Happy Holidays!
Happy December, Nashville!
The holiday season is here, and our city is buzzing with festive energy! There’s something truly magical about Nashville in December—the twinkling lights downtown, the holiday pop-ups, and of course, the sense of community and giving that fills the air. As the days grow shorter and the nights cozier, it’s the perfect time to make meaningful memories with loved ones and celebrate the best of our hometown.
In this issue, we’re bringing you everything you need to make this season unforgettable. Our annual Shop Local Gift Guide is back, showcasing handpicked treasures from Nashville’s finest local shops. Our guide makes it easy to give gifts with a personal touch while supporting the small businesses that give Nashville its distinctive charm. Whether you’re looking for jewelry, locally crafted home goods, or something unexpected, our guide has something special for everyone on your list.
And for those holiday gatherings or “just because” treats, we have a sweet stop you won’t want to miss! Susie’s Cakes in Green Hills has everything from festive cupcakes to beautifully decorated holiday cakes, perfect for making any occasion sweeter. This cozy spot is a local favorite for a reason—each bite is filled with warmth and cheer, making it an essential part of any Nashville December.
So grab a mug of hot cocoa, dive into this issue, and let us inspire you to shop local, gather close, and savor the magic of the season. Here’s to creating memories, giving from the heart, and experiencing Nashville in all its festive splendor.
With warm holiday wishes,
JENNIFER KAUFMAN, PUBLISHER @BELLEMEADE_LIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Kaufman | jennifer.kaufman@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Stephanie Krejci | Stephanie.Krejci@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kit Garrott | kit.garrott@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Myra McEntire, Kellie Walton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Mia Bennett
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
I paint vibrant, heartfelt pieces that capture the essence of family, love, and the beauty in every stage of life. My art draws from the richness of personal memories and nostalgia, embracing bold colors and themes that radiate joy. With abstract hearts symbolizing family bonds and quirky portraits honoring women aging gracefully, my work celebrates femininity and rejects the pressures of perfection. Each piece is an invitation to appreciate life’s imperfections and cherish the love that connects us.
inside the issue
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
WITNESS HISTO RY
The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum was awarded the National Medal of Arts.
“For cataloging one of the Nation’s great homegrown art forms,” the White House Citation recognized the Museum’s enduring work, which “preserves history, honors giants of the genre, and inspires future generations to write their own songs about the American story.” This is the United States’ highest honor in the arts.
CONGRATULATIONS FELLOW NATIONAL MEDAL OF ARTS RECIPIENTS HONORED ON OCTOBER 21, 2024
Ruth Asawa
Randy A. Batista
Mark Bradford
Ken Burns
Clyde Butcher
Bruce Cohen
Melissa “Missy” Elliott
Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez
Alex Katz
Jo Carole Lauder
Spike Lee
Eva Longoria
Idina Menzel
Herbert I. Ohta
Queen Latifah
Selena Quintanilla
Bruce Sagan
Steven Spielberg
Carrie Mae Weems
LEARN MORE
holiday giftguide
SHOP LOCAL TO FIND THE MOST PERFECT PRESENTS FOR EVERYONE IN YOUR LIFE THIS YEAR
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI
Tennessee Titans
Hot Item this Holiday Season: Newborn Tennessee Titans Oilers 3-Pack Bodysuit Set
Introduce the newest member of your family to the legacy of the Tennessee Titans with this Oilers Throwback Team Starter 3-Pack Bodysuit Set. The set includes two solid bodysuits and one heathered gray bodysuit, each with team graphics that harken back to the Oilers era. It’s never too early to introduce your little one to the legacy of the Tennessee Titans!
Available online at Shop.TennesseeTitans.com
Bits and Bobs Nashville
Hot Item this Holiday Season: Take Care of Yourself gift basket: $135
Included: Apricity handmade ring dish, Porter mug, 10 herbal tea sachets from Big Heart Teas, White Tea & Aloe candle and Eucalyptus & Mint Shower Steamers both from Musee.
“From the old English saying, bits & bobs refers to the “odds and ends” we all need a hand with on any given day. As busy moms, we understand the value of an errand run, a gift delivered, or a task completed by a trustworthy assistant.”
Website: bitsandbobsnashville.com to order gift baskets email: bitsandbobsnashville@gmail.com
Southern Grace Home
Hot Item this Holiday Season: Gift Card for a Season of Sanity
Southern Grace Home, which provides elite home management and personal assistant services, can help check off everything on those need to-do lists.
“We are offering a la carte hours for November and December,” says Grace. “So, there is no need to buy a full package of hours.”
Take the everyday stressors off of your plate, or give a gift card to the overwhelmed person on your list.
SGHNashville.com
Pretty Lovely Teas
Hot Item this Holiday Season: Nutcracker Tea Workshop
This month, Pretty Lovely Christmas Teas are in high demand, but the most popular event during the holidays is their Nutcracker Tea Workshop in partnership with The Golden Slipper in Germantown.
“It’s a four-hour event where you get to create your own Nutcracker whilst enjoying cups of tea and hot chocolate provided by Pretty Lovely Teas,” she says. This year, the workshop will take place on Saturday, December 7th, at 11:00 am.
For tickets, visit TheGoldenSlipperNashville.com.
To book a Pretty Lovely Christmas Tea or one of the other wonderful tea experiences, go to PrettyLovelyTeas.com
Le Studio
Hot Item this Holiday Season: Eye-Catching and Curated Coffee Table Decor
“As a full-service design studio, we do everything from complete room makeovers to dressing our clients’ Christmas trees and updating their holidays décor before they host family and friends,” says Marie-Joe Bouffard, founder and principal designer at JFY Designs and Le Studio.
Le Studio is also a great resource for unique home décor and art for yourself and others on your gift list. “We often have customers calling us to put together gifts for their loved ones for special events because they trust and know that we can curate something exceptional,” says Marie-Joe.
Visit the store located in the Berry Hill in Nashville or go to JFY-Designs.com to discover how Marie-Joe and the rest of the staff can create that perfect space for you. Or, pick up a gift for that special person in your life.
For the holidays, Yearly Co. is expecting its simple, elegant and timeless original bangle to be in demand as always. It’s the perfect choice to celebrate important moments in one’s life.
“We believe our pieces are not just accessories; they are stories waiting to be told,” says its founder and creative director, Ann Williams,. “Each item is unique and special, designed to resonate with the individual’s journey.”
Other lovely choices include its signature tennis bracelets such as the Half-Birthday bracelet and the slightly larger Birthday bracelet, which feature prong-set diamonds on a rounded gold band with each link designed to move fluidly and rest comfortably on the wrist. Even the clasp is adorned with diamonds!
Yearly Co.
Hot Item this Holiday Season: The Original Bangle
“This holiday season, the team at Yearly Co. is here to help you find that perfect gift, whether for a special milestone or a meaningful ‘just because’ moment,” she says. “With our convenient Green Hills showroom, many pieces are available for same-day pickup, allowing you to leave with a beautiful piece that captures your sentiment.”
The staff is also on hand to guide customers in selecting a piece that reflects the personality and experiences of their loved ones, ensuring every gift carries a meaningful sentiment. Many of their items can also be customized with engraving or birthstones to mark milestones, adding an extra layer of thoughtfulness to each gift.
“When you choose Yearly Co., you’re not just purchasing a piece of jewelryyou’re investing in meaningful gifts that tell your story or the stories of your loved ones,” says Ann.
To see all the incredible merchandise available, go to YearlyCo.com.
Eric Marshall Salon
Hot Item this Holiday Season: Gift Card for Fabulous Holiday Hair
Looking great for the holidays always adds a bounce to one’s step and a feeling of confidence. Eric Marshall Salon in Nashville can provide the services needed to make everyone shine.
“Some of our most popular services at the salon would be maintaining roots (grey coverage) and going darker for some folks to add depth to the hair or just tone down that summer look to transition into fall/ winter,” says owner Eric Marshall Wright. “It’s also a nice time for someone to gloss their hair as winter can dry the hair out and a gloss provides condition and shine.”
This season gift someone else a beautiful look with a gift card to the salon.
EricMarshallSalon.com
Hot Item this Holiday Season: Opalescence™ To-Go Whitening trays
When it comes to holiday photos, nothing sparkles as much as a beautiful, healthy smile. Miller Family Dentistry in Nashville has many products and procedures to create smiles that give patients exactly that. Around the holidays, Opalescence™ To-Go Whitening trays are a popular offering. “These trays are great for stocking stuffers,” says hygienist Caroline Miller. “We also provide custom whitening trays made in the office and Oral-B® electric toothbrushes are available to purchase.”
mor e. With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only.
Expir es 12/31/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
SUSIECAKES
WHERE NOSTALGIA MEETS CELEBRATION: FRESH-BAKED JOY AT SUSIECAKES NASHVILLE
Susie Sarich founded SusieCakes in 2006 to honor her grandmothers' timeless baking traditions. Today, SusieCakes’ mission of “Connecting through Celebration” thrives in Nashville, where her values of connection and career opportunities for women continue to drive operations. " The most rewarding part of building SusieCakes in Nashville has been the relationships we have built with the incredible community. From the moment we opened, we've been embraced with open arms, and it's been truly inspiring. At SusieCakes, community involvement is at the heart of what we do," Susie notes.
What sets SusieCakes apart is its commitment to authenticity—every treat is baked from scratch daily, using only high-quality ingredients." No mixes, preservatives, or artificial additives—just butter, vanilla, eggs, sugar, and flour. Our open kitchens allow you to see the care and attention we put into each treat, and with no machines involved, it’s real people behind every batch," Susie reflects. SusieCakes kitchens honor the past while innovating and bringing freshly baked ideas to their customers.
"In November, we feature delicious pecan, apple, and pumpkin pies, and in December, we offer our festive gingerbread cookies and candy cane cake."
"For our holiday features, we often look to classic flavors that evoke nostalgia."
"The most rewarding part of
Susie Sarich
The bakery's most popular item is the six-layer Celebration Vanilla Cake with retro-blue frosting, perfect for any special occasion. Seasonal specialties are another highlight; for example, November brings classic pies, while December features festive treats like gingerbread cookies and candy cane cakes. Inspired by guest feedback and seasonal ingredients, SusieCakes offers nostalgic flavors that evoke cherished holiday memories.
Serving Nashville is a fulfilling experience for SusieCakes. The bakery actively supports the local community through events and donations, such as its Dogs Day of Summer fundraiser with the Nashville Humane Association. For SusieCakes, sharing both baked goods and community spirit is a true celebration of connection.
For this holiday season, "It’s all about creating those warm, familiar flavors that make the holidays feel special!"
SusieCakes
building SusieCakes in Nashville has been the relationships we have built with the incredible community. It's been truly inspiring."
Named to Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list in 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, & 2024. Opportunity,
- TRADITIONAL & NON-TRADITIONAL INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
- SPECIALIZED STRATEGIES FOR RESTRICTED STOCKHOLDERS
- A CONSULTATIVE RELATIONSHIP
- THE FAMILY LEGACY EXPERIENCE
- BUSINESS OWNER SPECIALIZATION
-
H O LIDAY CHEE R S !
The holidays are a time where family traditions come in all shapes and sizes. From decorating the tree, to hosting time-honored events, holiday cheer injects a special energy into every moment, big and small. Add to the festivity of your next holiday happy hour or cozy dinner with family with a thoughtfully prepared beverage. R.S. Lipman shares their insight into four festive beverages to serve at your upcoming holiday gatherings. These cocktail and wine pairings are sure to bring holiday cheer to you and your loved ones, and perhaps start a new Hot Toddy or Holiday Spritz tradition.
Whether you’re serving Lonely Cow Wine, 071 Prosecco, El Diamante del Cielo Tequila or Old Hickory Bourbon, there is a “cheer”-full option for every guest!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIA BENNETT SPREAD JOY WITH FOUR FESTIVE PAIRINGS FOR YOUR NEXT SOIRÉE
LONELY COW SAUVIGNON BLANC
Crisp and refreshing, Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most versatile white wines on the market, making it indispensable for your upcoming holiday soirée. Due to its brightly acidic, fruit-forward taste, Lonely Cow Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with herbaceous dishes and white meats like a holiday rosemary chicken or a more elevated sea bass.
If you prefer to kick off your night with a Sauvignon Blanc and charcuterie pairing, consider softer, briny cheese options such as a chèvre. A Humboldt Fog or even an Asiago can help enhance the flavors of Lonely Cow and kick off the party in the best way.
071 PROSECCO CRANBERRY POMEGRANATE
HOLIDAY SPRITZ
071 Prosecco is mellow and dry with scents of ripe peach and sweet pear, and notes of acacia and wisteria. These floral notes partner with cranberry pomegranate to add a festive twist to a classic cocktail.
The Cranberry Pomegranate Holiday Spritz perfectly accompanies shellfish soups, macaroni with delicate meat sauces and fresh cheese. The sweet tang of the cranberry and pomegranate complement rich spreads like Boursin or ricotta as well as a more mature selection such as blue cheese or soft Camembert.
CIELO TEQUILA
MISTLETOE MARGARITA
The Mistletoe Margarita, crafted with El Diamante del Cielo Tequila Reposado, Cointreau, white cranberry juice and a splash of lime, is sure to bring the holiday cheer. Add this cocktail as a fun twist to your next holiday get-together… Gone are the days of canned cranberry sauce!
Much like the beloved side, the Mistletoe Margarita pairs best with grilled meats and other rich, savory dishes. Your holiday turkey, pork chops or filet mignon will balance the tart finish of this festive beverage.
OLD HICKORY HOT TODDY
Warmed with tea, honey, lemon, brown sugar and Old Hickory Bourbon, this classic winter beverage is best served beside a crackling fire on a cold winter night. Capping your holiday gathering with an Old Hickory Hot Toddy will ensure your guests wrap up their night with warmth, smiles and just enough whiskey to keep the night from ending too early. Old Hickory Bourbon boasts notes of cedar and gingerbread with warm spices reminiscent of cinnamon banana bread, making it the perfect accompaniment to your holiday desserts. Warm apple pie, crisp gingersnaps or even tart lemon bars would be enhanced by the subtly sweet hint of the Hot Toddy.
Family
Family
Board
Fellow
Selected
GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH & BEAUTY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!
Looking for the perfect gift for your loved ones? Nashville Health Pro has you covered with our versatile gift certificates! Let them choose from various services and products catering to their health and beauty needs.
• Weight Loss Programs • Functional Medicine • Beauty Treatments
• Waxing Services • Peptide Therapies • Supplements & Skincare • Hormone Therapy
Surprise your loved ones with the gift of choice. Whether it’s rejuvenation, wellness, or beauty, our gift certificates offer something for everyone.
915 Harpeth Valley Pl Nashville, TN (629) 888-3256 www.NashvilleHealthPro.com
Holiday Harmony, Year-Round Ease
SOUTHERN GRACE HOMES KEEPS FAMILIES FOCUSED ON WHAT MATTERS MOST
ARTICLE BY MYRA MCENTIRE
With over 15 years of experience in family and home management, Grace Sullivan, founder of Southern Grace Homes, finds joy and purpose in taking the extra stress off families' plates so they can focus on what matters. She serves clients in Belle Meade, Green Hills and Forest Hills, as well as anywhere in Nashville and the surrounding areas.
Belle Meade Lifestyle asked Grace how she got started in the organizing business. "I was a career nanny and worked with an agency here in Nashville. I worked for my last family for seven years and am still very close with them. The parents were dual Vanderbilt physicians, and I began to take over the daily homeowner projects they didn't have time for. Whether it was picking out a new dryer, finding a locksmith to fix the front door, or being there when the painter or the plumber came by – I began to see a real need for my business. I enjoy finding the right service, fixing problems and being the middleman between homeowners and service providers. The bottom line: when someone gets home at the end of the day, they want to enjoy that time with their family. My business allows them to do that."
Unsurprisingly, Grace's services are in high demand during the holiday season. "With the surge of online shopping, we do a lot of in-store pickups and at-home dropoffs. Christmas wrapping is a popular need as well. The last thing parents want to do is wrap presents after they get their kids in bed. Santa wrapping is a novelty service we love! As kids get older, they get smarter. Why does Santa use the same tags as Mom and Dad? We solve that problem with separate fun Santa wrapping and even use different handwriting for tags. That was a huge draw last year."
Families love creating community with friends and relatives far and wide through Christmas cards and photos, and the organization of that task is another popular holiday service Grace and her team offer. "We help families keep track with a shared Excel spreadsheet, edited and updated every year, keeping our clients up to date with name changes, moves and return addresses. At the end of the season, they can hand over their returned cards, and we will make any necessary changes. We can also handle envelope addressing, stamping, and mailing. It's that easy!
"In addition to wrapping and cards, holiday reorganization is a big need. We organize pantries, refrigerators and freezers to help clients reset before they host friends and family for the holidays," Grace continues. "For clients with children, clearing playrooms and bedrooms are often necessary tasks before Santa arrives. We help families throw away, donate or consign gently used toys. Donating is a great way to get kids in the Christmas spirit while helping those in need."
“I enjoy fixing problems. When someone gets home at the end of the day, they want to enjoy that time with their family. My business allows them to do that.”
“In addition to wrapping and cards, holiday reorganization is a big need. We organize pantries, refrigerators and freezers to help clients reset before they host friends and family for the holidays.”
Once the holidays are over, returning homes to normal can be overwhelming. Grace has options to help clients with that as well. "From reorganizing gift wrap to taking down décor, we offer a wide variety of help. Closet organization, pantry resets, playroom organization and general home resets are popular services at the start of the year. We try to help bring a little peace after a chaotic holiday season."
Grace and her team offer services beyond the holiday season, benefiting families and homeowners year-round. "Basic home management is probably the biggest need. Families are busy. Whether clients work from home or go to an office, they don't have time to find a plumber, get multiple estimates, wait for a locksmith, meet up with a contractor, or even make phone calls to find a needed service." That's where Grace and her skills come in. "We have a list of vendors we trust and will give people multiple options and estimates so they can make the best decision for their household. Whether a small job or a large-scale project, we depend on our relationships to provide our clients with the best service possible."
@sghnashville
ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Where To Ring in 2025
WE’RE SINGING
It’s almost time to celebrate new beginnings as we bring 2024 to a close. Whether you prefer to ring in the new year with a swanky soiree or reflect on the previous over a special meal, you have plenty of options in Middle Tennessee.
Southall Farm & Inn
This Leiper’s Fork destination is hosting a glittering gathering with bites, an open bar, and live music. Up the ante by staying the night in one of the stunning guest rooms.
W Nashville
CHIC at the W Nashville will be a raucous celebration complete with a countdown, an open bar, and some of the city’s best DJs.
Downtown Nashville
Go big or go home! Downtown Nashville’s free NYE celebration will be bigger than ever with the music note drop and live performances from Jelly Roll and Kane Brown.
To celebrate its return, Saffire is celebrating the new year with a sparkling wine flight and cheese pairings from Grey’s Fine Cheeses.
Twelve Thirty Club
This Justin Timberlake-backed supper club downtown is hosting an all-inclusive evening with food, drinks, and live music.
Saffire
AULD LANG SYNE ACROSS MUSIC CITY
Photo byPatrick Argast, ArgastPhotograph y
Photo by S arah Cahill
Photo byBen Enos for Visit MusicCity
SUPERLATIVE style
The Crestmoor at Green Hills will exemplify sophisticated, rental retirement living in our vibrant city. Surrounded by the heritage neighborhoods of Green Hills, Belle Meade, Forest Hills and Hillwood – its impeccable finishes, Aspenwood service detail, dining and resort style living make it a premier address in Nashville. Impressive, spacious residential floor plans, floor to ceiling windows, expansive terraces allow a new level of indooroutdoor living. Spaces designed for entertaining, fitness, relaxation and a dedicated team provide a secure, lock and leave lifestyle for members.
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