Brentwood, TN May 2023

The Ladies’ Issue

STYLE + BEAUTY TESS MANN HAUTE COUTURE BRAND KEEPS IT PERSONAL, EXTRA SPECIAL

ENTERTAINMENT

DEBUT AUTHOR LAUREN THOMAN

TRAVEL A COSTA RICAN JUNGLE RETREAT

Pro Pilot X Kermit Edition

Middle Tennessee’s Leading Plumbing Showroom

May 2023The Ladies Issue

I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. Our wives, mothers and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives.

And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers, but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to support businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to women in Brentwood and beyond.

They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

Keep shining!

JENNIFER DOWNS, PUBLISHER @BRENTWOOD_LIFESTYLE

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Downs | jennifer.downs@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Delia Jo Ramsey | Delia.Ramsey@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Susan Falls | susan.falls@citylifestyle.com

Stephanie Krejci | Stephanie.Krejci@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Myra McEntire, Sue Baldani, Delia Jo Ramsey, Cortney Wilbanks, Josh Vaughn

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Josh Vaughn

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @brentwood_lifestyle

1-7: Lauren Thoman’s 80’s themed launch party at East Nashville Beer Works to celebrate the release of her debut book, I’LL STOP THE WORLD, published through Mindy Kaling’s book imprint, Mindy’s Book Studio.

of Mar yland Farms

of Mar yland Farms

We are excited to announce that we have teamed up with nationally recognized and award winning chiropractic clinics. Maryland Farms Chiropractic is now HealthSource of Maryland Farms! Our mission is to deliver comprehensive chiropractic care tailored to each patient’s unique health needs to improve their overall well-being.

We are excited to announce that we have teamed up with nationally recognized and award winning chiropractic clinics. Maryland Farms Chiropractic is now HealthSource of Maryland Farms! Our mission is to deliver comprehensive chiropractic care tailored to each patient’s unique health needs to improve their overall well-being.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! *This

NEW PATIENT EXAM + X-RAY* $39

•

Dr. Elizabeth Baker

Dr. Caleb Powell

Scout & Dylan, Owners

Susan

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Nashville Essential Restaurant Etch Announces Expansion To Franklin

etch , a globally-inspired restaurant by award-winning Chef Deb Paquette located in Downtown Nashville, is adding a second location in Williamson County. With an anticipated opening this winter, etch will occupy the former Viking Store and Cooking School in Franklin, Tennessee. Paquette, chef/owner of etch and sister restaurant etc., will serve as executive chef to help establish the menu and kitchen operations. CDC Jess Lambert and Executive Pastry Chef Megan Williams will oversee culinary operations.

Brentwood Announces New Community Relations Director

The City of Brentwood has named Charles Booth as the City's Community Relations Director. Booth comes to Brentwood with 22 years of journalism and public sector communications and marketing experience. He serves as the primary media contact for the City, and will also be regularly posting updates and city news to social media sites and the City’s website, updating the city’s public access channel, overseeing the City’s historic home operations, and coordinating Brentwood’s special events.

Sonic Automotive Announces Grand Opening of Audi Downtown Nashville

Sonic Automotive, Inc., a Fortune 500 Company and one of the nation’s largest automotive retailers, announced the grand opening of Audi Downtown Nashville, a unique experience center located in the heart of downtown Nashville designed to provide an innovative way for Audi owners and enthusiasts to shop for and service Audi vehicles. Audi Downtown Nashville is the second Audi location in Nashville operated by Sonic Automotive.

Photography by 4Top Hospitality

End of the Line: The Women of Standing Rock

End Of The Line: The Women Of Standing Rock captures history in the making, as a small group of indigenous women establish a peaceful camp in protest of the $3.8 billion oil pipeline construction that threatens their land, water, and existence. When their camp’s population exceeds 10,000, the women unwittingly find themselves the leaders of a global movement.

Currently available in the US on Peacock.  People can request screenings on the website, endofthelinefilm. com/screenings

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Brentwood

elegant sophistication WEDDING GOWNS EXUDING

What bride doesn't desire a wedding dress that matches her uniqueness and style? The Tess Mann Haute Couture brand embodies beauty, and stresses individuality for fashion-forward, sophisticated brides who desire wedding gowns of the highest caliber, asserts founder and Nashville seamstress Tess Mann.

"We're a wonderful fit for brides and families who'd like to break from the ordinary, and set themselves apart from other weddings," points out Tess, who also offers mother-of-the-bride gowns, as well as saree wedding dresses or lehenga, the traditional Indian attire worn for wedding celebrations.

Using the finest silks, aspired lace, Jacquards, hand-beading and sophisticated embroidery while showcasing exquisite details that exhibit Parisian and Italian flare, Tess says she knows exactly what it's like to long for truly distinctive clothing. "I grew up during a time when many families faced financial struggles. We received handme-down clothes, and when I was 11 years old, I'd take them apart and embellish them with items bought at the five and dime [general store]," she recalls.

CONTINUED >

Then, once Tess turned 17 years old, she competed in Miss America preliminary competitions to try to earn college scholarship funding. She was a finalist in the Miss Connecticut pageant, having designed and made her own formal and performance gowns for singing various genres of music for her talent portion.

She says she still remembers the joy she felt from designing competition attire that was innovatively 'hers,' such as wearing taffeta ballgowns when other contestants wore bridesmaid-inspired chiffon, or when others wore form-fitting gowns with sequins, she designed and wore fit-and-flare flowing dresses that "floated reminiscent of 1940s classy glamor." She says those creations definitely cemented her lifelong love affair with the fashion industry.

"During the competitions, I adored the fashion connection and enjoyed the pride I brought to the communities I represented. However, I also was in the middle of earning a master's degree so had to make some decisions," she says.

The decision she made was to enter into an FBI position in 1998, following her education in psychology/criminology. After retiring from an FBI 20-year career as a federal law enforcement officer, she returned to her fashion roots and produced her designer label of wedding dresses, Couture By Tess, in 2013. She says she and her husband first converted the entire upstairs of their home into a bridal shop from which she rented bridal gowns.

On Sept. 18, 2018, Tess received her designer-related business trademark by the U.S. States Patent and Trademark office. In 2021, Tess decided to launch Tess Mann Haute Couture as a cherished label of its own.

Her current bridal salon, Couture by Tess Bridal, is located in Cookeville.

TESS STYLE LINES CHOICES

Tess Mann Haute Couture is Tess' extravagant, luxury brand under the Couture By Tess Trademark. It's especially unique within the fashion world due to incorporating her own custom-designed embroidery, lace designs, bead work placement, and using Swarovski and other Austrian crystals within dress embellishments.

• Complete custom haute couture for specific bridal originals, starting at $4,000,  depending on fabrics selected.

• New Discovery Collection ranges from $3,500 to $12,500 (average $6,000).

• Le Jardin is set to launch soon.

Her Tess Trademark also covers her self-made lace designs, veils, embroidery sketches and beading patterns.

COUTURE BY TESS DESIGNER LABEL:

• This line offers a variety of bridal gowns, pantsuits, formal/evening wear and mother-of-the-bride/ groom attire, starting at $550 to $600.

• The Nostalgia Collection starts at $2,300 to $6,000, and maintains the high quality and structure of the Tess Mann Haute Couture line.

• The Plateau Collection is an airy, simplified and practical collection that Tess was working on at press time. She says these dresses will be priced at $1,500 or lower.

Tess says she draws inspiration for her dress designs from nature, architectural patterns, window reflections and even draping techniques for curtains. "I'm working on developing a line inspired by birds, which likely will have three-dimensional florals with beading. Maybe only eight dresses in the line. I love unique colors and textures rather than just thread colors," she adds.

Simplistic, modern, chic wedding dresses are popular this year, with little to no embellishments, Tess verifies. "In Europe, see-through or peek-a-boo features are trending for wedding dresses. In California, it's red carpet looks."

However, she says another trend for wedding dresses is luxury-driven ones with silver lace, all bling and lots of embellishments. For Nashville trends, she says it's dresses with light, flowing A-Lines, and not too many layers.

For future wedding attire, she predicts high necks, strapless, tiny balloon sleeves and puffy shoulders may return, because the styles "repeat every 10 to 12 years."

Regardless of the wedding dress style sought, Tess encourages all brides to begin their search and arrangements at least a year in advance.  CoutureByTessBridal.com

“We’re a wonderful fit for brides and families who’d like to break from the ordinary, and set themselves apart from other weddings.”

Mizfits Are Music City Fit

Head Coach Donald Ragsdale Shares Updates About The Local Team In Women's Football League

WHO ARE THE MUSIC CITY MIZFITS?

They are Middle Tennessee’s only women’s semiprofessional, tackle football team. The 2023 season will be their seventh year of competition in the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA), the largest women’s football league in the world. Their first home game this year is May 6 at STEM Prep High School, 1162 Foster Ave., in Nashville. They host two other home games on May 13 and June 10.

WHEN WAS THIS MUSIC CITY TEAM FORMED AND WHO OWNS IT?

This Nashville team kicked off during 2016. Donita Hines-Ragsdale is its owner. She says she grew up within a military family, and played multiple sports, including basketball, track and field, volleyball, flag football and golf. She's married to Donald Ragsdale, who

is head coach for the Mizfits team. The couple has five children. Donita says she's played football since 2005 with the Nashville Dream, covering every position on the football field, including kicker and punter. She's played with other great teams: Clarksville Foxx, Nashville SmasHers, Southern Valkyrie, Atlanta Heartbreakers, Derby City Dynamite (also known as Da’Ville).

Donita says one reason females are drawn to women’s football is that women are being told football is not for women. "And that’s definitely not true.”

WHAT TEAMS DO MIZFITS PLAY?

They play teams such as the Cincinnati Cougars, Virginia Panthers, South Carolina Dames and Atlanta Rage. Results from the 2022 season for the Mizfits were 5-2.

ARTICLE

WHO SPONSORS THE TEAM?

While many of the team costs are paid directly by team players, two companies currently sponsor the group: Restore Hyper Wellness-Smyrna and NashDogs, with additional, potential other sponsors considering for this year.

The Mizfits partner with the Tennessee Titan by getting discounted tickets for sale to the games, with a portion returned to the Mizfits. They participate in special events with the Titans, too.

WHAT'S NEW WITH THE TEAM?

Head coach Don Ragsdale says they just announced a groundbreaking partnership with FrontEnd Sports. "This partnership is a game-changer for women's football, as it will provide the Mizfits with a level of support and resources never seen before in the sport."

The partnership includes comprehensive branding for the Mizfits, covering their team logo and game uniforms. Additionally, FrontEnd Sports staffers will handle the team's social media

management, ensuring fans have access to current news and updates.

The partnership also provides Mizfits with access to NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deals for the athletes to provide a new revenue stream for players.

Finally, the partnership explores the potential of Web3 merchandising for the Mizfits. Web3 technology allows for the creation of unique digital assets and experiences, which can be traded and collected using cryptocurrency. "Overall, this partnership is a first of its kind for a women's football team, and we can't wait to see the incredible impact it will have on the sport," proclaims Don.

HOW CAN WOMEN JOIN THE TEAM?

Music City Mizfits staffers are happy to hear from potential recruits and to add qualified, new members to the team on an ongoing basis. Applicants must be 18 years or older and be ready to test their athletic skills. As the first step, an online form can be found at MusicCityMizfits.com/ Join-Our-Team

FASHIONABLE AND FABULOUS

Everything From Casual Wear To Couture For Every Shape, Style And Budget

Deborah Wiggins finds it hard to slow down. And it’s no wonder. She comes from a long line of successful working women. Her grandmother, Dulcie Roberts , opened The Clothes Tree in Alabama in 1965 when she was 55 and worked there until she was 80, even continuing to stop by until her passing at age 99. Deborah’s mother, Ruth Johnston, who worked alongside Dulcie, is still a busy woman. Now 80, she recently married her high school sweetheart.

Deborah Wiggins

In 1995, Deborah made the store her own, calling it The Clothes Tree by Deborah. She also took it to a whole new level, moving into an over 7,000-square-foot space in Birmingham and expanding into long formal dresses for proms and pageants, formal wear for children, and wedding attire for the whole party.

Here, she talks about business, values and family.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE AND OPEN THE CLOTHES TREE NASHVILLE IN BRENTWOOD THIS PAST DECEMBER?

I had a lot of customers coming in from Tennessee, especially those competing in pageants, and I've always wanted to have another store. I started looking for a place and found one that used to be the salon and pageant retailer, J.S. Fields & Company. The owner, Steven, had passed away suddenly, and when I went to look at it, I saw it had great potential. But, the main reason

“We’ve also had the pleasure of dressing Miss Alabama for the last 22 years, including Deidre Downs, and we continued to dress her for Miss America, which she won.”

I chose to lease it was because when I looked at the wall over the sinks, Steven had a painting of The Clothes Tree’s very first logo. It gave me chills and I knew this was where we belonged.

We absolutely love it here. It's such a great area and everybody is so nice.

WHAT MAKES THE CLOTHES TREE

NASHVILLE SPECIAL?

We call everyone who works at the stores Team Tree. The manager here, Claire, and my staff are just truly nice people and like helping customers not just feel great, but look great.

We have everything from casual wear to Jovani couture, and we make sure we have racks of 75% off clothing for people who may not be able to afford our regularly priced items.

We’ve also had the pleasure of dressing Miss Alabama for the last 22 years, including Deidre Downs, and we continued to dress her for Miss America, which she won.

We have sizes ranging from 000 to 28, so there’s something for everyone at all ages and sizes. About eight years ago, we had a girl come in who was probably a size 22. We didn’t have anything she wanted that day, so I told her and her mother to come back the following Saturday and I would have something amazing in her size that she would love.

The next week, when she came out of the dressing room, she was crying because she was so happy. Her mother was crying and we were all crying. After that, I made sure to order more current styles in these larger sizes. Plus-size women want what everybody else is wearing. My staff is also made up of all sizes, ethnicities and backgrounds. We want everyone to feel comfortable shopping here.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR ITEMS FOR SPRING AND SUMMER?

I love ordering prints, but we have a lot of solids too. I also love color, so for the warmer months, we’re doing a lot with fuchsia, yellow, and emerald. Maybe match a flowy dress that's casual and comfortable with a cool tennis shoe and a little jacket.

Metallic merchandise is also popular right now, but the biggest trend is sparkly sequins in every style from dressy to casual.

WHAT ABOUT ACCESSORIES?

You can have a plain wardrobe but make it look totally different every time with accessories. I try to find things that are unique and different.

We have a lot of jewelry with Pavé diamonds and semi-precious stones, and they're at all price points. We have handmade Swarovski crystal earrings by Stefanie Somers, really cool necklace combos and more.

HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL TO KNOW YOU’RE CONTINUING THE LEGACY OF YOUR FAMILY’S BUSINESS?

I love it! I have many family members working for me including my daughter and co-owner, Tori Wiggins Chappell, who does all the social media, as well as my daughter-in-law and nieces. I have three granddaughters, one of whom makes jewelry that we sell in the store. Along with my staff, we’re one big happy family.

TheClothesTreeByDeborah.com

@TheClothesTreeNashville

NEW LUXURY RESIDENCES ON SMITH LAKE

Only 2 hours South of Brentwood

SMITH LAKE’S NEWEST DEVELOPMENT NEAR I-65

Overlooking a wide expanse of water, one of the most sought-after addresses in Crane Hill, Serenity Pointe is a destination within a destination. Positioned on 60-acres along Smith Lake, this luxurious new community provides a mix of beautifully designed homes nestled amongst premier amenities.

Justin Dyar, the leading Realtor® on Smith Lake with over 1 Billion in Waterfront Sales.

Take A Girls' Trip To This Jungle Retreat

Costa Rica's Boutique Wellness Destination Nalu Nosara Awaits With Luxury

ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY NALU NOSARA

Demanding jobs and long hours, working for the weekend and saving for vacations a couple times a year — it’s a grind many know all too well. That’s the same story for Domel and Mariya Libid, a couple from NYC who at one time only dreamt of calling Costa Rica home. After having their first child in New York, the couple didn’t have the quality time they wanted to spend as new parents, due to grueling work schedules. So the couple decided to take the big leap once their second child was born. After years of repeat visits to Nosara to escape to warm water surf and yoga classes in the jungle, the visits were getting longer and longer, and they eventually decided they were never moving back to New York. They returned to their home state only to sell all of their belongings, stateside.

Five years, later, the Libids today own Nalu Nosara — a boutique hotel/villas and an oasis amid the beautiful beaches, lush forests, ample wildlife, and vibrant culture of Costa Rica. Nosara is a stunning area, located on the Northern coast of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula. Located in the heart of Guiones, Nalu is walkable to surfing, shopping and dining options, and an excellent spot for a fun-filled girls' trip, relaxing couples' retreat, or refreshing solo wellness escape.

Open since the end of 2016, Nalu is the perfect destination for a solo wellness escape, romantic couples getaway, or a luxurious ladies retreat. The owners worked with world-renowned architect Benjamin Garcia Saxe to design gorgeous suites, villas and fitness studio from the

ground up. The fitness studio offers yoga and kickboxing classes to the public. There’s a spa on-site offering relaxation in the form of therapeutic bodywork, physical therapy and chiropractic. The latest additions to Nalu are the exclusive luxury villas, which each come with their own private saltwater pool and stellar surf break ocean views. The beach is also just a short walk away.

The word "nalu" translates to "wave" or "to go with the flow" in Hawaiian, and in Costa Rica, the phrase "pura vida" is a common one, meaning to have "eternal optimism" or "just go with the flow" — and that’s the motto for the Libid family. "It’s exactly how we strive to live our lives."

NaluNosara.com

Canvas Skin and Essential Skin Care

ARTICLE BY MYRA MCENTIRE

COURTNEY ALLEN'S CLIENTS FEEL BEAUTIFUL FROM THE INSIDE OUT

As a mother, wife, and friend, Courtney Allen's focus from the beginning of her career was to always make her patients feel seen, understood, and valued. Courtney strongly believes in natural beauty while enriching the characteristics that make you, you.

Courtney started her career as an RN in the plastic PACU. During this time, she realized she was meant to be in the beauty industry. After gaining her Master's Degree, she transitioned into medical dermatology + cosmetic dermatology. This led her to creating her dream space - Canvas Skin. With hard work, a positive attitude, and an amazing team, she has created an authentic and inclusive community that welcomes all.

With 6+ years of experience in the aesthetic industry, Courtney is now an advanced cosmetic injector, trainer, and skin expert. She specializes in neurotoxins, fillers, and laser devices while being passionate about each of her client's overall skin health. She takes pride in the creation of the Canvas Skincare line in order to meet all of her patient’s skin concerns. Her drive comes from making people feel beautiful from the inside - out. This has truly been the "why" behind Canvas Skin.

Canvas Skin offers a wide range of services to help you look and feel your absolute best. They carry a variety of injectables including Botox, filler, and Kybella, as well as treatments including microneedling, chemical peels, and laser services. The providers are truly experts in their field, and are constantly developing their skills and expanding their learning through the most innovative and high profile trainings. When it

Courtney Allen

comes to client care, they consider the consultation the most important step in the process. Here is where they get to know you for you, while developing a plan of care that aligns with you, your budget, and your goals.

With these treatments, we believe that skincare is also an essential in maintaining and improving the condition of your skin. Courtney has developed her very own Canvas Skincare line with custom formulated products at medical grade quality. The line includes Canvas Skin Ela Radiance Pads, Imera Pads, Revival Serum, Lucent Serum, Halcyon Serum and Kalo Cream. Keep an eye out for new products that we are launching spring/summer 2023, you won’t be disappointed! Just like every other detail at Canvas Skin, Courtney puts so much thought, love, and care into her products, treatments and her team members. She is proud of how they exude the brand and what Canvas conveys.

Courtney's love for beauty enhancements stems from her priority to make people feel secure and confident in who they are. She has been in the industry for a bit now and has seen the good and the bad. She is a great listener and looks at her patients as actual human beings, not just numbers. If you are a patient of hers already, you know this. She will remember the personal things you tell her - weddings, births, engagements, new jobs etc. She loves people and that is what truly makes Courtney and Canvs Skin different from other aesthetic clinics.

Her treatment and services are rooted in creating a comfortable, luxurious experience while making sure each patient feels uniquely beautiful in their own skin. As her company continues to expand, she is excited to bring the culture and products of Canvas Skin to other cities.

"I have always seen a gap in the industry – not all injectors care about the person. It has always been more than just the outward beauty for us. We connect with them emotionally and psychologically. Our patients leave feeling better inside and out. That is what sets us apart," says Courtney.

"Our patients leave feeling better inside and out. That is what sets us apart."

Allison Elefante, photographer

Allison Elefante phototgraper

1) Book your appointment

You can book online through our website and online patient portal! Or give us a call at 615-630-2994 and we can help you get on our schedule.

2) Discuss your treatment plan

Our priority is to understand your skin concerns and come up with an individualized plan for you to feel your best self. Our providers do a full facial analysis/skin assessment to recommend options that fit your budget and meet your skin goals.

the DETAILS

1. Book your appointment

2. Discuss your treatment plan

3. Enjoy your experience

4. Feel beautiful and confident

5. Contact info and socials canvas-skin.co/ instagram.com/canvas.skin.ca/ 615-630-2994

3) Enjoy your experience

Our incredible team of women will educate you and make you feel comfortable and encouraged! Come grab a cup of coffee, sit in a procedure chair, and relax as they take great care of you.

4) Feel beautiful and confident

Our goal is to ensure you leave feeling more beautiful and confident in your own skin. We emphasize being uniquely you while enhancing your natural features.

5) Contact info and socials

Follow us on social media to stay up to date with specials, new product releases, and everything Canvas Skin!

COMBINING ART AND HIGH FASHION

in 2008-09, Revi came to the conclusion that “most people view interior design as a luxury, not a need.”

SPOTLIGHT

ON

REVI

FERRER WHO INCORPORATES BOTH IN HER EVERYDAY LIFE

ARTICLE BY CORTNEY WILBANKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HYLBERT

Amidst her unassuming demeanor, there lies a boldness to Revi Ferrer that will surprise you. Revi Ferrer is a Nashville artist who found her way to the Music City through creative intuition. A Latvian native, Ferrer's prolific journey has taken her across the globe, from London, Mexico, Los Angeles, and now to Nashville. Born into a family of creatives, Revi was destined to make waves in the industry. Ferrer credits her mother with lighting her creative fuse. Revi recalls at age ten watching her mother create by designing stage setups for Lativian television. While observing her mother’s work, Ferrer identified with the elements giving her the impetus to explore her artistic aspirations.

At 16, Revi sat down with her parents to discuss her burgeoning interests, which included fashion design and architecture. Together, they decided that architecture would be the most beneficial for her future.

After college in 2005, Ferrer worked extensively with a prominent interior design firm in Riga. When the global market crash started

In 2009 Revi felt the need to move on from interior design and began to dream about her future. Her journey took her to England where she found herself in a unique opportunity. The Old Gringo boot company needed a designer and Revi’s talent fit the bill. She began to design boots incorporating an esthetic approach to her designs.

Armed with ten designs, Revi traveled to Madrid and fearlessly presented her work to the founder of Old Gringo. Three weeks later, Old Gringo relocated Revi to Mexico to oversee their design operations.

Her boot designs have been featured in Vogue UK in 2014, cementing Revi’s place within the fashion industry. Music and fashion superstars such as Miranda Lambert, Kesha, and Kate Moss have all worn Revi’s boot designs.

After spending time in California, driven by a deep desire to create, with her ethos as a guideRevi returned to Mexico and began to paint. While guided by her instincts, Revi decided that it would be fun to layer pieces of her past into her art.

She found her rhythm and began to embrace her unique brand of definitive style. The results came by producing one-of-a-kind paintings. Her work caught the attention of a local art boutique in California, who sold one of her pieces to David Bowie.

In 2018, Revi came to Nashville, and immediately fell in love with Music City, fully adopting the city that she now calls home. Revi continues to create art combining linear and painterly styles, exploring new and fantastic ways of

depicting everyday objects. It is more of an experience than merely seeing. Her work explores the many life experiences that play into who she is; bold, dynamic, and driven.

For Revi, creation is the most vulnerable form of self sacrifice, and art is the most absolute practice of our most basic humanity. Her journey is a testament to the power of following one’s intuition, challenging the status quo, and rejecting the idea of living and creating according to “the rules.” Through her art, Revi continues to pour her emotions out of her soul, into the world, giving birth to unique ideas that incorporate all of the aspects of her incredible talent.

In collaboration with her high fashion pieces, Revi creates art that supports local charities by donating commission pieces for auction. With the passion and will to create something expressly unique,  there is no question as to how Ferrer is so incredibly successful.

Revi is represented by the French Art Network Galleries in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Carmel, California. Her work is displayed locally at 360 Bistro and Brentwood Blind Company in Belle Meade.

If you’d like to learn more about Revi, buy a piece of art from her, or collaborate with her, please visit her website at ineffableart.com

NEW CONSTRUCTION IN BRENTWOOD

BRENTLEY LOFTS

BRENTWOOD, TN 37027

Brentley Lofts is approved for non-owner occupied shortterm rentals by Metro and is a great investment opportunity! These lofts offer luxury 2-bedroom townhomes starting in the mid $800,000s.

Offering high-end designer finishes, elevators and private rooftop terraces that overlook the lush landscape of Oak Hill, these townhomes will be released to the public in early Spring. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

Interested? Sign up for the waiting list here: www.BrentleyLofts.com

8902 PALMER WAY

BRENTWOOD, TN 37027

$4,449,000 | 6 BD

|

5/1

BA | 7,541 SqFt | 1 Acre Lot

This is a must-see custom-built home by Chandelier Development in Brentwood’s boutique gated community off Wilson Pike - Marshall Place. This luxury home sits on a level 1 acre lot in the gated community that features 10 home sites. Thoughtful details are on every inch of the home including designer lighting, custom trim and tile work, Marvin windows, and a stunning Iron Lion front door to name a few. Spacious floor plan with a gourmet kitchen featuring two islands, open living room with wooden beams and fireplace, plus a moody office with built-ins and formal dining opening to the butler’s pantry. Primary wing on the main with two walk-in closets. The second floor encompasses three bedrooms with en-suites and two large rec rooms. Rear-covered stone patio with fireplace for enjoyment. Three-car garage. Zoned for Lipscomb, Brentwood Middle, and High School.

DEBUT AUTHOR LAUREN THOMAN

ARTICLE BY MYRA MCENTIRE

A Page-Turning Mystery With An 80s Twist

Lauren Thoman, debut author and pop culture writer, recently celebrated the release of “ I'll Stop the World ,” a time-bending mystery with a multigenerational, diverse cast and an 80s twist. The book is the first debut to be released by Mindy Kaling's Amazon imprint, Mindy's Book Studio, and Mindy said she fell in love with the book because it’s “fun and entertaining” and, at the same time, will make the reader think about “fate, the nature of existence, the power of forgiveness, and second chances." City Lifestyle caught up with Lauren to get the scoop on the book and learn more about her publishing experience.

CL: THIS IS YOUR DEBUT BOOK. TELL US ABOUT IT!   LT: “ I’ll Stop the World” is about a modern teenager who finds himself inexplicably transported back to the year 1985. He meets an 80s teenager, and together the two of them try to figure out why he's traveled back in time. Their best working theory is that he's probably there to prevent the mysterious deaths of his grandparents, which are due to occur exactly one week from when he arrives.

Photo By Douglas Sonders / 8112 Studios

CL: HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO WRITE IT?

LT: I started writing in 2014, but I was working on it in between other projects. I signed with my agent, Holly Root (Root Literary), in 2014, and we tried to sell several books I wrote that all got to the finish line but then just couldn't get across. For a while, I thought writing fiction wouldn't be the path forward for me. In 2021, I decided to finish “I’ll Stop the World .” I checked myself into a hotel alone and shut myself in a room for a week with my computer. I made enough progress to get back into the story. It didn't take me long after that to finish it.

CL: AFTER YOU FINISHED, HOW LONG DID IT TAKE FOR THE BOOK TO SELL?

LT: I gave it to my agent at the beginning of 2022, and we sent it out to editors in the middle of March 2022. It sold within two weeks. After, you know, just a very quick eight years and two weeks.

CL: MINDY’S BOOK STUDIO WAS ESTABLISHED TO CELEBRATE EMERGING AND DIVERSE VOICES. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE WITH AN IMPRINT WITH DIVERSITY AS A FOCUS?

LT: I've always been a voracious reader and I love TV and movies. Growing up, I rarely saw characters who looked like me. For a long time, I clung very tightly to Claudia Kishi from “The Babysitters Club.” She's Asian, and she was not a stereotype. I didn’t see a family that even remotely resembled mine until I was an adult. I was reading Celeste Ng’s first book, “Everything I Never Told You,” about a Chinese-American family. The dad is Chinese, and the mother is white, and that's what my family looks like. My grandparents were immigrants, and their Chinese culture was very, very important to them. I'd read hundreds of books and seen hundreds of movies and TV shows, and Ng's book made me feel seen in a way I never had before.

Photo Credit Amanda McNeal

“I'll Stop the World” has a diverse cast, and those different types of diversity very much affect who those characters are and therefore affect their storylines, but it's not a book about those things. It just shows how different people of different backgrounds would navigate this fictional situation, and I love the idea that Mindy’s imprint exists to explore that whole gamut of experience and also gives that opportunity to creators from backgrounds that tend to be underrepresented in publishing.

CL: THIS BOOK WOULD TRANSLATE WELL TO THE SCREEN. WOULD YOU PREFER A MOVIE OR A TV SERIES?

LT: A TV series, one hundred percent! I love time travel movies, but I wrote this book after watching a whole bunch of limited series. That's the type of storytelling that informed the way I approached the book, and the result is a story that wouldn’t fit into a two-hour movie. You'd have to cut so much out it would be almost unrecognizable. The limited series format allows viewers to spend time with every character and move through the action of the plot. I’d like to see how it would be interpreted for visual media.

CL: WOULD YOU WANT TO BE INVOLVED WITH FILMING?

LT: I am too clingy with my stories, so I’d love to be involved. I've written about TV for a number of years and I think writing for TV would be amazing. I would not want to be a showrunner or the person in charge because I have no experience. If there were a writer’s room, I’d want to be in it. I'd want to be on set talking to the people that are in charge about what I envisioned, but I would want someone else at the helm who really knew what they were doing in that medium.

CL: WHAT'S NEXT FOR YOU?

LT: The common advice in publishing is that the only thing you can control is the next thing, so I'm working on the next thing! Thank you, Lauren, and we can't wait to read it!

Readers can follow Lauren's journey here:  laurenthomanwrites.com twitter.com/LaurenThoman instagram.com/laurenthomanwrites tiktok.com/@laurenthomanwrites

Photo Credit Amanda McNeal

EXTRAORDINARY ADVANTAGE PROGRAM

Success in a changing market requires a unique and proven strategy.

From painting, to landscaping, to photography and media exposure, Paula and her team understand that going above and beyond for a home’s first impression is fundamental to its successful sale.

While other real estate companies may offer programs to help you get your home ready to sell for top dollar, the homeowner still ends up paying for these services after the sale of their home. Paula is different, however, and she commits to partnering with you, and makes a personal investment into your home, so that your home sells for its absolute maximum, at no additional cost to you, ever. The Paula Hinegardner Group is equally invested in a successful sale as you are.

6205 LYNCH LANE, COLLEGE GROVE, TN 37046 | BEDS: 4 | BATHS: 4.5 | SQFT: 6369 | $2,849,000

Custom built by Legend Homes to take advantage of the 18th Fairway view, this gorgeous property is a true WOW! Designed w/entertaining in mind, from the light filled dining room w/adjacent bar, to the great rm featuring built ins & cozy fireplace that leads through french doors to the GORGEOUS light filled gathering rm w/2nd fireplace & floor to ceiling windows overlooking a charming backyard w/outdoor kitchen & the 18th tee! After dinner, tempt guests w/desert around a huge custom island in the luxury kitchen or to a screening of the latest blockbuster in a rarely found 1st floor media room! With a gorgeous primary suite, spa bath & custom closets, 3 full guest ensuites, 2 offices, a 2nd floor bonus room, a home fitness room & more storage then you could ever imagine...This house is AMAZING!

Above are inspiration photos showing the possibilities that can become reality at Lynch Lane. We partnered with a virtual staging team to showcase optional improvements, including a wall removal and backyard completion.

Breaking News!

BECOMING A MENTOR HELPS CHILDREN AND COMMUNITIES THRIVE

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI

While other kids were tuned into Saturday morning cartoons, Erika Glover was watching the news and listening to NPR. “I was always naturally inquisitive and I knew since I was in kindergarten that I wanted to be a news anchor,” she says. “My kindergarten teacher actually told my mom that I was going to be on television one day.”

Her childhood aspiration came to fruition when she landed her first job in Hazard, Kentucky. She then moved on to Miami, Florida, and now she’s in Music City as an anchor on FOX 17 News. “I came here for an interview and I just really fell in love with the area,” says Erika. “I love the mountains and being outdoors. It's also closer to my family in South Carolina than Miami was and I like the people; I really missed that Southern hospitality.”

In addition to the news, she also has a passion for Big Sisters and Big Brothers of Middle Tennessee. “My mom and dad volunteered with the program when I was younger, so naturally I gravitated towards the idea of doing it because I knew I wanted to make a difference in kids’ lives. Not all of them are given the same opportunities and exposure that

I was given. If kids don't know what's possible, they then don't follow certain career paths. It isn’t because they're not educated or can’t do it - they just don’t know about them.”

While Erika has volunteered in person in the past, because she’s now pregnant, she’s currently doing a virtual mentoring program through an app called MentorHub. Her “little sister,” Sibongile, is focusing on being college ready and Erika is helping her with that. “I also check in with her and ask how she’s feeling - sort of like a mental health check. I can shoot her a message on the app and say, ‘Good morning. I hope you have a great day’ or ‘Are you prepared for the day?’”

The organization, she stresses, is always in need of more male mentors. “So many boys and young adults need a positive male role model in their lives,” she says. “If we want to make a difference in our communities, then we have to start by saying, ‘Hey, let me help you. Let me show you that we are involved and that someone out there cares about you.’ If these kids hear that from just one person, that can make all the difference.”

MentorAKid.org

“So many boys and young adults need a positive male role model in their lives,” she says. “If we want to make a difference in our communities, then we have to start by saying, ‘Hey, let me help you. Let me show you that we are involved and that someone out there cares about you.’ If these kids hear that from just one person, that can make all the difference.”

RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND PLANNING

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THE WORLD'S LONGEST BAR

Fawn Weaver And Nearest Green Distillery Team Shatter Records In Shelbyville

ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY

Fawn Weaver has been a serial entrepreneur for over 25 years, but has most recently made a name for herself here in Tennessee, as Founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. In March, she made international headlines breaking records alongside her husband, Keith Weaver, by opening the world's longest bar, Humble Baron, located in Shelbyville at Nearest Green Distillery.

Humble Baron is officially the world's longest bar.

Her journey began when she visited Tennessee as an author in 2016, looking to visit Nearest Green's ancestors for a book project. From there, Fawn's research helped reveal that Nearest Green was a part of Jack Daniel Distillery, involved as its first master distiller and mentor to young Jack Daniel. This research inspired Fawn to launch the Nearest Green Distillery and the Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey brand in 2017. She was the first AfricanAmerican woman to head a major spirits brand, and also the first American spirit brand with an all-female executive team. In 2019, she was the first African-American featured on the cover of  American Whiskey magazine. By 2018, her "little" whiskey brand had expanded into all 50 states and 12 countries, and is now the best-selling African-American owned spirit ever produced. In September 2019, Uncle Nearest opened its first distillery, set on a 270-acre ranch in Shelbyville. Weaver was named one of Food & Wine's Drinks Innovators of the Year in 2022, alongside Uncle Nearest master blender Victoria Eady Butler.

Fawn is also the founder of the Nearest Green Foundation, which honors the legacy of Green with a scholarship program, a museum, a memorial park, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey and a book. The foundation also provides full college scholarships for any of Green's descendants to attend the school of their choice.

Humble Baron was officially declared "The World's Longest Bar" by the Guinness Book of World Records on March 23, 2023. The showpiece bar is a whopping 518 feet long, featuring 17 stations, wrapped around the indoor stage. That's 100 feet longer than the current record holder for the longest permanent continuous bar in the world. The record-breaking restaurant, bar, and live music venue serves elevated fare and creative cocktails and non-alcoholic drink options. The bar program was crafted in partnership with Gin & Luck, the hospitality company behind renowned cocktail institution Death & Co., with Black-owned spirits taking center stage.

Fawn Weaver

Attention to detail in cocktail and zero proof beverages at Humble Baron

Humble Baron's Grand Opening Weekend included American Idol's country music artist, HunterGirl, and international DJ BOVA, and future events will welcome all genres of music, and weekly themed occasions like a Friday DJ Night and Sunday Gospel Brunch.

Audio and visual for the state-of-the-art music venue, with an indoor and outdoor stage, was designed by the former technical director and engineer for Prince's Paisley Park. The indoor stage, separated by a glass garage door from its mirroring outdoor stage, will allow live concerts hosting more than 15,000 guests.

"Although the vision of Humble Baron comes from the incredible mind of my favorite person on earth, I had the great honor of naming it," said Fawn Weaver of her husband and partner. "Keith's storied career as an executive vice president for one of the largest movie studios in the world and one of the highest-ranking Black executives in Hollywood for more than 20 years, causes people to

look at him as a baron. But he's remained the humblest person I've ever known throughout his impressive career."

CL: YOU’RE SUCH AN INSPIRATION TO MANY. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A WOMAN STARTING IT WITH A DREAM OF CREATING HER OWN BRAND AND BUSINESS AS YOU HAVE?

FW: Fail faster and harder, because if you are trying to play it safe, you're never going to reach any true dream that makes a difference for anybody else. Failure isn't failure unless you give up before you succeed.

Humble Baron is a gathering place where everyone has a seat at the table, bringing people together over premium spirits, exceptional food, and lively music.

humblebaron.comunclenearest.com

Fawn Weaver

Sauteed Snow Crab Claws and Uncle Nearest Rye

Amy Hatcher APRN has been an injector for 16 years and is one of the leading trainers for Botox across the country She owns 2 AWSkinCo practices right here in Franklin and specializes in antiaging and full face rejuvenation

Skincare matters!

"We have so many clients that come to our practice for injectables They are committed to getting their Botox every 3 months or filler annually but they aren t investing in their skin health No matter what we do to improve the structures under the skin with injectables, a client is going to really look their best when their skin is healthy and vibrant Clients come in concerned about a specific line or wrinkle or spot but we all want to look our best and skincare is the first and most important step!

You are the driver, we are the educator

"Our consultations are really an amazing opportunity for clients to learn all of their options We offer a full line of injectable laser skincare and wellness services It can be overwhelming as well an investment Our goal is to share all of the options with our clients, educate and help guide them along their journey so that they are empowered to make the best decision to achieve their personal skincare and aesthetic goals Whether a client is ready to spend $200 or $2000 we want them to get the treatment that is going to give them the best result!

Some times it takes a little, sometimes it takes a lot

It s really important to work with a provider that is experienced knowledgeable and aligned with your goals One that you trust There are times that we advise a client not to do a service or that less may be better and there are times that skincare and laser and injectables and hormone balance all together may be the best way to achieve a more restful natural and beautiful outcome Of course it doesn t have to happen all at once but with the guidance of the right injector and aesthetician the results can be so amazing It requires expertise, a relationship, a plan, sometimes patience and the willingness to walk the journey to amazing skin and a more youthful appearance

The Best Or Nothing

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH VAUGHN

If you spend enough time around car dealerships, like I do, you start to get a sense of the normal career path that people take in the world of car sales. There’s no set standard, of course, but across the board the hours are long, the work is tough and climbing the “corporate ladder” takes time. A lot of time. For Maryam Malikyar, the new General Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Nashville, her story is a bit different. Maryam is new to Nashville, fresh from running a top-performing import store in Fairfax, Virginia and she’s one of those rare people you just can’t help but like immediately. Enthusiastic, eager to laugh and genuinely interested in what you have to say.

Maryam’s meteoric ascent through the ranks of the car business started with a chance encounter. A woman who worked in management at a Chrysler Jeep and Dodge store met Maryam, spotted her potential,

and asked her if she’d ever thought about a career in the car business. The woman who would eventually become her mentor was persistent and reached out repeatedly over a few months to see if there was any interest. Maryam was young and at a bit of a crossroads in life and knowing nothing about cars, had never considered the automotive industry. She eventually took a leap, and like everyone else, she began in sales but after only six months transitioned into the finance office, filling in for those on their day off or on vacation. She jumped between a handful of dealerships within a dealer group, gaining insight and experience across the board with a variety of car brands.

I think we should take a moment to pause and reflect on the transition from sales to the finance office in only six months. Selling cars is hard - really hard, especially at the entry level. The turnover rate is extraordinary, usually between 30 to 40 percent and

sometimes higher. If you’re a superstar, they’ll start grooming you for finance after you’ve spent a year proving you can not only swim with the sharks and survive, but thrive. Some dealerships will wait even longer than a year, so if you’re good enough to transition in only six months, you’re already in the top one percent.

After cutting her teeth in finance for a year and a half, Maryam decided to treat herself to a brand new import sports car. While going through the buying process, they found out she worked in the car business, spotted her potential and professionalism and offered her a job. When you and I go to buy a car, we leave with some paperwork and a monthly payment. Maryam left that day with a new car and a promotion.

After 13 years of successful leadership, Maryam is now the General Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Nashville and ready to bring her enthusiasm and experience to Music City. I asked her what makes MBofNashville stand out from the competition. “The only thing that’s going to set you apart from the competition is the customer experience. The single most important 'make or break’ is what people think about you - reputation and guest experience is everything.”

She’s a firm believer in playing the long game, investing in customer relationships and taking care of each and every person who walks in the door. It is immediately apparent that her ethos has already been passed down to everyone else at the

dealership. When I first walked in the door at MBofNashville everyone was very friendly and quick to help point me in the right direction.

I asked Maryam what, in her mind, sets Mercedes-Benz apart from the rest of the automotive industry and she said, “The Mercedes tagline is ‘the best or nothing’ and they really take it seriously. Mercedes is classic and traditional all at the same time.” She went on to point out that Mercedes has arguably the largest target audience of any other car brand. Everything from Super Sports cars to luxury limousines, from delivery vans to off-road G Wagons and entry level ‘first cars’ to futuristic next generation electric cars.

I concluded my conversation with Maryam by asking her what advice she would have if she met a young woman who was at a crossroads in life, knew nothing about cars but had obvious potential.

“Are you good at your job? Do you care about your customers? Are you a hard worker? Are you good for culture? Are you a good fit for the team? Are you intimidated? If so, don’t be.”

She went on to say that aside from her mentor she didn’t have many women to look up to in upper management when she first started her career, “These [management] jobs are achievable. Seeing is believing. You just have to go get it.”

MercedesBenzofNashville.com

All Family Law, All Females

DIGBY FAMILY LAW 'BOUTIQUE' FIRM SHARES HOW THEY SOLVE CLIENTS' LEGAL ISSUES THROUGH PERSONALIZED ATTENTION

Attorney Sarah Digby proudly leads this Brentwood-based, knowledgeable team of law professionals at Digby Family Law, PLC: Attorneys Lindsey Davis, Jess Morgan and Grace Anderson and a fantastic support staff of four individuals. They serve clients throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee regarding the full spectrum of family law.

WHAT'S IT TAKE TO BE THE LARGEST, ALL-FEMALE FAMILY LAW FIRM IN  NASHVILLE REGION?

Teamwork. It's not lost on us that an all-female law firm is not the norm, but that alone doesn't define us. Our team is comprised of some of the brightest, most talented lawyers in Tennessee. Our team-based approach to family law cases is one of our top strengths. With every lawyer playing to their strengths, we provide clients with a heightened level of advocacy. It also takes hard work and dedication. Our attorneys show up every day with a passion for domestic law and our clients quickly realize they're more than just another case. We also attend continuing education classes so we can bring clients the most up-to-date information and legal strategies available.

HOW ARE YOUR LAW APPROACHES EFFECTIVE YET COMPASSIONATE FOR CLIENTS?

When going through family law matters, it’s not uncommon for clients to experience an array of emotions while addressing sensitive topics, such as divorce, custody and adoption. We take time to understand why clients

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

(Foreground): Sarah Digby, (L to R): Jess Morgan, Lindsey Davis, Grace Anderson

are feeling the way they do and outline their case goals. We then customize a legal strategy and frequently re-evaluate how to best accomplish those goals. We believe understanding clients’ needs and advising them on different courses of action is paramount to an effective attorney-client relationship.

SARAH, HOW DOES YOUR PSYCHOLOGY UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE ASSIST WITH LEGAL CASES?

Practicing family law requires much more than just the ability to review and analyze caselaw. One of my job's biggest aspects is helping clients process the emotional, highstress impacts this type of litigation has on their day-to-day lives. Understanding motivations behind actions on both sides helps us strategize the best course of action to reach an outcome clients will be happy with.

HOW DOES YOUR FIRM'S TEAM TRULY UNDERSTAND CLIENTS' DESIRED LEGAL OUTCOMES?

We begin every initial consultation with an in-depth conversation about that individual’s unique situation and his or her priorities so we can calibrate our strategy from the very onset of the case toward our clients’ priorities. We also explain our unique, collaborative approach to cases, which is an asset. In addition to our role as a client’s zealous advocate, we also believe we're walking alongside them as educators as they navigate the legal process.

IN TODAY'S ACCELERATED PACE OF DAILY LIVING, WHAT SHOULD CLIENTS LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING ATTORNEYS?

First and foremost, you must find someone you can trust. You'll be interacting with this individual a great deal, often sharing sensitive details about your life. You want to have confidence in and trust your attorney before hiring her or him. It's crucial to ask about the firm’s guiding principles to ensure it aligns with your own goals and priorities. At Digby Family Law, we prepare and treat each case as if it were going to trial, while taking care not to make matters more contested than necessary, especially when children are involved.

615.997.3741

DigbyFamilyLaw.com

Make an Impact for Mom

Memorable ways to celebrate the mother figure in your life

The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.

This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Take a Flower Arranging Class

Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.

Make a Memory Book or Scrapbook Together

Before Mother’s Day, go through everybody’s camera rolls and Instagram feeds and choose her favorite photos. Get them printed ahead of time so you can make a memory book. You might just love it so much you make it a yearly tradition.

Plan a Spa Day For Her and Her Friends

Mom will truly appreciate you going out of your way to set her up with a massage or facial appointment. Invite her friends along, too!

Craft the Perfect Playlist

Songs about mothers and mom’s favorite songs can come together into the perfect playlist to put on during brunch or dinner. You can either make it for her or take turns being DJ and alternate picks.

Have a Make-Your-Own Pizza Party

DIY pizza: It’s a craft (depending on how artfully you place the toppings), an activity and a meal all at once! Start with basic pizza dough, then everyone gets to add their favorite toppings. Mom gets the first pick, of course.

Hold a Lawn-Game Tournament

Croquet, cornhole, bocce, outdoor Jenga or horseshoes — what’s your family’s game of choice? Split into teams and drum up some friendly rivalry — while soaking in rays — with a backyard challenge. Make it an annual event, and pass around a trophy to the winner each year.

Visit an Amusement Park

For the mom who’s always seeking adventure, a trip to your nearest amusement park will be a welcome surprise. Not only will you be able to treat her to her fill of funnel cakes and caramel corn, but she’ll enjoy all the rides and attractions her heart desires. If you ask us, it’s a win-win.

Have a Backyard BBQ

Sure, backyard barbecues are often associated with Father’s Day, but Mom loves her burgers and dogs, too, so why should Dad get all the fun? If the weather cooperates, fire up the grill!

Make Something Totally Unique

If you do a DIY craft project, write a poem or come up with a silly dance, you know mom will love it because it is 100% you. No one can one-up a one-of-a-kind experience! You can make them for her and present them to her, or involve her in their creation.

Spruce Up The Garden

Gardeners know that Mother’s Day is the perfect time to start planting seeds. Get the whole family outside and dig in the dirt together. Every time she sees them, she’ll be reminded of the special day — it’s the gift that keeps on giving! Some flowers that are fairly easy to maintain include sunflowers, marigolds and sweet peas.

Make Pottery

Not only will you leave with a one-of-a-kind piece, but you’ll also be able to bond as you explore a new activity.

Head to the Farmers Market

There’s nothing like waking up with the sun and going to the farmer’s market on the weekend. Pick fresh produce and discover new favorites with mom, coffee in hand.

Watch Home Movies

Whether this involves digitizing old VHS tapes or getting video files off your phone and onto the TV, dig into the family archives and host a home-movie marathon. She’ll get emotional seeing how much everyone has grown.

Check Something Off Her To-Do List

Dad knows - Mom has a to-do list a mile long. Whether it’s tasks around the house or a DIY project, find out what has been nagging Mom and help her cross it off her list by doing it for her!

Play a Family Board Game

If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)

Pick Your Own Fruit

This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)

Book Her a Weekend Away

There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.

Complete a Jigsaw Puzzle

Get Theater Tickets

Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.

Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling. 20

Invite Her To High Tea

Whether you make the brews and treats yourself or head out to an official tea house, Mom will love sipping her beverage out of fancy china and snacking on tea sandwiches.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

52nd Annual Spring Tennessee Craft Fair

CENTENNIAL PARK, NASHVILLE

Tennessee Craft presents the 52nd annual Spring Tennessee Craft Fair, in Nashville’s iconic Centennial Park. Artists from across the nation will exhibit their handmade craft on the Great Lawn adjacent to the Parthenon, showcasing fine craft from clay, jewelry and leather to wood, glass, painting and more.

Nashville Wellness Fest

NASHVILLE FAIRGROUNDS: 401 WINGROVE, NASHVILLE | 9:00 AM

Nashville’s biggest health and wellness fest is back with a whole day of engaging, fun and healthy activities. Meet 110+ local vendors and experts to help you find out the latest and best ways to improve you and your family’s health and wellbeing.

Nashville Taco & Margarita Festival

HOP SPRINGS, MURFREESBORO | 11:00 AM

Head to Murfreesboro's Hop Springs Beer Park for the Nashville Taco & Margarita Festival. It's an outdoor event, with VIP tickets available. Event festivities include tacos, tacos, and more tacos from local food trucks and vendors, alongside a slew of flavors of margaritas. There will also be local vendors, live pro wrestling, kids' face painting, and more.

Sevier Park Fest 2023

3021 LEALAND LANE, NASHVILLE | 10:00 AM

Celebrate local artists + makers with live music on multiple stages, activities for all ages, unique shopping, local food trucks and more! Tickets required;  17 and under are free with adult ticket. More info at sevierparkfest.com/

Dinner in the Forest

OWL'S HILL NATURE SANCTUARY, BRENTWOOD | 5:00 PM

On Sunday, May 7, 2023, Dinner in the Forest returns to Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary. This unique outdoor event celebrates the beauty and serenity of Owl's Hill, featuring cocktails, farm-to-fork fare, and more.

Music City Fit Expo 2023

NASHVILLE FAIRGROUNDS: 401 WINGROVE, NASHVILLE | 8:00 AM

The Largest Fitness Expo in the South returns May 13th at the Nashville Fairgrounds. This year, the Music City Fit Expo will encompass over 70,000-square-feet, brimming with over 100 fitness-based business vendors, 6 competitions throughout the day, and a special meet and greet with 4X Mr Olympia Jay Cutler.

MAY 13TH

Shop Black Fest - Nashville

HADLEY PARK: 1037 28TH AVE

N, NASHVILLE | 12:00 PM

Join Shop Black Fest to celebrate Nashville's local Black-owned businesses. Shop Black Fest Nashville will host 150+ local Black-owned businesses, including food trucks, a DJ, and vendors, music, performances, Greek step show and more. Shop Black Fest has helped support over 1400 Black entrepreneurs since 2021, generating over 400k in revenue, and wants to reach even more communities in 2023. For more information, visit shopblackfest.com.

MAY 13TH

The Franklin Rodeo Parade

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

FRANKIN | 12:00 PM

The Franklin Rodeo and Parade are presented by The Franklin Noon Rotary. Rodeo Parade is the weekend before the Rodeo in Historic Downtown Franklin and is so much fun for all! For more information or to participate in the Parade: franklinrodeo.com/ events/rodeo-parade/

MAY 18TH - 20TH

Franklin Rodeo

WILLIAMSON COUNTY AG

EXPO PARK

Founded in 1949, the Franklin Rodeo brings over 18,000 screaming fans year after year. It is one of the longest running family events in Middle Tennessee and one of the largest rodeos east of the Mississippi! Rodeo competition events, kids events, specialty acts and a lot of family fun! franklinrodeo.com/

MAY 20TH

Nashville Rosé Festival

EAST PARK: 700 WOODLAND STREET, NASHVILLE | 3:00 PM

The Nashville Rosé Festival returns to East Park, where guests sip unlimited samples of over 100 rosé wines, cocktails, ciders, and craft beer. Additionally, there's a live DJ, food trucks, entertainment, and tons of fun. As always 100% of net proceeds support the mission of the  Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition

MAY 20TH

"Bubbles & Bites" Fundraiser for Usher Syndrome

1667 PRESTON PLACE

BRENTWOOD | 3:00 PM

An adult public awareness event to learn more about Usher syndrome, raise money to support those with this diagnosis, and enjoy amongst many different  bubbles along the way (from the drinks, to the food, to the art installation photo-op decor)! A silent auction will cap off the afternoon.

MAY 20TH

All in for Vets Casino Night

BMW OF NASHVILLE: 1568 MALLORY LANE, BRENTWOOD | 6:00 PM

Lighthouse Planning's "All in for Vets Casino Night" is an evening of networking and casino fun while raising funds for local veterans!

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Sports car fascination. On demand

Porsche Cars North America Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all time.