast and collector until 14 years ago, with the advent of social media. Online, he readily found a fascinating and diverse group of collectors from all walks of life: writers, visual artists, doctors, lawyers, antique collectors, calligraphers and a surprising number of folks in IT. “The pen community goes beyond hobby. It’s reflective of a philosophy, a way of life,” he says. “People who like to read, to write, and are analytical thinkers. The fastest-growing segment is the 16- to 25-year-olds, [who are] weary of keyboards and screens and want to learn cursive.”

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Joe is attracted to pens that are visually interesting and usable on a daily basis — true functional pieces of art. The price range is wide. You can own a fine instrument for as little as $150 or as much as $10,000.

Tucked inside his pen pouch are some real beauties: the Japanese-made Sailor 1911; a Santini, handcrafted by a small Italian shop from gold nib to ebonite barrel; a sleek Kaweco Sport, which Joe outfitted with a vintage 1915 nib; and a Montblanc, customized with an exquisite inlay by Hiroko Makino of Studio Bokumondoh in Tokyo.

“Every enthusiast gravitates to one or two kinds of pens over others, by its aesthetic, feel, backstory and how it will be used,” says Joe. “It’s highly personal.”

While he admires the European makers, Joe believes the finest work is being done in Japan, China and Taiwan.

Those cultures place higher value on handwriting. He gives a shout out to artisan shop Kyuseido Tokyo, whose slogan is “where heritage meets modernity.” He feels strongly, from a collector’s perspective, about history and the value of preserving and recording. In 1945, Douglas MacArthur used a 1928 Parker Duofold to sign the Japanese Instrument of Surrender. Albert Einstein used a Pelikan 100N to develop the theory of relativity.

There is something fundamental — and profoundly human — about the act of writing. For their history, variety, ingenuity and engineering, fountain pens are wonderful to collect. And as Joe reminds us, they are so much fun to use.

Happy Holidays!

Your home is more than a house. It’s where you experience life and create memories.

Elevate your real estate experience with Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty, Middle Tennessee’s premier luxury brokerage.

At ZEITLIN.COM, you can discover what’s next, because when you find it, nothing compares.

6615 Eudailey-Covington Road | College Grove

9600 Concord Road | Brentwood

4 BD | 3.1 BA | 5,051 SF | $10,000,0000

4 BD | 4.3 BA | 10,728 SF | $7,950,000

6 BD | 7.1 BA | 12,403 SF | $7,999,000

Listed by: Jessica Averbuch 615.294.9880

Listed by: Pam Klos & Mallory Waterman 615.509.1616

3215 Kinnard Springs Road | Franklin

309 Jocelyn Hollow Circle | West Meade

1537 Amesbury Lane | Franklin

Listed by: Jessica Averbuch 615.294.9880

2925 Old Clarksville Pike | Ashland City

5 BD | 5.2 BA | 5,701 SF | $4,950,000

5 BD | 5.2 BA | 6,015 SF | $2,975,000

5 BD | 6.1 BA | 6,811 SF | $2,961,000

Listed by: Ami Kase & Kim Brannon 615.585.5656

Listed by: Brooke Keane 615.397.4727

Listed by: Carina Jolly 615.927.1120

5004 Bentgrass Court | Franklin

938 Caldwell Lane | Oak Hill

1719A 3rd Ave N | Nashville

6 BD | 5.1 BA | 5,134 SF | $1,999,990

3 BD | 3.1 BA | | 2,645 SF | $1,149,000

5 BD | 4.2 BA | 5,075 SF | $2,200,000

Listed by: Lauran Heckman 615.394.2083

Listed by: Mike Haddock 615.310.1087

Listed by: Stephanie Kleiner 615.424.8881

ZEITLIN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Nashville: 615.383.0183 | Franklin: 615.794.0833 | zeitlin.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

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F E AT U R E

WATCHES David King, owner, King Jewelers and IWC Schaffhausen in The Mall at Green Hills

King Jewelers, by the numbers: The 111-year-old family-owned company set down its Nashville roots 15 years ago, helmed by fifth-generation son David King.

That legacy of expertise and service has made King Jewelers the premier luxury purveyor of new and preowned collectible timepieces. David and his associates have become trusted sources in the community for this focus, exemplified by King Jewelers’ presentation of the annual Nashville Watch Fair, started in 2009. That focus is narrowing, in the form of a second enterprise: David is opening the IWC Schaffhausen boutique in The Mall at Green Hills, just in time for the holidays.

IWC — International Watch Company — was founded in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, in 1868 by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones. His vision, coupled with assistance from Swiss technicians, formed the foundation of a company that quickly gained a worldwide reputation for meticulous engineering, precision and beauty. That has not faltered throughout IWC’s 155 years of luxury watchmaking.

The prestigious brand offers limited, highly collectible editions of the Pilot’s Watch, inspired by the aviators of the 1930s and ’40s, which are timeless in design and popular to this day. The Aquatimer series, IWC’s line of diving watches, first appeared in the mid-’60s. Watertight to 200 meters, they are valued for sea and land adventures alike. There’s been a lot of excitement surrounding the 2023 redesign of the 1976 Gérald Genta Ingenieur watch.

With its sleek integrated stainless steel bracelet and patterned dial, this striking modern iteration is available exclusively in IWC Schaffhausen boutiques.

With the forthcoming Green Hills location, there will be 12 of these boutiques across the country. And as with the

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updated Genta Ingenieur, IWC reserves many timepieces for viewing and purchase solely at the boutiques. David is dedicated to building his business in concert with our city’s growth and wealth. He recognizes the value of having Nashville become the 12th place to house such a boutique, offering expanded access to these fine watches.

“I want to do cool things for our city, and I have always liked the IWC brand,” says David. “It has strong momentum, superb value — really, the best in the industry, considering its smaller production line. It ranked seventh last year in sales, outperforming larger brands, such as Breitling.”

For David, it is all about relationships. He relishes working with clients who have been with him for many years and helping them build their collections. Do you want a classic look? A casual design for every day?

More or varied complications? A ceramic case? In which color?

“That is the most fun,” he says, grinning. “I know my clients’ collections like I know my own kids’ names.” At the same time, David enjoys meeting someone new, learning their likes and dislikes, and guiding them in their acquisition. Starting a collection can be as exciting as adding to one.

THE GIFT SHOPPE

The Gift Shoppe

G&G Family G&G Interiors Nashville

Whatever your home decor vision may be, the team at G&G Interiors has you covered. Since opening in Knoxville in 1998 and Nashville in 2016, G&G has grown from a gift shop and small design business to one of the largest luxury home furnishing showrooms in the region.

Tell us about you. We have been in business for eight years, and we have been in Nashville forever.

What's your favorite thing about being a business owner in Nashville?

Nashville has a big heart, and we love each of the friendships we have made in this genuine community.

G&G INTERIORS NASHVILLE 6033 TN-100 Nashville, TN 615-457-2275 Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

gg-interiors.com Tell us about the product we're featuring in the gift guide. What makes it a great gift? Trudon candles are a signature gift at G&G, and we love this year’s new holiday scent, Altaïr. And Charbonnel et Walker chocolates were not only favorites of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, but have quickly become some of ours as well.

What advice can you share for picking the perfect gift for a loved one?

We like to envision our loved one’s favorite spaces and places and treat them to something special.

PROMOTIONAL <<

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THE G IFT SHO PP E

KAREE HAYS ESTHETICS 2309 Crestmoor Road, Suite 200, Nashville, TN 615-383-5053 Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. kareehays.com

Karee Hays

A Nashville native, Karee Hays opened her skincare clinic in 2010, offering a variety of products and services tailored to each patient’s specific needs and goals.

Karee loves creating a platform that also allows her to solve problems, hire the best of the best and share expertise and knowledge with others.

What makes this a great gift? The KH Mega Glow Bundle never disappoints! The bundle includes the original KH Koji pads that we customize to your skin type and target needs, our KH Sheer Shine Pads that lift and unglue dull dry skin, KH Dream Cream with antioxidants and peptides, and our KH Advanced Brightening Scrub. Bye-bye brown spots and dull skin. Hello glossy, radiant, hydrated skin!

to put your money in products — the specialized products that have the right ingredients to create change and cellular turnover and the products you can get at your local drugstore.

Karee Hays Esthetics

What services can the community expect when they visit your clinic? Our initial consultation plays a huge part in customizing a treatment plan with services and products that uniquely customize products to your skin.

Our goal is to educate you on what does what and where

44 >> PROMOTIONAL

What advice can you share for picking the perfect gift for a loved one? Giving gifts is actually one of my favorite hobbies. I love finding something special and unique, wrapping it beautifully and watching the recipient open the gift. I keep a list in my notes throughout the year for the people I shop for, and if I hear them mention something they find interesting or would like to have, I quickly make a note. Works like a charm.

What's your favorite holiday tradition? If I am being totally honest, it's after we open the presents and have brunch — we all pile in the living room and watch Talladega Nights. We have literally done this for years and laugh at the same things over and over.

Any fun hobbies? I became a grandmother this year, and I live for Thursdays when I get to keep my grandson. He and "Birdie" (me) have a ball, and he is my new favorite hobby!

GUS MAYER 2132 Green Hills Village Drive, Nashville, TN 37215 (615) 383-4771 Monday-Saturday (November 27-December 23) 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Christmas Eve 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. gusmayer.com

Janice Elliott Designer Buyer for Gus Mayer

What's your favorite thing about being a buyer in Nashville? Gus Mayer gives back to the community, and we are proud of our community involvement with events like the Nashville Symphony Fashion Show (benefitting the Symphony), Cause for Paws (benefitting Nashville Humane), and other various local charity events.

What can shoppers expect when they visit your store?

Our sales team emphasizes customer service, and customers can expect one-on-one shopping assistance in the store. In addition to our current season styles, we often have trunk shows and events in-store where customers can preview and pre-order from future collections. We often host designers in-person at the store

Gus Mayer is a women's specialty store carrying a range of both designer and contemporary brands. Founded in 1900, the original Gus Mayer store was located on Canal Street in New Orleans, followed by Birmingham in 1922, and Nashville in 1990. Designer buyer Janice Elliott has called Nashville home for over 40 years.

for trunk shows, which adds to the customer experience because we can often personalize and create special orders with the designer present.

Tell us about the product we're featuring in the gift guide. What makes it a great gift? Our best-selling fragrance is Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait. This scent is powerful, without being heavy, which makes it an excellent fragrance gift choice for both him and her. It's sophisticated, floral, and woody, and the scent is so wildly popular that MFK has created a range of products in the same scent – we carry a collection of Baccarat Rouge 540 products at Gus Mayer – including candles, hand lotion, hand soap, body oil, and more.

What's your favorite holiday tradition? I enjoy spending time with my family during the holidays. I also enjoy when people come into the store for holiday gifts and being a part of so many family's holiday traditions. We have a long standing tradition of being a gift resource and love seeing gifts that people got from Gus Mayer!

What advice can you share for picking the perfect gift for a loved one? We always recommend considering someone's interests and style to choose something that aligns with their taste. Consider the latest trends, and check with the sales team for personalized recommendations – they always have the best information and customer feedback on the best gifts for the season.

PROMOTIONAL <<

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THE G IFT SHO PP E

Kuhn Rikon

Ken Thwaits

The first Kuhn Rikon store in the United States opened in the brand-new Tanger Outlets mall in Antioch this fall, offering pressure cookers, fondue pots and other cookware. In addition to the storefront, the Swiss-based brand established its American headquarters in Nashville.

Franklin Road Apparel is housed in a former fire station in charming downtown Franklin, which owner Ken Thwaits calls home.

Shoppers can expect to find a collection of quality clothing and denim for men and women, plus leather goods and boots.

What can shoppers expect when they visit your store? If you visit the store on a typical weekend day, you will find one of our associates demonstrating a signature item. If you are lucky, you will be there on a fondue day! There is nothing better than traditional Swiss fondue. We offer giftwrapping along with unique gift ideas for anyone who loves to cook.

Tell us about you. My family and I moved here 17 years ago and opened our store in 2017.

KUHN RIKON 4060 Cane Ridge Parkway Building 3, Suite 112 Antioch, TN 615-639-1022 Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. kuhnrikon.com

Tell us about the product we're featuring in the gift guide. What makes it a great gift? The Cheese Fondue Set features the Ibex, a common goat found in the Alps. The pot and plates are handmade and hand-painted in the traditional Reinfelder factory we own, which is one of the last ceramic factories in Switzerland. Each step in the creation of the items involves a high level of craftsmanship and skill.

And each piece is one of a kind.

What's your favorite holiday tradition? Traditional Swiss fondue served before Christmas dinner.

46 >> PROMOTIONAL

Franklin Road Apparel

What's your favorite thing about being a business owner in Nashville?

I love being able to provide a unique buying experience to people in our community — and creating an environment they won't find anywhere else.

FRANKLIN ROAD APPAREL 508 W Main Street Franklin, TN 615-540-5198 Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. franklinroad.com

What can shoppers expect when they visit your store? We offer a wide variety of styles for men and women — business casual clothing, raw denim items and quality everyday pieces.

We also carry a few local brands, like Iron Home Collective, Nic & Maude and Nashville Denim Company.

Tell us about the product we're featuring in the gift guide. What makes it a great gift? We wanted to feature a new brand we are carrying called CLOSED, based out of Hamburg, Germany. The brand is focused on sustainability and produces great flannels, jackets and denim. Its pieces will last a lifetime!

YEARLY CO. 2209 Bandywood Drive Suite E Nashville, TN 615-651-0971 Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. yearlyco.com

Ann Williams Yearly Co.

Tell us more about you. I learned how to make our family's gold anniversary bangles in a metalworking class at Vanderbilt University (my alma mater!). Vanderbilt is what brought me to Nashville in 2004, and I’ve loved living here and watching the city grow. Yearly Co. has grown to 20 employees in Nashville, and I love spending time bouncing between our headquarters and studio on Music Row, our retail store on Bandywood and our home in Green Hills. I really enjoy trying new restaurants in Nashville with my husband, seeing shows at the Ryman and traveling with my family.

What can shoppers expect when they visit your store?

You’ll find a beautiful and meaningful selection of fine

What started in a garage has blossomed into a booming jewelry business with a studio and storefront. A Vanderbilt grad, Ann loves the support and community of fellow female business owners in the Nashville area and hopes to continue to champion other women-owned businesses around town.

jewelry that you can customize to represent your story.

Our bangles are what we are known for, but we also offer bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings in 14-karat gold with natural diamonds and gemstones. I also hope you’ll find that shopping at Yearly Co. feels like visiting with friends in a comfortable and welcoming environment, where you can browse, build a wishlist and try on any of our pieces.

What's your favorite holiday tradition? My favorite might be our festive Christmas Eve dinner at my parents’ house. We all dress up, pop Champagne and eat fresh cracked crab, and the kids run around asking us when they can start opening their presents. It’s so much

fun to see my daughters experience the same memories that I had of the holidays in the house I grew up in.

What advice can you share for picking the perfect gift for a loved one? My general rule for giving a great gift is to stick with elevated, simple items and to take some time to consider the person, their style and their tastes.

Something as simple as a blanket in a luxe fabric or a candle in a dreamy scent can really feel special. And owning a jewelry business helps — I have given my favorite earrings to probably every woman in my life and have not had any complaints so far!

PROMOTIONAL <<

47

THE G IFT SHO PP E

MERCI DUPRE CLOTHIERS hello@mercidupreclothier.com mercidupreclothiers.com

Dr. Christina Rahm Merci Dupre Clothiers

What makes this a great gift? This clothing line features designers from Italy, India and the Middle East, as well as my Merci Dupre Collection. I have worked for years creating healthy, environmentally friendly products. I am now using that knowledge — combined with patented, scientific disciplines — to create protective clothing. Merci Dupre Clothiers and DRC Ventures’ overall mission is to solve health issues caused by the environment. This new, innovative and environmentally friendly clothing line is just one more step toward that mission, all without compromising style.

Tell us more about you. I’ve lived in Nashville for more than 20 years, but I travel the world presenting, lectur-

48 >> PROMOTIONAL

Over the years, Dr. Christina Rahm founded a collection of Nashville businesses through DRC Ventures — the most recent being Merci Dupre Clothiers.

The venture, which is named after her children, has been highlighted at fashion weeks in the Hamptons, New York, Milan and most recently, Los Angeles.

ing and educating both the private and public sectors about the bold new worlds of nutraceuticals, wellness strategies and environmental solutions. I am also the author of Cure The Causes, Be Your Own Inspiration and Cure The Causes Cookbook. My mission is to get to the root cause of health problems. Having worked in more than 88 countries, I’m proudest of my expansive philanthropic initiatives and being the mother of four children.

Share more about DRC Ventures. Our team's mission is protecting the environment, supporting communities and empowering entrepreneurs, such as the designers we have collaborated with on this launch. We invite all our partners and customers to join us on the journey.

What's your favorite holiday tradition? I would say, as many people would, that spending quality time with my parents, siblings, husband and four children is my favorite holiday tradition. We travel so much throughout the year that I make it a point to be in Nashville with family during the holidays.

What advice can you share for picking the perfect gift for a loved one? Consider their interests and hobbies, while also thinking about their personal style and preferences. And always pay attention to comments about what they like or need.

SHOP ALICE NASHVILLE 6949 Charlotte Pike Suite201 Nashville, TN 615-390-3331 Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

ShopAliceNashville.com

Betsy Taylor Shop Alice Nashville

Tell us about you. I'm a native Nashvillian, and my daughter, Edie, works with me at the shop. My hobby has always been fashion — I just love everything about clothes and have since my days at Harpeth Hall. To this day, I have stacks of my old Seventeen magazines and wouldn't part with them for anything!

What's your favorite thing about being a business owner in Nashville? I love meeting all the newcomers to our great city. Being a native Nashvillian, I know a lot of other natives. It's so fun meeting all the new people, learning what attracted them to Middle Tennessee and hearing their impressions of Nashville.

Shop Alice is a trendy women’s clothing and accessories boutique, tucked off Charlotte Pike in West Nashville. More than 20 years ago, owner Betsy Taylor co-owned beloved gift shop Harry B’s in Nashville, which paved the way for Shop Alice to open just over two years ago.

What can shoppers expect when they visit your store?

We carry small, unique and independent clothing lines from all over the world, which we have spent months — sometimes years — searching out. I love introducing customers to the beautiful fabrics and designs, as well as the amazing designers behind them from Paris, Japan, India, Ireland, Sweden and more. When you buy something at Alice, you won't see it all over town.

What's your favorite holiday tradition? For much of my life, it was going to my grandmother's house on Chickering Road every Christmas Eve with my very large extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins. A tradi-

tion I continue is placing my daughter Edie's stocking at the end of her bed once Santa has filled it. It was a tradition in my family growing up. She just got married this year, so we'll have to see if the tradition continues.

What advice can you share for picking the perfect gift for a loved one? I suggest really listening and paying attention to the special people in your life. When are they happiest? When are they most relaxed? What gift can you give that enhances them at those times when they're at their very best?

PROMOTIONAL <<

49

50 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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F E ATU R E

Enduring Legacy Swan Ball announces the official jeweler of the 2024 Swan Ball

As Nashville’s Swan Ball looks to its 62nd year, the event’s legacy and mission — to help raise funds to support Cheekwood Estate & Gardens — are brought into focus. For decades, the Swan Ball has been one of the most notable events in the South and has garnered the attention of philanthropists throughout the country. A significant component of the multifaceted event is a partnership with a leading fine jeweler. This symbiotic relationship elevates the event and brings elegant designs of beauty and craftsmanship to Nashville, while shining a light on a luxury jeweler known to only a few Nashvillians. Given this, it comes as no surprise that co-chairs Sally Nesbitt and Carolyn Taylor have chosen Kentshire as the official jeweler of the 2024 Swan Ball.

Kentshire spans over 70 years and three generations. Founded as the United States Silver Company in 1940 by Benson Imberman, the company quickly became a world-renowned dealer of rare antique and period jewelry, furniture and decorative objects. As the following grew, so did the company. And as hands changed throughout the generations, so did the locations.

In 1988, the company opened a satellite store on the seventh floor of Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan. Today, the company is run by brother-sister team Matthew and Carrie Imberman, and the Bergdorf Goodman space serves as a private salon for customers.

Kentshire represents the best of the best in vintage jewelry — with enduring designs meant to be passed down through generations. The store’s website is organized by jewelry category, designer and period, allowing collectors to find the ideal piece that fits their personality. (You can even find period pieces dating back to the Georgian era.) Matthew and Carrie have worked hard to bring fresh eyes to the company. And this year, Kentshire is generously donating 20% of its December online sales at kentshire.com to Cheekwood when guests use the code Swan Ball — offering you a perfect opportunity to give back while shopping this holiday season.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY KEVIN KISH FOR KENTSHIRE, NEW YORK

52 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

Bring joy home this holiday season.

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Real Estate Advisor: John Clayton nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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56 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

IVY VICK REAL ESTATE ADVISOR 615.485.0963 IVY@NASHVILLEDIGS.COM

PA R T I E S

Writers Meet Readers The 35th annual Authors in the Round captivates with conversation

Kyle Floyd, Mark Greaney

Nancy Dillon, Tom Piazza

B

ig changes were afoot on the eve of the Southern Festival of Books. In its 35th year, Authors in the Round — known as AIR to the cognoscenti — filled a new and larger venue, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. In a toast to the nearly 50 authors there (of the 150 expected for the weekend), emcee Shannon Sanders, the award-winning musician and producer, said, “There’s a powerful bond between the written word and music.” Overlooking our city skyline, every guest nodded at the sentiment’s ring of truth.

Beaming and beautiful, co-chairs Laura Smith and LoLita Toney circulated during cocktails, making sure everyone felt welcome. Guests certainly felt special: Each table of 10 included a featured author, which made for fascinating and varied table talk. Some tables rotated their author between courses so everyone had a chance for one-on-one discussion. The conversation was the entertainment, which was pure delight for the bookish crowd exchanging literary tips and favorite reads. Guests debated whether this could possibly happen in any other city.

Unscientific consensus: Music City mojo is not replicable.

After Humanities Tennessee executive director Tim Henderson’s welcome, the dinner began with a delectable fall salad with apples, candied almonds and brie, followed by generous braised short ribs with chive mashed potatoes and grilled veggies. Lynchburg Lemonade cheesecake finished off the meal and made everybody happy.

And the authors? As diverse as the crowd — in topic, style, personality and subject interpretation. They ranged from local favorites Ann Patchett, Kem Hinton and Margaret Renkl, to poet Mark Jarman, to popular writers Tracy Kidder, Carl Hiaasen and Matthew Quick. Matthew’s Silver Linings Playbook, made into a movie starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper, is now on at least nine people’s must-read list. So is his new work, We Are the Light.

As always, the question of the evening was: Van or valet? For future reference, van or carpool is probably the better way to go, given the surge of downtown activity in other arenas. Everyone had to get home promptly to be ready for the slate of Saturday and Sunday festival activities, introducing even more authors and their stories to these avid readers.

Barbara Daane, Hilda McGregor

BY BETH ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Meendy Singleton, Mandi Kane, Terry Vo, Kayla Counts, Aynsley Broom

Co-chairs Laura Smith and LoLita Toney

Tim Henderson, Shannon Sanders

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

57

PA R T I E S

Gay and John Greer

Ellen Lea, Nancy Dillon, Mary Jo Shankle

Elizabeth and Mark McDonald, Woo Caroland

Brandi Nash, Dennis McCarthy, Joyce Blaylock

Matthew Quick, Jerry Williams, Jennifer Puryear, Deena Drummond

Fiona McAnally, Leslie Ann Wilson, Mark Dowell, Carole Graves

Tamara Crabtree, Dolly Roach, Karen Hayes, Amy Cox Williams

Beverly Grant, Rhonda SwitzerNadasdi, Katie Richards

Mary Gauthier, Joe Kane, Joshua Moore, Kashif Andrew Graham

Ansel Davis, Kate Grayken, Jana Davis

58 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

Brandi Nash, Blair Teasdale, Aubrey Harwell, co-chair Laura Smith, Bitsi Condra

59

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3 0 BUR T ON HILLS BLVD, ST E 207, NASHVILLE, TN 37215 • 615.250.7880 • C OR C OR A NR E V E R I E .C OM | THE OFFICIAL REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE OF THE TENNESSEE TITANS ©2023 Corcoran Group LLC. All rights reserved. Corcoran® and the Corcoran Logo are registered service marks owned by Corcoran Group LLC. Corcoran Group LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. FL Broker License #BK662303 | TN Broker License #257893

60 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

PA R T I E S

A Celebration of One Earth The Land Trust for Tennessee celebrates Once in a Blue Moon

E

ntering the gates of The Land Trust for Tennessee’s Glen Leven Farm can be a transformative experience. The light and air have a haunting quality — the land whispering stories of the past as guests take in the well-maintained structures and much-revered green spaces. The Thompson family owned the farm for over 200 years before Susan West gifted it to The Land Trust to ensure everlasting protection from development. The Land Trust team is currently working to “create a strategic plan for Glen Leven Farm, a roadmap that will give this property a sustainable future as a model for land conservation and cultural preservation.” Once in a Blue Moon — The Land Trust for Tennessee’s annual fundraiser — again welcomed passionate preservationists to the sacred land for fellowship and celebration of land protection and conservation.

Multigenerational landowners donned their country-chic attire and mingled while sipping cocktails. Co-chairs Sarah Lodge Tally and Jenny Wray were on hand, graciously visiting with guests during the cocktail hour. Once guests were seated, Doris McMillan offered a moment of reflection and reminded revelers that “we should all celebrate one earth, one sky, one moon and one sun and that we all have one beginning and one destiny.” The Land Trust for Tennessee’s president and CEO Liz McLaurin took the stage to remind guests of the purpose of the evening. To date, The Land Trust has preserved 136,000 acres of private land. Liz also emphasized that The Land Trust supports the expansion of public land by creating parks, hunting and fishing tracks, and greenways throughout the state. Finally, Greer Tidwell of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation spoke about the mission of land preservation and encouraged a “continued piece of the public-private partnership that leaves a space for people to enjoy.”

After dinner, guests enjoyed the tradition of s’mores by the bonfire — a Once in a Blue Moon favorite. The sounds of the Whiskey Wolves of the West continued the party into the evening.

Casey Santos, Chris Seay, Chris Jones and Lynne Faulk Jones, Rachel and Bob Freeman

Tom and Betsy Morgan, David Darst

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND Co-chair Sarah Tally and Trey Tally

Wanda and Tom Vickstrom

Liz McLaurin, Thomas Woltz, Ellen Brownell

Jason Cheng, Sterling Bhollah, Jenny Zhang

Morgan Stengel, Kabir Sandhu

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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PA R T I E S

Barbara Daane, George Garrett, Leslie McKinney Bass Delia Darst, Susan and E.W. Weathersby

Michelle Milam, Carolyn Edwards

xxx Daniel Meigs, Heather Crabtree

Kate and Nathan Goodin

Bill Huskey, Tyler and Jeff Yarbro, Claudia Huskey, Katie Skartvedt

Richard and Sara Bovender, Sinclair Kelly, Sarah Tally, Anna Russell Friedman, Trey Tally

Jeremy and Brittany Tharp, Scott and Ashley Kyle, Mike Nill

DJ and Christine Belknap, Marti Skold-Jordan

Kathy Kohrmann, Sarah and Ryan Flury, Anne Buckley

Jenny Wray, Francie Michels, Dorothy and Michael Kaminski

62 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

Caleb Hemmer, Rachael and Dick Lodge

ON THE MARKET

ON THE MARKET

SOLD*

1806 Primrose Avenue | Belmont

6261 Lampkins Bridge Road | College Grove

210 Leonard Avenue | Whitland

6 BD | 7/1 BA | 5,900 SF | $3,199,000

4 BD | 4/1 BA | 5,079 SF | $2,500,000

4 BD | 3/1 BA | 3,851 SF | $1,875,000

Mary Brooke Bonadies 615.496.1960

Loy Hardcastle 615.948.3704

Kindy Hensler 615.828.4064

*Represented Buyer

ON THE MARKET

ON THE MARKET

ON THE MARKET

3505 Richards Street | Green Hills

600 Chelmsford Place | Green Hills

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4 BD | 4/2 BA | 4,696 SF | $1,700,000

4 BD | 3/1 BA | 4,323 SF | $1,499,000

4 BD | 4/1 BA | 3,236 SF | $1,099,900

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Mary Brooke Bonadies 615.496.1960

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ON THE MARKET

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968 Draughon Avenue | Green Hills

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3 BD | 2 BA | 1,395 SF | $1,095,000

4 BD | 3 BA | 2,846 SF | $975,000

3 BD | 2/1 BA | 1,388 SF | $800,000

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Maggie Bond 615.481.9203

Maggie Bond 615.481.9203

ON THE MARKET

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ON THE MARKET

649 Post Office Road | Rock Island

104 Bonnie Briar Lane | Belmont-Hillsboro

4706 Brighton Village Drive | Brighton Village

4 BD | 3/1 BA | 2,781 SF | $699,900

2 BD | 2 BA | 1,330 SF | $500,000

3 BD | 3/1 BA | 1,914 SF | $438,500

Lara Kirby 931.273.5510

Maggie Bond 615.481.9203

Mary Brown 615.260.8885

Mary Brooke Bonadies

Maggie Bond

Mary Brown

Andrea Franden

Susan Gregory

Loy Hardcastle

Kindy Hensler

Lara Kirby

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

parksathome.com | BRENTWOOD 615.370.8669 | FRANKLIN MAIN STREET 615.790.7400 | HILLSBORO VILLAGE 615.383.6964

63

SUGARTREE 40 Concord Park East $2,350,000

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64 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

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PA R T I E S

David and Janice Elliott Morgan

Amy Marsalis, Lorie Duke, Beth Molteni

Co-chair Jodi Banks, Bill Forrester, Becca Stevens

We Can Endure Sunday in the Park celebrates a walk in the park

O

n a showstopping Sunday, friends and supporters of Warner Parks convened in Edwin Warner Park’s Ridge Field to raise funds for the beloved park system.

Sunday in the Park was the very first event covered by Nfocus magazine in its inaugural issue in November 1993. Founding editor Herbert Fox noted that “smartly hatted women and nattily groomed men gathered for a grand picnic.” This year was no different, as many took note of the autumnal hues donned by the stylish revelers. It was an afternoon to remember.

As guests arrived, most made their way through the tent — decorated with native grasses and flowers — to enjoy mimosas and bloody marys in the not-too-hot, not-too-cold noon sun. Co-chairs Jodi Banks and Amy Richards both love the parks and were honored to serve as this year’s chairs. Once guests were seated, board chair Govan White took the stage to set the tone for the afternoon. Govan remarked that “in 1987, a group of loyal Nashvillians started Friends of Warner Parks to help support the park system and return it to its natural glory.” The work of the founders has helped create a park system that is beloved by locals and a marvel to visitors.

In the past three years, Friends of Warner Parks has planted 10,000 trees in the park and removed 40 acres of invasive plants. The big news of the afternoon was the announcement of the Percy Warner Golf Course Restoration and Renovation project. Built in 1938, the course has had few capital improvements. Through a public-private partnership, Metro Parks and Recreation, the Tennessee Golf Foundation and Friends of Warner Parks plan to restore the Percy Warner Golf Course and surrounding landscape and to promote access to the game for all communities.

After the remarks, Becca Stevens called the lively crowd to silence as she read “An Ode to Walkers” while her husband, Marcus Hummon, played melodious chords to enhance the words. Guests then enjoyed an autumn luncheon by Kristen Winston Catering as a gentle breeze wafted through the landscape.

Jen Davis, Lee and Brande Thomas

Kelley Beaman, co-chair Amy Richards

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Bill and Tracy Wade, Rob Turner, Jay Jones

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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PA R T I E S

Jay Williams, Joanne Hayes, Mark Banks, Mike Hayes

Jane Alvis, Bumpy and Jenny Triche, Joe Hall, Lee Ann and George Anderson

Morgan Stengel, Kabir Sandhu

Albie and Sara Del Favero

Hugh Howser, Allison DeMarcus

Sam DeVane, Irwin Fisher

Michael and Kathryn Saunders, Bill Hagerty

Jeremy and Tracy Kane, Chris Stark, Mary Gingrass, Betsy and Steve Kemmerling

66 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

Brigid Carpenter, Michelle Kennedy, Nicole and Brett Oeser

34TH ANNUAL

Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville J A N . 12–1 4, 2024 | M U S I C C I T Y C E N T E R , N A S H V I L L E , T E N N .

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67

PA R T I E S

Bonnie Cross, Mary Brockman

Alex and Brittany Haemmerlein, Carter Wamp and Heather Beshore, Allyson and Branch Howard Jenny Aiken, Dana Oman, Kelly Crockett

Sam DeVane, Sharon Pigott, Jenny Hannon

Catherine and John Tumminello

Rob McCabe, Mark Thomas, Deborah Hennessee, Prentice Stabler

James and Lindsey Hundley, Mary and Austin Maddox

Jay and Christi DeGeare

68 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

Karen Morgan, Katherine Crosthwaite, Lisa Manning, Jackie Hicks

Richard White, Molly and Joey Viola

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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PA R T I E S

Craig and Dara Freiberg

Co-chair Melodie Madden Adams, Erin Parker

Cam

Don’t Stop Believin’ The Theater Bug has got the beat with the Bug Ball

F

Cori Anne Laemmel, Grace Hu

Tamiko Robinson Steele

Leah Alexander-Otukpe and Olayinka Otukpe

or the uninitiated, an invitation to The Theater Bug’s annual Bug Ball may conjure images of tykes in homespun costumes belting Broadway tunes in a junior musical. But after an evening with the passionate, creative and wildly talented cast of The Theater Bug, it would seem the theater world has been turned on its ear. On a beautiful evening in late October, guests of the Bug Ball donned their best ’80s prom attire and gathered at Saint Elle for a magical and memorable evening. The Gen Xers in the room were immediately transported down memory lane as a sea of taffeta and side ponies filled the room. The hair was high, thanks to Aqua Net, and tunes by Madonna, Duran Duran, The Police and Wham! filled the air. Co-chairs Paige Messina and Melodie Madden Adams were on hand to greet and mingle with the colorful revelers.

After a reception complete with spiked punch and prom photo sessions, guests took their seats for dinner and the main event. The mission of The Theater Bug is to “inspire young people and audiences to create community and build confidence — encouraging them through educational experiences in the performing arts.” The Theater Bug offers free and low-cost arts education year-round, while giving adults who work in the space a place to thrive while mentoring the next generation.

As the lights dimmed, country musician Cam took the stage to kick off an evening of top-notch entertainment. Cam performed top hits like “Diane” and “Burning House,” and shared that in her younger years, she was the kid in the back of the chorus. She then encouraged the audience to support late bloomers. Next, young thespians took the stage, making it clear that The Theater Bug is producing the next generation of theatrical stars. Performing original works, the actors sang, danced and told fantastic jokes leaning into the “what were we all thinking in the ’80s” theme — A Flock of Seagulls, anyone? The surprise guest of the evening — Brad Paisley — also took the stage in support of the organization. All guests left a little bit nostalgic and happy to help continue the work of The Theater Bug.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Co-chair Paige Messina, Robin Clarke, Gurjeet Birdee, Travis Messina

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PA R T I E S

Sit, Stay, Shop The Nashville Humane Association presents Cause for Paws

T

Gudrun West, Janice LaGasse

Debra Fair, Kimberly Wise

Kerry Brock holds a Nashville Humane Association puppy

he sun shone brightly as guests arrived at Belle Meade Country Club for the annual Cause for Paws luncheon benefiting the Nashville Humane Association.

As guests entered through a delightfully cheerful balloon arch from Balloons and Confetti 615, they were greeted by glasses of Champagne and refreshing mimosas. While revelers enjoyed drinks and perfect nibbles, they browsed pop-up shop offerings from Gus Mayer, Diamond Cellar and The Vault Luxury Resale.

All sales benefited the important work of the Nashville Humane Association. Co-chairs Eileen Hart and Haden Cook — modeling looks by featured designer Shoshanna — visited with guests and encouraged them to continue supporting the cause.

Outside, the guest stars of the day accepted snuggles and pets from all who were willing to give them. The always popular — and adoptable — Nashville Humane Association puppies were on hand to bring home the organization’s mission of being “committed to finding responsible homes, controlling pet overpopulation and promoting the humane treatment of animals, all while supporting pets and pet families in our community.”

The puppies acted as tiny ambassadors, furthering the message of the important work done every day by the NHA team.

After lunch, board president Chris Hilton took the podium to remind guests why it is important to support the Nashville Humane Association. He noted that, through generous donations and events like Cause for Paws, dogs and cats are given a chance for a better life. Kimberly Wise was presented the Julia Colton Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare for her passionate support of animals in the community. Finally, the fashion show, presented by Gus Mayer, was on. This year’s designer — Shoshanna — is known for designs that fit and flatter using bold colors and unique details. The styles of the day certainly fit the bill, offering beautiful looks for everything from brunch with friends to black-tie galas. Many of the garments had lustrous fabrics and lovely hues that worked well on the bright, sunny day. A great time was had by all. And most importantly, crucial funds were raised for the Nashville Humane Association.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Stephanie Ingram, Gabe Nies, Robin Patton

Co-chairs Eileen Hart, Haden Cook

Rachel Friedman, Shoshanna, Lana Pargh

Vanessa Falk, Ruth Bailey, Grace Clayton

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

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PA R T I E S

Keys to Success Goodwill’s Impact Awards shine a light on achievement

G

oodwill’s Impact Awards luncheon at the Music City Center was a stunning success, sprinkled with a few surprises. Guests ventured from near and far (one group of ladies drove from their annual golf trip in Dover, Tennessee) to celebrate unsung heroes who have persevered through difficult setbacks to help make the world a better place. It was a beautiful day that felt more like summer than mid-autumn, with anticipation and excitement in the air.

Co-chairs Robin Andrews and Ryan McLaughlin Wood greeted a record-setting 600 attendees and shared their mutual appreciation for Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee.

Both of their fathers devoted their lives to Goodwill, and these second-generation leaders continue to follow in their footsteps.

Robin and Ryan were dressed head-to-toe in Goodwill finds, and their energy was palpable — no doubt the reason for the significant increase in participants.

After an exceptionally delicious lunch, the inspiring awards ceremony began. Popular WTVF-Channel 5 news anchor Rhori Johnston was recognized for his 10 years of service as the Impact Awards luncheon emcee, delighting everyone in attendance.

This year, the awards ceremony focused on “celebrating keys to success.” Each recipient personified attributes that are essential for achievement: kindness, perseverance, empathy and resilience. Each also credited Goodwill for unlocking their full potential. The Achiever of the Year Award went to Amber Grant, who was “raised like a sighted kid,” despite being blind.

After struggling to find a job, Amber joined Goodwill’s Call Center Training Program and quickly impressed everyone with her passion for helping others. Jose Ortega, the LaVoi-Katz Award recipient, was the victim of a violent attack that left him paralyzed from the waist down. He spent years working at Goodwill Career Solutions, where he provided job training and resources to people looking for opportunities. Finally, Jessica Lentz received the David B. Lifsey Scholarship for making her way to the top of the welding and construction program at Goodwill after serving a four-year prison sentence.

Amid roaring applause, standing ovations and perhaps a tear or two, the Goodwill Impact Awards not only recognized the tremendous achievements of extraordinary individuals, but ignited a flame within the hearts of many in the room. The celebration reinvigorated a commitment to making a positive impact, proving the keys to success lie in each of us.

BY GLORIA HOUGHLAND PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Maggie Bond, Whitney Daane, Carolyne Hadden, Barbara Daane

Jon Witt, Chuck Welch, Bill Newton, Danny Johnston

Beth Alexander, Niketa Hailey-Hill Co-chairs Robin Andrews and Ryan McLaughlin Wood

Carrington Fox, Sandy Nelson

Julia Ann Hawkins, Sandra Lipman, Jennifer Puryear, Kate Satz

74 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

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PA R T I E S

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Star Light, Star Bright The Centennial Park Conservancy reimagines fundraising with art

A

s the sun set in Centennial Park on a warm fall night, the Parthenon lit up in radiant pinks and blues.

Nashville’s art admirers arrived uniformly in bright attire for the first-time immersive fundraiser Bright Night, hosted by the Centennial Park Conservancy.

A glowing tunnel beckoned guests to approach the towering Parthenon. As they did, a walkway lined with mirrored floors and light installations transported them to a world of wonder.

Inside the East Gallery, vivid artworks by Duncan McDaniel adorned bold green walls. The artist entranced attendees with his playful creations, from paintings to plexiglass installations to vibrating platforms.

Upstairs, guests enjoyed more inventive art — this time, in the form of food and cocktails. Hors d’oeuvre trays resembled art palettes with abstract color splashes of sauces and gourmet bites. A memorable libation, described as “molecular mixology,” was served in gel spheres by the spoonful.

Supporters were invited to “wear it bright” as a direction to ditch the basic black and embrace brighter hues. As the Parthenon filled up, the room was awash with colorful attire.

(Electric yellow and hot pink were favorites of the evening.)

Eventually, the crowd parted for a surprise special performance. Aerialists suspended from silks danced to orchestral versions of contemporary hits. Thick sashes of flowing fabrics swayed from column to column, just beneath the gaze of the 42-foot Athena statue.

Bright Night was a fun and fresh fundraiser concept that encouraged attendees to truly immerse themselves in art, architecture and entertainment. Funds raised from events such as this allow the Centennial Park Conservancy to host programs and incredible artists at no cost to visitors throughout the year.

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Denise Cummins, Neil Krugman, Nancy Peterson Hearn

BY THE WANDERLUST GIRLS | EMILY BACHE & ABIGAIL BRESLIN PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Joanie Walker, Ruthie Keene, Sondra Morris

76 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

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77

PA R T I E S

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Dream Machine Pick Your Poison returns to raise funds for Broadway Dreams

F

Emily Schleh, Tiffany Kerns, Donald Phillips, Lindsey Morrison, Victoria Rutledge

Gregory Maczko, Lyndsay Van Benschoten, Ken Marlow, Tracee Badway, Kit Hume

Ashlynn Sherice

ashion, elegance, art and a little bit of mystery came together as a magical potion for the annual showstopping event Pick Your Poison, supporting Broadway Dreams. As guests arrived at Clementine, the parade of fashion was overshadowed only by the incredible masks on display. As with last year, guests of the event donned their masquerade best to enjoy cocktails and an evening of delicious cuisine by Flavor Catering — all to benefit an important cause.

The first vignette of the evening included a “phantom of the opera” at the organ as a troupe of artists performed interpretive dance. Later, pop-up performances began throughout the venue to surprise and delight guests — all treats, no tricks. As the evening progressed, Adam Sansiveri took to the stage to talk about the important work Broadway Dreams does. The organization was founded in 2006 with a mission to “provide youth and young adults of all socioeconomic backgrounds with performance training, life skills building and mentorship opportunities from the entertainment industry’s most distinguished talents.” Adam reminded the revelers that while Nashville is the latest city the organization added to its roster, Broadway Dreams is the preeminent performing arts education organization in the world. Just by being in the room, guests were “celebrating the transformational power of the performing arts in the Nashville community,” he added.

The evening had other surprises in store for guests, including a fantastic live auction. The auction featured experiences like a private dinner at Kisser; an escape to Savannah, Georgia; tickets to Saturday Night Live with dinner at Nobu; and much more. Everyone in the room was ready for some audience participation when Tim Ozgener and Max Goldberg took the stage for a little friendly competition. Guests were asked which of the gentlemen was wearing their favorite mask. After much raucous cheering, it was clear Tim was the winner. Finally, Belmont University student and Broadway Dreams scholarship recipient Ashlynn Sherice performed “Caught Out in the Rain” to a stunned audience, bringing home the impact the organization has on young people who dream of lives in theater.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Heather Vassar, Parris Stork, Mary Joyce, Jess Antonette, Kendall Brown

78 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

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79

PA R T I E S

Culture Club The 1929 Club at Cheekwood welcomes Patrick McIntyre Lisa Manning, David Morgan, Katherine Crosthwaite, Janice Elliott Morgan

Leiyan and Larry Keele

Randy and Janice LaGasse, Carla and Kevin Nelson

Patrick McIntyre, Keith Crosthwaite

E

stablished in 2014, the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens 1929 Club was created to raise funds for the historic refurbishing of period rooms in the mansion. After the completion of the project in 2017, the club’s purpose evolved to fund historic initiatives and endowment of the mansion and its surrounding acreage. On the first chilly night of winter, guests arrived to a warm welcome in Cheekwood’s Botanic Hall. Amos Gott of AmosEvents designed a tasteful and elegant room of crisp white linens and floral centerpieces.

Flavor Catering passed small bites throughout the space, as established club members met and mingled with the large class of new inductees.

Once guests were seated for dinner, Cheekwood president and CEO Jane MacLeod took the podium to welcome new members to the club. She noted that The 1929 Club had thus far raised $3.6 million for Cheekwood. She also recounted the club’s recent trip to Newport, Rhode Island, sharing that these adventures reliably inspire new ideas for preserving history and furthering the mission of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. The 2024 trip is planned for the Hudson River Valley.

After dinner, Patrick McIntyre, guest of the evening and executive director of the Tennessee Historical Commission, joined Jane onstage for a conversation about the importance of preservation. Patrick shared some information about the Tennessee Historical Commission’s state historic sites, which currently have almost $40 million in capital projects underway — before the duo discussed the possibility of Cheekwood receiving National Landmark status. This important recognition would place Cheekwood in an elite group of 30 landmarks across the state that are recognized as nationally significant.

Patrick noted that Cheekwood is one of the best of the best.

In addition to its historical significance, Cheekwood is a place where neighbors greet neighbors — a true community. As Jane and Patrick continued to discuss Cheekwood’s future, Jane concluded by noting its many deferred improvements. “I look forward to the day where the word ‘deferred’ is no longer part of our conversation,” she said.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Katherine Crosthwaite, Katherine DeLay, Joan Cheek, Nancy Hearn, Anne Russell

Sharon and Will Cheek

80 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

Denise Cummins, Sandra Lipman

Barry Stowe, Jane MacLeod, David Manning

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PA R T I E S

These Precious Days The Nashville Public Library Literary Award honors Kate DiCamillo

H

ow does one writer capture the spirit of another?

Author and Literary Award winner Kate DiCamillo grappled with this question at the annual Nashville Public Library Literary Award Gala. As she took the podium, Kate dedicated her speech to the people who inspired her writing career: iconic children’s author E. B. White and the librarian who introduced her to his work.

The Nashville Public Library Foundation celebrated its 19th annual Literary Award Gala with many firsts. For the first time in its history, the Literary Award honored an author known for groundbreaking work in the children’s literature genre: Kate is a New York Times best-selling author whose books include Because of Winn-Dixie, The Tiger Rising and The Tale of Despereaux. The annual patrons party, historically held at the Main Library, transformed into the intimate First Edition Reception hosted at Parnassus Books. And after Kate’s public lecture, Wishing Chair Productions debuted a puppet show based on her book La La La: A Story of Hope. Everyone agreed that co-chairs Cassidy and Dierks Bentley, Johari and Lonnell Matthews, and Kristin and Carter Paine planned an incredible and inclusive weekend. And Kate shared that she’d given back to Nashville by spending her prize money on 9,000 books and donating them to schoolchildren in the area.

Even with all the firsts of the weekend, it was hearing Kate talk about how libraries and reading had impacted her that held the most meaning. Kate told the story of discovering Charlotte’s Web as a small child — how the cover of the book scared her and how a librarian assured her she was stronger than she thought. It was not until Kate was 31 that a writing instructor insisted she read the iconic book, and her life was forever changed. She immediately felt the impact and love E. B. White had for the world. “Every word of Charlotte’s Web bears the full weight of White’s love for the people, seasons, animals and arachnids of this world,” Kate said. “And every word of the book shows us how we can bear the triumphs and despairs, the wonder and the heartbreak, the small and large glories and tragedies of being here. We can bear it all by loving it all.”

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

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Co-chairs Johari Matthews, Cassidy Bentley, Kristin Paine

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Kate DiCamillo, Brett Wilson

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

83

PA R T I E S

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As Nashville’s most trusted source for social and lifestyle coverage, Nfocus takes readers inside more events than any other publication in town.

30YEARS SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER AT NFOCUSMAGAZINE.COM. @NfocusMagazine

30 YEARS

90 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

30 YEARS

In Tune 30 Years of Nfocus closes with a look back at the Symphony Ball As we celebrate 30 years of Nfocus, we have asked our friends in the community — many who have been with us since the beginning — to tell their stories in their own words. Throughout the year, readers have heard from those who have graced our pages and supported our stories.

In 1994, Nfocus covered the Symphony Ball for the first time. This month — for our last 30 Years column — we reached out to some special friends of Nfocus — Julie Boehm, Barbara Bovender, Sandra Lipman and Vicki Horne — all past chairs of the Symphony Ball. We asked these leading ladies to share special memories from their days chairing the ball.

1994 — Julie Boehm and Tish Schermerhorn

In 1994, I chaired the 10th anniversary Symphony Ball with Tish Schermerhorn. It was the “Age of Innocence” at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. We transformed the ballroom, with twinkling lights cascading down the walls and cranberry-clothed tables topped with brass candelabras and pink and red roses. Partygoers danced to the music of The Bob Hardwick Sound from Palm Beach, Florida. It was especially meaningful to be able to present the 1994 Harmony Award to the elegant matriarch of the arts of Nashville, Martha Ingram, and our beloved maestro, Kenneth Schermerhorn.

2004 — Barbara Bovender and Elaine Sullivan

Memories, memories — Elaine Sullivan and I had fun in 2004 celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Symphony Ball and paying tribute to Kenneth Schermerhorn, our maestro. There was an electric energy surrounding the symphony and the ball that year, because dreams had come to fruition in 2003 when the Schermerhorn Symphony Center broke ground.

Joe Smith transformed the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel ballroom with hundreds of colorful lanterns, beautiful flower arrangements and festive caps. Guests enjoyed Asian fusion food, and Trisha Yearwood presented the Harmony Award to Tony Brown (Elvis’ keyboard man — one of his accolades).

Our favorite memory ended a wonderful evening: Craig Duncan, premier band leader, tossed festive caps to dancers who gleefully joined a Conga line, which extended around the ballroom with Martha Ingram and Kenneth in tow. To this day, people still tell us how much fun that was.

2005 — Sandra Lipman and Hope Stringer

Knowing that 2005 would be the last Symphony Ball at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, co-chair Hope Stringer and I wanted to make the event a memorable one. I had a vision of the flames of a fire, so we adorned the ballroom with red decor. We draped the walls in shades of persimmon, red, peach and coral. We used trees, spray-painted gold, to accent the room, and we used roses and candelabras as centerpieces.

Ladies attending the ball embraced the theme, as many revelers floated through the room in shades of poppy, scarlet, brick and rust. To see the evening come together as we’d envisioned was magical.

After dinner, a young LeAnn Rimes took the stage to accept the Harmony Award and performed to an amazed crowd. Martha Ingram graciously called the event “the best ball yet.”

2011 — Vicki Horne and Laurie Eskind

I am the biggest Swifty there is, and here is why: Taylor Swift agreed to receive the 2011 Harmony Award in June or July of that year. Around September, someone from Taylor’s team called to say the tour she was planning for after Christmas needed to start at Thanksgiving. Thus, there was a conflict with the Symphony Ball.

This happened the Friday before Labor Day, I believe. I was devastated and didn’t even tell my co-chair Laurie Eskind right away, because I didn’t want to ruin her weekend. Days later, Taylor’s representative called back and said something like, “I can’t believe this, but Taylor says she is staying to receive the award.” The Symphony Ball turned out beautifully. Taylor was gorgeous and gracious, and everything was great.

She even met with conductor Giancarlo Guerrero and his girls before the ball.

BY JULIE BOEHM, BARBARA BOVENDER, SANDRA LIPMAN AND VICKI HORNE PHOTOGRAPHS FROM NFOCUS ARCHIVES

nfocusmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023 <<

91

TA K I N G VO W S

PHOTOGRAPHS BY HALEY RYNN RINGO

leu Anna LeB Marries elman Jay Wink

Anna LeBleu and Jay Winkelman met on a ski trip in 2018 while both were law students at Georgetown University. “The skiing was terrible,” said Anna. “But the group was a fun one.” Anna and Jay became good friends and began dating that summer.

Jay proposed in April 2022 on the roof of the LINE Hotel in Washington, D.C. He surprised Anna by having their families and friends fly in to celebrate the weekend with them. The festivities included a family dinner, brunch for Anna’s girlfriends and an engagement party for the couple’s friends at a rooftop whiskey bar.

They married in September at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center with Natalie Winkelman officiating. Chris Smallwood of High Tone Entertainment played piano for the ceremony, which took place in

92 >> DECEMBER 2023 | nfocusmagazine.com

the West Lobby. Guests sipped Champagne while watching from the main floor and balcony. The bride’s sister, Lizzy LeBleu, sang “La Vie en rose.”

Anna wore a Galia Lahav gown and carried a bouquet of peonies and lilies of the valley. Bridesmaids wore champagne dresses by Jenny Yoo and carried white rose bouquets.

Over 1,500 candles illuminated the reception hall, decorated with white floral arrangements by LMA Designs. Upon entering, guests chose from vodka and tequila shots or signature cocktails — espresso martinis, skinny margaritas and bourbon mules.

Guests enjoyed passed appetizers of ahi tuna crisps, potstickers, pork buns and spring rolls. And Flavor Catering offered an entrée choice of beef filet, sea bass or seitan. Bruce Pittman planned the event.

The Music City Sound played jazz for cocktail hour, before transitioning into a set of oldies and classic wedding music. An artist was on hand to paint the couple’s first dance. The evening ended with the guests donning white cowboy hats, enjoying late-night Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and dancing to the tunes of DJ Aydamn.

After a wedding trip to Napa Valley, the couple returned to Washington, D.C., where they both practice law. Anna is a graduate of Vanderbilt University, and Jay is an alumnus of University of Michigan.

Anna’s parents are Todd LeBleu (Christie Carlisle) and Tiffany Wilmot, all of Nashville. Jay’s parents are Scott and Noreen Winkelman of Washington, D.C.

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PENCIL IN

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DECEMBER MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE UPCOMING EVENTS

NASHVILLE BALLET NUTCRACKER TEA DEC. 3

Enter the dreamland of sugar plum fairies and mouse kings as Nashville Ballet and cochairs Allison Cotton, Catherine Grace and Caylan Jarman present the inaugural Nashville’s Nutcracker Tea. Guests will enjoy appearances by beloved Nashville’s Nutcracker characters, afternoon tea and treats, a professional photo opportunity, arts and crafts, and a shortened, interactive Nashville’s Nutcracker performance at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. nashvilleballet.com/nutcracker-tea

EVENING IN DECEMBER DEC. 4

SYMPHONY BALL DEC. 9

Daystar Counseling is bringing back its biggest fundraiser of the year: Evening in December.

The 34th annual event will bring together friends and supporters of Daystar Counseling for an evening of music and fellowship at The Loveless Barn.

This year, the event headliner — Little Big Town — will be joined by friends and special guests to raise money for the nonprofit. daystarcounseling.com

The 39th annual Symphony Ball returns with elegance and beauty under the guidance of co-chairs Kayla Counts and Suann Davis.

The white-tie gala raises important funds to support the mission of the Nashville Symphony. The highlight of the night will be a special performance by Grammy Award winner Kix Brooks, who will also be presented with this year’s Harmony Award. Be sure to visit the Nfocus Portrait Studio to capture the magic of the evening. nashvillesymphony.org

DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS DEC. 9-10

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County will again transform historic downtown Franklin into the beloved holiday event Dickens of a Christmas. Fun for the entire family, the event will bring to life characters like Fagin from Oliver Twist; Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim from A Christmas Carol; and more. Visits with Mother and Father Christmas will be a delight for young and old alike. williamsonheritage.org

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December 2023 | Vol. xxx, No. 12

OTHER NOTE WORTHY E VENTS Dec. 9: Symphony Ball Late Party (Nashville Symphony) Through Jan. 7: Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS (Cheekwood) Through Jan. 7: Zoolumination (Nashville Zoo) For a full listing of upcoming events, visit calendar.nfocusmagazine.com

Let’s Get Baking!

LEARN TO BAKE YOUR FAVORITE PIES, BREADS, COOKIES AND MORE FROM THE CITY’S TOP CHEFS!

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A Nashville Nutcracker A look back at 30 years of dance

In a 1993 promotional advertisement for the School of Nashville Ballet, young ballet student Briana Wood is seen watching Elizabeth McCoyd (now Greer) balance on pointe in The Veranda at The Hermitage Hotel. In the same playbill, Sharyn Wood (now Mahoney) is featured in “Taking Dance into the Community.” For years, the Nashville Ballet has been committed to supporting young dancers and helping them achieve their dreams through dance education.

Both Elizabeth and Sharyn are still living and working in Nashville — and still supporting the Nashville Ballet. Elizabeth, a former company dancer and board member, co-chaired the Ballet Ball in 2007 and is an active supporter of the arts in Nashville.

Sharyn is a former company dancer, faculty member, ballet master and director of artistic operations for the Nashville Ballet, and she is now the executive director of the Rejoice School of Ballet.

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verragio unlike any other ring

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