Nfocus October 2025

THE SOCIAL SEASON LIGHTS UP WITH BROADWAY BRUNCH, CHIC AWEARNESS, CHUKKERS FOR CHARITY, CAUSE FOR PAWS AND MORE

HE A LING A ND HOPE

Nashville innovates in health, wellness and beauty

Nishtha Sareen guides the Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Women’s Program into the

parties

67 A Sparkling Diamond

Broadway Brunch kicks off 10 years with a lively patrons party

69 Setting the Scene

The 10th annual Broadway Brunch toasts the Nashville Repertory Theatre’s 40th anniversary

75 Passion and Purpose

Accomplished career women lead and inspire at the Most Powerful Women luncheon

79 Applause-Worthy

Nashville’s Got Talent unites creatives, raising essential funds for The Store

82 Spaces and Stories That Matter

A Heel-ing Touch

The power of touch through reflexology keeps clients coming back to Bucca

49 Stunning Transformations

Aignes Rogan aims to empower Nashvillians in and out of Posh Salon & Glam Studio

THE COVER

Tash Weddle of The New Beginnings Center, photographed on location by Eric England. For more on The New Beginnings Center, turn to page 38.

The Heritage Ball Patrons Party raises funds to preserve and conserve

85 Revelry on the Field Chukkers for Charity toasts to 29 years

89 The Little Opera That Did Opera on the Mountain warms hearts on a chilly evening

The Picture of Health

Exploring women’s health and wellness

OVER THE PAST DECADE, I’ve signed many birthday cards for friends: “Welcome to 40 — the year everything starts to hurt.” I say this, not as an attempt to show off subpar wit, but as a cautionary tale. Just a few months after my 41st birthday, I woke up to an electric shock running down my left side. I learned I’d blown out the L5 and S1 discs in my back and would ultimately need emergency surgery. So I know of what I speak.

My point in saying all this is that I thought I was doing everything right. I worked out every day and played tennis three to five times a week. I’d even finished my first half marathon that year. My diet, as anyone who follows me on social media knows, can range from elegant and elevated multi-course meals to dishes that suggest the discerning palate of a 7 year old. But my body was ready to release those discs. Since then, I’ve experienced a whole host of ailments — up to and including a pandemic.

In this issue, we tackle health and wellness in its many forms. Nicolle Praino introduces readers to Next Health, a new preventative medicine practice. Associate editor Madeleine Bradford sits down with Nishtha Sareen at Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Women’s Center Midtown to discuss how cardiac treatment differs for women and men. I talk with master strength coach Tash Weddle of The New Beginnings Center, and then explore the importance of reflexology and foot health at Bucca Foot Spa and Reflexology. With cases of alpha-gal syndrome on the rise — and a new law requiring cases be reported — Carrington Fox examines the perplexing allergy, its symptoms and how to live with it.

As the social season begins again, we also cover beloved events, like Broadway Brunch, Nashville’s Got Talent, Chic Awearness and more. Speaking of the social season, this month we launched a special series on the Nfocus YouTube channel — N Good Company. Every Monday, Madeleine and I sit down to bring our audience a recap of major events from the week before. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss a minute.

No matter what birthday we’re celebrating, women are increasingly finding ways to stay healthy and advocate for ourselves — to speak and be heard over the din of a crowded conversation of ever-evolving science. We are armed with education and resources that didn’t exist 10 or 20 years ago. Salud!

BY JANET KURTZ

Janet moved to Nashville 27 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

Editorial

founding editor

Herbert Fox Jr.

editor-in-chief

Janet Kurtz

contributing editors

Lindsey Lanquist, Carrington Fox

associate editor

Madeleine Bradford

social correspondent

Gloria Houghland

editorial intern

Ria Skyer

contributors

Julianne Akers, Beth Alexander, Chris Chamberlain, Whitney Clay, Carrington Fox, Paige Gawley, Hannah Herner, Margaret Littman, Hamilton Matthew Masters, Nicolle Praino, D. Patrick Rodgers, Nancy Vienneau

Art

art director

Christie Passarello

senior photographer

Eric England

staff photographer

Angelina Castillo

contributing photographers/videographers

Tausha Dickinson, Kristen Drum, Michael Scott Evans, Peyton Hoge, Jack Landess, Iris Leonardo, Hamilton Matthew Masters, Alan Poizner

graphic designers

Sandi Harrison, Mary Louise Meadors, Tracey Starck

Advertising

publisher

Olivia Moye Britton

advertising solutions consultants

Teresa Birdsong, Kailey Idziak, Rena Ivanov, Michael Jezewski, Carla Mathis, Allie Muirhead, Heather Cantrell Mullins, Niki Tyree, Andrea Vasquez, Alissa Wetzel

sales operations manager

Chelon Hasty

advertising solutions associates

Audry Houle, Jack Stejskal

Marketing

events and marketing director

Robin Fomusa

brand partnerships & event manager

Alissa Wetzel

Circulation

circulation manager

Gary Minnis

Business

president

Mike Smith

chief financial officer

Todd Patton

IT director

John Schaeffer

digital director

Caroline Prater

Owner

FW

5

3

Behind the Scenes

With Sydney Dumler of Forza Pilates

FOR SYDNEY DUMLER, the past two years have been momentous. The 27-year-old wellness entrepreneur and instructor opened her luxury reformer studio, Forza Pilates, in December 2023. Since then, Forza’s name has ricocheted through Nashville’s fitness community — as both a top workout spot and an attention-grabbing lifestyle brand. The stunning studio, complete with gold-frame mirrors, wooden beams and peaceful earth tones, has been frequented by locals and tourists, featured in national publications, and even visited by pop star Sabrina Carpenter.

THE BASICS

Name: Sydney Dumler

Hometown: Denver, Colo.

ZIP code: 37210

Sydney believes workouts can be both beautiful and functional. Her signature Forza Method celebrates strength in all forms, combining focused muscle training and lengthening reformer exercises to create lasting results. After witnessing the impact of her flagship Wedgewood-Houston location, she opened Forza Atelier inside Soho House Nashville, providing members with expert training and concierge services.

Time in Nashville: 9 years

Number of Forza pop-ups hosted: 75 to 100. We do at least five per month.

Despite Forza’s initial success, Sydney isn’t planning to slow down. She’s launched fragrance and clothing lines, hosted wellness retreats, organized exclusive pop-ups and even created her own “Expensive” smoothie, served at SunLife Organics. When we spoke in September, Sydney was days away from launching the Forza Digital platform, which makes her method accessible nationwide. She also revealed to Nfocus that she’s opening a third studio in Franklin this winter.

How did you create the Forza Method? I have a background in fitness and programming. ... I became really passionate about not just teaching clients fitness, but teaching instructors how to teach clients.

When I got into Pilates, I realized there was a big need from both sides. As a client, I wanted more spaces to go to that were in [WedgewoodHouston]. And as an instructor, I felt like there was a need for [something] more consistent [and] contemporary.

So I started building the Forza Method … making sure that sequencing, timing and cueing are all done effectively and in a way that makes each exercise accessible to someone who wants something more supportive or more challenging.

What do you consider the difference between a gym and a sporting club? Where does Forza fall? I don’t like going to the gym because I feel like it’s

a male-dominated space, for one, but it’s more of an in-and-out experience. You’re going on your own time. I like the structure of group fitness, but I think in the Pilates industry, it’s not always common that there’s a community aspect to it.

When I’ve taught at studios in the past, I was the only person working, so it made it really hard to greet people. We actually have a front desk staff here specifically to greet people, make sure they have everything they need and that they know their way around the studio and reformer.

I think our events also give people an excuse to not just run out to work. On a Saturday, if they come in, you might have a coffee cart or table for a local brand set up — making it not just a gym, but more of a space to gather.

What inspired you to create Forza’s lifestyle brand? Until I was 25, I had the most random jobs ever. I was a nanny, a retail buyer, a yoga instructor [and] I worked at a smoothie shop. ... Then I opened a studio and was like, “Wait. All of my worlds are colliding.”

Then it’s these weird, full-circle moments — that SunLife wanted to partner, or that ... we made a candle and people liked it. I feel like it’s all meant to happen now.

How will Forza Digital enhance your brand? It started as a workout app. But because Forza is more than just a workout — it’s really a lifestyle brand — it felt more in line with the brand to have it not just encompass workouts. It’s actually a content platform where we’re curating blog posts about [fashion] and we’re working with our creators and ambassadors on skincare routines and smoothie recipes — things that are already part of the brand — and building that into a subscription platform.

What advice would you give to young female entrepreneurs? You know best. It’s easy to seek advice from people, but I think if someone is truly building a business out of passion and need, you should trust yourself and your gut. With my business, I think I definitely know what’s best, because I built it for someone like me — who’s living in this neighborhood, who’s active and is looking for a more luxurious experience that has more friendliness. If the business is authentic to you, trust yourself to make decisions.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD PHOTOGRAPH BY ERIC ENGLAND

An Urban Phoenix

The Arcade in downtown Nashville begins a new chapter

OFTEN WHEN RESTORING historic homes or buildings, the goal is to try to replicate — as closely as possible — what the structure originally looked like. But there are different ways to approach preservation. In the case of The Arcade in downtown Nashville, the three-year renovation was more about “scrapbooking.”

“It’s like going through a family photo album,” says Nick Dryden, principal architect at Dryden Studio, which oversaw the project. “You’ve got the day you were born. That’s like your origin date. But then that shouldn’t be the only thing that is highlighted. I mean, it’s all your years of life, right?”

The Arcade, which spans two city blocks, was built in 1902 to resemble the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall in Milan. A group of local investors partnered with New York City-based real estate firm Linfield Capital to purchase the property in 2021.

Over the years, The Arcade has been renovated multiple times — representing several different eras of design. Many historically significant design details remain. For instance, the Pony Express logo is still emblazoned on a large medallion near a vacant storefront, although the post office, which opened in 1903 and closed 100 years later, is no longer a tenant. And the Carrara glass, a type of

pigmented structural glass made popular in the 1920s and ’30s, remains near The Arcade’s entrance — even though it hasn’t been made in decades.

“There has been quite a bit of curatorial consideration as far as what to do with all these different individual storefronts,” says Nick, “the selective salvaging or preserving of some of these materials that were not part of the original Arcade but very much have become part of its overall history.”

The Arcade’s architecture tells a lot of stories. The Walgreens, which is quickly recognizable by its vintage neon sign, came to prominence in 1960 when its lunch counter was the site of instrumental student-led sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement. In 1998, a tornado that ripped through downtown severely damaged The Arcade’s signature skylight, which had to be replaced. The original trusses, however, are still a focal point.

While it has been a multi-year project, so far, The Arcade’s restoration is still a work in progress. Only 20 of the 50 retail spaces are occupied. Finishing touches are still being added. “It’s chess, not checkers,” says Chuck Draper, a designer with Dryden Studio.

BY WHITNEY CLAY

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICK JACOB COURTESY OF THE ARCADE

SHOP AND DINE

In The Arcade’s latest iteration, you’ll find some historic gems — like The Peanut Shop. Originally opened by the peanut company Planters in 1927, the favorite downtown fixture was one of the building’s earliest tenants.

A group of new businesses have also opened shop since the renovation, including: Flea Style hat bar, Savannah Bee Company (selling honey and care products), Ugly Bagel, KOKOS Ice Cream, Urban Cowboy Bar, and Roberta’s, a Brooklyn-based pizzeria.

Bar Roze, chef and owner Julia Jaksic’s newest o ering, will open in an alley adjacent to The Arcade’s main concourse. Its sister properties are the popular Cafe Roze in East Nashville and Roze Pony in Belle Meade.

ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE

In 2016, when new high-end hotels began opening on Fourth Avenue, “The Arcade was kind of sitting there in the dust and the shadows,” says Nick. The idea — in addition to the extensive renovation — was to find ways to breathe new life into the century-old mall.

In 2023, the owners established Arcade Arts Nashville, providing 12 artists individual studios on the building’s second floor. The residencies are for six months each, giving local artists not only studio space but exposure. There is also curated gallery space.

PIES AND PINTS

The tenant occupying the most retail space so far is the 8,000-square-foot Urban Cowboy Bar, serving beer, wine, classic cocktails and mocktails. It includes two floors and a mezzanine.

The original plaster walls with peeling wallpaper, exposed ceiling beams and reclaimed wood floors are complemented by tobacco leather sofas and patterned blankets. A large window behind a second-floor bar o ers a bird’seye view of the entire arcade. The first-floor space opens into Roberta’s, known for its woodfired pizzas with creative toppings.

Ndesign: Greatest of Wall Time

Elizabeth Williams, New Hat Projects

“I JUST REALLY want a wallpaper that feels like me.”

That creative query equally inspires and challenges Elizabeth Williams, owner of New Hat Projects. Located in the creative hive on “The Hill,” in the district between Nolensville Pike and GEODIS Park, New Hat’s creative studio specializes in site-specific art, pattern design, and collaborations that run the gamut from bespoke wallpaper and custom murals to public art installations.

When it comes to wallpaper, Elizabeth might start with a collage of objects dear to a client. For example, when Kate Ezell’s family wanted to give her a custom wallcovering, New Hat incorporated precious totems, like a wedding invitation engraving plate, sketches of family heirlooms and dogs, snippets of wallpaper from a beloved friend’s entrance hall, pictures of bluebird boxes from the yard, and other highly personal memorabilia. New Hat wallcoverings might also include custom sketches of clients’ farms and vacation houses, transforming the walls of a room into a landscape of family landmarks.

“Bold and rooted in history” are the words Elizabeth uses to describe her work, which began when she and founding business partner Kelly Diehl collaborated on custom wallpaper for bathrooms at the original Dozen Bakery in 2016. (A version of their iconic hand-themed motif made its way to the new, expanded Dozen in Woodbine this year.)

These days, Elizabeth runs the company in creative collaboration with Dave Meaney. Over the last decade, New Hat has created defining looks — in wallcoverings and millwork — for a portfolio of celebrated restaurants, including Bad Idea, 8th & Roast and Henrietta Red. It was also New Hat that created the epic origami mobile hovering over the bar in the bygone Green Pheasant.

At Southall Farm & Inn in Franklin, the New Hat team walked the property to sketch vistas of rolling farmland, creating wallcoverings that bring the outdoors into the rooms of the luxury resort. At the historic mansion at Belmont University, Elizabeth and Kelly worked with the restoration team to recreate wallcoverings based on remnants of 19th-century gold-leafed paper in Adelicia Acklen’s billiards room. At Germantown Inn boutique hotel, a New Hat wallpaper themed with former presidents covers one area, while a pink design celebrating the suffragists covers another.

Upstairs at East Nashville’s Audrey restaurant, New Hat collaborated with electricians at Hazelwood Laboratories in Columbia, Tenn., to create a firefly-themed wallcovering with blinking LED lights behind the paper.

New Hat’s most ambitious wallcovering to date hangs at the Nashville airport, in Concourse D, where Elizabeth and Dave won an Arts at the Airport commission to weave a mural with 1 million linear inches of Tyvek wristbands, the kind that concertgoers wear. Elizabeth and Dave hired 25 weavers to fabricate the mural based on historic coverlets. Rooted in the history of textiles, the images celebrate creativity in the modern materials of contemporary Music City culture.

“Every symbol tells a story,” Elizabeth says of the quirky imagery in her unique designs. “You can’t pick this out of a catalog.”

Be sure to read the story by our sister publication, the Nashville Scene, for more on Elizabeth and New Hat.

BY CARRINGTON FOX PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND (LEFT) AND QUINN BALLARD (RIGHT)

Ezell residence custom heirloom wallpaper

Worth the Drive: The Greenbrier Resort

Riotous color and a storied history make this family-friendly getaway an American standard

NOBODY IS RUSHING at The Greenbrier Resort. From the moment you drive past the gate and onto the manicured property, you’ll notice it. This is a place where people don’t walk or run, they stroll — they admire. Even with its extensive schedule of events and activities, the pace of The Greenbrier is that of a different time. In fact, much of The Greenbrier is a throwback to a bygone era.

Billed as “America’s Resort,” The Greenbrier is almost as old as the country. And just like America, it has changed over time. Built in 1778, The Greenbrier — in all its incarnations and under various names — has long been a draw for the privileged and powerful. When railroad service started between The Greenbrier and Washington, D.C., the resort became a gathering place for politicians and even served as the secret bunker and fallout shelter for Congress during the Cold War. (Trains still run to D.C. three times a week, but it is no longer a secure location. You can — and should — take a tour of the underground bunker.)

Professional golfer Jack Nicklaus also helped transform the resort’s courses, which have hosted Ryder Cup and PGA Seniors tournaments over the years.

During World War II, the hotel was used as a hospital. When it reopened as a resort, it needed

THE BASICS

What: The Greenbrier Resort

Where: White Sulphur Springs, W.Va.

Distance from Nashville: 460 miles

Why it stands out: The family-friendly resort is an explosion of color, thanks to the designs of the late Dorothy Draper. Its long history is interesting to those who appreciate the past, while its depth of activities keeps those who like to be active entertained.

a complete overhaul. The then-owners (railroad company CSX Corporation) called on celebrity designer Dorothy Draper to work her interior design magic. Even half a century later, Dorothy’s signature maximalist style — with bright colors and intentional pattern clashing — are all over the resort, and the lower boutique level features one of her stores. While some design elements in the hotel may be a little dated, Draper’s aesthetic is still contemporary, modern and absolutely joyous. It’s hard to be in a bad mood in a place exploding with colors and patterns in every direction.

Of course, The Greenbrier has also been updated many times over the years. What would a modern resort be without WiFi and pickleball? U.S. Sen. Jim Justice of West Virginia purchased the resort in 2009 and has been making regular updates, including constructing a stained-glassadorned chapel (ideal for weddings in this bucolic setting) in 2015. Because the resort is so large and has undergone numerous changes, you’ll likely encounter some areas in need of TLC and others under construction, no matter when you arrive.

The best way to experience The Greenbrier is to lean into its slower pace, enjoy a stroll through its grounds, and take time to notice the myriad details at every turn.

WHAT’S NEARBY

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which is the newest national park (no. 63), is about an hour’s drive west of The Greenbrier. It’s a destination for whitewater rafting, rock climbing and fishing. Or you can take one of the scenic drives en route to or from The Greenbrier.

WHAT TO DO

The Greenbrier schedule is packed with more than 55 activities, from horseback riding and falconry to spa treatments and bowling. There are two public swimming pools and four golf courses for visitors to enjoy.

Two essential activities are free: The lower-level Casino Club, opened in 2010, is available only to resort guests and features The Greenbrier’s signature bright colors, iconic wallpaper and bold carpeting. At 10 p.m., ballroom dancers descend the sweeping staircase to the casino to perform “The Greenbrier Waltz,” and guests enjoy a free glass of Champagne for an evening toast. Since 1930, the hotel has also offered free afternoon tea — with sweets — in the Upper Lobby.

In addition to enjoying all the planned activities, you can explore the surrounding 11,000 acres, admire the landscape and décor, peruse the on-site art galleries and shops, and more.

WHERE TO EAT

There are more than 20 restaurants in the resort, from the casual and retro Draper’s Café and ice cream shop to the upscale Prime 44 West steakhouse. Sam Snead’s is the post-golf pick, and the main dining room is buzzing at brunch. Room service, poolside snacks and a smoothie shop near the gym are other options.

HOW TO GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

There are 710 rooms at The Greenbrier, and no two are exactly the same. Some are traditional hotel rooms in the inn, while others are in estate homes and cottages. The latter are houses with kitchens and multiple bedrooms for families or groups of friends. Accommodations feature bold décor and vibrant colors. Many rooms offer views of the surrounding Allegheny Mountains, while others look over the resort’s pristine landscaping.

BY MARGARET LITTMAN PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE GREENBRIER RESORT

Lonevity

Next Health brings next-generation wellness to Nashville

TWENTY YEARS AGO, Dr. Darshan Shah was working long days as a surgeon, putting his career and patients first and taking care of himself last. He developed an autoimmune disease, had a genetic predisposition to diabetes and high blood pressure. He was gaining weight because he wasn’t eating right or moving his body properly.

It was in his own search to get healthy that he discovered how functional medicine (a holistic approach to health care) could help reverse or prevent disease.

“Using nutrition, exercise and sleep, as well as just taking care of myself, combined with functional medicine, really turned my health around, and that’s why we started Next Health,” Darshan says. “Bringing all that under one roof, so you have one place to go to get healthy, not 10 different places.”

He says Next Health has four main pillars: lifestyle medicine, functional medicine, preventative medicine and longevity medicine. The California-based clinic opened its first Nashville franchise in the Prima at Paseo South Gulch building earlier this year, with a Green Hills location under construction and two more planned for the area.

Scott and Kim Crosbie

R EDEFINING HE A LTH

NASHVILLE SMALL BUSINESS owners Kim and Scott Crosbie had retired. But when they decided to start looking for a new venture, Next Health caught their attention as the perfect next step.

“We realized, if I’m going to go back and do something, [I’m] definitely going to find a couple of things,” Scott says. “One, that we really have a passion and purpose for. Two, that we could actually give back.” The couple became Next Health founding franchise owners, opening locations in Nashville and soon to open in Charlotte, N.C. “This is about us really enjoying what we’re doing, creating a culture for our employees, and even a wellness culture for members and people that come in here,” Scott adds.

Scott’s passion for wellness and longevity started after his mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He wanted to find ways to ensure he was at his healthiest for as long as possible. “We thought we were really healthy, but half of what I knew really wasn’t accurate or correct,” he says. “So we started changing everything.”

Now, after years of practicing a functional health routine, Scott regularly tests among the top longevity performers in the world — ranking no. 18 in the Rejuvenation Olympics, a competition that challenges participants to reverse their so-called “biological age,” in June.

The competition compares your chronological age to your biological age using bloodwork markers and other measurements. Scott’s best individual test showed he was aging 0.65 years for every one calendar year. At 55 years old, that would make his biological age about 36 years. But it has taken a lot of work and experimentation to find what works best for his body.

THE LE A DING EDGE

DARSHAN SAYS THAT once many of Next Health’s clients get their lifestyle in order, they want to know what the next step is. That’s where longevity technology, such as plasma exchange and stem cell therapy, comes into play.

Therapeutic plasma exchange treatment purports to flush toxins out of the bloodstream, and Next Health is one of the few places in Nashville offering it. “The procedure … gets rid of a massive amount of [what’s] living in your plasma and replaces it with new fluid,” Darshan says. He suggests this may help people with chronic conditions and inflammation, but research by the National Institutes of Health is ongoing. (Be sure to talk to your primary care provider before trying a new treatment.)

The clinic offers other cutting-edge therapies, like cryotherapy, infrared therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and IV and vitamin treatments.

HOLISTIC HE  LTH

DARSHAN SAYS HE believes the country needs two systems — one for disaster and disease care and another “real health care system” focused on helping people feel good in their daily lives.

“I think when you have these two systems that can work together, you really can turn around this horrible tide of just people getting sicker,” Darshan says. “There needs to be thousands of clinics like Next Health. I always say: For every primary care doctor clinic in every city, we should have one Next Health clinic.”

Nurse practitioner Nathan Byrnes, head of medicine for Nashville’s Next Health clinics, transitioned into functional medicine from primary care because he also believed there was more to health care than just treating issues with medication. “I really just started to dive down,” Nathan says. “Looking at things from a basic level … fixing the root cause and getting people off of medication.”

He says the environment at Next Health is open and welcoming. There’s time for patients to deep dive into their labs and for care providers to help them understand what’s going on — and that creates trust. “We really preach on patient advocacy as well. You are in total control of your health,” Nathan says. “My job is to educate you and kind of be the coach and then let you make an informed decision once you have all the information.”

He also appreciates that Next Health aims to stay at the forefront of longevity medicine, always advancing its practices to help clients.

“Our tagline on every Next Health location is: Health is not just the absence of disease. It is the abundance of vitality,” Darshan says. “And that’s what we’re trying to create.”

NICOLLE S. PRAINO PHOTOGRAPH BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Nathan Byrnes

You’re Invited!

Celebrating 170 Years of Service in Nashville

Join us as we celebrate an incredible milestone — 170th Anniversary Celebration Thursday, October 16, 2025 4:30-8:00 3900 Hillsboro Pike, Suite 36

Enjoy an evening of: Music • Local Bites & Drinks • Giveaways • A Look Back at Our Nashville Roots Benefi tting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

Come raise a glass with us and be part of our story as we look to the future with gratitude and pride.

Kindly RSVP by October 10, 2025

RSVP- Robin Rose rrose@levyclothes.com

Thank you for 170 years of community, loyalty, and tradition. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! — The Levy Family

Fit to Fiht

BRA li s up a community of breast cancer survivors

AT THE HEIGHT of the COVID-19 pandemic, BRA founders Nancy Brown, Namaste Anderson and Jenadi Talbot launched a nonprofit to support breast cancer survivors through a community of strength, resilience and joy. With combined decades of healthcare experience, the founders established Breast Cancer Recovery in Action. They shortened the name to BRA — yes, like the lingerie — and deliberately omitted the “C,” because cancer doesn’t define this group.

What instead defines BRA is a commitment to mentoring women through the challenges of breast cancer recovery. In other words, BRA is here to lift you up. The play on words, woven throughout BRA’s messaging, hints at the optimism and generosity of a community bound by an intimate challenge.

SUPPO  TING SURVIVO S

FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Nancy Brown, the challenge began 25 years ago, when the mother of two was diagnosed with breast cancer. “When you go through trauma, you want it to have some meaning — you want to give back,” Nancy says. “For most of us, it’s important to reach behind and pull up the other people who are coming.”

After the ordeal of diagnosis and treatment, Nancy didn’t want to return to her corporate job. Instead, she began a career supporting cancer research and survivors, first through the Susan G. Komen Foundation and later through a local program that shut down during the pandemic.

Yet when that survivor support program closed and Nancy was out of a job, her cell phone kept ringing. Even in a pandemic — especially in a pandemic — so many people still needed help understanding the complex jargon and decisions associated with cancer diagnoses. That’s when Nancy and former colleagues Namaste and Jenadi decided they could continue serving survivors on their own.

They started small, with walking groups in parks and greenways, bringing survivors together to get some exercise and share their stories. Five years later, BRA has helped nearly 300 cancer survivors navigate their diagnoses through support groups in Middle and East Tennessee and Florida.

Namaste Anderson, Nancy Brown, Jenadi Talbot

COMMUNITY COU R SEWO RK

FUELED BY THE belief that exercise and a caring community can improve health outcomes and quality of life, BRA engages participants in four core pillars: exercise, nutrition, emotional health and education. A typical BRA curriculum might include regular small workout groups with individualized personal training, along with six-week virtual nutrition classes and eight-week on-site emotional wellness courses.

Along the way, BRA provides education and research updates through “BRA Banter,” virtual events on the organization’s website and social media. These programs have included a conversation between physicians about how chemotherapy impacts heart health, a dentist's presentation on how cancer treatment affects teeth, and updates from the chair of oncology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC). Medical experts, including VUMC advisory board members, guide BRA in developing curricula.

In Middle Tennessee, BRA currently meets at eight locations, including the Gordon Jewish Community Center in Nashville, TruFit Athletic Clubs in Donelson, Body Fit Training in Brentwood and Berry Farms in Franklin.

SURR OUNDED WITH LOVE

NANCY SAYS THE best way for someone to engage with BRA is to fill out an interest form on the organization’s website (bragroups.org), which will prompt a call back. From there, a survivor will be matched with groups for in-person exercise and emotional wellness sessions, along with virtual nutrition training.

Nancy recommends participants engage in all four pillars, which are meant to reinforce each other. But no one should let the physical aspects hold them back from getting involved. BRA knows that treatment can leave a survivor so exhausted that even the slightest exercise feels like too much. On those days, Nancy hopes people will come walk on a treadmill or just sit on a bench.

“You’ll feel better if you get out of your house, get into community and do something for yourself,” says Nancy, who has helped mentor as many as 1,500 women through such challenging days. “We will surround you and love on you.”

BY CARRINGTON FOX PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BRA

NECESSITY OVER LUXURY

Nishtha Sareen guides the Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Women’s Program into the future

MAKE NO MISTAKE: Heart disease isn’t just a “silent killer.” It’s the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Despite this fact, research and detection for women’s heart disease have traditionally fallen short, failing to address how stages of a woman’s life directly impact heart health.

Enter Nishtha Sareen, the medical director of interventional cardiology at Ascension Saint Thomas and the guiding force behind the hospital’s Heart Women’s Program — the only resource of its kind in Middle Tennessee. “It’s very close to my heart when I say [care] should not be a luxury — it should be a necessity,” says Nishtha. “I think we have faltered in the ability to bring heart health to the doorsteps of women in our community.”

Nishtha and her team recognize that heart disease isn’t exclusive to the heart. Rather, the entire body contributes to the organ’s overall health. To provide well-rounded aid, the women’s heart program offers an all-inclusive approach to testing, health care and lifestyle guidance. This is made possible by 13 “champions” in various fields, including radiologists, breast surgeons, pregnancy-related heart disease specialists, electrophysiologists, mental health experts, and dietitians.

ADDRESSING THE RISKS

NISHTHA’S PASSION FOR her field pours out of her when she speaks — so do facts about heart disease. “Heart disease in women is six times more common than breast cancer,” she says. “It’s more common than all cancers combined.”

To provide effective care, Nishtha recognizes the importance of educating patients about symptoms, underlying risk factors and how heart disease presents differently in women and men. For instance, rather than having a “Hollywood heart attack,” many women experience symptoms like lightheadedness, nausea and shortness of breath.

Nishtha asserts that these differences are largely understudied and underdetected, as are women’s increased risks for the condition. “A woman who is post-menopausal and develops diabetes is at six times higher risk of a stroke and heart attack, compared to a man who has diabetes,” says Nishtha. “He’s only two times higher risk.”

This discrepancy is blatant, even in clinical trials. Between 85 and 90 percent of participants who’ve been studied for heart disease are male. Despite disproportionate medical data, women are still prescribed the same heart disease medications as men, which haven’t been properly tested for their genetic makeup and may pose a higher risk of certain side effects.

Diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol are common risk factors associated with heart conditions. And women with atrial fibrillation need to automatically be put on blood thinners due to higher risk of stroke. Before the women’s heart program, many medical environments overlooked the ways women’s heart health relates to pregnancy, menopause or age. “If you look at the women’s heart centers that exist in the United States overall, they have failed to address every stage of a woman’s life,” says Nishtha.

FO R GING SOLUTIONS

TO ADDRESS THESE disparities, the women’s heart program holistically examines each patient’s lifestyle. In addition to offering effective detection and treatment, the program has on-site dietitians who provide custom guidance about what patients should eat, depending on their symptoms. The program has also partnered with the Ascension Saint Thomas West and Rutherford Wellness Centers, offering discounted exercise memberships for only $18 a month.

To amp up its impact, the women’s heart program recently kicked off its “250 screens in 250 days” initiative, where medical professionals offer public heart health screenings to teachers; women impacted by domestic abuse, prostitution

and drug violence; and the ancillary staff at Ascension Saint Thomas. At public screening events, each patient receives a blood pressure check, a body mass index measurement, a heart rhythm test and a one-on-one session with a specialist. (When Nfocus spoke with Nishtha in September, the Ascension Saint Thomas staff was 25 days into the program and had already provided scans for approximately 200 people.) “If any woman is healthy, the next generation is healthy,” says Nishtha.

Women’s heart program leaders also want to help women learn about their heart disease risk when they get routine mammograms. “The issue lies in lack of advocacy,” says Nishtha. “We have the technology, we have the ability to learn about women, but we have to first recognize that there is a need and step forward to address it.”

RA LLYING COMMUNITY MEMBE RS

AS SHE TRIES to make heart health care more accessible, Nishtha has seen patients encounter two main challenges: getting in touch with someone and living far from a care provider. To combat these challenges, the program opened three centers — in Midtown, Murfreesboro, and Franklin — within the span of a year. “We try to recognize areas that are underserved, where we don’t have specialists, and we go in those areas with wide services,” says Nishtha.

While there are more resources available to women in Middle Tennessee than before, true power comes in numbers — and through support from patients’ local and personal communities. Nishtha hopes that, by increasing awareness, she will not only inspire women to take charge of their health but also urge the men in their lives to advocate for better care.

“The only reason we have made so much stride in the heart health of men is because of the women in their lives — their mothers, their wives, their daughters,” says Nishtha. “This responsibility is on the shoulders of the men in our society. They have to push forward for the heart health of women.”

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

ST R EN G TH IN COMMUNITY

The New Beginnings Center is helping women find balance

THERE IS A SOFT refrain heard in doctors’ offices throughout the country. It’s a gentle nudge in the direction of longevity — particularly for people of, ahem, a certain age. “You need to start strength training.”

Doctors — drawing on scientific research — are working to help their patients understand that strength training builds muscle mass, protects and strengthens bones, boosts metabolism, prevents chronic disease and improves balance (preventing falls and avoiding costly results).

Here in Nashville, The New Beginnings Center — the city’s only women-only gym — is furthering this mission, helping women build strength, improve physical wellbeing and find community through fitness.

NEW BEGINNINGS

WHEN TASH WEDDLE founded The New Beginnings Center, located on Craighead Street, she’d already identified a need: a space where women who couldn’t afford a gym membership or personal training could experience fitness, nutrition and behavior-change coaching.

For 17 years, Tash had helped train female athletes for college sports. But after several years in the field, she felt a call to serve a greater good. Her friend and mentor, then-Habitat for Humanity CEO Chris McCarthy, suggested she help women who would love her services but couldn’t afford them. “And I thought, why not?” Tash says. “I know personally how much fitness has impacted my life and how much it can impact everyone’s life — and that it should be equally accessible for all.”

Tash created The New Beginnings Center with two programs in mind: the TNB-Fitness personalized strength training program for women, and The New Beginnings Center, a nonprofit strength training program where women who make less than $55,000 can work out for free. Through their monthly dues, women in the TNB-Fitness program help fund the fees for the women in The New Beginnings Center.

FROM ST R ENGTH TO ST R ENGTH

THE BENEFITS OF strength training have been rigorously studied and reported by institutions like the Mayo Clinic, the American Cancer Society, Harvard Health and more. Many of these benefits are visible. But Tash emphasizes the physical changes that can’t necessarily be seen.

“We see 40% of the women decrease their medications for hypertension and type 2 diabetes,” she says. “We see decreased use of antidepressants. We see an improved attitude at work. And we see self-confidence and self-compassion as well — and I think the stronger character that this builds.”

Take New Beginnings client Kendra Campbell, for example. Kendra was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 25 years ago and has seen vast changes since she started coming to The New Beginnings Center. “I’ve become stronger and more confident,” Kendra says. “This has helped me a lot with my strength and balance as well.”

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

THOUGH HER ORIGINAL goal was to help women find their physical strength, Tash says that helping women build community has been the most impactful part of The New Beginnings Center.

“The community actually ended up being a bigger part of our success than I had anticipated,” she says, adding that several women have formed lifelong friendships through the organization. “But when you think about it, people need people. And honestly, there’s nothing more amazing than women coming together with a common goal and supporting each other.”

Yennifer Nunez, a New Beginnings client, is deeply familiar with that feeling of community. She often steps in to translate conversations between Tash and Spanishspeaking clients so everyone can get the best experience, strengthening her connections with others at the center. “They show me that you can have a space for yourself and you can have a community that can support you,” she says. “They don’t even know you, but they’re going to support you.”

The future is bright for The New Beginnings Center. Tash has her eye on growth. “I’m starting to dream big,” she says. “It’s been 12 years in this facility, and we’re about to hit capacity soon.” While she’s still mapping out the plans, her mind is set on helping The New Beginnings Center reach as many women as possible.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

The ABCs of Alpha-gal Syndrome

Inside the tick-borne illness that can cause mammalian meat allergy

KEEP THIS RULE of thumb in mind: “Feathers and fins are fine.” It’s an expression you might begin hearing more frequently, amid rising cases of alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), an acquired allergy to mammal products that affects as many as 450,000 people in the U.S. Because while pork, beef, lamb, venison and rabbit can provoke a dangerous allergic reaction in people with AGS, meats from birds and fish cause no problem.

UNDERSTA NDING

A LPH A -G AL

ALPHA-GAL SYNDROME is a tick-borne condition that makes people allergic to products from mammals, including meat. It takes its name from galactoseα-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), a sugar molecule found in most mammals as well as in the ubiquitous food additive carrageenan, which is derived from red algae.

When a tick bite — generally from the lone star tick — transfers alpha-gal molecules into the human bloodstream, it can trigger the development of an allergy over a period of weeks or months. After the allergy develops, mammal products — including meat — can trigger a reaction. Often occurring two to eight hours after consumption of a mammal product, the allergic reaction can be mild or extreme, manifesting in a rash, itching, hives, gastrointestinal distress, joint pain, cardiac and breathing trouble, or even anaphylaxis.

A blood test can identify alpha-gal-specific antibodies to determine if symptoms are the result of the tickborne allergy. However, as a relatively new diagnosis,

AGS remains unfamiliar to many physicians, and connecting the dots between eating mammal meat and the delayed symptoms can take a long time to figure out. Complicating matters, since some medications are manufactured with mammal products or carrageenan, people treating AGS symptoms could unknowingly be ingesting medicines that exacerbate their problems.

Keep in mind it wasn’t until 2009 that a University of Virginia study explored the connection between lone star tick bites and delayed allergic reactions to mammal meat, bringing the unexpected connection into the AGS diagnostic mix. Tennessee began requiring healthcare providers to report AGS cases as of July 1, 2025.

Advocacy groups are working to raise awareness among physicians and patients by distributing information about tick-borne disease, encouraging physicians to consider AGS earlier in the diagnosis conversation, and pushing to add alpha-gal to the list of major allergens on food labels. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have created a training module for healthcare providers to help expedite diagnosis.

THE A LPH A -G A L DIET

WHILE THERE IS no cure for AGS, research suggests that avoiding mammal meat and additional exposure to tick bites may reduce sensitivity in some cases. But some cases are so persistent and severe they warrant carrying an EpiPen.

Avoiding AGS triggers, including crosscontaminations of food and fumes, takes more than just skipping obvious meats. It takes caution and a careful review of ingredients. For example, chicken sausages can be wrapped in pork casings. Potatoes can be fried in beef tallow. Candies and marshmallows can contain gelatin from beef and pork. Dairy products can adversely affect some people with the allergy. Carrageenan, a thickener in ice cream and other products (including some medications), can trigger an AGS response. The growing body of literature — scientific and consumer-friendly — can help navigate sources of galactose-α-1,3-galactose

When it comes to feathers and fins, there’s a diverse menagerie of proteins available online and at specialty retailers, including ostrich, emu and alligator. There’s even pork genetically modified to be safe for alpha-gal diets. While alternative meats can be more expensive and challenging to source than other alpha-gal-friendly options, like chicken and salmon, they can be prepared in recipes that outshine the mainstream meats they’re subbing for. Once you’ve had ostrich steak frites and alligator tacos, you might never go back to the originals.

BY CARRINGTON FOX

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A HEEL-ING TOUCH

The power of touch through reflexology keeps clients coming back to Bucca

IN A QUIET ROOM, soft music plays as practitioners of the healing art of reflexology lay expert hands on clients. By stimulating pressure points along the feet, neck, hands and head, reflexology is thought to send signals directly to specific parts of the body to help heal ailments, reduce stress and offer relaxation and renewal.

ANCIENT REMEDY

LIKE MANY PRACTICES, reflexology has roots in several cultures. In ancient Egypt, paintings of reflexologists dotted the walls of prominent high priest Ankhmahor’s tomb. People in ancient China and India believed the practice helped balance the body’s energies. Some indigenous North American tribes used a similar form of foot therapy as part of their healing practices. The Cherokee, for example, believed the feet connected them to the earth — and therefore to the universe.

But it is Dr. William Fitzgerald who is credited as the father of modern reflexology, thanks to his discovery of zone therapy while studying several indigenous North American tribes. Through his research, Fitzgerald found that applying pressure in specific parts of the body can target and relieve pressure in others.

MODE RN A PPLIC ATION

TUCKED AWAY IN the Stanford Square shopping center on Harding Road is the quiet oasis of Bucca Reflexology and Foot Spa. “At Bucca, the philosophy is clear: Wellness isn’t a one-time luxury — it’s a lifestyle,” says Nina Kuzina, who owns Bucca and the Nina Kuzina Gallery. During its 14 years in Nashville, Bucca has cultivated a loyal fanbase — with some clients searching for a deeper form of relaxation and others seeking the healing power of reflexology.

Over the years, clients have come through the doors doubled over in some sort of agony. By massaging pressure points, the team is often able to pinpoint the issue, apply targeted pressure and alleviate the pain. Nina says Bucca has helped clients experiencing anxiety, sleep deprivation, migraines, diabetes, liver and kidney disease, and more.

Nina believes everything in a body starts with the feet. So that is how the experience begins at Bucca — with a relaxing, herbinfused foot soak. Then, practiced hands apply gentle pressure to the feet to better understand the whole body. “The practice is rooted in ancient traditions and maps specific pressure points to organs and systems throughout the body,” Nina says.

Soft, lilting music soothes tired nerves. Practitioners conclude the session with a fiveminute head and facial massage or a 15-minute hand and facial massage, depending on the package. This practice continues the healing process and helps clients transition back into their everyday lives.

The years-long relationships Bucca enjoys with its clients is a testament to reflexology and its power. Some clients travel just to be treated by the Bucca team, while others book weekly sessions they view as “nonnegotiable” calendar entries.

“In the end, the lesson is simple but powerful,” Nina says, “At Bucca, each session is more than a moment of relaxation — it’s an investment in your future self.”

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Stunning Transformations

Aignes Rogan aims to empower Nashvillians in and out of Posh Salon & Glam Studio

BUSINESS OWNER, NATIVE Nashvillian, nonprofit champion and glam extraordinaire are all apt descriptors for Aignes Rogan. Posh Salon & Glam Studio is propelled by Aignes’ desire to uplift locals and make each of her clients feel beautiful. To best serve her guests, Aignes and her team have designed an environment where no detail is forgotten — and no client leaves without a confidence boost. “I created Posh because I wanted women to experience beauty at the highest level, where they would feel valued, seen and truly empowered,” Aignes says.

Posh’s full-service salon offers a range of high-quality services, while specializing in makeup application, hair styling, silk-outs and blowouts. Though Aignes focuses on creating elegant looks, she hopes guests can take a deep breath the moment they enter the salon. “The Posh experience is about taking the stress out of glam,” says Aignes. “Whether they’re heading to a wedding, a photo shoot or a big meeting, [guests] leave feeling elevated.”

PASSIONATE BEGINNINGS

AIGNES’ FASCINATION WITH cosmetology ignited at an early age. As the daughter of a hairdresser mother and a barber father, she continually witnessed how good hairstyles transform the way people carry themselves. She decided to get in on the fun by asking for mannequins and doll heads for Christmas. Visits to her great-grandparents’ house furthered her curiosity, as she’d wear her great-grandmother’s wigs and experiment with styling techniques. “My great-grandfather, because he had the most beautiful jet-black wavy hair, would wake up with barrettes,” Aignes says, laughing. “I would take grease, and I would twist his hair — he always woke up with a new hairstyle. And it’s so funny, because I didn’t get in trouble for it.”

Aignes’ doll heads eventually made their way to school with her, where she’d show them off to classmates, teachers and more. In fact, Aignes’ school bus driver was her very first client. With her mother’s permission, Aignes picked up products, met at the bus driver’s house, worked her magic — and earned her first profit. “She would give me $20, and I felt like I was a CEO,” says Aignes. When Aignes reached fourth and fifth grade, her mother brought her on for salon work, letting her prep for appointments and drape and shampoo clients.

While immersed in the salon scene, Aignes hoped to have her own cosmetology business one day — to not only pursue her passion but also live a well-rounded life. “With my mom and dad, I realized they were able to create a flexible schedule so that they could still be present for us,” says Aignes. “Me being a business owner allows me to have that fulfillment with my creativity and what I do for women, but it also allows me to show up as a wife and a mom.”

EMPOWE R ING SE RVICE

WHILE FREELANCING IN the hair and makeup industries, Aignes discovered a gap in Nashville’s salon scene. A client admitted that she’d get her hair done by Aignes and then drive across the city for other beauty services. This left Aignes wondering, “Why are we having to drive all over the city to get our needs met? Is it possible for us to meet those needs under one roof, maybe even with one stylist?”

To fill this space, Aignes opened Posh — a one-stop shop for customers’ beauty needs, whether they’re prepping for a wedding, competing in a pageant or walking a red carpet. While Posh’s services are designed to elevate glitzy events, they’re also suitable for everyday activities. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a C-suite leader,” says Aignes. “It doesn’t matter if she’s driving a bus. When she invests in herself, she feels whole, and then she’s able to show up in all other areas in her life.”

Through her business, Aignes has also branched into celebrity image consulting, offering her hair, makeup and extension services to artists such as CeCe Winans, Big & Rich, and Taj George and organizations including Bethel Music and the Stellar Gospel Music Awards. “As a celebrity image consultant, I don’t just do hair and makeup,” says Aignes. “I help women craft their entire look from head to toe, so that when they walk into any room, they walk in with confidence.”

COMMUNITY ST R ENGTHENING

IN HER FREE MOMENTS, Aignes enjoys spending quality time with her husband (and high school sweetheart), Caleb Rogan, and their four children. She’s also devoted to volunteering and currently serves as the program director of Rocklife Youth.

Caleb founded Rocklife Youth in 2019 to provide access, opportunity and justice-centered encouragement to underserved youth. The organization’s Just Us mentorship program, after school resources and ERA (Expression through Recreation and Arts) initiative serve middle school girls and high school boys at Johnson Alternative Learning Center and W.A. Bass Learning Center.

“I’m the oldest of nine, born and raised in Nashville and educated in Metro schools, so I know what it feels like to face challenges early in life,” says Aignes. “Now, I’m able to spend six hours a week mentoring students at two schools here in Nashville.”

When Caleb launched Just Us two years ago, Aignes decided to volunteer for one session — and quickly fell in love with the program’s mission.

“When I did my first session and connected with the kids, I realized they were just kids, and they had stories,” says Aignes. “One session led to another session, and I found myself in two years volunteering and not missing a session — committed and dedicated to these youth.”

Bridging the gap between her nonprofit involvement and Posh, Aignes brings in business leaders from different fields to speak to the students, including some of her colleagues from the beauty industry. She’s found that one of the most beneficial aspects of Rocklife Youth is connecting caring adults with students. “Studies show that one trusted adult makes you 55% more likely to attend college, 46% less likely to use drugs and 52% less likely to skip school,” Aignes says.

Through this initiative, students are not only seen and heard but also inspired and empowered — a reflection of the feelings Aignes aims to instill in her salon clients. “The same passion that I have for transformation in the glam industry is the same passion for transformation that I pour into Rocklife Youth,” she says.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

INSIDER’S GUIDE

TO AESTHETICS

Nashville’s beauty and wellness scene is thriving, with an array of medical spas and plastic surgery centers delivering innovative treatments and expert care.

In our Insider’s Guide to Aesthetics, we spotlight seven leading destinations where science meets artistry, for everything from subtle skincare to advanced cosmetic procedures. Turn the page to meet the professionals shaping the city’s aesthetic landscape — and see how they help clients look and feel their best.

Aerolase at Amaka Aesthetics

Address: 5409 Maryland Way, Ste. 115, Brentwood, TN 37027

Phone: 615.326.5853 | Website: aerolase.com | Instagram: @aerolase

Aerolase is redefining aesthetic laser medicine with precision, efficiency and versatility. Proudly engineered and manufactured in the U.S., it leads the way in laser treatment for patients of all skin colors and has been clinically validated across all Fitzpatrick skin types. The Neo Elite laser addresses a wide range of dermatological and aesthetic concerns — from conditions like acne, rosacea and psoriasis to aging, sun damage and hyperpigmentation — with no downtime and no side effects. Locally, patients can experience the Aerolase Neo Elite at Amaka Aesthetics, led by Dr. Nneamaka “Amaka” Nwubah, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon known for her surgical excellence and personalized approach.

Aerolase is known for its advanced laser technology. What makes it different from other laser treatments on the market?

Aerolase treats what others avoid. It works yearround, on every skin tone, with comfort most describe as enjoyable. No numbing, and little to no downtime. Aerolase delivers laser pulses that focus energy where it’s needed while sparing the surrounding skin, so you get results without the heat, swelling or recovery many expect from lasers. Patients can wear makeup the same day and exercise the next. Think of Aerolase as a “lunch break” treatment — results start after one treatment and build steadily over a short series, instead of requiring a disruptive recovery week. In plain terms: serious results, minimal disruption.

What kinds of skin concerns and conditions can Aerolase address, and who is an ideal candidate?

FDA-cleared uses include acne, melasma, hyperpigmentation, rosacea/redness, visible veins, psoriasis, unwanted hair, and overall rejuvenation — including skin texture, pores and scars. Because Aerolase is gentle yet effective, nearly anyone is a candidate, including those with sensitive skin and darker skin tones that traditional lasers have historically excluded.

How does Aerolase fit into a patient’s overall skincare or aesthetics plan — can it be combined with other treatments?

Aerolase lasers are where bad skin ends and healthy skin gets even stronger. They work on their own to calm inflammation, even skin tone and clear up pigmentation, but in today’s “quickness culture,” they pair seamlessly with almost anything: skincare, injectables, peels, microneedling and other energy devices. By lowering inflammation first, Aerolase creates a smoother canvas so other treatments work better and often last longer. The result: faster wins now and smarter maintenance year-round.

What excites you most about the future of laser aesthetics, and how is Aerolase leading the way?

The future is regenerative, inclusive and datadriven. Patients are tired of painful, exclusionary protocols that only address a narrow set of concerns. Aerolase offers the opposite: technologies and protocols that respect the skin barrier, work across all skin tones, and deliver natural improvements you can see and feel — without disrupting daily life. That’s the future of aesthetics, and Aerolase is already there.

Cool Springs Plastic Surgery

Address: 620 Church St. E., Brentwood, TN 37027

Phone: 615.771.7718 | Website: coolspringsplasticsurgery.net | Instagram: @coolspringsplasticsurgery

With over 25 years of experience, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. John Moore and Dr. Konrad Sarosiek have shaped Cool Springs Plastic Surgery into one of Middle Tennessee’s most respected practices. What began in 1997 as a single office has grown into four locations across Brentwood, Nashville, Franklin, and Mt. Juliet — each offering surgical and nonsurgical procedures designed to meet patients where they are in their aesthetics journey. Patients benefit from an on-site certified operating room and surgical center designed for safety and comfort, along with access to award-winning Sciton technology.

The aesthetics industry in Nashville has been rapidly growing — what sets your practice and providers apart?

Since 1997, Cool Springs Plastic Surgery has been a pioneer in the Middle Tennessee aesthetics space. As one of the first full-time, board-certified cosmetic surgery practices in Williamson County, we’ve built our reputation on integrity, precision and consistency. Our boardcertified surgeons bring decades of experience and clinical excellence to the operating room — but what truly sets their work apart is the care they take to understand each patient’s unique aesthetic goals.

Our team approaches each procedure with an eye for balance and a deep respect for individuality. We’re not interested in trends or dramatic overhauls. While the industry has expanded, our focus remains the same: individualized care rooted in trust, artistry and relationships, valuing the uniqueness of each of our patients.

How do you ensure patients feel confident and supported before and after surgery?

At Cool Springs, the patient experience begins long before surgery. Whether patients are preparing for surgery or navigating a nonsurgical treatment, our providers are committed to personal attention and accessibility, offering ongoing support and in-depth answers every step of the way. One special service our surgical patients value is physician access. We give them the cell number of their provider, ensuring they stay comfortable and receive efficient care throughout the process.

For someone considering surgery for the first time, what’s the best way to prepare both mentally and physically?

The first step is thoughtful education and honest self-reflection. Understanding your goals and weighing them against realistic outcomes sets the foundation for a smooth journey. We encourage patients to take their time, ask questions and explore trusted resources.

The second step is physical preparation, which is just as important as mental readiness. This may include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, arranging post-operative support, and following all presurgical instructions closely to ensure the safest and most seamless recovery possible. Surgical transformation is a deeply personal decision. Our role is to help patients feel informed, empowered and fully supported through the entire experience.

EB Skin

Address: 2405 Crestmoor Rd., Nashville, TN 37215

Phone: 615.314.4800 | Website: ebskinnashville.com | Instagram: @ebskinnashville

Erin Bruton founded EB Skin to give Nashvillians the experience of the “softer side of aesthetics.” Her goal was to combine the calming feeling of a day spa with the advanced results of a clinical skincare practice, focusing on minimally invasive treatments with low downtime — all grounded in science-backed practices. Tucked away in Nashville’s vibrant Green Hills neighborhood, the studio feels like a serene retreat among a sea of clinical spaces.

What makes your skincare center experience different from others in the area?

At EB Skin, we specialize in noninvasive skin therapies designed to enhance your natural health and beauty — without injections or extended downtime. Rather than aggressively resurfacing the skin or attempting to erase every wrinkle, we focus on encouraging the biological processes that rebuild collagen, elastin, and overall vitality from within.

What are your top-performing services right now, and why do clients love them?

One of our most in-demand services is Procell Therapies Microchanneling, which uses a gentle stamping technique to encourage healthy skin growth. Clients love the noticeable improvements in skin firmness, smoothness, and overall texture, along with the long-term benefits of natural collagen stimulation.

We’re also known for our professional-grade Lightwave LED therapy. Far more powerful than at-home red light masks, our Elite system uses low-intensity wavelengths to energize the skin at a cellular level — strengthening skin structure, improving tone and clarity, and accelerating healing. It’s a relaxing, results-driven favorite.

What’s a great first treatment for someone new to aesthetics?

If you’re new to aesthetics — or it’s been a while since your last treatment — a HydraFacial is the perfect place to start. This multi-action facial exfoliates dull skin, deepcleans congested pores, and hydrates your face for an instantly brighter, smoother complexion. It also enhances product absorption, helping your at-home skincare perform more effectively. It’s a results-driven service that gives you a visible glow in just one visit.

What do you recommend for clients who want a subtle refresh — not a dramatic change?

If you’re looking for a subtle yet transformative glow-up, our Dermaplane & Glow treatment is a fan favorite. This service gently removes dull surface cells and hair with professional dermaplaning and follows with a gentle peel to reveal smooth, radiant skin. Whether you’re prepping for an event, heading to a big meeting, or just craving “I’ve got it together” energy, it’s the perfect refresh that leaves you feeling ready to face the world.

Hatef Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery

Address: 6200 Highway 100, Ste. 101, Nashville, TN 37205

Phone: 615.678.6273 | Website: hatefaesthetics.com | Instagram: @hatefaesthetics

Founded in 2015 by Dr. Daniel Hatef, a board-certified plastic surgeon, Hatef Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery is known for excellence in rhinoplasty, breast augmentations and neck lifts. Based in Belle Meade for over 10 years, the practice combines surgical expertise with advanced nonsurgical treatments performed by a top-notch team. The practice offers access to luxury skincare lines and cutting-edge services, like HydraFacials, CO2 laser treatments, IPL therapy, truBody sculpting, and Morpheus8 and SkinPen microneedling — plus injectables from Allergan, Galderma and the RHA Collection.

What’s your specialty, and how does that shape your approach to beauty and enhancement?

Within plastic surgery, my specialty is rhinoplasty. I trained at two of the world’s top rhinoplasty centers, and ever since, it’s been important to me to bring the most advanced technology and latest artistic innovations to my practice. A great plastic surgery result is not just the product of precision — it also comes from understanding what looks natural for that patient, based on their age, skin, bone structure, and overall appearance.

What are some of the most popular procedures you perform? What trends are you seeing?

I do a lot of rhinoplasties, facelifts and breast augmentations. Rhinoplasty patients are asking for more stylized-looking results, often citing the noses they’ve seen being done in Turkey and Europe. For facelift patients, we’re doing more aggressive fat reductions along the neck and under the jaw. Some of my anatomical research is helping us locate the lymph nodes in these areas so we can preserve them, minimize swelling and optimize healing time. Breast augmentation patients are definitely asking for more fullness and cleavage.

What do you believe distinguishes a natural result from an overdone one?

A natural result can be described in one word: harmony. When patients have a good facelift with a nice jawline and neck contour, but their upper lip is very long and covers their teeth, it tells the brain “something isn’t right.” It’s not that the facelift was done poorly, but that the result seems disharmonious. That’s why I discuss doing the entire face with a lot of patients. It can be overwhelming, but those results are absolutely worth it.

The aesthetics industry in Nashville has been rapidly growing — what sets your practice and providers apart?

The aesthetics industry has exploded here. And as the market has become more saturated, we’ve remained focused on consistently providing the best outcomes for our patients. At Hatef, we have an established headquarters here in Nashville, and another one about to open. We’re also run by a board-certified plastic surgeon who works directly with aestheticians and aesthetic nurses, so we all elevate each other and work hard to get the best results in the safest manner.

Ingram Cosmetic Surgery

Address: 2415 Atrium Way, Nashville, TN 37214

Phone: 615.431.3710 | Website: ingramcosmeticsurgery.com | Instagram: @ingramcosmeticsurgery

Dr. Alton Ingram is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and one of Nashville’s top-rated specialists in cosmetic and facial cosmetic surgery. His practice, founded in 2021, offers a luxury, patient-focused experience with personalized care from start to finish. Procedures include facelifts, breast augmentations and lifts, tummy tucks and “mommy makeovers,” and Brazilian butt lifts, along with nonsurgical treatments like Botox and fillers. The practice also offers access to top implant options, like Natrelle and Mentor — giving patients the best of the best.

What procedures are most in demand right now?

This summer, we saw a big uptick in dual-plane breast augmentation, a technique pioneered by my mentor, John B. Tebbetts, that I’ve performed throughout my career. The procedure involves positioning breast implants on two different plants, and patients love it because it delivers natural, balanced results.

Many people have also been scheduling mommy makeovers, breast lifts, tummy tucks, and Brazilian butt lifts just in time to be fully healed for winter getaways. Whatever the season, our approach is the same: Tailor the procedure to your goals and anatomy for results that feel authentically you.

What makes your consultation process unique?

Our consults are thorough, personalized and reassuring — and they start before you walk in. Most patients spend time talking or texting with our TKs, Amy and Estefani (who is bilingual in Spanish), to review goals and logistics. We take a complete medical history and perform a focused exam to make sure I understand your goals before developing a custom treatment plan.

And that consultation is ongoing. We encourage you to text us follow-up questions, and we refine logistics right up to surgery day so the final plan reflects exactly what you want.

How has your practice evolved with changing beauty standards?

Preferences have shifted toward more natural and individualized results, and we’ve embraced that across both breast and facial surgery. In breast surgery, we select implants that match your tissue and desired look, and we customize techniques to achieve soft, proportionate, long-lasting outcomes.

Facial surgery has followed the same trend toward subtlety, personalization and refinement. Rather than a “one-look-fits-all,” we tailor facelifts to your unique ligament structure and skin thickness, integrate neck contouring when needed, and use conservative fat grafting to restore youthful volume without overfilling. Upper and lower eyelid surgery aims to preserve and reposition natural fat where appropriate, and rhinoplasty prioritizes function and proportion over aggressive reduction. The result is a balanced, refreshed appearance that looks like you — just wellrested and confident.

What transformation best captures the heart of your work?

One patient in her mid-20s came to us after major weight loss. At her first visit, she was understandably nervous and avoided eye contact. We planned her skintightening journey in stages. With each follow-up, she smiled more, engaged more, and carried herself with growing confidence. At a recent visit, her mom quietly said, “Thank you for giving me my daughter back.” Moments like that — where results support confidence in every part of life — are why we do what we do.

Luxe & Luna Boutique Spa

Address: 812 51st Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37209

Phone: 615.454.4949 | Website: luxeandlunanashville.com | Instagram: @luxeandlunanashville

Co-owned by Lily Thuresson and Summer Moore, Luxe & Luna Boutique Spa offers New York and Los Angeles-style services with a welcoming, Southern touch. As a premier provider of luxury skincare brands, like Biologique Recherche and Valmont, Luxe & Luna pairs European expertise with refined aesthetic experiences — ranging from massages and facials to advanced microneedling and exosomes. Every treatment is delivered in a setting known for discretion, luxury and warmth.

What are your top-performing services right now, and why do clients love them?

Contouring facial and body lymphatic services are very popular right now. While some are wellness-focused and others are seeking a slimmer physique, our clients love our variety of sculpting, draining and detoxifying services. Clients also cannot get enough of the “Welcome Belly Ritual,” a Biologique Recherche service that draws on French lymphatic techniques to relax the abdomen and diaphragm and ground the solar plexus.

What skincare trends or technologies are you excited about right now?

Perimenopause treatments are finally getting some attention. We’re extremely excited about new supplements, like Juna Gut Therapy, that are specifically designed to address the myriad symptoms affecting women during this time of life.

Packed with probiotics, prebiotics and adaptogens, this daily morning-ritual supplement supports your essential gutbrain connection — potentially helping you fight brain fog, bloating and sugar cravings. As a bonus, it’s said to boost your serotonin levels, which means actually feeling good during perimenopause.

How do you help clients build a long-term skincare or treatment plan?

The best place to begin is with a Skin Instant Lab analysis. This Biologique Recherche diagnostic tool uses five probes to measure skin hydration, transepidermal (skin barrier) water loss, skin elasticity, hyperpigmentation and sebum (oil) levels. Our expert aestheticians use this data, along with their independent analysis of your skin, to create a treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals.

Our services also include a calming environment — with guided breathing and a relaxing massage — so you can simply be present and enjoy this precious moment of self-care. You cannot treat the complexion or body without treating the heart and soul as well.

Address: 1915 State St., Nashville, TN 37203

Phone: 615.467.6777 | Website: theplasticsurgerycenterofnashville.com | Instagram: plasticsurgerycenternashville

Led by nationally recognized, board-certified surgeons Dr. Mary Gingrass and Dr. Melinda Haws, the Plastic Surgery Center of Nashville with H/K/B is a trusted destination for both surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic care. Their industry experts — including injectors and registered nurses Angela Goodwin and Megan Spivey, as well as aesthetician Griffin Churchwell — bring over 30 years of combined experience to the team. Consistently voted as one of the best plastic surgeons in the Nashville Scene’s Best of Nashville awards, the center is known for its excellence, continuous education and long-standing patient relationships.

The aesthetics industry in Nashville has been rapidly growing — what sets your practice and providers apart?

The exceptional longevity of our team is a testament to the quality of our practice and what sets us apart. Since we opened in 2002, we have retained over 80% of our original staff, including each of the doctor’s coordinators.

We’re also steadfastly committed to delivering the highest quality of care in every single appointment. Our aesthetic providers are genuinely passionate about what they do, and they center advanced aesthetic treatments around helping patients feel comfortable in their own skin, enhancing their appearance, and boosting their confidence.

What do you believe distinguishes a natural result from an overdone one?

In today’s world of aesthetics, there is a fine line between looking refreshed and looking “done.” Achieving a truly natural result is a form of art that requires a provider’s medical expertise and artistic eye. Our team doesn’t just apply a technology — they meticulously tailor every treatment to your unique anatomy. It is this personalized approach that allows us to go beyond injectables and technology to create a result that is both safe and aesthetically beautiful.

How do you help clients build a long-term skincare or treatment plan?

Our advanced aesthetic providers have access to the deep knowledge and anatomical expertise of two board-certified plastic surgeons. This ensures that every treatment plan is not only effective but also grounded in a comprehensive understanding of facial and body aesthetics.

Our providers also believe in a holistic approach, which is why they discuss various factors — such as lifestyle, diet and environment — with their patients to ensure the treatment plan not only improves the skin’s appearance but also supports its long-term health.

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Broadway Brunch kicks off 10 years with a lively patrons party

f a diamond is forever, then the Diamond Cellar provided the perfect backdrop for the Nashville Repertory Theatre’s Broadway Brunch Patrons Party. The Green Hills jeweler sparkled as donors and supporters gathered to toast the theater’s 10th Broadway Brunch, a milestone that complements the organization’s 40th anniversary last season.

As guests filtered into the sunlit room, many revelers turned their eyes to shopping and made a beeline for the stunning display cases filled with beautiful jewelry and watches. Event chair Samantha Breske Magee was on hand to visit with the vivacious crowd as servers passed trays of delicious hors d’oeuvres. Guests enjoyed glasses of Champagne and cocktails while visiting with friends they had missed during the summer season.

Samantha addressed the room, thanking supporters for their dedication to the Nashville Rep and the local arts community. She also noted the important programs their donations support — like the Rep’s Young Voices program, a series of theater workshops for middle and high school students, and Rep InDepth, which offers ticket discounts for students and educators. Funds also support the theater community by creating student internships and giving local artists opportunities to practice their craft.

Guests shared their excitement for the upcoming Broadway Brunch, with anticipation running especially high for Tonynominated Broadway star Jenn Colella’s performance of “Me and the Sky” from Come From Away — a nod to the Nashville Rep’s season opener this fall at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Elena Reinert, Jill Heyman

Lucas Magee and chair Samantha Breske Magee

Keri McInnis, Laurie Seabury

Bob Deal, Bruce Pittman, Jason Bradshaw

Anne Elizabeth McIntosh, Jim Seabury

Milton White, Morel Enoch

Red and Shari Martin

Sithanda Ntuka, Laura and TK Kimbrell, Amos Glass, Miguel Marcelle

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Tenth annual Broadway Brunch toasts the Nashville Repertory Theatre’s 40th anniversary

Nashville Repertory Theatre — the city’s prime nonprofit community theater — is having a momentous year. The organization is celebrating 40 years of artistic excellence. In honor of this occasion, event chair Samantha Breske Magee, alongside countless other organizers, set out to make the 10th annual Broadway Brunch glitzier, livelier and more engaging than ever before. Clearly, they were successful, as evidenced by roaring applause and standing ovations from attendees.

Revelers promptly packed the lobby of Category 10 at 10:30 a.m. — their energy levels only growing as the day progressed. The room was a fashionable feast for the eyes, filled with glamour, bright colors and plenty of sparkle. While many guests enjoyed gazing at auction items and indulging in mimosas, it was hard not to gravitate toward the main event space, which featured Category 10’s signature light installation and tasteful decor by Bruce Pittman Inc.

Brunch chatter quieted as the first performer took the stage, belting out Hairspray’s iconic opener, “Good Morning Baltimore” — with altered lyrics that playfully pointed to the Nashville Rep. A powerhouse ensemble breathed new life into each familiar showtune, creating an electric atmosphere for audience members. Guests even leapt from their seats in rapture after Broadway star Jenn Colella’s performance of “Me and the Sky” from the hit musical Come From Away

The “why” behind the Rep’s performances — to inspire onlookers and share the magic of theater — was apparent. And per tradition, this year’s brunch encouraged guests to take part in the “how.” A fruitful auction, featuring more than 150 items, raised critical funds to help bring more Rep productions onstage and expand the reach of the organization’s theater programs across Middle Tennessee. As a toast to 40 years, Rep leaders also highlighted the new 1985 Donors Society, which covers production and programming costs, from costuming actors to funding Broadway guest artists to teach master classes.

As the day transitioned from mid-morning to afternoon, Samantha announced Anne Elizabeth McIntosh and Angela Bostelman-Kaczmarek as next year’s Broadway Brunch chairs. A heartfelt performance of “From Now On” from The Greatest Showman ended the occasion on the highest note possible.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Anna Page, Emily Cupples, Jenn Cordova Lucas Magee and chair Samantha Breske Magee

Jenn Colella, Margaret Caldwell

Bryan and Traci Frasher, Keri McInnis

Amos Glass, Melanie McBurney

Laurie Eskind, Vicki Horne

Tara Miller, Halle Pinkham

Kimia Movahed, Allison Richter, Lily and Andrew Wright

Christine Toole, Ian Frazier

Anne Martin, Jeff Zeitlin, Casey Sims, Anna Page

Michael Saracco, Andrew Graham Melissa Durmon, Meggan Utech, Jordan Tudor, Melanie Sutton

Bruce Pittman, Hannah Preston, Taylor Casey, Linnea Tweedy, Eldar Gorak

Yolanda Treece, Gary Hoff, Authenia Treece

Victor and Mandy Kha, Susan and Brandon Hoag

Jim Schmitz, Meryl and Keith Kraft

Revi Ferrer, Nadia Foxworth Teresa Driver, Colin Peterson, Alicia Fuss

Amos Glass Jasmine Greer, Christa Greer

Emily Cupples, Aftyn Behn, Jenn Cordova

Mac Pirkle, Sarah Aili

Karen Pirkle, Kayla Clayborne Counts

Maya Riley, Galen Fott

Lauren and Joseph Bromfield

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Accomplished career women lead and inspire at the Most Powerful Women luncheon

s guests filed into City Winery on a warm summer day, Nashville Post’s annual Most Powerful Women luncheon buzzed with electricity. Per tradition, women of varying ages, titles and backgrounds united under a common cause — to celebrate the achievements of female business leaders and philanthropists. The jubilant afternoon highlighted Nashville Post’s Most Powerful Women and Nfocus’ Model Behavior honorees, making for an inspiring afternoon of conversation and community.

While mingling in the lobby, attendees and honorees admired a series of large-scale Nfocus magazine covers, which honored the women of the moment. They received gift bags and copies of Nfocus’ September issue once they reached their seats. As servers distributed a delicious lunch — rosemary chicken with pan jus, green beans and herb-roasted potatoes — Nashville Post and Nfocus publishers Heather Mullins and Olivia Moye Britton made opening remarks and thanked the generous sponsors who made the day possible. Nfocus editor-in-chief Janet Kurtz highlighted the 2025 Model Behavior honorees, while Nashville Post editor-in-chief Nicolle Praino presented awards to the Most Powerful Women honorees.

Then came the event’s signature moment: a panel discussion moderated by Janet Miller, CEO of Colliers-International Nashville. She took the stage alongside the four Most Powerful Women honorees: Johari Matthews, vice president and executive director of ONE Community and the Tennessee Titans Foundation; Erica Mitchell, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Nashville; Laura Ritchey, president and CEO of GEODIS’ American region; and Carrie Stokes, CEO and president of Barge Design Solutions.

The panel opened with a poignant question: “What does power mean to you?” Honorees discussed their career experiences and the importance of using their influence to impact the community. Other topics included cultivating work-life balance, overcoming ageism in the workplace, pouring back into yourself during busy seasons — and not feeling guilty about scheduling necessary “me time.”

The afternoon wrapped up with an insightful audience Q-and-A and a VIP reception — including Champagne, professional headshots from the Nfocus portrait studio, and a triumphant toast.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND AND HAMILTON MATTHEW MASTERS

Lynley Hammes, Denise Cummins, John Dwyer

Anne Cain, Roxianne Bethune, Colson Horton, Kelleigh Bannen, Vicki Horne, Rae Hirsch, Jennifer Parker, Deby Pitts, Denise Cummins, Brooke Trusley, Angie Hester Cook

Colson Horton, Kelleigh Bannen

Most Powerful Women honorees Laura Ritchey, Erica Mitchell, Carrie Stokes, Johari Matthews

Michele Harrell, Michelle Mowery Johnson, April Britt

Meagan Flippin, Elizabeth Bumpas, Midori Lockett, Courtney Barlar

Lacey Moore, Stacey Rhodes, Camille Chaffin, Deby Pitts, Lucie Cammack

Roxianne Bethune, Erica Mitchell, Sharon Roberson

Laura Little, Tausha Dickinson

Londa Morgan, Holly McClung

Amos Glass, Mary Catherine Hughes

Leilani Boulware, Johari Matthews, Sara Pomeroy

Ashley Herring, Vicki Horne, Holly Whaley

Danielle Pyle, Nancy Floyd, Katie Crumbo, Kayla Clayborne Counts, Laura Baker

Anne Cain, Connie Hardin

CNashville’s Got Talent unites creatives, raising essential funds for The Store

ity Winery brimmed with applause and generosity during Nashville’s Got Talent. The fun-filled event raises crucial funds for The Store, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and Brad Paisley’s nonprofit dedicated to fighting hunger in Middle Tennessee. The Store makes nutrition more accessible by offering free grocery support and annually providing more than 150,000 meals across Middle Tennessee.

But the evening wasn’t your typical fundraiser — it featured talent show performances by engaging entertainers, many of whom have other day jobs.

Soul Incision, a nine-piece band of Vanderbilt University Medical Center professionals, kicked off the night. Live artist Heidi Schwartz painted a large canvas to represent the event, frequently wiping her paintbrush on her blue cocktail dress in between strokes. (Her final creation was later auctioned off for an impressive $15,000.)

Magician Harris III, The Store CEO Collen Mayer, and event co-chairs Faith Murphy and David Fischette welcomed the crowd.

“This is an evening of purpose,” Collen said. And an evening of purpose, it was. Passionate performances, luxurious auction items and an energetic audience made for a lively event.

Pascale and Bruce Fagerstrom earned the Volunteer of the Year award, and special guest, R&B band Louis York, performed “It Is What It Is,” encouraging the crowd to join in during the chorus. A panel of celebrity judges — singer-songwriter Jessie James Decker, former Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson East, singer-songwriter Annie Bosko and actor Matthew Glave — provided feedback after each performance, expressing awe over their talent.

Acts included cirque-style performer Grace Good, singer Tonya Terry-Lance (who also works at HCA), comedian Evan Berke, jazz pianist Jonathan Greer (who’s also an ER physician), retro tribute band L’80’s Nite (whose members include an occupational therapist, a touring session musician, and a commercial account manager), singer-songwriter Aimee LeDoux, and singer-songwriter David DeVaul (who’s also a financial adviser).

As the night came to a close, the hosts announced three winners: David was the top fundraiser, Jonathan was the fan favorite, and Aimee was the overall winner.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD

Tonya Terry-Lance

Sarah Murray, Cole Cutler

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL SCOTT EVANS

Jeff Carpenter, Christine Juarbe Fischette and co-chair David Fischette, Anita Barone, Matthew Glave

Bruce and Pascale Fagerstrom, Max Fagerstrom

Co-chair Faith Murphy

Mary Alice Miller, Evan Berke, Alyson Berke

Evan Berke

Katie Scannella, Nick Gajewski

Josh Agozino, Dustielyn Savage

Cheryl and Clifton Chunn

Cindy Slobogin, Frannie Benner, Peggy Curci

Jonathan and Gwendolyn Greer, Michael Greer David DeVaul

Karena Schneider, Shawn and Joella Parr

Drake Porter, Chloe Cline, Chrissy Milewski, Patrick Galloway

Elizabeth Dicken, Raegan Irwin, Andrew Seidel, Shelby Neal

Caitlin Darby, Sarah Libby

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The Heritage Ball Patrons Party raises funds to preserve and conserve

s the sun set, supporters of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County gathered at Leiper’s Fork Distillery for the Heritage Ball Patrons Party. Distillery owner Lee Kennedy greeted guests and shared stories about the whiskey made on the property. Heritage Ball co-chairs Debbie and Bo Segers mingled with attendees and built excitement for the upcoming ball.

While soft refrains of bluegrass music wafted through the air, guests enjoyed signature cocktails and a delicious, hearty buffet including prime rib sandwiches, empanadas, meatballs, and cheese and charcuterie. Many longtime supporters were on hand to visit like old friends do. Planner Amos Gott, who organized both the patrons party and the ball, kept a sharp eye on details to ensure everything ran smoothly.

The purpose of the Heritage Ball Patrons Party is to celebrate the organization’s advancements and to thank donors and supporters for their generosity in sustaining its mission. Bari Beasley, Heritage Foundation of Williamson County president and CEO, went off script during her remarks, sharing some of the exciting projects the organization has completed in 2025.

The foundation restored a historic rock wall through its grassland preservation project. It hosted a town hall in College Grove, gathering over 80 residents eager to safeguard historic places as development accelerates. It hosted the eighth annual symposium on historic preservation, engaging top stakeholders in the area. Bari also called out the progress on the Franklin Grove preservation project, which recently moved into its next phase. “We’ve been working to make sure that the voice of the Heritage Foundation and of preservation is a part of the bigger story,” Bari said.

After Bari’s remarks, Bo introduced a special auction item created in collaboration with Leiper’s Fork Distillery: the Heritage Collection, a Tennessee whiskey and bourbon set available in the online auction.

BY JANET KURTZ

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Eli and Katie Anding

Ed and Susu Silva, Lee Kennedy

Co-chairs Bo and Debbie Segers

Caitlin and John Bond

Judy and John Gallagher

Kay Awalt Musgrove and Bob Musgrove

Suzanne and Grant Smothers Kaye George, Bari Beasley, Steve George

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evelry on the Field

Chukkers for Charity toasts to 29 years

The magic of the 29th annual Chukkers for Charity was already evident on the winding drive to Riverview Farm. Surrounding trees had just begun to tinge with orange, gently welcoming the long-awaited autumn. The morning’s steady rain ceased in the early afternoon, but left the air delightfully crisp, making the beloved polo match feel like an apt transition between summer and fall.

Since 1996, Chukkers for Charity has raised over $3 million in support of the Rochelle Center and Saddle Up!. The Rochelle Center provides crucial support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, while Saddle Up! offers therapeutic, educational and recreational experiences with horses to children and young adults with disabilities.

This year’s lively “Fiesta on the Field” theme encouraged guests to don their brightest colors and florals. Many also debuted fresh fall fashions, with plenty of plaid, trench coats and earth tones dotting the field. Mimosas in hand, revelers caught up with old friends and made new connections while awaiting the big game.

The event, featuring the United States Polo Association’s Regional President’s Cup, served as the qualifying tournament for the 2025 National President’s Cup. As the gripping match drew to a close, The Anderson Group’s team (Aaron Barrett, Wes Finlayson, Alejandro Gonzales and Stevie Orthwein) beat Ironhorse Farms’ team (Cruz Bilbao, Sophie Grant, Diego “Joaquin” Arguello and Wesley “Whistle” Uys). Per usual, halftime was occupied with charming miniature ponies, children’s stick-horse races, and divot stomping, one of the longest-standing polo traditions — this year, in Wellington boots instead of heels.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Rebecca Hill, Josh Anderson

Natalie and George Clements

John and Amy Keith, Kim Leeper

David and Delia Darst

Megan Pinson, Karen Garfield

Sarah Michaud, Todd Hellmann and Dana Bonaminio with Lena and Matteo

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Tony McAlister, Trish Andrews, Lynne McAlister, Nelson Andrews

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OThe Little Oper

Tht Did

Opera on the Mountain warms hearts on a chilly evening

n a cool night that many described as “false fall,” supporters and friends of the Nashville Opera gathered at the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory for Opera on the Mountain — a traditionally biannual event canceled in early summer due to inclement weather. Luckily, the rain early in the day cleared. And as picnic baskets opened to reveal culinary treasures, the evening promised magic.

Once guests were settled, Nicholas McClay, Nashville Opera board president, welcomed everyone and thanked them for their support. “[The Nashville Opera has] been known as the little engine that could,” he noted. “And now, they are the little opera that did.”

John Hoomes, Nashville Opera CEO and artistic director, continued the thanks. Celebrating his 30th season with the organization, he highlighted the impact of one particular Nashvillian. “If it weren’t for Martha Ingram, I don’t know what the arts landscape would be in the city of Nashville,” he said. “Her vision and her tireless commitment to the arts have made a huge difference in every arts group, including, of course, the Nashville Opera.”

Guests then enjoyed an incredible evening of song. Soprano Claire Paschal, mezzo-soprano Sarah Antell and baritenor Steven McCoy delighted with selections including “Chi il bel sogno di Doretta” from La rondine, “Suddenly, Seymour” from Little Shop of Horrors, and “O mio babbino caro” from Gianni Schicchi

Between acts, John also shared the success of the Opera on Wheels program. Born out of the pandemic, the program brings opera performances to schoolchildren throughout the state who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the art. John estimates that, after a slow start in the early years, approximately 25,000 children and adults now experience Opera on Wheels annually.

The evening ended with the traditional performance of “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” from The Sound of Music, warming hearts as patrons packed the last remnants of dinner back into their baskets before heading home.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL SCOTT EVANS

Kim Hewell Scarborough and Norm Scarborough

Claire Paschal, Sarah Antell

Cynthia and Elliot Himmelfarb

Steven McCoy Jerry Williams, Patty Davis, Deby Pitts

Maud McClay, Margaux, Nicholas McClay

John Hoomes, Nathan Green

Sherrie Jackson, Janice Elliott Morgan, Jane Ann Cain

The Thouhtful Dresser

Philanthropy and fashion combine at Chic Awearness

There is a season for everything. And the new era for Chic Awearness is red hot — or in this case, teal blue. Ovarian cancer survivor Marci Houff founded the organization to raise awareness, support and crucial funds for ovarian cancer research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Teal, the signature color for ovarian cancer awareness, represents courage, strength and hope in the fight against the disease. And Chic Awearness displayed it at every turn.

This year, Marci and her board designed a more intimate experience, shifting from a large-scale runway show to a salon-style fashion presentation and dinner. Guests gathered at the Four Seasons Nashville’s Mimo for the event, greeted by Champagne glasses with butterfly ornaments — another symbol of ovarian cancer awareness.

Once guests took their seats, Marci shared the story of her diagnosis. “The first emotion I often say I felt was fear — just flatout, scared-as-hell fear,” she said. In addition to being scared for her family, she was afraid of the treatment, of losing her hair, and of feeling isolated. “I didn’t know anybody that had ovarian cancer, so I felt very alone,” Marci shared. Today, Marci celebrates 17 years in remission and dedicates her time to helping other women with the same diagnosis. Thus far, Chic Awearness has raised $1.4 million for the cause.

Dr. Ronald Alvarez, chairman of VUMC’s obstetrics and gynecology department, followed Marci’s speech with an important message. “The National Academy of Medicine just came out with a report about how research in women’s health has been really poorly funded,” he said. “I think it’s really important for you to know, as women, that you need to be an advocate for women’s health research — not only in [gynecologic] cancer, but across the whole spectrum of diseases that affect women.”

In a moving moment, Tracy Wade and the board surprised Marci with the Frances Hill Caldwell Courage Award, which honors its namesake’s warmth, bravery and grace during her own fight with ovarian cancer. As the night segued into a fashion presentation, models walked through the room wearing fall designs from Alice, Emerson Grace and H. Audrey.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Katie Crumbo, Joanne Sowell

Yvonne Mann, Jordan Rahm, Anita Cash, Marci Houff, Tracy Wade

Denise and Ronald Alvarez

Marci and Stephen Houff

Bob Deal, Jason Bradshaw

Meera Ballal, Karmyn Conk

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ACure One, Cure Mny

The American Brain Foundation Gala makes its debut in Nashville

nticipation buzzed through the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum as the American Brain Foundation brought its gala to Nashville for the first time. Brothers Adam and Sean Sansiveri — both deeply invested in the organization’s mission — welcomed a crowd that spilled across the terrace for cocktails, before revelers drifted into the Nfocus Portrait Studio, styled by Matt Logan, and later into the City National Bank Private Dining Room for dinner.

Honoree, actor and outspoken brain health advocate Selma Blair arrived wearing a stunning powder-blue Monique Lhuillier gown, with her dog, Scout, by her side. Selma greeted each guest as a new best friend and thanked everyone for their support of the American Brain Foundation and its important work in fighting brain disease.

After guests sat down for dinner, Adam and Sean took the stage to set the evening in motion. They handed the microphone over to actor and writer Christopher Hanke, who charmed the room with his wit, before transforming into a lively auctioneer and driving bids higher with every laugh.

Michelle Heritage, the foundation’s executive director, followed with a reminder of the gala’s mission. “At the heart of our work is what we call our ‘cure one, cure many’ philosophy,” she said. “Breakthroughs in brain science don’t stay neatly inside the minds of one disease — the brain is too connected for that. A discovery in Alzheimer’s might unlock answers for Parkinson’s. Insights from epilepsy can inform ALS.”

The night’s emotion ran deepest when motivational speaker Justine Fedak, who has multiple sclerosis, shared how a diagnosis and a relentless doctor got her back on her feet — and into high heels. Selma received a standing ovation when she spoke with candor about getting diagnosed with MS and feeling relieved to finally name the challenges she’d faced since childhood. “I am here because of the doctors and researchers who pushed forward,” she said. “I am here because of the voices that said, ‘Keep showing up, keep living, keep laughing, keep being.’”

The evening ended on a high note when the band Guster closed out the event and got everyone on their feet dancing.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY KRISTEN DRUM

Sydney Miller, Jeff Miller

Meagan and Chris Nebel

Emily Barbee, Cammie Rash

Co-chair Adam Sansiveri, Selma Blair, co-chair Sean Sansiveri

Christopher Hanke

Evette White, Brandon Corbin, LaDonna Boyd Bay Leslie-Mazwi, Ralph and Michelle Leslie, Paul Cairns

Laurie and Jim Seabury, Katie Crumbo

Co-chairs Sean Sansiveri, Adam Sansiveri

David Osborn and Lisa Maki

Amy and Brannan Atkinson

Jacob and Kelly Unger Guster

Joshua Reitzas, Freddie O’Connell, Whitney Boon

Logan and Jessica Mulvey

Sean and Cindy Pillard

Selma Blair with Scout

Christopher Hanke

We would like to express our gratitude to our generous sponsors and donors for the American Brain Foundation Gala: A Night of Brilliance and Breakthroughs, which took place at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on September 13. The program included moving remarks from leading brain health advocates, an active live auction and paddle raise, and a musical performance by Guster. In total, the event raised nearly $1.5 million for brain disease research, thanks to the philanthropic spirit of attendees and donors. Thank you for making this magical evening possible. We look forward to celebrating brilliance and breakthroughs with you again next year.

To learn more about the American Brain Foundation, please visit AmericanBrainFoundation.org

In With the Old, In With the New

The second annual Paint the Town celebrates preservation and integration

Community, art and history united at the second annual Paint the Town in support of the Preservation Society of Nashville (PSN). PSN’s mission — to protect Nashville’s vibrant history while creatively integrating the old with the new — encouraged immense generosity from passionate preservationists and supporters.

PSN, the first staffed historic preservation organization in the city, has flourished since cofounders Kelleigh Bannen and Colson Horton kickstarted it in 2022. Its major initiatives include channeling essential funding into education and advocacy and influencing policy — all to create long-lasting change in our city’s developmental landscape.

Clementine Hall served as a stunning backdrop for the event. The restored Presbyterian church, built in 1889, features a picturesque courtyard, a grand pipe organ from 1905, and plenty of space to gather. As guests arrived, they mingled and gazed in awe as plein-air painters created artwork of Nashville landmarks in record time. These canvases were later sold during an energetic live auction, which raised crucial funds for PSN’s burgeoning preservation efforts.

Colson grew teary-eyed as she expressed her thanks to the crowd. She awarded the Sondra Morris Impact Award to Mark Simmons, an esteemed interior designer and one of PSN’s founding board members. The crowd also celebrated guest of honor Phil Ponder — known for his artistry and meticulous line-drawing method — with a standing ovation.

When it was time to eat and drink, guests rose from their chairs and ventured into the lobby. Dinner was intentionally designed to encourage guests to flow freely between tables and connect with fellow revelers. Elaborate buffet spreads offered charcuterie delights and Southern comforts, and the venue filled with chatter until the end of the evening.

Colson, Kelleigh and David Greider, PSN’s executive director, emphasized the importance of making preservation a crucial component of the city’s growth. An exciting announcement elevated this sentiment: The Metro Nashville Planning Department will begin creating a new Preservation Plan for Nashville in 2026 — the first citywide plan of its kind since 1998 — with PSN being one of many engaged stakeholders.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Jenny Lee, Rebecca D’Hilly, Sarah D’Hilly, Kelleigh Bannen, Karen D’Hilly

Phil Ponder, Deb Ponder Colson Horton, Jeanette Heinz, Beatrice Lamothe

Mike Kelley, Lisa Haller, David Greider

Judson Newbern

Emily Girvin, Libby Callaway

Meg Hershey, Bari Beasley

Justin and Laura Gordey, Tyler and Lauren Powell

Bonprte’s

Trvels

The Nashville Humane Association honors Emmylou Harris at Cause for Paws

Not every event comes complete with a puppy ambassador greeting guests — let alone seven. But that’s exactly what awaited the fashionable guests at the Nashville Humane Association’s Cause for Paws luncheon at Belle Meade Country Club. As tradition dictates, curious and adorable bundles of fur were on hand for snuggles and kisses, each searching for a fur-ever home.

During the reception, guests mingled with co-chairs Nancy Floyd and Jay Joyner and spent plenty of time shopping , many snagging a new outfit or two from the high-end boutiques on display. Revelers also kept a close eye on tempting silent auction items, like a Scotland golf vacation, a Kirna Zabête shopping soirée, and a signature Fluff & Boots set. Many also enjoyed glasses of crisp Champagne as they mingled under the tent on the sunny afternoon.

Once seated, the sold-out crowd heard from the Nashville Humane Association, which thanked attendees for their continued commitment to animal welfare. Each year, the organization honors one especially passionate community figure with the Julia Colton Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare. This year, the spotlight fell on Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris.

Emmylou told the story of her beloved dog, Bonaparte, who inspired her to start the nonprofit sanctuary for aging dogs Bonaparte’s Retreat. The musician spoke passionately about her love for animals and noted their only flaw: They never stay with us long enough.

Emmylou thanked the crowd before heading to the Grand Ole Opry for a performance, quipping before she left, “I still have to work.”

Guests then enjoyed an exclusive fall fashion show headlined by Laura Citron and Any Old Iron. Bright, sequin-adorned looks reminiscent of the 1960s lit up the runway. Sweet puppies made their way down the runway in the arms of the models — some dressed in coordinating or matching outfits.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Brendan Fay

Donna Joyner, Mary Jo Shankle

Mary Carol Friddell, Bob Deal, Jana Davis, Lee Ann Ingram

Emmylou Harris, Hillary Kanter

Co-chairs Nancy Floyd, Jay Joyner

Vanessa Falk, Andrew Clancey, Stacey Rhodes

Beth Alexander, Cynthia Hickerson Carole Sullivan, Shannon Cleary

Laura Niewold, Mary Lewis

Bob Deal, Suzanne Smothers, Linda Ervin, Jason Bradshaw

Vickie Mertz, Marci Houff

 Wild Wlk

Sunset Safari offers guests culinary delights and an evening communing with animals

The Nashville Zoo’s Sunset Safari ranks among the city’s most popular animal-centric events. The setting, designed as a manicured walk in the park with exotic and endangered animal habitats tucked around every corner, creates an inviting backdrop for a Friday evening. Add to that a wide selection of culinary delicacies presented by local eateries — and the ability to support the zoo and its conservation efforts — and the evening becomes even more special.

As guests meandered down the zoo’s winding paths, top Nashville restaurants offered up an array of temptations. Two Ten Jack presented one of its signature dishes, crispy rice topped with spicy tuna, and STK welcomed guests with beef tartare. The list of restaurants was vast — Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Superica, Punk Wok, Limo Peruvian Eatery and more — and the dishes felt wholly separate in taste and presentation, making every bite unique.

Many guests found themselves in Festival Field, where singer-songwriters Dani Stacy and Gabriel Broussard filled the air with beautiful music. New Boots Line Dancing got everyone toe tapping, and a Dolly Parton impersonator from Yankee Girl Entertainment thrilled the crowd.

As always, the zoo’s animal ambassadors stole the show. A friendly goat named Goose stood at the zoo’s entrance, welcoming gentle pats on the back from guests. Hamish the Scottish Highland calf — who, at 9 months old, has beautifully settled into his ambassadorship — greeted guests in Festival Field with his calmly curious nature. A caracal, a wild cat with distinctive ear tufts, prowled the VIP reception, safely corralled by her keepers and several meaty treats.

Guests waited long after sunset to head home — a sign of an evening enjoyed by all.

BY JANET KURTZ

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Laurie Eskind, Trey Lipman

Bryant and Stacey Nickens

Tracie Hamilton, Butch Spyridon, Rick Schwartz, Scott Hamilton

Ryan Langlois and Madison Black Langlois

Catherine and Frederick Grace, George and Lydia Armistead

Southern Festivl of Books

FOR OVER THREE DECADES, readers across Tennessee — and the nation — have gathered at the Southern Festival of Books to experience the uniting power of literature. In this photo from one of the festival’s earliest renditions (circa 1990), Alice Randall crouches down to examine a collection of Eudora Welty’s photographs with her 3-year-old daughter, Caroline Randall Williams. Today, both women are esteemed authors and hold writers-in-residence positions at Vanderbilt University. To support the festival that has inspired them and countless others, Alice and Caroline have stepped up to co-chair this year’s Authors in the Round dinner, the festival’s key fundraiser. Per tradition, guests’ participation in the event ensures the Southern Festival of Books can continue free of charge. While financially vital, the evening is also fun, lively and persistent in finding exciting new ways to engage the local book community.

BY MADELEINE BRADFORD

PHOTOGRAPH BY DELORES DELVIN – USA TODAY NETWORK VIA IMAGN IMAGES