Chattanooga, TN May 2023

The Wisdom of Women

When I started this publication almost a year ago, I leaned on the wisdom of the women in my life for guidance. From other moms at the neighborhood pool, to mentors from other publications I admire, each person lended sound advice, encouragement, and a safe place to fall in times of adversity. Since then, I have met the most extraordinary women leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries as I have made my way in this business. I am consistently impressed and humbled by the women in this community who champion other female business owners, other mothers, and other dreamers. This month, we meet some of the women in Chattanooga who are living their passions and making our community stronger.

We meet the founders of Chattanooga's chapter of 100+ Women Who Care. Each quarter, this group gets together to hear from local non-profits and to learn about how they can help. To date, this organization has donated over $75,000 to local non-profits such as The Launch Pad and most recently, Downside Up.

We visit Flowers on Saturn, a beautiful and innovative self-care haven located on Cowart Street. Owners Kat Merryfield and Emily Kapowski believe that by bringing ritual into your everyday routine you can enjoy better mental health and emotional well-being.

We take some time for ourselves at Method Medspa on Signal Mountain. The ownership team of a mother-in-law, daughter-in-law, and a best friend, are living their dream while offering customers a boutique spa experience. There are so many more women in Chattanooga making a difference everyday in the lives of their families and their community. I encourage you to take some time this month to schedule lunch with one of your favorite mentors, make time for a chat with your best girlfriends, and for heaven's sake, call your mom.

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Rebecca Kilday | rebecca.kilday@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Belinda Martin | belinda.martin@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

P.E. Craven, Ryleigh Roberts, Eve Robles

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ivey Photo, The SimonWest Agency

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 Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

REBECCA KILDAY, PUBLISHER @CHATTANOOGACITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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

1: The annual Bruiser Bash held at Common House No. 3. 2: RED (Baylor’s version) Celebrations Auction Co-Chairs at the 2023 event. 3: CGLA Co-Founder, Dr. Sue Ann Wells, and CEO, Dr. Elaine Swafford, honored by Girls Inc. 4: Heather Sveadas, Laurel Eldridge, and Nasera SouidiJohnson represent Chattanooga at the 2023 Paris Marathon. 5: Lea Anne Wiles’ Rodan + Fields Team on the Chatt Taste West Village Food Tour. 6: Runners participate in Galen Health’s Rump Run. 7: The crowd at Retro-Futurism themed Hunter Underground.

LEA ANNE WILES

SCOTTIE GOODMAN SUMMERLIN

@CHATTANOOGACITYLIFESTYLE

CHATTANOOGA GIRLS LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Officials Break Ground for Industrial Park in Catoosa County

The park is owned by Tenby Partners and White Oak Enterprises, working together as Chattanooga Industrial LLC. According to White Oak President Jeff Londis, Chattanooga Industrial expects to spend $100 million in capital investment in the project that will eventually provide high-wage employment for up to 700 people. Located at 4901 Cloud Springs Road, the park offers 1,130,000 square feet of Class-A industrial space suited to advanced manufacturing, research and development and technologyrelated businesses. Scan

Photography @chattanoogacitylifestyle

AquaTots Cuts Ribbon on Lee Hwy Location

Nine years after entering the Chattanooga market with a children's pool and training facility on the North Shore, Aqua-Tots has opened a new location. Daniel Lopera Hankins, the son of franchise owner Malena Hankins, said the newest Aqua-Tots is a 7,500-square-foot storefront in the Lee Pointe shopping center on Lee Highway near state Highway 153. The new studio will include a pool that is more than twice the size of the one in North Shore.

Scan to read more.

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

Photography @aquatotschattanooga

NEURO-PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

INDUSTRIAL ARTS

FAMILY PROGRAMMING

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

SIBLING SUPPORT

ART + MUSIC THERAPY

local experiences

in

our area.

NIGHTFALL CONCERT SERIES: Beginning again this May, the Nightfall concert series will have free concerts every Friday night at Miller Plaza with artisans, concessions, and lawn games. 850 Market Street | Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402

WAREHOUSE ROW: Get in! We’re going shopping! Warehouse Row boasts high-end retailers, restaurants, and local vendors to meet your every need. 1110 Market Street | Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402

LOOKOUT WINERY: Escape the city with your girl gang and visit this local winery with picturesque mountain views and flavorful tastings. 11848 US Hwy 41 | Guild, Tennessee 37340

VIVE FOR WOMEN: Take fitness classes with your friends or make new ones at this all-women gym committed to helping you look and feel like your best self. 1819 Broad Street, Suite 107 | Chattanooga, Tennessee 37408

WHISKEY THIEF: This rooftop bar promises an unforgettable experience with an inviting atmosphere and a variety of hand-crafted signature cocktails. 102 Walnut Street | Chattanooga, Tennessee 37403

Eight Local Women You Should Know

REMARKABLE WOMEN WHO CALL CHATTANOOGA HOME

ARTICLE BY EVE ROBLES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IVEY

PHOTO

Beverly Blackwell

A championship coach, Physical Education Department Chair, and Dean of Health & Wellness at Girls Preparatory School, Beverly Blackwell knows what it takes to instill work ethic and drive success amongst Chattanooga’s youth. Beverly told us, “Whether it be in strength class or on the track, I try to help students discover how they can become independent learners and utilize skills for a lifetime of fitness and wellness.”  Beverly spearheaded a track program that placed fourth at State in 2013 and won back-to-back State Champions in 2014 and 2015.  Twice named Tennessee Coach of the Year, Beverly shared that the sweetest of rewards is not in the trophies won but in the relationships and resiliency built. “More than winning championships, what I am most proud of is how both of these girls’ teams worked together, really put forth 100% effort, and supported each other with pride on every level.” A Chattanooga native, Beverly knows firsthand just how special our city is. After leaving home for over ten years, in 2005, she returned to her roots. “Moving away made me realize how much I missed Chattanooga.  There is not a better place in my opinion to raise a family.”

Dean of Health & Wellness Girls Preparatory School

Abigale Choi

A business mogul with a heart for fostering animals, Abigale Choi founded Reyka & Lu Creative, a full-service marketing firm that helps businesses succeed. “Reyka & Lu Creative has two differentiators that sets us apart from our competitors. We work with a lot of small- to medium-sized businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs because I feel this is the space in which we are needed most. I couldn’t be more passionate about working with people to help make their professional dreams come true. The second thing that sets us apart is the fact that we provide any service under the realm of marketing, advertising, graphic design, and public relations and we do a majority of it in house with our team.” Taking her passion for marketing and supporting business growth one step further, Abigale co-founded Nooga Networking in 2022, providing opportunities for professionals to connect.  “With Nooga Networking, I am most proud of the community of business professionals we have formed and how much exponential growth we have had since our first event in April,” Abigale told us.   Alongside managing two successful companies, Abigale has a passion for fostering animals through local shelters and remains a proactive advocate for animals. “I can’t say enough good things about Chattanooga. It’s the place where the opportunities are endless, and I’ve built such an incredible community of people here who I love dearly.”

“I can’t say enough good things about Chattanooga. It’s the place where the opportunities are endless, and I’ve built such an incredible community of people here who I love dearly.”

-Abigale Choi

Founder & CEO, Reyka & Lu Creative Co-Founder, Nooga Networking

Chanda Chambers

Established in 2015, Chambers Welding and Fabrication holds the most certifications in the industry with one goal in mind: to be a cornerstone in our community.  A full-service welding company, Chambers Welding provides a vast range of services on residential and commercial scales.  As a veteran, nurse, and Human Resources professional, CEO and founder Chanda Chambers took her foundational careers and applied her experience towards the discipline, compassion, and leadership to embark in entrepreneurship.  “What is important to me is ‘who we are’ and ‘what we stand for’ as far as quality work. Not just being a woman in this industry, but having the vision and carrying it out is key to how I run my business.” Chanda highlights that the most rewarding aspect of the business has become expanding beyond its niche with the education sector, Metal Makers. “It is so important to be connected to the trade education portion.  I want to impact the community in a lasting and positive manner and teach a skill that they can foster if they choose to. I love Chattanooga.  I’ve lived all over and my favorite place is here.  This community rallies for you and that is why it is so important for me to connect with that.”  Chambers Welding continually strives for high quality work and with consistent 5-star ratings, Chambers delivers on its dedication to excellence.

“What is important to me is ‘who we are’ and ‘what we stand for’ as far as quality work. Not just being a woman in this industry, but having the vision and carrying it out is key to how I run my business.”

-Chanda Chambers

Founder & CEO

Chambers Welding and Fabrication

Founder & CEO  The Lashery

Michelle Gignilliat

The Lashery: Where clients become friends. When Michelle Gignilliat opened her chic studio in 2020, she had a clear vision in mind to create a safe space for people to feel their best.  With over 16 years of experience in the beauty industry, Michelle is relentlessly dedicated to bringing out the beauty she sees in people. The most rewarding part of it all, she tells us, is “being a part of helping others feel beautiful. I love seeing the joy on my client’s faces when they love the way they look.  It’s an indescribable feeling to be able to provide that for someone.”  From lash needs to makeup artistry, The Lashery offers an array of services all the while making the clients feel uplifted. The bedrock of her business is in “the interpersonal relationship you form when helping someone feel good about the way they look. It’s an honor that I cherish and celebrate.” Here, clients are valued and relationships are authentic.  As a proud local, Michelle beams about Chattanooga.  “I have moved away a few times, but have always come home because of the people. Chattanoogans love and support each other with their whole heart.”

P.E. Craven

Local author P.E. Craven knows the art of crafting literary timepieces.  The release of her first novel, “Realm Leaper”, portrays a coming-of-age story of two characters finding their own journey in the face of turmoil. “I was having this realization that our identities transform repeatedly as we grow older; it’s not just a theme for teenagers. I'm finding that I love writing stories about people who have to face down destiny and step into their own power,” Craven told us. Craven candidly shared, “Storytelling is a part of my DNA. I never considered writing stories as something I would end up doing, but once I opened that door, the stories just started pouring out.” Concurrent to developing her novels, Paige teaches high school English in Chattanooga and encourages aspiring writers to simply start writing. “Starting is the biggest hurdle. Once you have something on paper, you actually have a roadmap to contemplate,” she notes. About Chattanooga, Craven told us, “I love the scenery. I love the readiness the people here have to pitch in and work together.

It's a pretty inspiring place to be!”

Author “Realm Leaper”

Penny Chevalley

After years of working in the wedding industry, Penny Chevalley wasn’t looking for a new business venture when she was approached in 2020 to purchase a mobile bar.  “I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished with Tipsy Tin. The addition of two more mobile bars, the clients and relationships have outweighed any “What did I just do?” moments I’ve had.”  From a horse trailer to a vintage ice cream cart, no matter the desired aesthetic, Tipsy Tin adds a unique enhancement to any event. “Garden to glass fresh ingredients have been at the center of our business model. We don’t do grocery store mixers and everything is hand pressed, hand cut or house made within Cottage Law,” Penny told us.  A vital heartbeat in the business, Penny relishes in the relationships formed telling us, “Our clients have a strong relationship with me and know that I’m here for them, day or night, chaos or calm.” With her sights set on continued expansion, Chattanooga locals have embraced this flourishing business.  “The community and the overwhelming support for small businesses and woman-owned businesses is what keeps me motivated in Chattanooga.  I’m forever thankful for this little big city and all it’s given to me, I just hope I’ve given back a little bit of what I’ve received.”

“The community and the overwhelming support for small businesses and woman-owned businesses is what keeps me motivated in Chattanooga.  I’m forever thankful for this little big city and all it’s given to me, I just hope I’ve given back a little bit of what I’ve received.”

-Penny Chevalley

Owner Tipsy Tin

Founder

For Brandolyn Murphy, the most rewarding aspect of founding Busy Bee Cleaning Company is her customers. “There is, very literally, nothing more satisfying than the pure joy expressed by a customer after we’ve gone in and helped lighten their load a little bit. That is something that is truly priceless for me.”  A former educator, Brandolyn’s desire to connect and provide comfort for others is evident in her consistent 5-star ratings. “We’re focused on quality over quantity, and relationships over anonymity. We understand that we are there to make the customer’s life a little more manageable, and we do not take that task lightly.” The company stands on what Brandolyn coins the Busy Bee 4-Fecta. “With any clean—whether it be standard or deep, regular service or a one-time clean— we guarantee that your home or business will be: Thoughtfully Organized, Thoroughly Cleaned, Smelling Great, and Gifted (We leave a little gift at each clean!).”  It is these pillars that have prompted customers to continue opening their homes to Busy Bee since 2020. “Chattanooga is so vibrant, innovative, and exciting without being too pretentious. Moreover, it’s a wonderful place to raise a family, which is most important to me at the end of the day.”

Upon returning from China in 2019, something shifted for Shawanna Kendrick.  The sights, the culture, the newish nature of everything that surrounded her, inspired The H2O Life, an outdoor adventure experience for women.  Under the H2O acronym, Hiking and Healing Outdoors, Shawanna had a purposeful vision in mind: To connect women and allow nature to nurture.  “I have always been a proponent for safe spaces, especially for black women and people of all different types, to connect in a meaningful way that is not orchestrated and is organic.  What I want is to encourage everyone to step outside and above everything else just breathe. We have forgotten in life that we still need each other.”  With the support of local partnerships, The H2O Life hosts monthly outdoor experiences allowing women to meet, connect and recenter.  The mental benefits of being outdoors, whether on a hiking trail, kayaking, or at a fireside chat, have a profound impact on who we are. “Being outdoors has been a very important component to my healing. It has changed my outlook on life.  It doesn’t matter what your background, race or your socioeconomic status, Chattanooga has so much to offer for everyone.  I really love that about our city and I can’t wait to see just how far we go.”

Founder

The H2O Life

Busy Bee Cleaning Company

Brandolyn Murphy

Shawanna Kendrick

1748 GUNBARREL

info@hitsoncabinets.com

www.hitcab.com

@hitsoncabinetsinc

ARTICLE BY RYLEIGH ROBERTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IVEY PHOTO

100+ Women Who Care

CALLING WOMEN TO ACTION

One of Chattanooga’s local philanthropies calls women to action. 100+ Women Who Care is a women-led philanthropy founded in altruism and dedicated to enhancing our community. With a mission to provide financial support to Chattanooga locals, the organization engages women to contribute $100 on a quarterly basis. The donations are given to local charities, transferring over $40,000 dollars into our city. The leaders of 100+ Women Who Care are committed to keeping the charities local to ensure a viable impact is made within the community. The group is currently at work acquiring donations, working toward a $100,000 goal and then another $100,000 after that. Readers interested in becoming contributors can join the Grapevine at 100+ Women Who Care by visiting their website 100pluscha.com. After contributing for a year, members are then invited to nominate a non-profit of their choosing. 100+ Women Who Care is grateful to the many businesses and individuals who have helped them make a difference in Chattanooga.

100+ Women Who Care is a womenled philanthropy founded in altruism and dedicated to enhancing our community. With a mission to provide financial support to Chattanooga locals, the organization engages women to contribute $100 on a quarterly basis.

Lisi Chavarri

100+ Women Who Care is grateful to the many businesses and individuals who have helped them make a difference in Chattanooga.

Maria Chavez

Betsy Childress

Pamela Schreiner Patty Champion

MethodMedSpa

Transforming Client Confidence

ARTICLE BY EVE ROBLES PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SIMONWEST AGENCY

Make room for Chattanooga’s newest addition to the medical aesthetics industry: Method MedSpa.  Located on Signal Mountain, Method MedSpa opened its doors in June 2022 with a clear vision in mind: to provide medical-grade services that help clients look and feel their best.   Founders Dr. Tamara Bowers, DO, Skylar Bowers, APRN, and Flora Walker, APRN, collectively share over 10 years in their respective medical fields. Keeping up with the latest medical studies on aesthetics, Method Med Spa prioritizes client relationships and empowers its clientele with knowledge. “Medical aesthetics is an interesting hybrid space,” Flora tells us. “We are in a unique position as providers to give a lot of informed decision-making power to our clients.”

Offering a wide array of services from microdermabrasion and Sculptra to house facials and massage therapy, clients continually rave about the top-notch care and service they receive.

Most importantly, with Method MedSpa, the service doesn’t end in the office. “We follow up with our clients no matter the service,” explains Tamara. “We want relationships more than anything. We are always looking to make the client experience better.  It really is the magic ingredient,” adds Skylar.

In lockstep, Bowers and Walker echo the most rewarding aspect of the business is seeing the transformation in their clients–not only in their appearance, but also in their levels of confidence. “Our philosophy is that we want our clients to be their best selves. That is something that is very important to us,” Tamara tells us.

“Self-care shouldn’t be cookie cutter. We provide an individual experience for everybody,” Flora notes. To learn more and schedule a service, visit methodmedspa.com

Method MedSpa Co-Founders

Dr. Tamara Bowers, Flora Walker & Skylar Bowers

“We want relationships more than anything. We are always looking to make the client experience better.  It really is the magic ingredient,”

Flowers on Saturn

THE RITUAL OF SELF-CARE

ARTICLE BY P.E. CRAVEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SIMONWEST AGENCY

Kat Merryfield and Emily Kapowski, owners of Flowers on Saturn, believe that self-care should be a ritual. In the shop, customers can find an assortment of luxury chocolates, tea, cannabis products, and sexual health products, most of which are handcrafted by the store owners. Alongside an eclectic array of products, women can partake in classes, such as Essential Oils Mixology, to experience a supportive and safe community for women of all stages. When asked about their decision to open a women’s health boutique in Chattanooga, Kat and Emily affirmed that Chattanooga is ready stating, “No town gets behind a good idea quite like Chattanooga.” Follow Flowers on Saturn on Instagram for information on classes and events. Mention Chattanooga City Lifestyle for an in-store discount.