HANNAH BROWN’S NEW ROMANCE NOVEL
NANETTE JOHNSON
FOOD + BEVERAGE
NATIONAL HAMBURGER DAY
For some, estate planning can be quite a confusing topic. The confusing nature of estate planning is often compounded by various estate planning myths that people hear from friends or family members who are not knowledgeable about estate planning law. Below are several of the more common estate planning myths as well as the truth behind them.
Myth: If I Have a Will, My Estate Will Avoid
Probate Conversely, all property transferred via a will is guaranteed to go through probate. Through the process of probate, a court oversees the distribution of a person’s estate and ensures the decedent’s wishes, as outlined in the will, are carried out.
Estate Taxes
Myth: A Life Insurance Payout Will Not Trigger
All of the assets that you own are included in the value of your estate for estate tax purposes. This necessarily includes the amount of any life insurance policy you owned that will be paid out upon your death.
Myth: I am Too Young for Estate Planning Individuals should put estate plans in place upon reaching the age of eighteen and continuously update the plan until death. We never know when we will need an estate plan, and delaying planning can often have disastrous consequences.
Myth: A Revocable Trust Will Protect My Assets from Creditors A revocable trust is an estate planning tool that provides the owner with many benefits. However, it will not hide or otherwise protect assets from your creditors or liability stemming from lawsuits against you. This is because a person remains in full control of and retains full access to any assets he or she puts into a revocable trust. your death.
Do not let these or other possible myths frustrate your estate plan.
Musiccityestatelaw.com is a great resource to help you dispel the confusion around estate planning.
Call our office to speak with an estate planning attorney to learn more about the probate process, revocable trusts, and other important estate planning topics.
Justin M. Gilbert, Esq.
RIBBON CUTTING WITH SPECIAL GUESTS | KIDS ACTIVITIES
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JUNE 18, 2024 | 3:30-6:30 P.M.
Williamson Medical Center 4321 Carothers Pkwy
Franklin, TN 37067
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Welcome to our women's issue! With this annual issue, we hope to continue at least scratching at the surface of the untold stories of the amazing women that comprise our community. Our mothers, daughters, friends, sisters, neighbors are some of the most influential women in our lives and are doing awesome things in our area and beyond.
And while it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. From cover star Hannah Brown whose new book is sure to be a favorite summer beach read, to Simple Bars founders who live right here in Franklin, women are creating. From Nashville Pink Ride to Early June Flower Farm, women are fulfilling. From singer Jessie Baylin to influencer Nanette Johnson, women are achieving. And we get to tell you all about them, and so many others!
And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on mom. Sadly, I lost my mom earlier this year and it's been one of the most heart-breaking things I've ever had to deal with, compounded by the loss of my dad just 18 months earlier. So love, love, love and celebrate your mom every day, but let her especially know it this Mother's Day because you never know if you'll get another one.
My sadness aside, in this issue we’ve hopefully captured some of the feminine energy and creativity that runs the world. I am so proud to be a woman and in your company.
Fondly,
MARIA DINOIA, EDITOR @FRANKLINTNLIFESTYLE
Franklin Lifestyle is available for pickup at the following locations:
• Whole Foods - Franklin
• Cultheir - Downtown Franklin
• Optique - Downtown Franklin
• United Country Real Estate- Leipers Fork
• Local doctors and professional offices around the area
PUBLISHER
Athena West | athena.west@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Maria Dinoia | maria.dinoia@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Emily Smith | emily.smith@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Karen Creason | karen.creason@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jenny Ferguson | jenny.ferguson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Carol Fite Lynn, Ed Atlas, Kellie Walton, Christina Madrid, Lauren Kelly, Jennifer Bennhoff, Karen Creason, Judy Beaudin, Lisa Valentine, Morgan Raum
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Deb Scally Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
DMD
Experience unmatched elegance at this breathtaking 92 83-acre ridge-top estate, now offered at a price improvement of $6,500,000
This majestic property, featuring a harmonious blend of expansive skies and rolling pastures adorned with ancient trees, awaits your exploration With additional land available beyond the 92 acres, the opportunities are boundless Perfect for a grand 7bedroom main house, a 5-bedroom residence, and a charming 2-bedroom barn apartment, all nestled within a landscape protected by the Historic Land Trust for Tennessee. Conveniently located just minutes from Leipers Fork, Franklin, Southall Farms Resort, and Leipers Fork Distillery, seize this rare opportunity to own a distinguished piece of Tennessee's heritage. MLS #2582842
Embrace the opportunity to own a piece of paradise with this exquisite 17 25-acre lot on Pinewood Road, priced at $1,497,000 Located a stone's throw from Leipers Fork and 840, this land is a blank slate for your architectural dreams, perked for both a 6-bedroom and a 7-bedroom residence across two septic sites. Among three unique tracts available, this expanse stands out with its breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings, free of any HOA constraints or restrictions Seize this chance to create your dream home in a setting of unmatched potential and beauty Take advantage of this unparalleled offering! MLS #2586814
Embark on the ultimate hilltop living experience in Thompson Station with this exquisite retreat, boasting expansive vistas and unparalleled tranquility Situated on over 15 acres of Tennessee's finest terrain, this home offers an open layout adorned by a cozy fireplace and a modern kitchen Descend to the basement media/rec room with its fireplace for ultimate entertainment. Revel in sweeping views from the wraparound deck and covered porch, providing a serene backdrop of rolling hills Perfect for equestrian enthusiasts, the property offers ample space for horses A standout feature is the ready-to-build site for a 5bedroom home, inviting you to create your dream family estate Embrace a lifestyle of beauty, comfort, and potential, where every moment is a cherished memory. With boundless space and breathtaking panoramas, this property promises an unforgettable experience Offered at $1,850,000 MLS #2622524
mor e. With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only.
Expir es 5/31/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
1-7: New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury’s debut film ‘Someone Like You’ opened in theaters nationwide in April with a premiere kick-off celebration held at the Franklin Theatre. 1: Karen Kingsbury 2: Actor Scott Reeves with a fan 4: Karen Kingsbury (C) with Kathie Lee Gifford (R) and Gifford’s daughter, Cassidy (L) 5. Lead actress Sarah Fisher
Photography by Hope Hickman Photography
Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory and The Land Trust for Tennessee celebrated the connection between the land and the sky.
DR. ALEXIS
Dr. Alexis is a graduate of Parker University, where she was trained as a doctor in chiropractic. While studying, Dr. Alexis became proficient in various adjusting techniques to help become a more well-rounded doctor.
We are committed to helping clients find their roots with a focus on renewing their bodies, minds, and spirits through natural and holistic healing practices. Ready to experience the transformative power of chiropractic care?
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615.499.6367 V doc.alexis.diggs
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us of a chic NYC restaurant. The craft
very good quality and presented perfectly. Every morsel of the food was delicious (the lobster tapas… excellent). The service was impeccable. The perfect spot for date night. Chic, cozy, warm, friendly and inviting”.
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$60.6 Million in Closed WaterColor Sales Volume*
33% greater than the closest competitor
Almost $1.9 Billion in Closed Sales Volume**
43% greater than the closest competitor
Mark your calendars for September 28 & 29, 2024! The Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival has announced the dates for the 10th anniversary at the Park at Harlinsdale. Lineup includes Dave Matthews Band, Noah Kahan, Hozier, NEEDTOBREATHE, COIN, Stephen Sanchez and more. From incredible headliners and the Americana Music Triangle Experience to the Makers Village, beer hall, and local food trucks, the 10th anniversary is a party you don’t want to miss. PilgrimageFestival.com
The Franklin Police Department has once again received international reaccreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). The announcement was made at CALEA’s Spring Conference in Montgomery, Alabama. The CALEA reaccreditation is the department’s eighth since their initial accreditation in 2001. “The CALEA Accreditation program is the gold standard for law enforcement agencies,” said Franklin Police Chief Deb Faulkner. “I am beyond proud that CALEA has once again recognized our department’s exemplary standards.”
The Williamson County Public Library System announced the launch of its new learning kits, designed to support patrons with their efforts to educate their children. The learning kits are carefully curated to accommodate a wide range of ages and learning styles. Each kit contains various materials, including books, worksheets, manipulatives, educational games, posters, and activities. The kits are available for checkout to adult library cardholders and can be borrowed for up to 4 weeks at a time. WCPLTN.org
buildwithinspiration.com
The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department (WCPR) invites you to visit the newest passive park, Peacock Hill Nature Park. Located in beautiful College Grove at 6990 Giles Hill Road, the park encompasses 246 acres, featuring six walking trails, a visitor’s center and some of the most picturesque scenery in Williamson County. The land was donated to Williamson County in 2017 by Walter and Anita Ogilvie with a conservation easement set up by the Land Trust for Tennessee. WCParksAndRec.com
The Harpeth has unveiled its exclusive whiskey blend created in partnership with Leiper’s Fork Distillery. Named “The Harpeth Blend from
Leiper’s Fork,” it is the latest addition to the property’s expansive whiskey offerings, including a whiskey keep housing over 200 varieties and an exceptional whiskey cellar program. The Harpeth Blend is a smooth sipping whiskey offering a subtle chocolate start and flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, caramel, dried plum and antique oak with a finish of cinnamon cookie, maple and fig. HarpethHotel.com
Premier Foot & Ankle Specialist, a company specializing in advanced wound care, tendonitis and regenerative medicine, is opening a new location at 600 Church Street. Carrying on the legacy of the foot and ankle specialist that previously occupied the space for 27 years, this female-owned and operated business takes a patient-centered, individualized approach to healthcare. PremierFootDocs.com
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream – the beloved brand known for its handcrafted ice cream, made fresh daily at each location – will open its first location in Franklin this summer at Meridian Cool Springs, the popular mixed-use development in the heart of Williamson County’s business district. Handel’s is the first tenant of the development’s highly anticipated 990 Meridian Boulevard project to be revealed. @meridiancoolsprings
New restaurant and bar Ransom Spirits and Provisions recently opened in historic downtown Columbia. Serving tapas and signature cocktails in an elegant, low-lit atmosphere, this establishment seeks to create a unique dining experience for its patrons. This spring, the business will be adding an exclusive loft to the space for private parties and celebrations. RansomColumbia.com
GlockStore’s 4th Annual Open House is on June 1. The Nightstick “Low Light ~ No Light” Challenge has winners every hour; the Fast & Accurate Competition has a Glock 19 as the Grand Prize. glockstore.com/oh24
CONTINUED >
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
• 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, chopped
• 1 T. Chef’s Blend Seasoning
• 2 Bunches of basil, rough chopped
• 1 pkg of smoked salmon (I like peppered.)
• Drizzle of Balsamic reduction
• Thinly sliced baguette
Directions:
• Chop tomatoes and let sit with Chef’s Blend Seasoning in a small bowl for 10 mins
• Toast thinly sliced baguette
• Drain liquid from the tomatoes
• Top bread with smoked salmon and tomatoes
• Sprinkle basil and drizzle with balsamic reduction
615-497-2402
In 1992, then-Nashville-mayor Phil Bredesen saw potential in the city that few could envision. At the time, Nashville was known for country music and not much else. Lower Broadway was quiet and tourists were few. Mayor Bredesen knew Nashville had more to offer but without arenas to host sporting events and concerts, people had to travel to Murfreesboro to attend any sort of big event. Mayor Bredesen had the idea to build an arena in the heart of downtown and bring energy and entertainment to the city. His bold thinking, and his forming of the Nashville Sports Council, set the stage for the vibrant, beloved Nashville we enjoy today.
“The Nashville Sports Council was originally part of the Chamber of Commerce,” explains Aldo Amato, Director of Marketing and Strategic Initiatives, “with a mission to recruit, maintain and operate sports events in Nashville. We’re a community connector between sports and businesses.”
Construction of the Bridgestone Arena – then called “Nashville Arena” – happened to fall at an exciting time. Soon after the groundbreaking, the Houston Oilers NFL team announced it was moving to Nashville. That called for a stadium, which the mayor and his team also wanted to keep downtown. Fortunately for sports and music enthusiasts, both the arena and the stadium – now called Nissan Stadium – were approved by voters. By 1998, Nashville was home to two major league teams: The Nashville Predators and the former Houston Oilers, now called the Tennessee Titans.
Today, in addition to college teams, Nashville also has GEODIS Park, home to the Nashville Soccer Club, and First Horizon Park, where the Nashville Sounds, a Triple A baseball affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, play. “Something that’s unique about the Nashville sports market is how all of the teams work together instead of against each other,” says Aldo. “That’s a huge asset.”
When the Predators made it to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2017, not only was Bridgestone full, but over 100,000 fans lined the streets outside. “Another example is when the
Titans were on the cusp of a Super Bowl berth a couple of years ago,” says Aldo, “and the other sports teams rallied around them. The teams are all connected, and that’s how we view our organization beyond providing volunteers and helping with the marketing of sports events.”
The Nashville Sports Council hosts three core events each year, in addition to other events that coincide with what’s happening in the local sports scene. The TransPerfect Music City Bowl began in 1998 and is played
every December at Nissan Stadium. “We have an exclusive contract with the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big Ten, so each year two teams from those conferences are represented in that game,” says Aldo. The bowl was organized to bring activity to Nashville during the once-slow tourist season between Christmas and New Year’s. For the first game, Alabama played Virginia Tech and the weather was freezing and sleeting. Still, attendees had so much fun, the bowl continued to grow and is now a favorite of football fans.
The St. Jude Rock n’ Roll Running Series Nashville is a two-day event held each spring with a marathon, half-marathon, 10k, 5k and other runs (including a doggie dash) through the city’s streets. “We provide hundreds of volunteers to make this event run smoothly and we’re always looking for people to help out,” says Aldo.
The Sports Council also helps manage the annual SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament being held at Bridgestone through at least 2035 and provides volunteers and marketing for the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix.
One of the more popular divisions of the Nashville Sports Council is its Women in Sports Initiative, a vibrant and inclusive community where fans and athletes of all backgrounds come together to increase the visibility of women in sports. These coaches, athletes and teams hope to inspire other women to follow in their footsteps. The Initiative is spearheaded by Aldo and the Council’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, Monica McConnaughey, and chaired by Sheila Gibson, Assistant VP of Acquisitions and Divestitures in the information and technology services group at HCA.
Every October, the Women in Sports Initiative hosts a Tip-Off Breakfast at First Horizon Park. The event brings local college women’s basketball players and coaches together and provides a way for those programs to preview their seasons. “We’re thankful to our community partners for helping us put on this event because it really has become the staple of our Initiative,” says Aldo.
“This year, in the NCAA Tournament, Middle Tennessee State University upset Louisville, and the earlier Tip-Off event provided up-close access to the MTSU coach, Rick Insell, the players and the program that’s making a national name for itself. Belmont did the same thing last year.”
The Initiative also played a major role in the 2022 SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament, a postseason event held at Bridgestone Arena.
2022 also marked the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the landmark federal civil rights law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in any education program, including sports, that receives federal funding. “We were heavily
involved in events surrounding the celebration of Title IX,” says Aldo, “and also that year we held a Women in Motorsports event featuring female drivers, pit crews and operators from the Grand Prix.”
The Women in Sports Initiative has continued adding events to its yearly calendar, including panel discussions, the “HBCU Through Her Eyes” content series spotlighting women from area historically black colleges and universities, and celebrations surrounding the annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day. For instance, on May 14, the public is welcome to participate in the Nashville Sports Council golf tournament at Gaylord Springs.
“Before I moved here,” Aldo says, “I thought Nashville was just honky tonks and cowboy hats. Instead, we have spectator sports happening all year and we still have a small-town feel.”
Nashville sports fans have much to look forward to in upcoming years. The new Nissan Stadium, set to open in 2027, will be operational in all kinds of weather. “The new stadium will take Nashville, which is already on a big stage, to a much larger one,” says Aldo.
As of this year, the Nashville Sports Council’s economic impact on the city is over $1 billion, with over 600 viewership hours and over five million spectators. “Nashville is used to being on music stages, and we want to be on the biggest stages in sports as well,” says Aldo. Will we host a Super Bowl in Nashville soon, or, dare we say it, an Olympics? “That’s a great question,” he laughs. “We’ll keep our fingers crossed.” NashvilleSports.com
The Nashville Sports Council's Women in Sports Initiative is deeply committed to championing and shining a spotlight on women's athletics, celebrating the legacy of Title IX and so much more. Achieving these goals requires collaboration and support from the community. That's why The Council invites you to be a part of this initiative. If you share its passion for women in sports and believe in the power of equality and opportunity, there are numerous ways to get involved. Whether you're interested in hosting events, contributing to marketing efforts, or have other ideas to help us further our mission, please reach out at NashvilleSports.com/women-in-sports
“A company born out of the need to help liberate and support women.”
“Prioritizing quality and longevity, we find the most eco-conscious materials that stand the test of time and wear.”
ABLE first came to be when Barrett Ward, Founder and CEO of the brand, made it a priority to find a way to create better opportunities for women, who make up 80 percent of the workers in the fashion industry. At age thirty, he went on a trip to Peru that changed his life forever. Leaving the country with a striking feeling that he was missing the entire point of life, Barrett decided to switch from a career in corporate sales to one in the nonprofit world. Five years later, he moved to Africa with his wife to help provide work for the brilliant women sacrificing themselves to poor working conditions. In 2013, he began teaching women – many of whom had been trafficked – how to make scarves to sell during the holidays. Scarf making is a largely male-dominated industry in Addis Ababa, but with training and dedication, these women sold
over 4,000 scarves in just two months. Blown away by the success, Barrett knew they were onto something greater than themselves.
He later became aware of the leather factories in Ethiopia that curated goods with intricate detail and design, which inspired him to transition the work from scarves to leather. ABLE began collaborating with manufacturers across the world to create leather pieces of its own, as well as continuing to support vendors in other countries and help them grow their businesses. Putting lots of thought into choosing their manufacturers, ABLE values top-quality products, wage levels, and especially how they care for women in the workplace. ABLE’s website states, “We were the first brand to publish our lowest wages, and we’re big believers that you don’t have to be
perfect before you can be honest. We are continuing to work toward living wages at all our manufacturers, and currently evolving our auditing standards to make sure they align with the values we’ve had since we were founded.”
Its home office in Nashville is made up of 96 percent women. Sarah Deveney, Director of Partnerships and Projects at ABLE, speaks on what it means to her to be part of an organization that recognizes and celebrates women every day. She shares, “We support each other and collaborate on things. The women that are a part of this company truly make it what it is. We care about each other and about the greater mission of bringing sustainable jobs and a lifestyle to people across the world. Being able to share that with my coworkers says a lot about who we are – it’s all to support each other and uplift each other every day.”
Sarah has a background working in male-dominated organizations, so she explains that making the shift from being one of the only females to being one of many was a very easy jump to make. Highlighting the supportive community she shares with her coworkers, she says, “At ABLE, I can show up every day exactly as I am. I can be me.”
With an array of items from high-quality leather bags, shoes, women's apparel, denim & handmade jewelry, each piece is thoughtfully designed to combine style, function, and fit so you can look good and feel great. Prioritizing quality and longevity, ABLE also makes it their mission to find the most eco-conscious materials that stand the test of time and wear. ABLE also works to create safe, dignified jobs both in Nashville – where its home office, jewelry
“We are clothing women from head to toe with pieces that empower both the women who wear them, and the women who make them.”
studio, and fulfillment center are - and around the world, through partnerships with value-aligned manufacturers.
“Hiring women and training them in skilled positions like creating jewelry became part of ABLE. To have our jewelry handmade in Nashville is a big piece of who we are.
Supporting women through the same aspect of employment, [providing] sustainable jobs to help their families [like we had in Ethiopia] and being able to do that in Nashville created that connection to where the company is today,” Sarah shares while speaking on their Nashville community.
Together with their customers, ABLE believes they can move the fashion industry forward and show the positive change possible when brands and customers value both the customer and the worker. AbleClothing.com
By any measure, Aruba is a jewel of an island. From fantastic landscapes and world-renowned beaches to an eclectic culture and high standard of living, Arubans have an appreciation for the finer things in life. It’s the kind of place that can inspire a young girl to become a fashion model or a competitive athlete. A scholar or a businesswoman.
Or as in the case of Jeanette Keith, all of the above. “As a child, I used to wear faux jewelry because it was so decorative and it makes a girl look pretty; it enhances her beauty,” she says. “Then when I got a little older, I took a part-time, after-school job at a local jewelry store. I
was always eager to work so I could make money and have my own things. But from there, I fell in love with the industry.”
Jeanette was motivated to enroll at the University of Aruba where, with a business management degree in hand, she was prepared to make an impact in the world of retail jewelry. She became the director of sales and operations for Little Switzerland, a purveyor of high-end jewelry with locations throughout the Caribbean. She has also been the island manager for Colombian Emeralds International.
But she also worked as a fashion model and was hired to be in a photo shoot for an airline’s in-flight magazine. Not only did the camera love
“There’s never any pressure. Just come in and look and enjoy yourself.”
Jeanette, so did the man behind it. That’s where she met Steve Keith. Eventually they married and relocated to his base in the Miami area.
“Modeling was a fun thing to do but, in Florida, there was all this competition,” says Jeanette. “So many girls there really wanted to pursue a modeling career. But my heart was with jewelry, so I dedicated myself to my profession full-time.”
Over the next several years Jeanette shuttled back-and-forth between South Florida and Aruba, managing stores that specialized in luxury brands. Eventually she and Steve moved back to his home state of Ohio, where she managed a family-owned store that catered to upper-tier clientele.
As a niche market, there are very few secrets in the world of luxury jewelers. So most of the owners know who the best managers are. About a year ago, Fink’s, a family-owned Virginia-based luxury jewelry chain, reached out to Jeanette about the store they were opening in Franklin. She was offered, and accepted, the job to manage the Fink’s store at 5019 Aspen Grove Drive.
Jeanette had never been to Middle Tennessee but she and Steve, their three children (two girls and one boy), four dogs and two cats moved to Franklin and haven’t looked back. “We love Middle Tennessee. The people are very nice and there’s so much to do here,” she says. “We’ve visited a couple of rivers and we go hiking and we enjoy the parks. It’s conducive to a healthy lifestyle. We do a lot of grilling and healthy eating is important to me. I’m all about health food and protein shakes.”
As a past Caribbean Champion of the International Federation of Body Building’s Body Figure category, fitness has always been a part of Jeanette’s life. She still trains for an hour, five times a week. “I wake up at 4 a.m. and go to the gym at 4:30,” she says. “When I was modeling, I wasn’t really into fitness. But when done properly, lifting weights helps to maintain a feminine physique. I do all weight training with free weights. No running.”
At Fink’s, Jeanette has assembled and manages a staff of 11. She prefers the personal connections that are fostered by working for a family-owned jewelry retailer over the numbers-driven model of a large corporation. “They genuinely care about their employees and their customers,” she says. “The people who work here know that they’re appreciated and that makes it much easier to serve our
clients. That’s so important in our industry because there is an emotional connection with jewelry, and you have to be able to connect with your clients on that level. It makes for a nice and welcoming environment for everyone.”
Nowhere is that more important than when it comes to selecting an engagement ring. “Sometimes when a guy comes in, he’s uncertain about how to make that special moment for her,” says Jeanette. “So we help him try to find a way. We get to know him on a personal level. We’ll ask him where they met. Then our custom design department can take those notes and ideas and use it as inspiration to create a design that will bring that ring to life. It’s rewarding when you can make memorable moments for people. We are helping them make their dreams come true.”
Fink’s was founded in 1930 in Roanoke, Virginia by Nathan and Sabel Fink. The company is now led by third and fourth-generation owners, Marc and Matthew Fink. There are 10 stores, including two in Tennessee (the other is in Chattanooga).
The store carries collections from top designers like Rolex, Cartier, David Yurman, Roberto Coin and many others. Fink’s has a private label, The Sabel Collection, named after the founding matriarch. And every solitaire diamond is hand selected by Cliff Burcham, Fink’s in-house diamond buyer. “We have strict standards and they have to pass his inspection,” says Jeanette. “He’s been with the company for over two decades. Most stores buy in parcels but Cliff inspects each individual diamond. He’s extremelymeticulous.”
While there’s certainly no limit to what a customer can spend, Jeanette believes the high standards and brand names make Fink’s more accessible to more people from all walks of life. “It’s a better shopping experience,” she says. “You can come to one of our designer events. Or you could come shop for a birthstone. You can even come in and relax and talk and just enjoy some time looking around. We’ll offer you a drink, so you’ll feel at home. There’s never any pressure. Just come in and look and enjoy yourself.” You might find that it’s a jewel of a place to be. Finks.com/pages/franklin-location
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ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI
PROVIDED
Getting into a hired car with a stranger can be intimidating, especially for women. Heather Lehrmann understood this, so she founded Nash Pink Ride in 2023 to offer a more personal, safe, and comfortable alternative.
All someone has to do is schedule a date and time, and the bright pink sparkly 2024 Honda Pilot with pink seats will be there, anytime of the day or night.
When Heather was thinking of moving out of the area, she transferred ownership to Franklin resident Shannon Kelley-Curry in February of this year.
“I thought her idea was great, plus I love to drive,” says Shannon.
ARTICLE BY CAROL FITE LYNN
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
In Franklin, Early June Flower Farm has quickly become a beloved fixture in the community, offering a resplendent array of locally grown blooms while championing sustainable farming practices.
Owned and operated by Nicole Bobek and Mackenzie Garner, this flourishing venture embodies a commitment to cultivating beauty and fostering environmental stewardship in the heart of Tennessee’s countryside.
Their journey into flower farming was born in 2022 from a shared love for the outdoors and a desire to work with their hands. The pair met while working for Luke and Caroline Bryan, with Bobek serving as a long-time personal assistant to support the growing Bryan business ventures, and Garner putting her passion to caring for
horses and other rescue farm animals to work at Brett’s Barn.
Bonding over weekend visits to farmers’ markets, they discovered a mutual appreciation for the beauty of locally grown blooms. Recognizing an opportunity to merge their love for nature with their entrepreneurial spirit, they embarked on the adventure of founding Early June Flower Farm. For the pair, the allure of flower farming lies not just in the tangible beauty of the blooms, but in the intangible joy they bring.
“From the simple act of planting a seed to the breathtaking spectacle of a field in full bloom, each day working with our plants is infused with a sense of wonder and possibility,” said Bobek.
When they’re not immersed in their professional endeavors, Nicole and Mackenzie can be found exploring the vibrant tapestry of their local community. Whether meandering through the local markets in search of fresh produce, trekking along scenic trails with their beloved canine companions, or indulging in the culinary delights of new local eateries, the pair finds solace and inspiration in the simple pleasures of life.
“The most rewarding aspect of our work is witnessing the miraculous transformation of a tiny seed into a vibrant flower,” said Garner. “It’s a reminder of the power of growth and renewal, and a testament to the beauty of life’s infinite possibilities.”
The ladies of Early June hope their flowers can inspire others to embrace the simple pleasures of life and find beauty in every day. For them, the farm is more than just a business — it’s a reflection of their shared passion for bringing happiness and positivity into the world, one bloom at a time.
To learn how to get your hands on Early June’s flowers online or at bouquet picking events this summer, visit EarlyJuneFlowers.com.
We are proud to present this unique investment opportunity for this Premier Sweet Home Alabama Venue. Our intention is to bring a new owner to the table while continuing the on-going operation of new & existing bookings with our current staff while maintaining the precise level of service we are known for.
All tours must be scheduled through Joseph Carter via Joseph@JosephCarterRealty.com or 205.717.5253 (LAKE)
Sometimes simply swapping a throw pillow, adding vibrant florals, or upgrading a piece of furniture is all it takes to completely transform a space. But for those of us not blessed with an eye for design, even these small changes can feel like a daunting task. Fear not, Franklin! Help can be found tucked inside a historic building off Lewisburg Avenue, where the team behind Zula and Mac stands ready to help make your house a home.
At the helm is Missie Hanson, a Leiper’s Fork native and cousin to the shop’s owner, Pam Hood. Prior to joining the Zula and Mac team, Missie racked up an impressive resume as a designer and retail aficionado. “I’m a store designer. I have bought. I have designed. I have interior designed,” Missie shares. “I started at Castner Knott and did windows for Frank’s on Main Street. I was recruited by The Limited, then was recruited back to Castner Knott.”
Missie’s impressive 18-year design career came to a pause when she welcomed two children, but her talents have now reemerged as a resource for Franklin and its surrounding cities. Together with assistant buyer and office manager Amy Martin, the duo has led Zula and Mac to the retail and design destination it is today. “Amy is my partner in crime, and she’s definitely our Instagram guru as well as the technological wiz,” Missie shares. “It’s the right and the left hand. Without one, there is no other.”
Zula and Mac is first and foremost a retail center, offering everything from lighting to artwork, throw pillows, custom furniture, tchotchkes, and a dedicated floral room with stunning artificial stems. You’ll be hard-pressed to leave empty handed as you make your way through the multiple rooms packed with stunning home decor items, but the fun doesn’t stop there. The back of the store also houses an affordably priced women’s clothing boutique, and there’s an
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ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
onsite modern farmhouse packed with additional treasures as well as outdoor pieces for gardens and patios.
“Over the last four years we really have evolved because we know our customer base,” says Missie. “We’re picky, and we take some risks, and we’re shocked at a lot of them. A lot of the crazy stuff usually flies out the door because you just never know who is here.”
The shop sees plenty of locals, but also has an impressive list of regulars who commute to Franklin from surrounding cities, and even states. It’s easy to see why, as the store caters to a variety of styles and preferences. You’ll find plenty of eclectic pieces, as well as reproduction antiques to French country art to modern and mid-century modern.
While there are plenty of items to browse in-store, Zula and Mac also works with custom furniture makers and retailers across the country, one of which does manufacturing nearby in North Carolina. In-store appointments are also available for larger projects, where the Zula and Mac team can help piece together furniture and fabrics for a perfect look.
In addition to big projects, the Zula and Mac team thoroughly enjoys helping customers mix and match in-store items to beautifully decorate spaces in their homes. “When a customer has a picture of a bookshelf, coffee table, or kitchen island and doesn’t know what to do with it, we can help with that,” Amy says. “Sometimes I will literally clear off a cabinet or a table and pull things together,” laughs Missie.
When an iPhone photo or an in-store consultation just won’t cut it, Missie is also available to travel up to 20 miles outside of Franklin to assist with in-home design. “When you make an appointment, I go out to the home, sit down with the customer, and learn what they’re looking for, whether it’s one room, a new move-in, or they want to take what they have and use it in a different world,” Missie says. “I’ve even had customers put every single piece of artwork and lamp in their bonus room and say, ‘Have at it.’”
In-home design services have a one-hour consultation fee, with any additional time needed charged at an hourly rate. Missie describes herself as an eclectic designer but is passionate about working around pieces and styles the customer loves. “If I don’t like something or if it’s not right, I’ll try to reposition it if they’re attached to it,” she adds.
“I ask, ‘What do you love?’ or ‘What’s a necessity for this room?’ I offer up any suggestions I can and use as much of their belongings as possible to make the things look right.”
If you like the look and feel of Zula and Mac, chances are you’ll love working with Missie for private in-home consultations. ZulaAndMacHome.com
MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM - 6PM | 1930
Leveraging real estate resources with a creative and tenacious spirit, the LCT Team of Parks Realty are experts in delivering a synergy of success for each client with long-time REALTOR® Lisa Culp Taylor as team leader. We are ready to help you buy or sell a home in Franklin, Brentwood, or Nashville - and we have the experience and knowledge to make the whole process easier for you. See our available listings at LCTTeam.com.
EPCREATIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY MEET TO CREATE A UNIQUE BRAND
ARTICLE BY LAUREN KELLY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For Suzanne Wade, founder of Rank & Sugar– a handcrafted, sustainable Army apparel brand based in Nashville – the need to create led to a brand of reinvention.
“I’ve always been an artist," she says. "There was no paved road that I grew up with, so I learned to work with what I had which made me scrappy and resourceful. Many generations of my family had been artists so I knew I would follow suit. Although I grew up in Louisiana, I went to art school at Parsons in L.A. and then I finished up at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, Rhode Island where I studied graphic design. I moved back to New Orleans and did graphic design there for about a decade after graduating until I moved up to Connecticut. At this point in my life, I was married, had kids, and wanted to pivot and move towards interior design which I had a love for. I ended up doing that for about 13 years.”
Wade’s initial interest in graphic and interior design stirred up a deeper passion to connect with her clients. Through her own creativity and passion, she changed career paths one final time. “I’ve always loved anything in fashion," she says. "My graphic and interior design background bolstered up my pursuit of fashion design since I had been learning all about color study, shapes, and how things relate to each other. Rank & Sugar all started with an M51, which is a World War II jacket. At the time, it felt like my life was exploding into a million pieces, but putting on
“There was no paved road that I grew up with, so I learned to work with what I had which made me scrappy and resourceful.
this jacket was a magical combination of feeling safe and protected but also empowered– which were the two things I needed most at that time,” Wade says. “So being that I can’t leave anything alone, I taught myself to embroider and started embroidering things that felt infused with love and peace into these pieces that had really been through the war. During that time in my life, I had lost my voice along the way so part of the need to embroider words on things came from me finding my voice again.”
Through her own experiences, Wade developed a brand that would connect with others. “Rank & Sugar is such a study in the comeback story and reinvention," she says. "Honoring things that are imperfect is so much more interesting to me than perfect, sparkly, and new. I love taking these pieces that hold so much history and bringing them back to life by infusing them with so much love for others. The little things like that keep me doing this every day. Nothing makes me happier than getting a message from a customer when they really connect with a piece and feel good in it. Or feeding off other artists– it’s such a gift to see what others are creating and to collaborate with them to make something new. Ultimately, creating Rank & Sugar was about self expression– my need to create– and finding my voice while being unapologetic about it. I want to make my own art that also puts a smile on someone’s face and makes them feel good about what they are wearing. That’s why I do this.”
Rank & Sugar’s aim goes beyond pleasing its clients. It benefits the environment as well. “The focus is on slow sustainable fashion," says Wade. "Fashion in general is such a huge contributor to our global problem of pollution and warming. It pretends to be so glamorous but there is absolutely nothing glamorous about that. For me, it is a mission to take what we have and look at it in a new way– bringing it back to life. We have a section on our website called ‘Customize your Closet’ and the whole point of it is to take pieces from people’s closet clean-outs that they might not wear or that don’t resonate with them anymore so we can completely reinvent them. I love that stuff. Anything we can keep out of the landfill I’m all here for.”
RankAndSugar.com
“I was in so much pain I couldn’t put on shoes, much less do the things I love. When I heard about Kellum Stem Cell Institute I thought I’d call. I’m so glad I did!
Are you tired of living in pain and feeling hopeless? Meet Carolyn Smith from Macon County. She struggled with neuropathy symptoms after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, until she found hope at Kellum Stem Cell Institute. Stem cell therapy changed Carolyn’s life, allowing her to enjoy activities again like hiking, playing golf, and spending time with her new granddaughter, Emersyn Grace.
Say goodbye to nerve pain and hello to a brighter future. Discover the HOPE you’ve been searching for at Kellum Stem Cell Institute.
$15,000,000 | 11+ ACRES | 5 BD | 5/4 BA | 19561 SF
Discover a hilltop estate along the Harpeth River with breathtaking views in the gated Hidden River community. Built in 2022 and designed by architect Preston Quirk, this residence features a grand gated entrance and is perfect for entertaining, boasting a golf simulator, bowling alley, bars, caterers kitchen, media room, wine cellar, and two gyms. Relax in the pool and spa area, and store your vehicle collection in the conditioned 6-car garage.
$3,325,000 | 28 ACRES | APPROVED FOR 2-FIVE BEDROOM HOMESITES | POND
This stunning parcel is minutes from Leipers Fork Village approved for 2 five-bedroom homesites. Featuring a spring-fed pond with a dock, a fully fenced 5-acre paddock with a run-in shed, and backs up to Natchez Trace Park for privacy and natural beauty.
$5,950,000 | 1 ACRE | 6 BD | 7/2 BA | 10807 SF
Enter through Iron Lion double front doors to discover a gourmet kitchen, lavish primary suite, and entertainment amenities like a pool with bar seating, spa, and fire feature by Rondo Pools. Crafted by Preston Quirk, JBT Construction, and JFY Designs, this new luxury home sits on an estate lot backing up to lush greenery.
Over the last few decades, the field of anti-aging has had a complete facelift. Dr. Mary Lynn Moran is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who has been practicing for over 30 years. Over the course of her career, she has witnessed scientific and technological breakthroughs as well as the explosion of the Internet. It wasn’t long ago that fighting father time was reserved for the wealthy who sought relatively few practitioners who performed facelifts that would be considered unnatural looking by current standards. Fast forward to today when the anti-aging market is worth $63 billion and is expected to reach $107 billion by 2030. We sat down with Dr. Moran to get her perspective about the state of the world of facial rejuvenation.
“WHILE THERE ARE MANY EFFECTIVE AND SAFE WAYS TO PREVENT AND REVERSE AGING, THERE ARE AT LEAST AS MANY TREATMENTS THAT ARE INEFFECTIVE OR EVEN HARMFUL.”
DO YOU THINK THE PREVALENCE OF COSMETIC PROCEDURES ON SOCIAL MEDIA HAS BEEN A POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE THING?
While there are many effective and safe ways to prevent and reverse aging, there are at least as many treatments that are ineffective or even harmful. Some of the information being shared is tremendously educational but there is also a lot of misinformation. Some of the trends posted on social media are very concerning, such as buccal fat removal, the cat eye thread lift, and lip lifts in young people. There are even some crazy feeds about “bonesmashing” to create a more chiseled jawline. Girls as young as eight (called Sephora Kids) are using potent anti-aging skincare which is irritating to young skin, not to mention unnecessary. As a result, when potential patients seek treatment for concerns about their appearance, I spend a lot of time reeducating and informing patients about various options and try to set realistic expectations.
WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON MISCONCEPTION THAT PATIENTS HAVE ABOUT STAYING YOUTHFUL?
I see a lot of confusion around the nature of noninvasive treatments and the role of nonsurgical versus surgical procedures. The public perception is that you can postpone surgery indefinitely with minimally invasive procedures. The proliferation of med-spas and the number of different types of practitioners performing cosmetic treatments has shifted the mindset about nonsurgical procedures. They are now seen as more similar to getting lash extensions than having a medical procedure with potentially significant risks. I am shocked at the number of patients who do not know the qualifications of the person who performed a laser on their face or what type of filler they had injected.
Mary Lynn Moran, M.D. is certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, specializing in head and neck surgery. Her professional memberships include the American Academy of Facial, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). She comes from a family of seven physicians and knew from an early age that she wanted to be a surgeon. She was admitted to an accelerated six-year premed/medical school program at the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, and received her MD degree from the University of Michigan Medical School.
She then completed five years of head and neck surgery training in Boston at the Tufts and Boston University combined program. From there, she completed an additional fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery training.
As a double board-certified female facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Moran is committed to the art and science of her craft.
Nonsurgical procedures are amazing when used properly in the right setting by a qualified and licensed professional, but It is important to understand their limits and the potential for long-term consequences. Eventually, gravity wins and the only effective treatment is surgery. If a patient has had an abundance of facial fillers to create the appearance of a facelift, they can begin to look unnatural. Watch any episode of Real Housewives for a good example. Fortunately, fillers made of hyaluronic acid such as Restylane, Juvederm, and RHA can be dissolved with an enzyme. Synthetic biostimulatory fillers such as Sculptra, Radiesse, and Bellafil, however, cannot be easily dissolved and can complicate surgical procedures if they cause too much of a reaction.
Similarly, thread lifts can create scar tissue that causes the skin and underlying layers to be stuck to the underlying tissue. Treatments promoted as nonsurgical facelifts, like Ultherapy or FaceTime, that use energy to tighten the skin can cause similar issues. It is critical to let your surgeon know your entire history of non- or minimally invasive facial procedures so that they can anticipate and plan around any potential problems. Nothing is worse than encountering a mess of scar tissue in the middle of a facelift as a result of a treatment that the patient forgot to tell me about.
Some treatments that have been widely performed in other countries for years such as skin plumpers are finally approved in this country. As we age, we lose the ability to retain moisture in our skin which leads to a dry, dull, crepey appearance. These newer fillers can be injected into the most superficial layers of the skin creating a plumper smoother appearance. I have been loving exosomes as powerhouse messengers that tell the skin to repair itself and can be applied topically after microneedling or laser resurfacing. They have also shown promise in encouraging new hair growth in many patients. Ultimately, our understanding of how we age biologically at the cellular level is a result of a combination of our underlying genes and the environment in which we live.
This is the science of epigenetics which may well lead us closer to discovering the proverbial fountain of youth. Artificial Intelligence will inevitably assist in optimizing treatment for patients. Fortunately, as a surgeon, I think my job is still secure - for now!
MaryLynnMoranMD.com
“Don’t follow the crowd, let the crowd follow you.”
MARGARET THATCHER
Women constantly struggle with the ability to find well-fitting garments off-the-rack. Some problem areas could include shoulders, chest, sleeve length, jacket length, and pant length, thus creating an improper fit. Whether you’re looking for a more feminine or masculine fit/design, Richards Bespoke is able to create the perfect garment for you.
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Mistakes We Never Made Tops The List of Summer Beach Reads
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Hannah Brown first captured the hearts of viewers on The Bachelor when she competed for Colton Underwood's heart It was her vibrant personality and unapologetic authenticity that made fans fall in love with her when she returned to the spotlight as The Bachelorette, where her journey to find love became something of a cultural phenomenon. Brown ultimately emerged as a symbol of empowerment for millions of female viewers. "It was
actually such a precious moment in my life,” she says. “It was such a learning experience. The life change that happened in such a short amount of time was drastic. And I feel like I'm still peeling back the layers and kind of resurrecting from that in some way. I'm so grateful for that opportunity."
The Nashville resident has since made the segue from television personality (also competing and winning Dancing With The Stars) to author. She first earned the moniker of author in 2021 with her memoir, God Bless This Mess: Learning to Live and Love Through Life's Best (and Worst) Moments, which became a New York Times bestseller This time around, she's jumped into the world of fiction with Mistakes We Never Made, released this month.
Brown says, "I have always been an avid reader. I love getting lost in a book, and so to be able to have this opportunity was just a dream come true. I remember being in high school sitting with my mom
at the kitchen table, and being like, 'One day I want to write a book.' To be able to see that dream that I had in high school come to fruition is really cool."
Mistakes We Never Made tells the story of Emma and Finn , frenemies who alternate between love and hate for each other.
Brown says, "I wouldn't say the exact experiences are from my life, but the feelings that I've had, and different relationships really inspired the book. Not just romantically, but with friendships. I think that's a big part of the book that makes it unique, is that it's not about just love with another person or the drama within that. But it's also about the love you have for the people in your life and your friendships. So I just drew from different experiences and feelings that I've had in the past, and then made it into a really great rush of adventure between the two characters Emma and Finn."
As any author would attest, writing a book is not an easy process. Brown says, "It's a very long process to write a book. The first part is really just coming up with a creative idea like what you want this to be, but the character development is one of my favorite parts. 'What is it behind the way that this person reacts? What is their background?' I love that part, but it takes a while to come up with these creative concepts that really ground the book. I worked with somebody else, I had a team that helped me with this, and that was probably my favorite part, just being really collaborative, asking ourselves 'What is the main message behind this? What are these characters feeling, but not saying and how do we put that on the paper?' It's a lot of that at the beginning, and then it gets into the writing process that takes a while and there's a lot of editing. I think people don't realize just how much editing goes into it."
“Life is full of lessons and some of those you either learn something from or it becomes something great, but you have to take the chance, take the risk, and something beautiful can happen.”
Brown continues, "I just can't say enough about the people who have been a part of really making Mistakes We Never Made the book that it is. I'm so proud, but I could not have done this on my own. Having people who have been in this business for a long time to really guide me and help me make certain decisions, or having those really long conversations about making sure that we get this right. It takes a lot of time and work, but what we've gotten out of it, I am so proud of."
Mistakes We Never Made is book one in a twobook series. Brown says, "I think we're still a ways away, but we're working on it already right now. We're in that process of the character development and editing the few chapters that we've kind of just started. We're still in the beginning stages, but really excited about what's next."
In between writing books, Brown is hosting a weekly lifestyle podcast, Better Tomorrow. She got the idea for the name of her podcast from listening to another podcast. "One of the guests said that he asked himself the question, 'Am I better today than I was yesterday?' And that really stuck with me," Brown says. "I wrote it down on a post-it to ask myself at the end of the day. And when I had that honest conversation with myself, it really didn't allow there to be another 'no' day the next day. What did I do today that didn't help me move forward? Or what did I do to help me move forward and how can I do that a little bit better the next day? So that's where the name came from."
Guests have included her fiancee Adam Woolard, Bachelor alumni Tyler Cameron, Kaitlyn Bristowe and Colton Underwood, Tiffani Thiessen, Tamron Hall and anyone Brown "really wants to talk to. I love talking to people who are totally different than me, but also we have some type of connection, that string that connects us all, and being able to hit on that so that the listener can also relate. That's really important to me. I feel like you can think somebody's so different than you, but the whole goal of connection is to find that thing that we can all resonate with."
Brown reminds us of the power of connection and continues to make a meaningful impact through her words. @hannahbrown
“I want people to really get lost in the fast pace of the book. It’s that fun, spicy, perfect beach read.”
Cultheir is your source for custom-made. Our handcrafted tables are made with precision and artistry by skilled craftsmen from across the globe.
Our materials include an extensive range of wood species from Teak, Mesquite, Acacia, Mango, and Sabino, along with a variety of Travertine and marbles.
Email designteam@cultheir.com to create an oneof-a-kind heirloom.
Was your New Year’s resolution to get more organized? If you can’t seem to ever find what you’re looking for in your closet, it may be time to design the closet of your dreams. Interior designer and owner of Kimber Watson Closets, Becky Watson has a passion for not only building functional closets but designing them to be high-end, beautifully crafted works of art.
Graduating as a CIDA-accredited interior designer from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, she got her start doing design updates and rearrangement in commercial spaces before moving to Nashville and diving into a role at a large closet company. After mastering closets, she began working for a builder doing custom kitchens, closets, bathrooms, and high-end renovations, gaining experience in the construction world, which helped her learn the crucial role of interior design in construction. Watson took her knowledge and skills into a position at Troubadour Golf & Field Club in College Grove, where she served as its interior design coordinator.
“I come from a background of interior design that specializes in both closet design, kitchen and bath,” she says. While working at Troubadour, she was also
asked to design closets and soon realized that she was ready to turn her passion into a full-time business. “I had designers reaching out to me because they knew my background was in closet design,” says Watson. “I call these spaces full scope bespoke dressing rooms. Designers, architects, and builders have continued to reach out for closet design and fabrication and I thought ‘I could totally make a living doing this.’”
So when a high-profile country artist reached out for a custom-build, it was the perfect catalyst for to launch Kimber Watson Closets in November of 2022. “My background of being an interior designer working with a design build company has really given me that confidence and knowledge to do full scope projects,” she says. “A lot of closet companies specialize in designing modular closet systems which is great, but we go a step further providing full scope projects from the floor to ceiling and we can even put your items away for you.”
For Watson, luxury and customization is key. From the smallest details to the biggest designs, she
wants to make sure that her customers’ closets are built to their exact needs and dream visions.
After inputting some initial information into a questionnaire on the website, a potential client will receive a call to discuss ideas before Watson comes onsite for a consultation. This includes measuring the space, accounting for all inventory, and seeing what things they’d like displayed and showcased. For example, she’s had one client who wanted specially lit display areas for wedding and vow renewal dresses, while other clients have wanted to showcase a model boat and a wine collection in a small refrigerator. “We are working on a project where we are fabricating steel glass doors instead of wood and aluminum. The sky is the limit,” says Watson.
After creating a 3D-design through an architectural CAD, she’ll present a plan to the potential client and from there they’ll begin picking out materials and then will obtain pricing. Watson doesn’t just keep a small selection of options for clients to choose from, rather once she learns their taste, she’ll go to slab yards and fabricators to individually select every sample. Once they’ve reviewed samples and chosen what they’d like to move forward with, cabinet drawings are created, and final decisions are made. From that point it is a 14 to 16 week turnaround time for the complete build and installation.
“It takes about two weeks or even longer for an installation, which just speaks to the workmanship and the quality of what we offer,” she shares of the amount of time they are in a client’s house. “Again, other companies might take two days to install a large closet. If your wall is out of alignment, we’ll cut the wood, so it’s aligned with the wall as opposed to putting up trim to cover gaps. It’s a very time consuming and labor-intensive process, but the outcome is beautiful and worth it.”
Using only the best materials is of utmost importance for Watson. “We care about the quality. Therefore, we want the
“My background of being an interior designer working with a design build company has really given me that confidence and knowledge to do full scope projects.”
really nice materials,” she explains. “We prefer not to work with melamine as that requires a camlock system that leaves the mechanical elements to tighten the system exposed." Instead, they use high quality wood for their millwork custom-builds with the most popular being Rift Sawn White Oak and Maple and even have had interest in steel, glass doors.
If a client is already working with an interior designer and/or architect, she likes to come alongside and help make a cohesive design with her build. She says that for many interior designers, their goal is to make the client’s home a “sanctuary” and since they don’t have time to do things like inventory, they bring her in for her specialty in-closet design. Watson will have the interior designer bless the layout and base her design off the materials the interior designer is already using to make sure that everything seamlessly flows together throughout the space.
From start to finish, Kimber Watson Closets brings a custom approach to any closet design and build. KimberWatsonClosets.com
ARTICLE
BY CHRISTINA MADRID | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Have you ever had a song stuck in your head? After listening to Jessie Baylin’s deluxe edition of Strawberry Wind , you are bound to have multiple melodies playing in your mind on any given day. There is something about her imaginative lyrics and dreamy production that appeals to everyone.
Music has always played a role in the Nashville-based singer/ songwriter’s life. Her parents owned a restaurant and bar in New Jersey, so she was around music all the time. “It was before streaming music, so my mom would put 10 CDs into a CD changer and I would mess around with the shuffler,” says Jessie. Her parents also introduced her to jazz at a young age. Those tunes are linked to some of her fondest memories, so it is not surprising that the tracks on Strawberry Wind reflect that psychedelic warmth of the 1970s.
Jessie left New Jersey to attend art school in New York. She was interested in performing arts and took acting classes. Being
surrounded by artists, there was much to explore but it wasn’t until living in Los Angeles that she knew she wanted to sing. Then things started to happen. She booked a showcase and had a residency at a club in L.A. where her show continuously sold out. At 20, she landed a publishing deal with Sony.
Since then, Jessie has had several celebrated albums, but Strawberry Wind is her first family album. Inspired by the joy of motherhood, Jessie pitched the idea of a family album to Amazon, and they loved it. So she and her longtime friend and producer, Richard Swift, got to work on an album that brings out the child in everyone. Jessie also had a short, animated film made to accompany five songs, which follows a young girl’s adventures as she dreams.
Jessie re-released the record in April—a deluxe edition, with four new songs she recorded in December. Even though it lived exclusively on Amazon until recently, it has been her most successful
album so far, with more than 23 million streams.“I’m excited to get it into the hands of more families,” she says. “A lot of love and thought went into this album.”
The songs embrace universal themes that anyone can relate to and allows adults to be whimsical. “We didn’t dummy it down for kids,” Jessie adds. The song “Sparkle Shoelaces” for instance, was literally inspired by shoes with sparkle shoelaces, but it also carries a deeper message of how positivity can turn things around, as she sings “what once was tragic turns into magic when you put on your sparkle shoes.”
As if the success of the album wasn’t impressive enough, despite being a mom, an artist and running a household, the Strawberry Wind deluxe tracks were written and recorded in just two days. Jessie admits that she has a knack for songwriting and understands the sound she wants.
In 2018, Richard Swift passed away and Jessie stepped back to reflect and decide what to do next. She had worked with Richard for over a decade and he helped build the sound she was known for. Jessie stayed in a “safe zone” and wrote with her friends, Daniel Kashian and Ian Fitchuk and came out with Jersey Girl in September 2022.
A lot of the creative descriptive writing she had done for Strawberry Wind was poured into Jersey Girl . “I loved just opening my mind ’s eye as I was exploring an idea- just playing with words in a more descriptive way,” she says.
Jessie, in a sense, came full-circle with the release of Jersey Girl , a nod to her birthplace. “I was running away from that life for so long,” she admits. “I wanted more than living in the suburbs of New Jersey.” But she now realizes, “it is a fine, solid base to grow up from,” and is proud of that album. In fact, the last track, “Jersey Girls,” pays tribute to all those “fierce but soft Jersey girls that are so lovable.”
So what’s next for the artist who set and achieved her two major life goals (opening for Stevie Nicks and selling out the legendary Troubadour-nightclub in California)? “I have some song ideas kicking around,” Jessie says. “I don’t want to wait too long to release another album.” In the meantime, she plans to do some family-oriented shows around the country in unique locations. She believes that children should have the opportunity to see live performances.
Her one piece of advice for all those aspiring artists in the area is to “stay creative and carry a pen and paper with you wherever you go. Songs are everywhere. You just have to pay attention.” JessieBaylin.com
After 40 years of servant leadership Dr. Snodgrass will be retiring in mid-May of this year. As a valued lecturer, mentor, published author and former assistant clinical professor at both Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital and MeHarry Medical College School of Dentistry, Dr. Snodgrass has dedicated his professional career to educating parents, to keeping children out of dental pain, and to “Give Every Child A Smile to Build Their Future On” during their growing years.
Since opening his first dental office in 1987, and taking on his partner, Dr. John T. (Terry) King in 1998, together they have built and established one of the largest multi-specialty dental practices in the United States. It consists of five Middle Tennessee dental offices and over 270 employees. In 2006, they designed, built, equipped, supplied and staffed a free dental clinic in Haiti and the Dominican Republic that still operates today.
“Our lives are impacted and influenced by the people we encounter on life’s journey. I’ve been blessed to meet children and their families from all over the world. These have been children with every anomaly, physical handicap, and medical condition known and unknown to man. These families have put their trust and confidence in me and my staff, and for that reason, I am eternally grateful. My prayer is that I have made as positive an impact in their lives as they have made in mine.”
“ I want to thank all of the people who have given me the opportunity to live my dream and provide me with an amazing career, none of which would have been possible without my welltrained and dedicated staff. I consider myself blessed to be one of the few whose career was also their passion. I am going to miss my patients, their families and my staff greatly.”
While self-care is always a good idea, a little special pampering is extra appreciated by expectant mothers. Alli Guay, owner of AG Beauty, offers a variety of services for her clients including specializing in lashes and facials, but she is exceptionally passionate about helping moms-to-be feel as comfortable in their skin before, during, and after pregnancy.
“My heart is really with these moms because I’ve been there,” says Guay. “I’m a mother of four. I know what it’s like to have been pregnant. I know what it feels like when you just can’t figure out the right formula for your skin either on your face or your stomach or on your back and there’s very little education, very few products, and there’s almost no treatments, other than a massage or maybe an acupuncture treatment that helps the mother-to-be.”
With over 15 years in the skincare and beauty industry, Guay is experienced in facials, lashes, and a variety of treatments. She knew from a young age that she wanted to help people through this line of work. “I’ve been saying I was going to be in the beauty industry since I was 12. You can call and ask my mom,” she says with a laugh.
After more than a decade in the industry, she began to specialize her services to help pregnant and postpartum moms. “I wanted to offer other things that suited where my life was,” she explains. “Being a mom is really important to me.”
Guay moved to Tennessee from California in November of 2023 and brought her business AG Beauty Clinic with her across the country. Upon moving, she operated out of Spring Hill, but wanted to expand her space and recently moved her business to a new location twice as big in Franklin this April.
As a mother of children ages eight, four, three, and one, she wanted to help expectant mothers feel their best during their pregnancy. During her third pregnancy, even as a skincare professional, she was having problems finding products until she came across IMAGE Skincare. “They have tailored about 80, maybe almost 90 percent of their products to be everybody safe - pregnancy safe, kids, elderly, cancer patients,” says Guay. “They’re regulated by the EU, which is a much stronger regulation than anything in the United States. Once I did their training on what I could use for these beauty services, I started creating one that’s just for your belly.”
She created the AG Pregnancy Experience, which covers three treatment areas: the face, “bump,” and back. These treatments target a variety of focuses including fine lines, wrinkles, hormonal breakouts, and acne.
Each treatment is customized and tailored specifically to the mother-to-be, to treat whatever her skin may need, such as addressing itchiness, needing extra exfoliation, etc. These services can be done at any stage in pregnancy and to help aid in recovery of the body postpartum, but Guay suggests enjoying them during the third trimester. “It is when you’re the most uncomfortable, and the most important time to keep your stomach hydrated,” she explains in regard to minimizing stretch marks. The facial is similar to a traditional spa facial, but what sets it apart is that the ingredients in the skincare products and the techniques used are safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding postpartum. The belly bump treatment is similar to that of the facial, but it includes a gentle massage to provide relief from pressure created by the baby. “It’s a very, very light touch massage,” she explains of the bump treatment. “If you’ve had a facial it’s essentially the exact same steps. You’re getting a cleanse, you’re getting an exfoliation, you’re getting a mask, you’re getting a gentle massage, and moisturizer.” The back facial is perfect for targeting all the areas that are hard to reach during pregnancy. It includes a deep cleanse, extractions (if needed), massage, and hydrating mask.
The pregnancy treatment package is an ideal gift for expectant mothers because it allows the mother to choose the order of when she wants to utilize each of the three services—face, bump, and back. Guay suggests spacing the treatments two to four weeks apart for the remainder of the third trimester. She also offers kits of products for both the face and body and specifically sells them in smaller amounts of product than normal skincare products. This is so expectant moms can use them when they need them during their pregnancy or postpartum, when they have specific skincare needs, but don’t have a bunch leftover when they are ready to go back to their normal pre-pregnancy skincare routine.
“I’ve done it all. I’ve owned the big, I’ve owned the tiny. This one clinic is really a one-on-one experience between the client and me,” Guay says. “I’ve lived in Texas, I’ve lived in all parts of California but we are by far so excited to be a part of this community.
@ag_beautyclinic AGBeautyClinic.com
ELEVATED EXPERIENCE // CLASSIC SIMPLICITY // CONTEMPORARY TRENDS
1470 KITTRELL ROAD, FRANKLIN, TN | BEDS: 4 | BATHS: 5 ½ | SQFT: 5,617 | $1,999,900
Nestled in the picturesque Franklin countryside, this traditional home with a farmhouse flair offers a peaceful retreat with expansive living spaces & breathtaking views! Designed for easy living, the bright/open floor plan features formal dining, large great room with built-ins & fireplace that opens to a sunlit hobby/playroom, a quaint black & white country kitchen with breakfast nook, an office/5th sleeping space & a primary suite with spa bath. Upstairs find a large media/game room with vaulted ceiling & wet bar plus two large guest suites with private baths. Need more room? Head downstairs & find the guest apartment with full kitchen, full bath & laundry, perfect for in-laws, family friends, private office or writing studio! Finally step outside & imagine the possibilities. A barn for horses & goats? A chicken coop? Pool & pool house? Pickleball court? With no HOA, if you can dream it, you can build it! With a new roof, new gutters, new carpet, new paint, newer HVAC, this home is a true WOW!
LANE, BRENTWOOD, TN | BEDS: 4 | BATHS: 4 | SQFT: 4,831 | $1,599,900
Charming executive style home, meticulously maintained & beautifully upgraded. With soaring 2 story ceilings & walls of windows, natural light floods the open concept floor plan that easily connects the great room w/stacked stone fireplace/built-ins & expansive breakfast nook to the chef’s kitchen w/ double ovens, gas cooktop, dual zone wine fridge & large seating island. Retreat to the gracious primary suite w/luxurious spa bath complete with heated floors & not 1 but 2 walk in closets! Upstairs find 3 generously sized guest suites & a media room with wet bar/beverage fridge PLUS a separate game room with pool table & accessories. Outside enjoy morning coffee & evening sunsets from your expansive deck complete with gas grill, overlooking a gorgeous professionally landscaped backyard with Rainbird irrigation & low voltage lighting. With a central vacuum in the house & garage, 21x7 finished storage, speakers for sound plus ring doorbell and rear yard spotlight, this home is not to be missed!!
Only 145 miles from Franklin sits Alabama’s Lewis Smith Lake, commonly called “Smith Lake,” and rated the second-cleanest lake in the country besides Lake Tahoe. Smith Lake is fed by small rivers that run through rural areas. It reaches a depth of 300 feet and most channels are 100 feet deep, making the lake clearer and cooler.
Melinda Edwards, a realtor with Lake Homes Realty, grew up on a 100-acre lakeside farm and has lived there all her life. “My granddaddy was a farmer and he bought land prior to the lake being formed, and with the creation of the lake, he provided a wonderful place for generations of our family to enjoy,” she says. “Having lived here all my life has given me an advantage I can share with my clients of knowing the lake so well.”
Melinda wants others to experience the Smith Lake she feels blessed to have. “There’s nothing like seeing the lake from my bed first thing in the morning, watching nature from my deck as I sip a cup of coffee or feeling the wind in your hair with a boat ride after a stressful day,” she says.
The lake comprises 22,000 acres with over 500 miles of shoreline. “There’s so much to do year-round. In the summer we have boating, jet skis, kayaking, all the water sports, fishing tournaments for large-mouth bass, crappie – over 70 species of fish,” says Edwards.
“We enjoy packing lunch and taking the whole day riding and seeing the beautiful lake homes, people enjoying themselves, stopping to swim or pull the grandkids on the tube. A usual treat is heading to the marina for dinner and an evening concert and meeting people, swapping business cards while kids play. The marina and grill are a great environment for lake goers,” says Melinda.
Several restaurants and marinas serve the many lake visitors and grocery store chains have begun delivery service to the lake area which may be rural but is thriving, especially in the summer.
Melinda estimates that about half of their Lake Homes Realty/Justin Dyar Team clients come from the Franklin and Nashville area and buyers from other states are also snapping up properties.
$3,950,000 | 119 COUNTY ROAD 2112, Bremen, AL 35033 | 6 BD 4.5 BA 6,600 SF
• Smith Lake (Ryan Creek) The true definition of lakefront luxury! This custom home is located in the prestigious Moss Rock Pointe community. Positioned perfectly to capture some of Smith Lake’s most magnificent sunsets. Soaring ceilings in the great room bring in natural light. Close the blinds with the touch of a button. A custom outdoor fireplace and grilling area highlight the outdoor space. This home has remarkable detail from the custom heavy wood doors to the metal and cedar shake roof. Designed to appear that the home has been nestled in the trees for many years. Tucked away just off the main channel while you are still able to enjoy massive views. The upper level has a large bonus room currently being used as an office and exercise room. With two laundry rooms, two kitchens, and 3 living spaces, this home is truly built to provide the best experience possible. Absolutely one of a kind and this property will remain a staple on Smith Lake for years to come!
“We have many interesting newcomers arriving in the area,” says Melinda. Some are buying ‘legacy homes’ to pass down to children. The better lots start at $100,000 and homes currently go up to $4.5 million. Lake Homes Realty, under team leader Justin Dyar – aka “Mr. Smith Lake” – produced over $300 million in sales in 2023.
“Our buyers purchase lake homes to enjoy for themselves and their families and many add in the rental facet to assist in paying for their home or for investment purposes.”
Jeff Thomas, owner of Smith Lake Rentals for over 20 years said, “Post-pandemic has seen an explosion in rentals with many buying on the lake with renting the property in mind. Many are trying to pay for the property with rentals similar to what used to be possible at the beach.”
One advantage to owning a lake house instead of a beach house is the savings on insurance. “We don’t have hurricanes and floods and I believe once you spend time here, it becomes part of your soul,” says Melinda. “Many who have spent time on the lake as a child are coming back because they miss it so much.”
Are you thinking of buying a second home? Melinda offers the following ideas to consider:
+ Will you be renting out the home? “The rental market around Smith Lake has really taken off. Be sure to choose a neighborhood that allows rentals, including through VRBO and Airbnb. Rental income can help cover your mortgage.”
+ If your second home is more than a summer place, choose one with year-round water access. Reservoir lakes like Smith Lake have lower pools in the wintertime, with water levels managed by Alabama Power.
+ Hire a property manager to look after your home when you’re not there. “Smith Lake has several concierge service companies that will check on your house and your dock and manage maintenance needs for their clients,” says Melinda. “An advantage of using our real estate team is that we have a strong list of contacts for whatever our clients need.”
+ Work with a local realtor who understands the region’s water access and levels, knows where the flood zones are located, understands dock permitting and access, and who can recommend the best maintenance teams to help with your plumbing, HVAC and other home care needs.
Facebook.com/p/Smith-Lake-Alabama-RealEstate-Melinda-Edwards-100063788133245/
We sat down with Brentwood resident Nanette Johnson, 59, and the content creator of the Instagram blog, Sweet Fringe Benefits. Nanette is an accountant for a global company and has lived in Tennessee for 21 years with her husband, Doug. The couple has three grown children and four grandchildren. Sweet Fringe Benefits has over 65,000 Instagram followers and aims to be relatable and real about midlife, including changing bodies, home lives and fashion.
I was about to turn 50 and I had a friend the same age. We both had a child who had gotten married, our parents were aging and our other children were leaving the nest. I had been a stay-at-home mom for 15 years and I thought, ‘What do I do now?’ I was also in perimenopause, so there was a lot of crazy! I said to my friend, “There has to be sweet fringe benefits in this life stage and not just the yucky stuff.” I had been toying with the idea of starting a blog and I liked the name Sweet Fringe Benefits so I did it. Each day I posted a selfie of my outfit and wrote about a sweet fringe benefit, maybe about gaining a daughter in-law, or my son experiencing life in another country, or time with my teenage daughter. I ran it for 18 months and had no way to monetize it, then I got a full-time job. The blog went by the wayside for seven years. During Covid, I was working from home, and my daughter, who’s a photographer, offered to take my pictures if I re-started the blog. It has been busy ever since.
I post six or seven days a week, shooting most pictures and videos on my iphone using a tripod. Sometimes Doug will take my pictures. He has gotten good at it! I still have a full-time job and when I have a break I’ll hop into a new outfit and create content. At night I write posts and engage on social media with followers and with other accounts. You must be active on the app in order for Instagram to prioritize your content. Oddly enough, the videos I don’t have time to obsess over are the ones that go viral. I guess because they’re so authentic.
WHAT ARE SOME MIDLIFE CHALLENGES YOU WRITE ABOUT?
There are challenges and benefits in this season. One of the benefits for me is having grandchildren, of course! And one of the challenges is traveling to see them. We have grandchildren in Texas and Connecticut, and I love visiting them. The challenge becomes, ‘How do you manage your own life yet still leave home to see your family?’ When your children are building their lives, it’s important for midlife parents to have their own lives and communities too. It’s a balancing act, visiting your faraway kids and grandkids while still cultivating your own life at home.
MANY MIDLIFE WOMEN ARE SELF-CONSCIOUS ABOUT THE WAY THEY LOOK IN PICTURES. YOU’RE DARLING AND YOU LOOK TERRIFIC, AND YOU HAVE MORE CONFIDENCE THAN THE AVERAGE MIDLIFE WOMAN. WHERE DOES YOUR CONFIDENCE COME FROM?
I’m not tall. I’m a size 12/14 and I’ve never been a petite person. I was the largest cheerleader, the largest track runner, and that’s just who I was. My love of fashion developed because no matter what size I was, I could always have a great outfit. I even grew up sewing my own clothes. Confidence comes from within, but if
you’re wearing something you love, it makes a big difference. I’ve never felt less-than or unworthy because of my size or shape, and neither should any of us.
EXPLAIN WHAT LTK IS AND HOW DID YOU START YOURS?
LTK is a platform owned by Meta where people shop the styles shown by content creators, and creators post links to their favorite things. Creators earn a percentage from the items purchased. Being a content creator is a lot of work, so if I was going to do a blog I wanted to monetize it. I was already an LTK shopper so I knew about affiliate links. I model outfits and through the LTK app, people find links to purchase everything that I’m wearing. It’s a platform for running your own online shop.
When I first joined Instagram, I noticed there weren’t many midlife influencers who were midsize, which is 12/14, L/ XL. Brands need influencers of different sizes showing their clothing, and in order for social media to be real, we need to see all kinds of people. My demographic is 80 percent women over age 45. There’s a need for women this age to see themselves represented. Also I try to be honest about the difficult feelings that come with this stage in life. There is hard reflection and sadness even in the midst of a sweet fringe benefit. Writing the posts is therapeutic for me and women comment or message me that they’re feeling the same way. The other day a follower messaged me and said, “You make me feel like I’m not so alone.” That is my main reason for doing this. @Sweetfringebenefits
Where will you go this summer? With our Summer Voyager personal loan, the destination is only limited by your imagination. Borrow up to $15,000 with rates as low as 11.49% for a 24-month term. Apply today in branch, online, or over the phone. Limited time offer available through May 15, 2024.
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“I started mixing nuts, seeds and superfoods, like chia seeds and matcha, with honey and maple syrup, and baking those in the oven.”
— AMANDA AMENT
When Amanda Ament was in her mid-20s, she realized she was eating too much sugar. So she challenged herself to give it up for three weeks. “I felt great,” she says. “My skin cleared, I slept better, and I had more energy.”
After experiencing the benefits of her new regimen, she added weeks, then months, and eventually years to her challenge. Her biggest problem was finding snacks, especially snack bars, that didn’t contain sugar, and tasted good. “I started mixing nuts, seeds and superfoods, like chia seeds and matcha, with honey and maple syrup, and baking those in the oven,” says Amanda.
When she moved to the United States from Switzerland in 2022, she eventually settled in Franklin because the area reminded her of the beautiful country she left behind. There, that same year, she founded SIMPLE ® bars and partnered with a co-packer in Nashville. To cut down on the sugar content altogether, their food scientists replaced the honey and maple syrup with allulose, another natural sweetener. “Some natural sweeteners
have an aftertaste, but not allulose,” says Amanda. “You just need a little, and it barely has any effect on insulin, so it’s good for diabetics too.”
The company will be selling allulose pouches soon, too, for people to use at home as a sugar alternative. Her sister, Mélanie, who has a background in the food industry and marketing, also moved to the U.S. and joined Amanda in this adventure.
Today SIMPLE® offers four flavorsAlmond & Dragon Fruit, Almond Matcha & Chia, Walnut & Golden Spices, and Chocolate Sea Salt.
All the bars are whole grain and made with minimal ingredients. “The dragon fruit bar is really pink, so kids love it,” says Mélanie. “They’re all wrapped in clear packaging so people can see the colors and what they’re buying.” The sisters also hope to offer small bites in addition to the whole bars.
SIMPLE® bars can be purchased on its website, at The Turnip Truck in Nashville, and can also be found in hotels, gyms, and various corporations, with more locations coming soon. SimpleBars.com
5/2
$3,499,900 | 6,481 SqFt | 5 Beds | 5/3 Baths
|
CATHY CARDENAS & CATHERINE SUTHERLAND
@GraceBeginsPodcast | gracebeginspodcast.com
Franklin Lifestyle sat down with Franklin residents Cathy Cardenas and Catherine Sutherland, co-hosts of Grace Begins podcast - a weekly podcast sharing stories of people who have navigated life’s challenges with unwavering grace, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever.
WHAT IS - AND ISN’T - GRACE BEGINS PODCAST?
CS: Each week we bring inspiring stories of beautiful souls from all walks of life showcasing how His grace and mercy changed their lives. It is not about religion or going to church - it’s about fostering connections and spreading light in a world that often feels shrouded in darkness.
CC: Exactly! These are everyday people with stories to share and it’s a reminder of the enduring power of faith, hope, and above all, grace.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START THE GRACE BEGINS PODCAST?
CC: The podcast has been on my heart for more than a year but I couldn’t get it over the finish line until my soul sister Catherine joined me.
CS: I felt instantly connected to Cathy and this platform offers a unique opportunity for people to share their stories, bringing light and inspiration to our listeners.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE LISTENERS WILL TAKE AWAY FROM THE PODCAST?
CS: Maybe in one of these stories listeners will hear something they can connect to and give them some encouragement and hope.
CC: These are stories for everyone and anyone. Knowing you are not perfect. You are not alone. These are stories you can relate to.
HOW HAS CREATING AND HOSTING GRACE BEGINS IMPACTED YOU PERSONALLY?
CS: Grace Begins reminds me that we just scratch the surface of someone’s life and there is so much story underneath the surface. It makes me so much more empathetic.
CC: It is beautiful hearing people’s inspiring stories and has become a highlight of my week. It is my feel-good hour.
WHAT
5
WHEN Weekly, June and July
COST
$140/members, $165/non-members GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL
1113 Murfreesboro Road Suite 201 | Franklin, TN 37064
615.265.6804 | goldfishswimschool.com
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SAIL, SIGHTSEE, SHOP, SAVOR, AND SEEK IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY DISCOVER NEWPORT
Welcome to Newport, Rhode Island, where history, culture, and coastal beauty blend seamlessly. Located along scenic shores, Newport invites you to discover its heritage, relax on its beaches, indulge in its growing culinary scene, and make memories through its various experiences. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family searching for quality time, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or friends looking for a fun escape, Newport offers something for everyone. And while summer is bustling with activity, don’t underestimate the charm of Newport in spring and fall.
Arrive easily with a 2-hour and 20-minute flight into Providence (PVD) or Boston (BOS)
followed by a picturesque drive showcasing quaint New England towns, iconic lighthouses, and sailboats bobbing in the harbor.
Newport’s accommodations cater to every preference and budget but for those seeking luxury, look no further than The Brenton Hotel. Situated overlooking the harbor, this boutique hotel seamlessly blends modern flair with nautical charm. Wake up to breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay and conveniently explore Newport by car, foot, or with complimentary bicycles. Relax on the rooftop after a day of exploration, soaking in the breathtaking views.
Newport is renowned for its outstanding hospitality. Its activities and attractions
are guaranteed to delight every visitor, including those traveling with pets.
Maritime enthusiasts will delight in visiting The Sailing Museum, home to the America’s Cup and National Sailing halls of fame, offering hands-on sailing simulators for an immersive experience. Experience Newport’s charm from a different perspective with Sail Newport’s one-hour “Try Sailing” experience. Rather not get wet? Hop on the narrated Coastal Queen Cruise, offering views of iconic landmarks including Castle Hill Lighthouse, one of nine lighthouses around Newport.
History buffs will be captivated by the grandeur of Fort Adams, a former U.S. Army
post, where tours unveil officer’s quarters and hidden underground listening tunnels. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a stunning sunset from the Fort Adams Bay Walk. Discover Newport’s rich cultural history by visiting St. Mary’s Church, constructed in 1852, and admire the original stained-glass windows. St. Mary’s is also the site of Jackie and John F. Kennedy’s wedding. Nearby, tour America’s oldest synagogue, Touro Synagogue. No visit to Newport is complete without touring the Newport mansions, including iconic landmarks like The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, and Rosecliff. Step back in time to witness the extravagant lifestyles of America’s elite from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, exploring
opulent estates with breathtaking architecture, lavish interiors, and lush gardens.
Music lovers will be drawn to Newport’s legendary music festivals - the Newport Jazz Festival (August 2-4) and the iconic Newport Folk Festival (July 26-28).
ADVENTUROUS ESCAPES AND EXCITING EXPERIENCES:
Whether you’re an avid adventurer or prefer more leisurely pursuits, Newport offers a wealth of experiences. Walk the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile scenic trail along the rugged coastline with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic mansions. For a tranquil nature
walk, visit Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. Alternatively, hop aboard the Rail Explorer, a unique adventure featuring pedal-powered vehicles gliding along railroad tracks. Hands-free travel lets you capture gorgeous photos while enjoying the fresh ocean air. Make a pit stop at the Audrain Auto Museum to marvel at classic and rare automobiles. Be sure to enjoy a scenic drive along Ocean Drive providing another way to witness stunning views of the coastline.
Sports fans will enjoy a visit to the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Play a match on the grass courts wherelegends have
played or explore the impressive memorabilia and interactive digital exhibits, including the cutting-edge Roger Federer hologram. Don’t miss the Newport International Polo Series every Saturday from June to September, where teams from around the world compete against Team USA/Newport.
From surfing the waves to lounging in waveless coves, Newport beaches offer the perfect escape. Relax on one of the many beaches where soft white sand and gentle waves invite you to soak up the sun.
Shop on cobblestoned Thames Street or some of the unique boutiques, galleries,
and shops at Bannister’s Wharf, Brick Marketplace, and Bowen’s Wharf.
Indulge in local favorites such as Belle’s pancakes while marveling at docked superyachts or savor out-of-thisworld sourdough pizza at Mother Pizzeria. Newport’s famous lobster rolls (tender chunks of lobster meat, lightly seasoned and served in a warm, buttery bun) are waiting to be enjoyed at waterfront eateries or charming food trucks throughout the area. Indulge in a curated wine-tasting experience, meal, and tour at Newport Vineyards or sample handcrafted brews at the adjacent Taproot Brewing Co. Savor the day’s freshest catches including the state appetizer, calamari,
at The Mooring. For a quick bite, enjoy a meal at Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant. Foodies will appreciate the varied menus at Yagi Noodles or Giusto, both James Beard Foundation semi-finalists. Try the Lobster Ravioli and the New England Clam Chowder at America’s oldest restaurant, The White Horse Tavern, established in 1673. End your day on a sweet note with the famous Awful Awful milkshake treat at Newport Creamery.
In Newport, each corner tells a story, and every attraction contributes to the city’s unique charm. Whether exploring historic mansions, sipping local wine, indulging in culinary delights, or taking in panoramic coastal views, let “The Classic Coast” surprise and delight you at every turn.
Discover more at DiscoverNewport.org
Wealth Management Advisors At Tower Circle Partners of Janney Montgomery Scott Answer Women’s Investment Questions
ARTICLE BY TOWER CIRCLE PARTNERS OF JANNEY MONTGOMERY SCOTT
PHOTOGRAPHYBY LIFESTYLE BY LEBLANC
HOW CAN WOMEN EFFECTIVELY PLAN FOR A LONGER RETIREMENT PERIOD GIVEN THE STATISTICAL LIKELIHOOD OF A LONGER LIFESPAN COMPARED TO MEN?
The first step is a comprehensive financial plan. Look at cash flows and estimates for expenses and consider what life in retirement looks like. Include realistic estimates for healthcare, housing, food, and fun. Drafting and implementing a comprehensive plan is where a qualified advisor can be of great assistance.
WHAT ARE THE KEY FACTORS WOMEN SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN STARTING THEIR INVESTMENT JOURNEY, ESPECIALLY IF THEY ARE MANAGING FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES ALONE?
Start by defining clear, specific goals that you want to achieve. Make sure you really understand the products and processes that are being presented. Advisors who focus on planning will be able to provide you with personalized advice tailored to your specific situation AND will help you make adjustments as your circumstances change.
WHAT ARE THE BEST PRACTICES FOR WOMEN TO ACHIEVE FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE AND SECURITY THROUGH INVESTING, ESPECIALLY WHEN DEALING WITH DIVORCE OR WIDOWHOOD?
Don’t rush into any decisions. With any type of longterm planning, your path to financial independence will be a journey that will take some time. Focus on shorter-term milestones first. Having a plan to pay your expenses and establishing an emergency fund if you do not already have one are great first steps. Depending on your situation, review and update any estate planning documents to make sure they reflect your current wishes and financial situation. Most importantly, surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and family.
HOW DO I START MY SEARCH FOR A FINANCIAL ADVISOR ?
Trusted contacts, CPAs, and attorneys who specialize in taxes and estate planning can be great places to get referrals to a competent advisor.
TOWER CIRCLE PARTNERS is an award-winning practice within Janney that focuses on providing institutional consulting services to corporate retirement plans, as well as high net worth retail client wealth management & planning.
For as long as I can remember, Friday night at our house has been “Beaudin Burger Night.” Schedules are adjusted, adult kids return home a day earlier than planned, and social offers are rejected - all for the simple pleasure of indulging in a thick, juicy cheeseburger. There’s nothing quite like those first two-three seconds of sinking my teeth into a dreamy, charred beef patty oozing with gooey melted cheese, dripping with ketchup and mayo, topped with a few tangy pickles, and tucked into a buttery toasted Brioche bun. The overwhelming bliss that causes my toes to curl, head to tilt back and eyes to roll right back with it is worth the weeklong wait.
Our longtime love of making burgers recently led us to begin competing in the World Burger Championships, part of the World Food Championships. This past year, our Big Fat Greek Burger scores placed us in 10th place after the first round. In just days, my sous chef husband Jeff and I went from being backyard burger cooks to beating pro teams from France and Japan. It took lots of trial and error to create what we feel is the perfectly cooked burger. If you’re inspired to try making your own, give my tried and true tips a whirl. It won’t be long before you’re cranking out the best burgers you’ve ever had.
1) Use local beef : Visit your farmer’s market and buy from a local cattle rancher. You won’t find a more superior taste, texture, or juiciness from any supermarket beef. Make sure it’s 80/20 beef (80% lean, 20% fat). Don’t talk to me about going with a 90/10 beef. It’s a burger. This isn’t the time for reducing your fat intake.
2) Season: Only a little Kosher salt and pepper is needed, and just on top of the patties. Never salt and pepper the beef before shaping them. Save flavors for toppings and let the beef shine on its own.
3) Dent : After forming a ¾” patty with minimal handling, make a small indentation with your thumb in the center. This allows the burger to maintain an even thickness as it contracts on the grill.
4) Sear : Over direct heat on the grill, or medium high heat in a cast iron pan, cook one-two minutes per side until the outside is browned and crispy.
5) Cook : Don’t overdo it. There’s no going back. Cook to medium (about 140 degrees) over direct heat then pull them off to rest for a few minutes. Don’t even think about going for well done. Nothing is more tragic than a dry, overcooked burger.
As for finishing touches, I love a burger topped with the classics. Occasionally, though, I’ll shake things up with a riff on the norm. One of my favorites is melted pimento cheese in place of sliced cheese. Born and raised a Southern gal, it was a kitchen staple, homemade by my mama, and almost always in the fridge. Add some for a true heaven on earth indulgence. I like to complement its tanginess with some caramelized onions and a spicy tomato jam.
Start the summer off right by pulling out the grill and throwing some beefy patties over the fire. Serve them with some icy cold beverages and toast your success creating the ultimate burger.
4 burgers
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds 80/20 ground chuck
• Kosher salt
• Fresh ground black pepper
• Pimento Cheese (recipe below)
• 4 teaspoons butter
• 4 Brioche Buns
• Condiments of choice
Directions:
With a very light touch, break up the beef and follow steps 2-5.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of pimento cheese onto each patty over low heat. Remove when the cheese just begins to melt.
Rest burgers for five minutes.
Meanwhile, butter the inside of each bun half with a teaspoon of butter and grill until toasted.
Assemble burgers, adding additional condiments as desired.
About 2 cups
Ingredients:
• 8 ounces medium cheddar, shredded
• 6 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ¾ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• (2) 4 ounce jars pimentos, drained well
Directions:
Combine mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings in food processor bowl and pulse until blended.
Add 1 jar of pimentos and pulse until well blended.
Add ½ of the cheddar and ½ of the Fontina. Pulse 3-4 times to just mix all together.
Transfer to a bowl. Add remaining cheeses and jar of pimentos. Stir together to combine.
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Favorite Brunch Spots and Must-try Dishes
ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON1. DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE (BRENTWOOD)
Treat Mom to the irresistible Strawberry Cobbler French Toast
2. PUCKETT’S (FRANKLIN) Indulge in the savory Skillet Piggy Mac
3. THE BRUNCH COLLECTIVE (SPRING HILL)
Savor the tantalizing Breakfast Burritos and Avocado Toast
4. THE HONEYSUCKLE (FRANKLIN) Delight in the divine Shrimp and Grits
5. PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE AND GRILLE (FRANKLIN) Experience and enjoy the 3 Kings Mignon
S H O W E R D O O R S O F N A S H V I L L E
O U R S P E C I A L T I E S
F r a m e l e s s s h o w e r d o o r s
G l a s s w i n e c e l l a r s
C u s t o m g l a s s p r o j e c t s f r o m d e s k t o p s a n d
t a b l e t o p s t o p a r t i t i o n s
a n d r a i l i n g
This recipe is quick and easy to make with just a few simple steps. It tastes great on its own, but dipping it in olive oil infused with fresh herbs adds an extra level of flavor.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 ¾ cups warm water
• 2 ½ teaspoons sugar
• 1 package active dry yeast
• 4 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
Optional:
• Fresh rosemary
• Coarse sea salt
• Fresh pressed garlic
Use a stand mixer with a fitted dough hook, and stir together the water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir again. Set mixture aside for 5 minutes. Mixture should be foamy. Next, add the flour and salt and mix on low until a shaggy dough forms. Increase speed and mix for an additional 4-5 minutes. Brush a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set aside for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the dough has doubled in size.
Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of oil. Uncover the dough and rub hands with olive oil. Slide your hands under the dough and fold it onto itself. Continue to work your way around the edge of the bowl, folding the dough onto itself until there is a ball that you can lift from the bowl. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press the dough to the edges. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set aside to rise for about 45 minutes until the dough has doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Rub your hands with olive oil and use your fingers to make indentions on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle it with salt and rosemary and any desired toppings. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MAY 3RD
Fairgrounds Nashville | 4:00 PM
Join us for the first Great Junk Hunt in Nashville. There will be many unique, curated vendors, along with cocktails, live music, and much more for this weekend of fun. TheGreatJunkHunt.com
MAY 4TH
2135 New Castle Road | 10:00 AM
Travel back to the 16th century as you shop for vintage artisans work, participate in activities, tours, and more at this year's Renaissance Festival. The festival will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-27. TNRenFest.com
MAY 4TH
The Park at Harlinsdale Farm | 4:00 PM
Jockeys & Juleps will gather over 500 guests in celebration of "Run for the Roses." The evening will include live music, dancing, silent auctions, viewing of the Kentucky Derby, dinner, open bar, and more. All funds will go towards international charities. DowntownFranklinRotary.com
MAY 10TH
Morning Glory Orchard | 5:30 PM
Celebrate mom by inviting her to this lovely evening picnic. A delectable charcuterie box and a cider mojito featuring award-winning hard cider will be provided. Limited to 12 tables. MorningGloryOrchard.com
MAY 11TH
The Park at Harlinsdale Farm | 8:00 AM
This hike through The Park at Harlinsdale Farm is for all ages and abilities. The group will leave from the North parking lot at 8 a.m. FranklinTN.gov MAY 11TH
Percy Warner Park | 11:00 AM
Steeplechase is among the most wellknown horse races in the country, attracting the best horses and riders in the nation. This annual event continues to impress, expecting over 25,000 guests this year. IroquoisSteeplechase.org
Visit Our Home Design Showroom
1974 Wilson Pike, Franklin
615-224-3545
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MAY 15TH
Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park | 6:00 PM
The rodeo is one of the longest running family events in Franklin history and will be kicking off with a party with kids activities, roping, stick horses, shopping, food trucks, cowboy autographs, pony rides, petting zoos and much more! FranklinRodeo.com
MAY 17TH
Jim Warren Park
Trucks, equipment, and vehicles of all shapes and sizes will be at the park where children of all ages, with parent supervision, will be welcome to touch, climb-on, and explore the equipment. Fire trucks, police cars, tractors, backhoes, tow trucks, and more. Music, games and fun will also be available along with food for purchase from food trucks. FranklinTN.gov
MAY 17TH
Williamson County Public Library | 9:00 AM
Sale runs through the 19th from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday is the bag sale - fill one or more bags (provided at the door) with books and media for just $10. WCPLTN.org
Liberty Hall in The Factory at Franklin | 6:00 PM
Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury signature fundraiser is a special night to celebrate those who make the dream of homeownership a reality for lower-income families in their own community with safe, affordable housing. Tickets are on sale now. HFHWM.org
Williamson County Performing Arts Center | 3:00 PM
Enjoy the sunshine and fresh air at Sunday Swing in the Courtyard with live music, food trucks and more. Put on your dancing shoes for an afternoon of dancing, accompanied by 5 Points Swing band. Each ticket includes a complimentary dance lesson at 2:30 p.m., followed by dancing from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets or a picnic to enjoy. WCPACTN.com
INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!
There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.
It’s imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. Rooms need a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light. Candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.
Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.
So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages. You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.
