TAYLOR HICKS REFLECTS ON TWO DECADES OF SHOW BUSINESS
TH E TH AN KFU L ISSU E N OV E M B E R 2 02 6
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Where Vision Meets Craftsmanship For more than two decades, award-winning Gregg Homebuilding Company has been turning dreams into distinctive custom homes throughout Middle Tennessee. Based in Franklin, the company combines expert craftsmanship with a personalized, seamless building experience rooted in trust, communication and a deep
GREGG H OM E BU I L DI N G .CO M 615.4 65.68 2 5
appreciation for the land. From finding the perfect homesite
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additions and property development, Gregg Homebuilding
and building from the ground up to thoughtful renovations, creates spaces designed to love and built to last.
Rooted in Gratitude SCIENTIST. SURVIVOR. MOTHER ON A MISSION.
For Dr. Christina Rahm, gratitude has become a driving force behind her mission to help others live more resilient lives. As a scientist and patented formulator, Rahm has spent decades studying the complexities of human health. As a cancer and Lyme disease survivor, she has experienced firsthand how quickly life can change. And as a mother, she understands that the desire to protect the people we love can become one of our greatest sources of purpose. Together, those experiences have shaped what Rahm calls the Science of Human Resilience, her exploration of the body’s remarkable ability to adapt, recover and respond to the demands of everyday life.
“After everything I’ve experienced, I’m incredibly grateful for life, my family and the opportunity to do this work. For me, that gratitude comes with a responsibility to use what I’ve learned to help others live healthier, more resilient lives.”
DISCOVER THE SCIENCE BEHIND ROOT
That purpose extends to The ROOT Brands, the wellness company Rahm founded with her husband, Clayton Thomas, bringing her patented scientific formulations into everyday wellness through products designed to support the body’s natural processes. For Rahm, gratitude and purpose are deeply connected. Appreciating the resilience of the human body has only strengthened her commitment to understanding it, supporting it and helping others do the same.
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Get basic documents for unmarried kids who are over eighteen
LET OUR EXPERTISE AND COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE SECURE YOUR LEGACY AND GIVE YOU PEACE OF MIND
Franklin Office
Nashville Office
1650 Murfreesboro Rd., Suite 130, Franklin, TN 37067
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(615) 628 -7775
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A Private Brentwood Retreat Designed for Living Beautifully.
1297 Broad Oaks Drive, Brentwood TN 37027 $ 3,999,000 | 5 beds | 6.5 baths | 6125 sqft Set on two private, level acres in an exclusive eight-home enclave, Broad Oaks blends modern architecture with resort-style living. Soaring ceilings, walls of glass, a chef’s kitchen and luxurious primary suite open to a saltwater pool and spa, outdoor kitchen and private backyard retreat, all minutes from Brentwood’s premier amenities and interstate access.
A Brentwood Pool Home in a Central Location
9429 Weatherly Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027 $2,249,000 | 6 beds | 6 baths | 6,656 sqft Experience exceptional Brentwood living in this spacious, private residence, ideally located within walking distance of Ravenwood High School and convenient to award-winning schools, parks, Historic Franklin, Cool Springs, and downtown Nashville. In the fall, glimpses of stadium lights through the trees and the distant sounds of the Ravenwood halftime band add a charming sense of community.
PAULA HINEGARDNER ABR, CRS, ASP, LUXURY HOMES REALTOR®
C: 615.618.1330 | 0: 615.778.1818 PreviewNashvilleRealEstate.com KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 9175 Carothers Parkway Franklin, Tn. 37067 #1 Keller Williams Agent in the Southeast
Luxury Homes. Breathtaking Views. Ideal Location.
A Ford Community –––-––– MODEL HOME GRAND OPENING & HOME TOUR –––-––– SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14TH | 11AM – 2PM Two fully furnished model homes plus six homes to tour Lunch provided by The Grilled Cheeserie | Register to win a $500 gift card to Southall Farm and Inn
CollettaTN.com | 629.230.8866 FEATURING HOMES BY: LEGEND HOMES FORD CLASSIC HOMES BIRCHWOOD HOMES INSIGNIA HOMES
COLLETTA IS A FORD CLASSIC HOMES COMMUNITY
LISTED BY MARY KOCINA C: 615.300.5996 O: 615.263.4800
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Thankful, With a Side of Pie
November 2026 PUBLISHER
Athena West | athena.west@citylifestyle.com
By this time of year, I’m simultaneously ready for a new year to begin and wondering how in the world the current year went by so fast. Didn’t we just have Thanksgiving? November is a fun month for me. Partly because it’s my birthday month, but mostly because there is something about November that enlists all the senses. The leaves crunch beneath your feet, there’s a chill in the air, and holiday decorations begin making their annual appearance from storage, bringing a little extra sparkle to our homes and storefronts. This month, we cover a lot of ground. Veterans, event planning, shopping, ways to give back, and even places to get out and exercise if you indulged in a little too much pie on Thanksgiving Day. Much like a typical Thanksgiving table, we’ve tried to include a little bit of something for everyone who picks up a copy. There are stories to inspire you, places to discover, people to celebrate, and plenty of ideas for enjoying this wonderful community we’re lucky to call home. And since November is all about being thankful, this letter wouldn’t be complete without thanking the small businesses that advertise in these pages each month. Their support is truly what makes it possible for us to produce this print and online publication month after month. When you see their names in these pages, I hope you’ll remember that behind every business is a person, a family, a team, and a whole lot of hard work. So, as the holiday season gets underway, I hope you’ll slow down just a little. Enjoy the crisp mornings, the beautiful fall colors, the gatherings around the table and, of course, the pie. And maybe, just maybe, try not to blink. Before we know it, we’ll be talking about New Year’s resolutions. With gratitude,
E D I TO R
Karen Creason | karen.creason@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R
Stephanie Krejci | stephanie.krejci@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R
Audrey West CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Maria Dinoia, Karen Creason, Morgan Raum, Sue Baldani, Jena Potter, Jake Ward, Madison Sullivan C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Devin Tolentino, Allison Elefante, Morgan Raum
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
AT H E N A W E S T, P U B L I S H E R @FRANKLINTNLIFESTYLE Franklin Lifestyle is available for pickup at the following locations: • Fork of the South - The Factory at Franklin • Saint Goose - Downtown Franklin • The Parker House on Main - Downtown Franklin • United Country Real Estate - Leiper’s Fork • Local doctors and professional offices around the area
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at CityLifestyle.com//Franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Franklin Lifestyle® is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Franklin area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.
Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/FRANKLIN
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Franklin Lifestyle® is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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#1 Real Estate Team in Tennessee Leveraging real estate resources with a creative and tenacious spirit, the LCT Team of Onward Real Estate 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 the Franklin, Brentwood, or Nashville areas - and we have the experience and knowledge to make the whole process easier for you. View listings at LCTTeam.com.
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3812 Dakota Ave, Nashville
$2,384,900
7012 Kinderhook Rd, Nashville
$5,299,900
1311 Parker Pl, Brentwood
$1,049,000
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4334 Peytonsville Trinity Rd, Franklin
8384 Solstice Dr, College Grove
LARGE TEAM IN TENNESSEE RANKED BY VOLUME
# 17
LARGE TEAM IN THE NATION RANKED BY VOLUME
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LARGE TEAM IN FRANKLIN, TN RANKED BY VOLUME
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1037 Vaughn Crest Dr, Franklin
$5,500,000
8004 Wilder Pass, Arrington
$5,800,000
8400 Heirloom Blvd, College Grove
283 Jones Pkwy, Brentwood
8113 Warner Rd, Brentwood
5056 Kathryn Ave, Franklin
$7,999,900
$1,499,900
$3,199,900
$4,999,900
1305 Twin Springs Dr, Brentwood
1790 Northumberland Dr, Brentwood
7004 Crews Ln, Brentwood
$2,395,000
$1,820,000
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1303 General McArthur Dr, Brentwood
1313 Lipscomb Dr, Brentwood
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$799,900
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7000 Lanceleaf Dr, College Grove
$450,000
220 Karley Ln, Chapel Hill
#1
TEAM AT ONWARD REAL ESTATE
$405,000
1418 Blackstone St, Murfreesboro
Ready to buy or sell? Call us at (615) 595-5883 O n w a rd Re a l E sta te | LC TTe a m.com | T N L i c # 2 664 8 0 202 C hu rch St, Fra n k lin , Tennes s ee 3 7 0 64 All info deemed correct but not guaranteed, subject to change. Stats based on RealTrends.com 2025 Large Team sales volume.
inside the issue NOVE M B E R 2 0 2 6 | TH ANK F U L
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Featured
46 66 136
Departments
A Taste of November
From Cozy Lattes to Festive Sips, These Drinks Taste Just Like the Season
Franklin Through Your Eyes Your View. Your Creativity. Your Franklin.
Trading One Mission for Another Honoring Those Who Served
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Lifestyle Letter
20
City Scene
28
Business Monthly
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Party Planning ENTERTAINMENT
42
Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS
46
Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Local’s Choice LIFE + CULTURE
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Curb Appeal REAL ESTATE
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Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE
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Our Town LIFE + CULTURE
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Outdoor Living PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
74
Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE
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Local Limelight ENTERTAINMENT
84
Kids Corner LIFE + CULTURE
88
Family Care HEALTH + WELLNESS
92
Trend Setter LIFE + CULTURE
98
Home Update HOME + DESIGN
104 Hot Spot FOOD + BEVERAGE 108 Back Stage LIFE + CULTURE 114
Open House REAL ESTATE
120 Outdoor Adventure LIFE + CULTURE
On the Cover
124 Get Active HEALTH + WELLNESS 130 Seasonal Setups FOOD + BEVERAGE
American Idol winner Taylor Hicks reflects on two decades of show business, a road trip across Route 66, and the car Little Richard told him to buy.
136 Hometown Hero LIFE + CULTURE
Photography: Devin Tolentino
146 Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.
142 Locals Only LIFE + CULTURE 148 Events
WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT? With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.
Modern Approaches to Anti-Aging & Weight Loss H E A LT H I S W E A LT H Get ready to look, feel, and live younger than ever before with the expert care of Dr. Gabe Allende and the team at the Center for Anti-Aging & Weight Loss. With over 20 years of experience helping patients optimize their health, we’ve transformed the lives of countless individuals throughout the Bay Area and the Nashville region. Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (Men) Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (Women) Medical Weight Loss Cosmetic Injectables Stem Cell Therapy IV Drip Therapy
DrGabeAllende.com 615-646-7655 233 Bedford Way, Franklin, TN
A FORD COMMUNITY
First Class Amenities | Walking Trails | Unbeatable Location BUILT BY
FORD CLASSIC HOMES BIRCHWOOD HOMES INSIGNIA HOMES
S O U T H B R O O K E T N .C O M S O U T H VA L E T N . C O M
SALES BY
FORD HOMES REALTY Office: 615-503-9727 Sales: 615-224-9598
ELEVATED BEAUTY,
Rooted in Wellness New Client Discount 20% OFF
SAGEHAIRCOMPANY.COM | 615-599-5339 | 188 FRONT ST, SUITE 120, FRANKLIN, TN
NOVEMBER 2026
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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PHOTO BY JEREMY POLAND
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PHOTO BY JEREMY POLAND
1-4: Rosebrooke held its Fall Home Tour featuring several gorgeous move-in-ready homes. 5-7: The sold-out Heritage Ball celebrated its 53rd Annual Ball at Harlinsdale Farm. CONTINUED >
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C I T Y SC E N E
BUILT WITH YOU IN MIND EVERY STEP OF THE WAY We are a leading company in the creation of Post-Frame Buildings Including: BARNDOMINIUMS | POLE BARNS | GARAGES | EQUESTRIAN | EVENT SPACES Built on Amish Heritage, a strong work ethic, and a desire to create buildings that last, we take pride in providing high-quality custom structures at a reasonable price.
IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, WE CAN BUILD IT! Give us a call or send us a message to get started. stoltzco.com | 615.622.5992
LEI P ERS FOR K R A NCH
Leipers Fork Ranch: a rare place where privacy and community coexist. Spread across 122.51 acres of open pasture, wooded trails, and the gentle bends of Leipers Creek, this fully realized equestrian estate is anchored by an exquisite 13,680 SF residence crafted by master artisans. Behind the gate, the quiet of the countryside is entirely your own. Just beyond it, within walking distance, the galleries, restaurants, and live music of Leipers Fork Village await.
View Listing
Presented at $34,800,000. JAMIE PARSONS Affiliate Broker M: 310.508.4008 • O: 615.475.5616 jamie.parsons@compass.com JAMIE-PARS O NS .CO M ∙ JAMSE3 Jamie Parsons is a licensed real estate agent affiliated with Compass RE, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
city scene CONTINUED
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PHOTO BY ALEX REAVIS
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PHOTO BY ALEX REAVIS
PEYTON HOGE
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PEYTON HOGE
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PEYTON HOGE
8-11: Lightwave Solar celebrated its 20th Anniversary with an open house featuring delicious food and live music. 12-14: The 30th annual Chukkers for Charity honored community leaders while raising funds for Rochelle Center and Saddle Up!. Volunteer co-chairs Lauren Hathaway and Sarah Michaud led this year’s event. 14: Lauren Hathaway and Sarah Michaud
Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ F R A N K L I N T N L I F E S T Y L E
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C I T Y SC E N E
8088 HEIRLOOM BLVD, COLLEGE GROVE, TN
EXCEPTIONAL PRIVACY AND RESORT-STYLE LIVING DEFINE THIS LUXURY ESTATE IN THE GROVE. Ideally positioned on a premier homesite, the property is bordered by protected HOA open space on two sides—an exceptionally rare setting within the community that creates beautiful views, added privacy, and a sense of openness rarely found. Offering 6 bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms, the home was thoughtfully designed for both sophisticated entertaining and everyday living. The main level features expansive gathering spaces, a designer bar, and a grand primary suite retreat. 6 BEDS | 7.5 BATHS | 4 CAR GARAGE | 8,081 SQ FT | $5,195,000
8068 HEIRLOOM BLVD, COLLEGE GROVE, TN
CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN FARMHOUSE BY TRACE CONSTRUCTION Experience luxury living in this stunning contemporary farmhouse featuring designer-selected finishes. Thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and entertaining, this exceptional home offers five private bedroom suites-with two on the main level and three upstairs-providing comfort and flexibility for family and guests alike. 5 BEDS | 6.5 BATHS | 3 CAR GARAGE | 5998 SQ FT | $3,299,000
Clifton & Naomi Chason C: 714.381.1160 | O: 615.371.1544 clifton@chasonteam.com
THANK YOU FOR LETTING US BE PART OF YOUR STORY. Homes hold the stories of the seasons we spend in them, and we’re grateful to be part of so many throughout Franklin. When the time comes to begin a new chapter, we’d be honored to help you write it.
Thanksgiving Starts with a Thoughtful Pour Let Saint Goose Wine + Spirits Shop help you choose the perfect bottle and host with confidence
134 2nd Ave N, Downtown Franklin saintgoose.wine | @saintgoose.wine
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www.thejernigangroup.com 615-594-1990 4031 Aspen Grove Dr, Ste 400, Franklin, TN V@thejernigangroupatcompass #1 Real Estate Team in Franklin | RealTrends Verified
Connect with our team for trusted local guidance and expertise.
NOVEMBER 2026
business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
All-Terrain Wheelchairs Now Available at Peacock Hill Nature Park Williamson County Parks and Recreation has introduced two all-terrain wheelchairs at Peacock Hill Nature Park in College Grove, providing greater outdoor access for visitors with limited mobility. Funded through grants and community donations, the wheelchairs are available free of charge and may be reserved in advance. Officials say the program supports ongoing efforts to make nature parks more inclusive and accessible. More information is available at wcparksandrec.com. Photography Courtsey of The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Visitor Spending in Williamson County Generated $1.38 Billion in 2025 Williamson County visitors spent a record $1.38 billion in 2025, a 1.33% increase over the previous year, according to Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. The county welcomed 8.83 million visitors, supporting 9,180 hospitality jobs and generating $149.6 million in state and local tax revenue. Visitor spending also contributed $18.79 million to local schools and reduced the average county household’s tax burden by $1,621. VisitFranklin.com Photography Courtsey of Visit Franklin
CONTINUED >
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business monthly Written in collaboration with The New York Times Best Selling Author,
CONTINUED
Ken Abraham
T H E A ZU R E S TA N DA R D S TO RY
Proof that faith can move mountains and change the world. Kindle Cosmetics Debuts in Franklin
Discover how one family’s
Kindle Cosmetics has opened at 330 Mayfield Drive, Suite 305, in Franklin. Founded by licensed esthetician Rhea Pratt, Kindle Cosmetics' mission is to help clients feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. Specializing in custom facials, body care, and hair care products, the brand focuses on the needs of sensitive and mature skin. All products are dermatologist-tested and formulated to nourish, moisturize, and support healthy skin and hair. KindleCosmetics.com
health crisis sparked a
Photography by Donzaleigh Photography
David Stelzer Founder and CEO Azure Standard
pioneering shift to chemical-free farming. Explore why affordable access to clean food is a grassroots movement with the power to reshape American health.
www.SeedsOfHopeBook.com For exclusive gifts, access and coupon codes, purchase your copy today.
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
The Well Renewal Lounge Coming to Berry Farms This November The Well Renewal Lounge is bringing a fresh approach to wellness to Berry Farms this November. This locally owned destination will combine personalized care with modern wellness technology, offering massage therapy, facials and skincare, Cryo Dry Float Therapy, and innovative touchless therapies. Designed as a place to slow down, recharge, and feel renewed, The Well invites residents to make wellness a regular part of their routine. TheWellRenewalLounge.com CONTINUED >
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business monthly CONTINUED
The Franklin Band Launches Its Annual Fruit Sale The Franklin Band has launched its annual Fall Fruit Sale, giving the community an opportunity to purchase fresh fruit, send holiday gifts nationwide, or donate fruit to local nonprofits. The band hopes to donate 4,000 pounds of fruit this year—2,000 pounds each to GraceWorks and The Nashville Food Project. Orders from Florida Indian River Groves are accepted through November 20, with pickup on December 8 at Franklin High School. Learn more at ifundraise.com/FranklinBand.
Come Home to French’s www.frenchscabinets.com | 615-371-8385 Designed and implemented with Katie Sneed Interiors
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
EMBRACE THE SEASIDE LIFESTYLE
Your Gateway to Florida Coastal Living in Seaside & 30A
Southeast Financial Credit Union Raises Funds for Local Charities Southeast Financial Credit Union held its 24th Annual Golf Classic on Monday, September 21. A total of 63 golfers and volunteers gathered at Towhee Golf Club in Spring Hill, Tennessee, to support United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee and Hope Clinic for Women. This year's tournament raised over $34,000, with tournament proceeds being evenly distributed between the two charities. To support next year’s event, contact Southeast Financial at MarketingStaff@ SoutheastFinancial.org. Photography by Elizabeth Brown
Discover your dream home— from charming beach condos and stylish townhomes to exquisite single-family residences. Everything within reach: • Walk to local markets & boutiques • Step out to top-rated dining • Stroll directly to the beach Properties starting from $2M+
Bert Summerville-Kain Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ FRANKLIN
Global Real Estate Advisor 850.974.8731 bert@scenicsir.com Each office is independently owned and operated.
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CLOSETS KITCHENS PANTRIES GARAGES KIDS' SPACES SEASONAL RESETS Book now for holiday organizing, set up, and take down services.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZING & MOVE CONCIERGE
Imagine a place for everything... and everything in its place! 21 Years & Going Strong!
ORGANIZE
|
MOVE
|
DECLUTTER
|
UNPACK
www.afreshspace.com | 615-509-1933 | V @afreshspace | hello@afreshspace
WELCOME TO
YOUR WILLIAMSON COUNTY PLUMBER From everyday repairs to new construction and remodels, Gold Star Plumbing owner Rocky Burrell and his team of licensed,
bonded, and insured plumbers handle it all with free estimates and same-day service.
OUR SERVICES Plumbing Installations
Leak Repairs & Pipe Replacement
We Find the Actual Cause, Then We Fix It.
Routine Maintenance & Inspections Water Heater Services Fixture Replacement
24/7 Emergency Services
A beautiful space. A thoughtful community. A modern approach to Pilates that welcomes every age, every level, every body. Because movement should feel as good as it looks. theclubhousefranklin.com | @theclubhousefranklin 320 Liberty Pike | Suite 100 | Franklin, TN 37064
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Licensed & Insured 4.9 35+ Years Experience
CALL US 615.290.9860 gold-starplumbing.com
4008 CARTERS CREEK PIKE FRANKLIN | $25,000,000 | 52+ ACRES | 5 BD | 5/3 BA | 12,048 SQFT (INCL. CONDITIONED GARAGE) | GATED | POOL | CAR BARN FOR 50 VEHICLES | PARTY BARN | HORSE BARN | GUEST HOUSE | POND
4067 CARTERS CREEK PIKE
2183 S BERRYS CHAPEL RD
FRANKLIN | LEIPERS FORK | $12,750,000 | 42+ AC | 5 BD | 5/1 BA | 6,287 SQFT | GATED | POOL | BARN | POND
FRANKLIN | $8,990,000 | 20+ AC | 6 BD | 5/3 BA | 10,890 SQFT | GATED | POOL | POND | HILLTOP VIEWS
*RENDERING IS FOR MARKETING PURPOSES ONLY*
1914 THOMPSONS STATION RD W, LOT 1
3008 SMITH LN
THOMPSONS STATION | CADENCE AT THE HIGHLANDS | $8,500,000 | 20 AC | 5 BD | 5/3 BA | 9,533 SQFT | POOL
FRANKLIN | $2,999,999 | 6 AC | 4 BD | 5/1 BA | 8,081 SQFT | LYNNWOOD DOWNS
ERIN KRUEGER Team Lead - The Erin Krueger Team Realtor ®, ABR, ASP, CRS, CLHMS, Affiliate Broker, MBA erin@erinkrueger.com m. 615.509.7166 | o. 615.475.5616 erinkrueger.com | @theerinkruegerteam
• • • •
Nearly $3 Billion in Career Sales Over 4,000 Homes Sold Thousands of Families Helped Nationally & State Ranked Real Estate Team
VIEW MORE LISTINGS!
Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
THE ART OF
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PA RT Y P LA N N IN G | ENTE RTAIN ME N T
MAKING AN EVENT FEEL Like You
ARTICLE PROVIDED | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY ALLMAND PHOTOGRAPHY
Jamie Rose Plum
Some people plan a party. Jamie Rose Plum creates an experience, preferably one involving beautiful flowers, memorable food and, if the occasion calls for it, a lot of butter or a few full-size skeletons named Robert and Peggy. As owner of Rose & Plum Living, Jamie Rose believes the most successful events are about far more than beautiful tablescapes or picture-perfect florals. They are about creating something personal, unexpected, and meaningful for the people gathered around the table. “There are so many components of an exceptional event. Yes, the beauty of it is a huge part, but making it unique, and most importantly making the client and their guests feel something is truly what it is about.” That philosophy is at the heart of how Jamie Rose approaches event production. Rather than beginning with a color palette or a Pinterest board, she starts with questions. Lots of them. How did the couple meet? Where did the guest of honor grow up? What did they study? What do they love? Even something as seemingly unrelated as a preferred clothing style can offer a clue to the aesthetic and personality a client wants to communicate. CONTINUED >
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Ultimately, Jamie is looking for the “why” behind the event. Once she understands that, the creative possibilities open up. WHEN BUTTER BECOMES THE THEME Case in point: a French butter-themed baby shower. Jamie Rose admits the idea was not exactly a stretch for her. “Well, I love butter and France, so that was an easy one!” But the theme was much more than a clever idea. The mom-to-be, KJ, had spent most of her career in hospitality, working at some of the country’s finest restaurants, hotels, and event venues. The father-to-be was a talented chef with experience in Michelin-starred restaurants in the U.S. and internationally. The couple had honeymooned in France, used French butter regularly in their careers, and even incorporated a French food meets Nancy Meyers aesthetic into the baby’s nursery. Suddenly, French butter was not just a theme. It was their story. Rose & Plum Living combined the idea with refined elements of French culture, cuisine, and antique decor. The result was an event that felt personal rather than manufactured, allowing the mom-to-be to feel recognized during an important moment in her life.
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A LITTLE RESTRAINT NEVER HURT ANYONE Of course, when creativity is part of the job, knowing when to stop can be just as important as knowing what to add. “I am a visual person, so decor-wise I will order a variety of linens, seek out a vast array of floral options, purchase and maybe even over purchase decor pieces- all so that I have options to work withfully knowing I am not going to use them all.” Jamie Rose loves florals, patterns, bold colors and textures, but balance keeps those elements from competing for attention. Subtle colors, lighter fabrics and classic pieces can give more dramatic details room to shine. That same philosophy extends to food and beverages, which Jamie Rose considers a central part of the overall experience. Food should not only taste wonderful, she believes, but also contribute to the story being told. After all, Thanksgiving would not feel quite the same without the family recipes everyone expects to find on the table. THE DETAILS GUESTS REMEMBER Some of the most memorable touches are not necessarily the ones guests expect.
For Halloween events, Rose & Plum Living has embraced the unexpected by incorporating full-size skeletons into massive grazing tables. What began at a client’s annual Halloween party became an instant hit. The guests loved the skeletons so much that they eventually received names. Robert and Peggy were no longer decorations. They were guests. It is that sense of surprise, personality, and intention that Jamie Rose hopes people carry with them after an event is over. The food, florals, decor, and details are all part of something larger: creating connection. At the heart of Jamie Rose’s philosophy is something wonderfully simple. Guests should leave knowing they mattered enough for someone to think carefully about their experience. “Very honestly, that they matter. That someone wanted them to share in this experience and moment with them- whether it's a celebration or even a sorrowful time- that they were included for a reason. That there is intention behind all of it.” And perhaps that is the real art of entertaining. The most memorable event is not necessarily the one with the most elaborate decor or the most extravagant menu. It is the one that tells a story, creates a little wonder, and makes everyone around the table feel like they were exactly where they were meant to be. RoseAndPlumLiving.com Photography- Amy Allmand Photography Events & Catering- Rose & Plum Living Cocktails/Mocktails- Before & Beyond Beverage Co. Embroidery Cart- Franklin Stitch Club Cake- Tammie Osborne Cookies- Sugar Butter 615
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meet the
WOMEN behind PARADIGM HEALTH Dr. Meg Paterson and Dr. Kylie Rae Conroy Bring Two Unique Journeys and One Shared Vision for Personalized Care
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Dr. Kylie Conroy. Photo credit: Michael Gomez
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Dr. Meg Paterson. Photo credit: MMH Photography
Dr. Meg Paterson and Family. Photo credit by: MMH Photography
“I LOVE GENERAL INTERNAL MEDICINE AND IN PARTICULAR PRIMARY CARE BECAUSE I GET TO SEE MY PATIENTS AS A WHOLE, BOTH PHYSICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY.” — DR. MEG PATERSON
Great health care is not one size fits all. Fortunately, neither are the women practicing it. At Paradigm Health, Dr. Meg Paterson and Dr. Kylie Rae Conroy bring different backgrounds and experiences to a shared goal: helping patients take a more personal and proactive approach to their health. Paterson found her calling as a teenager volunteering in a busy Dallas hospital. Conroy's understanding of wellness began on a Division I softball field. Their paths to medicine may look different, but their philosophies meet in the same place: the patient should be at the center of the story.
DR. MEG PATERSON: SEEING THE WHOLE PERSON
Paterson's journey began with the intensity and fast pace of hospital life. As a teenager volunteering in Dallas, she discovered medicine's intersection of science and service. She went on to study neuroscience at Vanderbilt University, earned her MD and Master of Public Health from the University of Texas, and completed her internal medicine training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
In 2015, she returned to Nashville as faculty at Vanderbilt Medical Center. This summer, after years of knowing Paradigm founders Dr. Matt McEvoy and Dr. David Edwards, she joined the practice and notes, “I am so grateful to be part of this team.” Board certified in internal medicine, Paterson has practiced both hospital medicine and primary care. “I love general internal medicine and in particular primary care because I get to see my patients as a whole, both physically and emotionally,” she says. That perspective shapes every appointment. Paterson wants to hear each patient's story, understand their priorities, and help create a plan that feels personal and realistic. “My approach is holistic,” she says. “I want to make your priorities my priorities, and I want you to leave the appointment feeling like I heard and understand your health history, and that you are excited to make a tangible plan to improve your health in a way designed uniquely for you.” She is particularly interested in women's health, cognitive health, dementia prevention, exercise, and the connection between mind and body. And while the internet may occasionally suggest otherwise, she knows there is no single supplement, workout, or miracle formula that works for everyone. Outside the exam room, Paterson and her family enjoy Williamson County life, including dates at Red Pony, trips to the Harpeth and the ongoing adventure of improving their historic home near downtown. CONTINUED >
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Dr. Kylie Conroy and Family. Photo credit: Jaclyn Joy Photography
DR. KYLIE RAE CONROY: PREVENTION BEFORE THE EMERGENCY
For Conroy, the road to Paradigm Health began on a different playing field. A former Division I collegiate softball player at Baylor University, she developed an early understanding that health is about much more than treating illness. Before medical school, she worked as a performance coach with professional, elite, and executive athletes alongside nutritionists and physical therapists. “That experience reinforced my belief that the best health outcomes come from looking at the whole person,” she says. Her athletic background initially pointed her toward sports medicine, but medical school led her to emergency medicine, where she has practiced as a board-certified emergency physician for the past 14 years, including throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Working in the emergency department gave Conroy a firsthand view of heart attacks, strokes, dementia, trauma, and the effects those events have on patients and families. It also strengthened her interest in prevention. “Over time, that experience made me even more committed to working at the other end of the spectrum: preventing disease before it begins whenever possible,” she says. Conroy pursued additional fellowship training in lifestyle medicine, precision medicine, and menopause medicine. At Paradigm, her philosophy is centered on partnership and understanding the person behind the medical history. “My approach is holistic, personalized, and rooted in partnership,” she says. “I want to understand each patient as a whole person, their health history, family, work, priorities, resources, lifestyle, and goals, because all of those factors influence what a sustainable health plan looks like.” She is especially excited about the growing focus on healthspan, helping people maintain strength, vitality, independence, and quality of life. Women's health is another major focus. Conroy is one of fewer than 5,000 clinicians certified by The Menopause Society and is passionate about helping women navigate different seasons of life with evidence-based, individualized care. At Paradigm, she says patients benefit from something increasingly rare in modern medicine: time. “Paradigm Health combines a comprehensive, holistic approach to wellness with what we call ‘unreasonable hospitality,’” she says. Recently, Conroy and her family moved from Murfreesboro to Franklin, allowing her to care for patients in the community she now calls home. She also continues to work at times in the Emergency Department at Williamson Medical Center. Together, Paterson and Conroy bring two distinct paths to the same destination. One began in a Dallas hospital, the other on a Division I softball field. At Paradigm Health, both are helping patients discover that better health is not about finding one perfect formula. It is about finding a thoughtful, personal path forward and having the right people beside you along the way. ParadigmHealth.org
From Cozy Lattes to Festive Sips, These Drinks Taste Just Like the Season
A Taste of November Cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin, maple… just a few of the flavors that capture the taste of November. We’re so lucky to have an abundance of wonderful coffee shops in and around Franklin—and even luckier that so many of them embrace the changing seasons! Whether you’re swapping your iced latte for something warm and cozy or trading in summer flavors for fall favorites, we’ve rounded up some of the best seasonal lattes around town.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MORGAN RAUM
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Stable Reserve Apple Butter Chai Sitting on Main Street, Stable Reserve has become a local favorite for all things coffee and cocktails. While they are known for their espresso martinis and old-fashioneds they also make some of the best lattes. Whether you’re stopping in for a pick-me-up or a celebratory cocktail, Stable Reserve offers an array of delicious seasonal and classic drinks. Their selections are always worth trying, especially the Apple Butter Chai, which is made with homemade apple butter for the perfect cozy touch.
Steel Pony Salted Maple Pecan Located in the heart of Leiper’s Fork, Steel Pony is an elevated, western-themed mobile coffee cart that is equally as picturesque as it is delicious. Their Salted Maple Pecan, which includes a salted maple cold foam, serves as the perfect treat. The sweetness of the maple blends with a warm pecan finish, making it the perfect nod to fall. If you’re exploring Leiper’s Fork or simply looking for a memorable coffee stop, Steel Pony is a spot you won’t want to miss!
Honest Coffee Co. The Yammy Sweet potato, brown sugar, and a torched marshmallow come together in this specialty latte inspired by classic Thanksgiving flavors. This seasonal favorite makes its way back to the menu year after year and remains a staple for autumn at Honest Coffee… one sip and you’ll know why!
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Hank’s Coffee Station Autumn Spice Cuban With brown sugar and pumpkin spice-infused sweetened condensed milk, this take on a classic Cuban is a great way to incorporate fall flavors into your morning. Hank’s is truly more than a coffee run—it’s a whole experience. Grab a seat, soak up the cozy atmosphere, and take in the crisp fall weather while you sip. And if you’re really feeling the fall vibes, order their Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats or Autumn Tartine to go along with it!
The Well Coffeehouse Pumpkin Spice Latte I mean, what’s a fall coffee round-up without a Pumpkin Spice Latte? More savory and subtle than traditional versions, The Well makes their pumpkin syrup in-house—letting the real pumpkin and spices stand out without an overwhelming sweetness. Whether you try it hot or iced, it’s perfectly balanced and oh so delicious!
Cafè Babu Hotty Toddy Located just south of downtown Nashville in Chestnut Hill, Cafè Babu has it all! From delicious coffee to curated cocktails, their drinks are just as impressive as their distinctive architecture. One item that is particularly a standout is their Hotty Toddy—made with bourbon, brown sugar, and cinnamon, this delicious cocktail can be enjoyed hot or iced. Come for the coffee, stay for a cocktail!
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“Whether you’re swapping your iced latte for something warm and cozy or trading in summer flavors for fall favorites, we’ve rounded up some of the best seasonal lattes around town.”
It’s Smile Season! Now is the perfect time to ensure your child’s smile is ready for the season.
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Caring For Your Child’s Growing Smile Pediatric Dentistry • Orthodontics • Invisalign
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Every Gathering Deserves to Feel Extraordinary. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner, a milestone celebration, a corporate event, or simply hoping to make weeknight meals a little more beautiful, Rose & Plum Living creates experiences that feel effortless, welcoming, and unforgettable. From chef-prepared family meals and handcrafted charcuterie to full-service catering, event design, cooking classes, and private celebrations, we believe every table has the power to bring people together.
NOW BOOKING: Fall Celebrations, Holiday Entertaining, & Private Events Beautiful food. Thoughtful hospitality. Memories made around the table.
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SPREAD CHEER!
During Season of Sharing, United Way and Hands On encourage all Middle Tennesseans to show their community some love by volunteering and giving back! Whatever giving means to you – sharing meals, helping with festive events, fulfilling a nonprofit’s wish list, or donating to support Middle Tennessee families – we can help you find the perfect way to connect with those around you and show you care.
Scan here to discover meaningful ways you can spread cheer this season.
SEASON TO SHOP LOCAL
ARTICLE BY JENA POTTER | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WILLIAMSON, INC.
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BECAUSE THE PLACES WE LOVE DEPEND ON THE PEOPLE WHO SUPPORT THEM
There is something especially good about finding the right gift in a shop you almost walked past. Maybe it is a candle made a few miles from home, a piece of jewelry you have not seen anywhere else, or something so perfectly suited to a friend that you know immediately who it is for. You carry it to the counter and, more often than not, the person wrapping it up has a story about where it came from. That is part of the fun of shopping small. There are people behind what you buy. In Williamson County, those people are a big part of what makes this community feel like home. They own the coffee shops where we become regulars, the restaurants where we meet friends, the boutiques we duck into on a Saturday afternoon, and the businesses we call when something at home needs fixing. They are photographers, designers, bakers, makers, consultants, and entrepreneurs who took an idea seriously enough to build something around it. We get a close-up view of just how many of those businesses are woven into the fabric of our community. About 90 percent of the approximately 1,400 Williamson, Inc. member businesses are small businesses. The number is impressive, but the stories behind it are better. A small business may begin with one person at a kitchen table and eventually become a workplace for five, 10, or 20 people. It might give a teenager a first summer job or offer someone a chance to change careers. It may sponsor the baseball team, donate a gift card to the school fundraiser, or recognize the same family when they walk through the door year after year. Those are small moments, but together they help create the kind of community people want to be part of. It is especially easy to see during the holidays. This time of year gives us plenty of reasons to slow down and enjoy where we live. There are dinners with friends, decorated storefronts, holiday parties, family traditions, and the annual search for a gift that feels a little more thoughtful than clicking “add to cart.” CONTINUED >
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It is also one of the most meaningful times of the year to discover a local business. On Thursday, November 19, Williamson, Inc. will bring dozens of them together for Merry Little Market at The Barn at Sycamore Farms. The free community event will run from 4 to 7 p.m. and include local vendors, artisans, makers, and small businesses, along with food, drinks, and photos with Santa. The idea behind it is pretty simple: come enjoy an evening out and meet some of the people doing interesting things right here in Williamson County. You might finish some Christmas shopping. You might find a new favorite business. You may come for a drink and a photo with Santa and leave with something you did not know you were looking for. And while spending locally certainly matters, supporting a small business does not always require pulling out your wallet. If you love a restaurant, tell someone about it. If a business gives you great service, leave the Google review you keep meaning to write. Share the boutique you discovered with a friend. Tag the baker who made the cake everyone asked about. When someone in a neighborhood Facebook group asks for a recommendation, take a minute to give one. For a small business, those little endorsements can travel a long way. They introduce a business to someone new and remind the person behind it that the work they are doing has found an audience. In a community filled with choices, a personal recommendation still means something. The places we love do not become local favorites on their own. They become favorites because we walk through the doors, bring our friends back, share them with our neighbors, and make them part of our routines. So this holiday season, look around a little. There is a good chance something wonderful is being made, served, created, or dreamed up closer to home than you think.
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keystone.co | 615-686-2819 2320 Kline Ave. Nashville TN 37211
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WHEN
LUXURY FEELS LIKE HOME ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Reed Brown Photography
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Allison Elephante Photography
Reed Brown Photography
Where does your family gather? Where do backpacks and shoes land? How does a morning routine unfold? Where does the family dog sleep? How often do you entertain? For Legend Homes President Andy Ferguson, these questions are integral to their process as the most meaningful home is designed around the people who live in it. Luxury may still begin with beautiful architecture and exceptional craftsmanship, but for today’s homeowners, the real measure of luxury is much more personal. That shift is evident in the conversations he has with clients. Rather than simply asking how impressive a home can look, homeowners are thinking more deeply about how it will function, how it will feel, and how it will support the rhythms of everyday life. Ferguson spends considerable time learning how clients actually live before those details become part of the design. “Luxury used to be defined more by size, formality, or certain finishes. Today, our clients are still looking for beautiful architecture, great craftsmanship, and high-quality materials, but that is really just the starting point. “More than anything, they want a home that fits the way they live. To me, a home today is a thoughtful design that complements everyday living. It is a home that feels comfortable and easy.” CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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Reed Brown Photography
“A H O M E C A N B E I M P R E S S I V E W I T H O U T BEING OVERWHELMING. THERE IS A FEELING YOU GET WHEN A HOME IS D E S I G N E D R E A L LY W E L L . T H AT I S H A R D TO ME ASURE ON A FLOOR PL AN, BUT YOU K N O W I T W H E N YO U E X P E R I E N C E I T.” 58
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Allison Elephante Photography
Reed Brown Photography
Ferguson says there is less emphasis on creating a showpiece designed primarily to impress and more attention being paid to the small, often overlooked details that make a home work beautifully for a particular family. The questions a client is asked may sound simple, but they can have a profound impact on a home's design. A mudroom can be positioned to make busy mornings easier. A pantry can be designed around the way a family shops and cooks. A charging station can eliminate clutter. A carefully considered outdoor space can become an extension of the home. Customization, too, has evolved. While selections such as cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and fixtures remain important, Ferguson says today's homeowners are looking beyond finishes. “Clients are thinking more about how the house supports their routines. How do groceries get from the garage to the pantry? Where do the kids charge their devices? Do we need a second prep area or scullery? Where do we put the dog bowls? Where do you sit with a cup of coffee in the morning? Kitchens remain central, but Ferguson is seeing increased interest in sculleries, prep kitchens, larger pantries and storage that allows the main kitchen to remain polished while still functioning as a hardworking space. In Middle Tennessee, outdoor living has also become an important part of the equation. Covered porches, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and pools can extend the living area while creating opportunities for families to gather and unwind. Mudrooms, home offices, fitness spaces, primary suites, laundry rooms and garages are also receiving more intentional design attention. Yet even with all of these amenities, Ferguson believes luxury ultimately comes down to something less tangible. “A home can be impressive without being overwhelming. There is a feeling you get when a home is designed really well. That is hard to measure on a floor plan, but you know it when you experience it.”
That feeling is rooted in emotional connection. A luxury home is not simply a collection of beautiful rooms. It is where families celebrate milestones, linger over dinner, welcome friends, raise children, and retreat at the end of a long day. For homeowners embarking on a custom build, Ferguson recommends starting with the life they actually live, then designing around those realities. The result is a home that can feel both timeless and deeply individual. Because, ultimately, the most enduring luxury is not found in creating a home that looks like everyone else's. It is found in creating one that feels unmistakably like yours. LegendaryLifestyles.com
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Got Facial Hair? Growing Awareness One Mustache and Beard at a Time Each November, clean-shaven faces begin to disappear as beards, mustaches, and scruff make a noticeable comeback. Some may see a seasonal trend, but No Shave November is rooted in something deeper: raising awareness and funds in the fight against cancer. Just ask J.J. Singleton. Every year around Halloween, he shaves, snaps a clean-faced photo, and posts it online. Then he lets everything grow and shares a progress update once a week, with a link for anyone who wants to chip in. "It's super easy to do," he says. Easy is the point. Singleton, a former college football player, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at 27, a little more than 11 years ago. He remains in treatment, and he has found a purpose in it. "Using my lived experience has given me a purpose instead of just being alive to be alive," he says. As a patient advocate volunteer with Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC), he hopes to make the road easier for the people receiving the same news he once did. The way he starts those conversations is about as simple as it gets: a month without a razor. WHAT IS NO SHAVE NOVEMBER? No Shave November is a fundraising campaign that supports cancer education, awareness, and research. The idea is refreshingly simple. "Instead of spending money on grooming products, you just let your hair grow and donate whatever money you would have spent on haircuts, shaving cream, razors, things like that," says Brett Hartigan, fundraising manager at Fight CRC. It has a heartfelt origin. The campaign began in 2009 as a grassroots Facebook effort through the Matthew Hill Foundation, started by the eight children of Matthew Hill. Their father died of colorectal cancer. Fight CRC
ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIGHT CRC
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took over the campaign in 2024, and Hartigan, who had worked with the foundation for about two years, came along as "their adopted child." The Hill family built the campaign to support all cancers, so Fight CRC kept it that way. "We wanted to honor that mission," Hartigan says. EVERYONE CAN JOIN Signing up is free, and you can go solo or build a team. Police stations, fire departments, government agencies, and local companies have all done it, and some make it a friendly competition. "Who can grow the best beards and raise the most money," Hartigan says. No amount is too small. "If you can only donate $10, that's totally okay," Hartigan says. "It's more about getting the word out there, getting support for advocacy, for education, for research. And the more people see these beards, the louder the campaign is." You don't need a beard to take part, either. "It's not just about mustaches and beards," Hartigan says. "It's anything you can do, any hair you can grow." Skip a haircut. Postpone the dog groomer. Some schools even have students cheering on teachers who are growing out their facial hair. Hartigan says the campaign's mustache logo doesn't tell the whole story. "Cancer affects everybody," he says. A SCRUFFY FACE STARTS A CONVERSATION Anyone who has sat at a Thanksgiving table with a growing beard knows the question that comes next. Hartigan loves it. "People will say, ‘why the beard?’ and suddenly you're talking about the
importance of cancer screenings, or why you're supporting an organization like Fight CRC." That matters, because cancer isn't easy to talk about, especially for men. Singleton knows the feeling. "It was ingrained into me: any issues that come up, you can deal with them. Don't burden other people," he says. Colorectal cancer adds another layer of reluctance, because it involves topics many people would rather avoid. His answer is to be open. "I share the good, the bad, the ugly," Singleton says. "I'm hoping other people see that and think, if he can do that, I'm not alone, I'm not weak, this isn't just a me thing." No Shave November helps by making the subject approachable. "We believe it's an engaging and uplifting way to talk about these difficult things," adds Hartigan. WHERE THE MONEY GOES It's easy to picture a fundraiser like this as vague goodwill, hair for hair's sake. But the money goes to specific work through Fight CRC and two partner organizations. Fight CRC, which focuses on colorectal cancer, supports advocacy, education, and research. The Prevent Cancer Foundation works on prevention and early detection across all cancers. Man Up to Cancer supports men affected by any type of cancer, including male caregivers, through peer connection and events like its Gathering of Wolves retreat. The campaign raised $213,000 last year, and this year's goal is $250,000. Teams are already forming, and it's not too late to join. "The word is getting out, and hairs are starting to grow," Hartigan says.
J.J. Singleton
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY Singleton wants readers to walk away with one small, doable idea. "We need to get people more aware of symptoms and signs and tell them to listen to their body," he shares. "If something just isn't feeling right, go and tell your doctor, especially when it comes to your digestive health." It matters at every age. Screening now begins at 45, but "colorectal cancer is the number one cancer killer for men under the age of 50," Singleton says. The good news is that awareness is growing, and every participant who explains the scruffy face CONTINUED >
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helps keep the conversation going. "The money raised, the awareness raised, goes to impact real people and real patients dealing with one of the scariest times in their life," Singleton says. A TRADITION WORTH KEEPING While participants traditionally begin in November, the fundraising campaign continues through January 11, so latecomers can grow a Santa beard and still count. Hartigan is already doing his part. "My scruff is already coming in," he says. He hopes No Shave November becomes a yearly habit for readers. "It's a tradition that people are coming back for during the holiday season," he says. "When people are supposed to look their sharpest, people are getting their scruffiest for a really important cause." And he says people keep returning for a simple reason: "They have fun, and they love the message." Whether your beard grows thick and full or barely makes it past a few days of stubble, everyone can take part. Skipping a razor, a haircut, or a groomer appointment is a small habit change that can start a conversation and support people whose lives have been touched by cancer. no-shave.org @no_shave_november
“When people are supposed to look their sharpest, people are getting their scruffiest for a really important cause.” —Brett Hartigan HOW TO JOIN NO SHAVE NOVEMBER 1. Visit no-shave.org. Signing up is free. 2. Choose how to take part. Create an individual page, or start a team with friends or coworkers. 3. Let it grow. Beards, mustaches, bangs, or an extra month between haircuts all count. Skipping the dog groomer counts too. 4. Donate what you'd have spent. Put your grooming budget toward your page. Even $10 helps. 5. Share your progress. Post a photo, add your donation link, and update friends weekly, the way J.J. does. The campaign runs through January 11. Follow J.J. Singleton's progress on Instagram at @jj5145.
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Building A Luxury Home Should Be A Luxury Experience
livealegend.com
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1. Photo by Devin Tolentino 2. Autumn in Franklin, by Trenton Lee Photography, TrentonLeePhotography.com 3. Tennessee Sunset, acrylic on panel, by @nikkijaneart 4. Photo by @prettythingsnash 5. Hermosa Muerte, by @EvanSabellico 6. Photo by Scotty Creason 7. Quiet Beneath the Thunder, oil on canvas, by dane howard_studios, danehoward-studio.com
FRANKLIN THROUGH YOUR EYES Your View. Your Creativity. Your Franklin.
ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON
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What does Franklin look like to you? This issue marks the debut of Franklin Through Your Eyes, where we shine a spotlight on local artists, photographers, and creators. This month, we're featuring seven submissions from talented neighbors, and we'd love to showcase even more of our community's creativity. Whether you
create photographs, paintings, drawings, digital art, or other visual works, your unique view of Franklin could be featured in a future issue and even selected for a Franklin Lifestyle cover. Submit your artwork or photography to franklin.editor@ citylifestyle.com.
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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
THE BACKYARD
The best rooms in a home are sometimes the ones you never expected to build. In Middle Tennessee, the backyard is becoming much more than a patch of grass beyond the back door. With thoughtful design, it can become an outdoor living room, a private retreat, an entertainment destination, or even a personal wellness sanctuary. For Frank Brigante, foreman with Epperson Landscape, it all starts with understanding how homeowners actually want to use the space. “We strive to design something custom for each client so that they get exactly what they are looking for and will utilize the space that they have.” That philosophy shifts the focus from creating a yard that simply looks beautiful to creating one that feels purposeful. A homeowner who loves entertaining might envision a generous patio, outdoor kitchen,
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and pavilion. Someone looking for tranquility might prefer a secluded garden, fire pit, or the soothing sound of a waterfall. The possibilities are nearly endless. BRINGING THE INDOORS OUTSIDE A backyard can become an extension of the home, with outdoor kitchens, comfortable seating, lighting, speakers and TVs creating natural gathering spaces. For football fans, a pavilion with heating, fans, speakers and a TV can become an outdoor viewing room. For those seeking a quieter escape, a fire pit, fountain or waterfall can create a peaceful retreat. Wellness features such as a sauna, cold plunge, outdoor shower, yoga area, or raised garden beds can take that retreat even further. “We can combine these different elements to create a space that is specific to the client's needs.” PRIVACY WITH A NATURAL TOUCH Privacy does not necessarily mean surrounding the yard with a wall of fencing. While fencing can provide security and structure, carefully placed trees, shrubs,
and grasses can create privacy while maintaining a more natural feel. Evergreen trees can provide year-round screening, while layered plantings can define individual spaces. Taller shrubs or grasses can separate a fire pit from the rest of the yard, while an outdoor kitchen can help establish an entertaining area. A low wall around a fire pit can even provide seating while giving the space its own identity. It is these thoughtful details that transform an open yard into a collection of purposeful spaces. THE MAGIC OF LIGHTING As the sun goes down, thoughtful lighting can completely change the atmosphere. Landscape lighting can highlight architectural details, illuminate pathways and outdoor kitchens, accent trees and landscaping, and draw attention to water features. Subtle lighting around a patio can provide visibility without interfering with the way the space is used. “Lighting is a feature that most homeowners don’t think about enough.” The right lighting does more than extend the hours a backyard can be enjoyed. It adds warmth, ambiance, and another layer of design. CONTINUED >
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DESIGNED FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE For Epperson Landscape, creating an outdoor space begins with listening. Inspiration photos can help homeowners communicate a style, but the more important question is how they want to live in the space. The team begins with an on-site consultation, discussing intended use, materials, styles, plants, and layout. From there, a sketch develops into detailed 3D renderings and an estimate. Once approved, Epperson Landscape coordinates the installation, communicating regularly with the client throughout the process. “We want to make sure it is done right the first time.” That commitment to quality, communication, and attention to detail is part of what sets this family-owned, locally operated business apart. As a small but established local business, Epperson Landscape has built strong relationships with other businesses in the community. The team regularly collaborates and cross-refers with local companies,
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including others in the landscaping industry, to provide clients with the best overall solution for their project. That relationship-driven approach extends to the Epperson team. Many employees have been with the company for years, and every leader brings hands-on field experience. Clients can expect regular updates throughout a project, often daily, and the team is always just a phone call away. Many customers return for additional projects. For Epperson Landscape, that word-of-mouth growth is a pretty good sign they are doing something right. Ultimately, creating a remarkable backyard is not about adding the most features. It is about creating a space that reflects the people who live there. Because when a backyard is thoughtfully designed around the way you live, home does not end at the back door. It simply opens to another room. EppersonLandscape.com
A season of gratitude — celebrating the people and places we’re thankful for. Patrick Poling named to Forbes “ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” | 2020-2026
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All features, amenities or other representations shown are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that any of the features, amenities or other representations depicted or described will be built or performed at all. No warranty or representation, expressed or implied, is made to the accuracy of the information contained herein. This does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy real estate in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law or in any jurisdiction where registration or other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Equal Housing Opportunity. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. ©2026 Firefly Holdings Tennessee, LLC. All rights reserved.
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C I T Y L I FEST Y L E G I V ES BAC K
GIVING TOGETHER A Community That Shows Up
Every year, City Lifestyle sends checks to hundreds of families in need across the country through our annual Giving Campaign and our nonprofit arm, Kingdom Building Foundation. But none of it would be possible without you. We can only help the people we know about, and
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that’s where our readers come in. If you know someone quietly struggling, whether it’s a single parent, a senior citizen, or a family facing something they never saw coming, we want to hear their story. Nominations are what make this whole campaign possible.
We provided a chair lift for a teenager paralyzed in a gymnastics accident so she could move freely through her own home again. We helped a child who lost an eye to cancer get the prosthetic because insurance wouldn’t cover it. We covered dental work for a man who needed his smile back just to walk into a job interview. We got heat turned back on for a family who had spent part of the winter without it. We helped a family keep up with bills while a husband and father fought pancreatic cancer, and we helped another family cover medical expenses after the unimaginable loss of a child. These are just a few examples of some of the hundreds of individuals that have been helped through nominations from readers like you. None of it happens without someone noticing first and speaking up. "We don't just send checks," says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle.
“We send a message: You are seen, you are loved, and you are not forgotten.” Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond the holiday season. "This is about community," Matthew says. "We believe we've been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing." Often, the person making the nomination gets just as much out of the experience as the recipient. There's something powerful about being part of the reason someone else's burden got lighter, especially when that need might have otherwise gone unnoticed. The campaign is completely confidential. No names are ever shared or publicized, and nominating someone is as simple as telling us their story. We are looking for those in our communities who fall between the cracks of getting help, and together as a community, we can meet those needs.
Nominations open November 1st and close December 3rd. To nominate someone in your community, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and find the form in our bio, or visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org.
This season, giving starts with you. Let's do it together. Nominate someone in need today.
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Man
There is a 1951 Mercury sitting in Taylor Hicks' garage that has been there for twenty years. Its name is Alpia, and the story of how it got there is one of show business lore. Shortly after his American Idol win, during a stretch of two and a half consecutive years of touring, Hicks found himself sitting next to Little Richard at a hotel in Nashville. They got to talking about show business and life, and somewhere in the conversation, the Architect of Rock and Roll looked at the young Alabama singer and said point blank, "You haven't got you an old car yet, Taylor." "I haven't yet," Hicks replied. "Well, we've got to get you a car." Hicks, knowing full-well he should take Little Richards' advice, said, "I think that's what I'll do." And the rest is history. "That was my second purchase after my Idol win. My first was a camera to document things and then the second was a 51 Mercury that Little Richard told me to buy." That story is the perfect metaphor for Taylor Hicks. The man has spent twenty years collecting these types of momentous stories and making enduring friendships. In fact, 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of Hicks' season five American Idol win, the moment in 2006 when the gray-haired kid from Birmingham with the harmonica and the unmistakable voice won over America and launched a two-decade-long career. The anniversary has given him reason to look back. "This past year's obviously nostalgic considering the 20th anniversary of the Idol win," he says. "Being able to go back on the show and perform and see a lot of the people that I was a part of that show with, whether it be some of the contestants that were on the show or some of the production and some of the crew."
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The production assistant who guided him through his very first cattle call audition, who was, in his words, "the gatekeeper that allowed me to go through the gate initially" was still on the show, still working, and still there to get a big hug from Hicks. "I always loved seeing her," he says. "And those kinds of moments from the show were a really great way to kick off my year." As for how his approach to performing has evolved over twenty years of stages, television sets, and everything in between, Hicks says, "I think the approach has always been kind of the same, give it hell or don't go on stage," he says. "But as far as understanding how to perform in different avenues, whether it be musical theater or film or hosting television, there's a common thread there and that's to make sure that your emotions are involved because when you emote, the audience, they can feel it." If the American Idol anniversary gave Hicks a reason to look back, his latest television project has given him a reason to hit the road. The Great American Road Rally: Celebrity Edition, hosted by Ian Ziering of Beverly Hills 90210 fame, took Hicks and a cast of fellow television personalities from Chicago to Santa Monica along the full length of Route 66, stopping at cities and towns across the country to raise money for local charities and host car shows along the way. "I'd never really seen Route 66," he says. "I've always heard about it, but being able to travel it and also raise money for different charities across the country was extremely special for me." The cast is like a who's who of television nostalgia. One morning, Hicks called his father to check in. "I told him that I was having
Photo by Devin Tolentino
“I'm very blessed to be able to be going on two decades of show business.”
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“That was my second purchase after my Idol Photo by Devin Tolentino
win. My first was a camera
breakfast with Eddie Munster, Bo Duke and Ponch from Chips," he says. "And Dad said, 'Doesn't surprise me one bit.'" Those are the moments, he says, that he lives for. Oklahoma City was a standout stop, a city he had never spent meaningful time in before and found genuinely beautiful. Each stop along the route included a celebrity challenge and a car show, something Hicks, a self-described car aficionado, embraced with enthusiasm. The show premiered in September and is currently airing weekly with the finale airing later this month on November 25. The Great American Road Rally is not Hicks' first foray into travel television. His 2016-2018 show State Plate took him across the country to sample the signature cuisines of different states, a natural fit for a man who grew up in Alabama and has strong opinions about what it means to eat well. "If you're from the South, you're just born a foodie," he says. "And if you're from Alabama, the Alabamians will let you know if you can do three things — sing, cook, and throw a football." Behind every chapter of Hicks' career has been a commitment to charitable work that reflects his gratitude for everything the last twenty years have given him. He is deeply involved with the Marines Toys for Tots program, hosting a signature annual show at the Lyric Theater in Birmingham where the Marines arrive with boxes of toys destined for children in need. "When you actually see a physical toy that's going to go to a child, it definitely makes me happy," he says. He is also connected to the Friends of the Jacqueline Foundation, an organization born from his television work that makes dreams come true for children with terminal illnesses.
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to document things and then the second was a 51 Mercury that Little Richard told me to buy.”
Photo by Becky Barr
Photo by Angela Lynn Dugger
Photo by Angela Lynn Dugger
As for now, Hicks says a new Christmas song is on the way. "I'm very blessed to be able to be going on two decades of show business and I just really appreciate people coming along on the journey," he says. Twenty years in, the Soul Patrol is still rolling. And if Alpia the 1951 Mercury is any indication, Taylor Hicks knows how to pick something built to last. TaylorHicks.com AmericanRoadRally.com
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TABLE TALK HE
TH
AN
Pass the turkey, scoop another helping of mashed potatoes, and get ready to learn something new about the people sitting around your table. These "Would You Rather" questions aren't about finding the right answer (hint: there are no wrong answers!). No rules, no winners, and no perfect way to play. Pick a question, read it aloud, and let everyone answer. The real fun begins after someone makes their choice. Ask follow-up questions. Why apple pie over pumpkin pie? What if the choice were cherry pie instead of pumpkin pie? Ask "Why?" "What if?" or "Tell me more." A simple answer often leads to the best conversations. So go ahead, pick a few favorites, skip around, answer them all, make up your own, or let one question send you down a completely different path. You just might be surprised where the conversations lead.
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ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON
D GE
1
WOULD YOU RATHER ONLY EAT APPLE PIE FOR DESSERT FOREVER OR ONLY PUMPKIN PIE FOREVER?
2
WOULD YOU RATHER ONLY EAT COOKIES FOR DESSERT OR ONLY ICE CREAM?
3
WOULD YOU RATHER GOBBLE LIKE A TURKEY EVERY TIME YOU LAUGH OR MOO LIKE A COW EVERY TIME YOU SNEEZE?
4
WOULD YOU RATHER ONLY DRINK SODA OR DRINK EVERYTHING BUT SODA?
5
WOULD YOU RATHER LIVE IN THE MOUNTAINS OR LIVE BY THE OCEAN?
6 7
WOULD YOU RATHER BE STUCK ON A ROAD TRIP WITHOUT MUSIC OR WITHOUT SNACKS? WOULD YOU RATHER NEVER USE A PHONE AGAIN OR NEVER WATCH TV AGAIN?
8
WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE NO INTERNET OR NEVER BE ABLE TO DRIVE?
9
WOULD YOU RATHER ALWAYS HAVE TO SING INSTEAD OF TALK OR ALWAYS HAVE TO WHISPER?
10
WOULD YOU RATHER LOSE YOUR SENSE OF SMELL OR YOUR SENSE OF TASTE?
11
WOULD YOU RATHER NEVER FEEL TIRED AGAIN OR NEVER FEEL HUNGRY AGAIN?
12
WOULD YOU RATHER NEVER HAVE TO SLEEP OR NEVER HAVE TO EAT?
13
WOULD YOU RATHER BECOME INVISIBLE OR HAVE X-RAY VISION?
14
WOULD YOU RATHER BE ABLE TO TALK TO ANIMALS OR SPEAK EVERY HUMAN LANGUAGE FLUENTLY?
15
WOULD YOU RATHER BE ABLE TO BREATHE UNDERWATER OR FLY THROUGH THE AIR?
16
WOULD YOU RATHER BE EXTREMELY STRONG OR EXTREMELY FAST?
17
WOULD YOU RATHER CONTROL THE WEATHER OR SHAPESHIFT INTO ANY ANIMAL?
18
WOULD YOU RATHER BE ABLE TO TELEPORT ANYWHERE OR FREEZE TIME WHENEVER YOU WANT?
19
WOULD YOU RATHER BE ABLE TO READ MINDS OR SEE TEN MINUTES INTO THE FUTURE?
20
WOULD YOU RATHER HEAR PEOPLE'S THOUGHTS OR PLAY ANY MUSICAL INSTRUMENT?
21
WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE THE POWER TO MAKE ANYONE LAUGH OR THE POWER TO MAKE ANYONE FEEL INSTANTLY CALM?
22
WOULD YOU RATHER BE THE FUNNIEST PERSON IN EVERY ROOM OR THE SMARTEST PERSON IN EVERY ROOM?
23
WOULD YOU RATHER BE FAMOUS FOR SOMETHING EMBARRASSING OR NEVER BE FAMOUS AT ALL?
24
WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE A JOB YOU LOVE WITH AVERAGE PAY OR A JOB YOU DISLIKE WITH GREAT PAY?
25
WOULD YOU RATHER TALK TO YOUR FUTURE SELF OR YOUR PAST SELF?
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WOULD YOU RATHER LIVE ONE DAY AS A KID AGAIN OR LIVE ONE DAY 30 YEARS IN THE FUTURE?
27
WOULD YOU RATHER BE ABLE TO FIX ANY ONE MISTAKE FROM YOUR PAST OR GUARANTEE ONE THING GOES RIGHT IN YOUR FUTURE?
28
WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE ONE WISH GRANTED RIGHT NOW OR THREE WISHES GRANTED TEN YEARS FROM NOW?
29
WOULD YOU RATHER LIVE WITHOUT MUSIC OR LIVE WITHOUT MOVIES?
30
WOULD YOU RATHER NEVER HAVE TO WAIT IN LINE AGAIN OR NEVER SIT IN TRAFFIC AGAIN?
31
WOULD YOU RATHER BE KNOWN FOR BEING KIND OR KNOWN FOR BEING BRILLIANT?
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WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE EVERYONE SHARE THEIR FUNNIEST FAMILY STORY OR THEIR MOST EMBARRASSING ONE?
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The Signs Hiding in
Plain Sight The holidays have a way of bringing families together, but sometimes, they also reveal the subtle signs that an aging loved one may need a little extra help at home. We sat down with Emily Manning, PA-C, owner of homeRN Franklin, to learn what to look for, how to start the conversation, and why stepping in early can help preserve independence.
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST RED FLAGS FAMILY MEMBERS SHOULD LOOK FOR WHEN THEY VISIT AN ELDERLY LOVED ONE OVER THE HOLIDAYS THAT COULD INDICATE THEY ARE STRUGGLING AT HOME?
One of the first things I recommend is looking at their overall appearance. Do they look put together and like they are taking care of themselves, or do they seem unusually disheveled? Pay attention to things like hygiene, clothing, and whether they appear to be keeping up with their normal routine. Then look around the home. Does it look relatively clean and intact? Is there food in the refrigerator and pantry? Is the trash being taken out? Are there piles of mail or things that seem out of place? These seemingly small details can give you a much better picture of how someone is really managing day-to-day.
WHAT SUBTLE CHANGES IN THINGS LIKE APPEARANCE, HOUSEKEEPING, MOBILITY, EATING, MEDICATIONS, OR MEMORY ARE EASY FOR FAMILY MEMBERS TO OVERLOOK?
Memory changes are probably one of the easiest things to overlook, especially if you don't live with or see your loved one regularly. Some memory loss is a normal part of aging, but family members should be intentional about asking questions and paying attention to their answers. Ask about their neighbor, their recent doctor's appointment, or what they did earlier in the week. Don't just assume everything is fine because they can carry on a conversation. Sometimes, if you spend even 10 minutes with someone, you'll notice they are repeating a question they asked five minutes earlier or forgetting something you just discussed.
Emily Manning, PA-C, owner of homeRN Franklin Photo by Holland Williams Photography
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ARTICLE PROVIDED PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLLAND WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY
IF A FAMILY MEMBER NOTICES ONE OR MORE OF THESE RED FLAGS, WHAT SHOULD THEY DO NEXT, AND HOW CAN THEY APPROACH THE CONVERSATION WHILE STILL RESPECTING THEIR LOVED ONE’S INDEPENDENCE?
Start by asking how they are doing. Do they feel okay? Do they feel like themselves? Conversations about memory loss or losing some independence can be very delicate. If your loved one really values their independence, reassure them that you value it too. The goal isn't to take away their independence. It's to help them maintain it for as long as possible. At the same time, if you don't know what is really going on, you can't help. Addressing small concerns early can often prevent a situation from becoming a much bigger issue that ultimately forces someone to give up more independence than they would have otherwise. Their primary care physician can also be a great resource, and most physicians are very comfortable having these conversations with their patients and helping families determine what additional support may be appropriate. Sometimes it can also help to have an outside person involved. At homeRN Franklin, we are happy to come alongside families and have a casual conversation with their loved one about what support might make life easier at home. The goal isn't to take over; it's to provide the right amount of help so they can stay safe, comfortable, and as independent as possible. If you have concerns about a loved one, don't wait until there is a crisis. Reaching out early can make all the difference. homeRNcare.com/locations/Franklin
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Lake Life that Pays for Itself Enjoy you lake home, rent it when you’re away and let the income help offset the cost of ownership. Qualified short-term rentals also offer substantial “bonus” first-year tax deductions through depreciation strategies.
Jim Young
Call me and let’s talk about how your lake home can help pay for itself!
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Compass Real Estate Advisors, LLC · 4031 Aspen Grove Drive, Suite 400 · Franklin, TN · 37067 · (615) 475-5616 Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
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615.641.4050 | LightWaveSolar.com 90
THE MANGER: THE GIFT OF BEING SEEN ARTICLE BY JAKE WARD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMELIA J. MOORE
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The Ryan Family
When Andy and Serena Ryan walked into The Manger, they were overwhelmed with competing emotions. On one hand, they felt discouraged. Attending an event because they were struggling to afford Christmas presents for their sons was not how they expected their year to end. Just a few months prior, they were perfectly capable of supporting themselves. How did we get here? they wondered. On the other hand, as they looked around at the smiling faces and rows of brand-new toys, they were “full of gratitude for GraceWorks,” Serena said, and the “lifeline” it had become. Every year since 1995, neighbors like Andy and Serena have come to The Manger, a shopping event organized by GraceWorks Ministries. With the help of local churches, GraceWorks creates a festive, store-like environment where parents who are struggling financially can choose free gifts for their kids. Last year, GraceWorks distributed close to 10,000 presents to 1,500 children in Williamson County with the help of 600 volunteers, making The Manger a huge logistical undertaking. What adds to the complexity of the four-day event is GraceWorks’ commitment to giving shoppers a dignified experience: Parents book an appointment so their shopping time isn’t crowded or rushed, and they choose gifts for their children rather than being handed a random assortment. CONTINUED >
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It’s those touches of dignity that make the event special, along with many others: the holiday snacks, the prayer room, the Christmas movie playing in the lobby, the music and decorations, the friendly volunteers who carry shopping bags, and the gift-wrapping station, which is a crowd favorite. For families who attend The Manger, that spirit of caring and dignity doesn’t end when they walk out the door. Andy and Serena found this out on a cold December night. They’d just returned home from their son’s Christmas play, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” which is about an impoverished family and the community that rallies together to drop off food at their front door. Andy and Serena got out of their car and saw a box they weren’t expecting. It was full of groceries, a turkey, and a Publix gift card. They didn’t know it at the time, but every family who signs up for The Manger receives one of these holiday food boxes. As Serena recounted the story, her eyes filled with tears: “We just felt so seen,” she said. “We were struggling in silence and didn’t know what to do, but GraceWorks and the Lord saw us.” That was a “pivotal moment,” she said—the exact moment they knew, “It was going to be okay… there’s people here in our community looking out for us.” For Andy and Serena, that turned out to be true. Not only were they going to be okay (they’re now both employed full-time and financially stable) but also that their community cared about them. GraceWorks was able to provide Andy and Serena with rent and utility assistance, which helped them move from crisis to stability. GraceWorks’ vision is “neighbors serving neighbors by the power of God’s grace,” and CEO Alicia Bell believes that vision comes to life in events like The Manger: “GraceWorks is the conduit and facilitator, but it’s the huge outpouring of generosity—from volunteers, churches, and individuals—that makes The Manger, and all of our other programs, possible. It truly is neighbors serving neighbors.” For more information about The Manger, visit GraceWorksTN.org. To watch Andy and Serena’s full story, visit GraceWorksTN.org/TheRyans.
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BEAUTIFUL AND FUNCTIONAL KITCHENS WHERE FAMILY AND FRIENDS WILL LOVE TO GATHER
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLISON ELEFANTE
As a designer for more than 30 years, Stacy Brzica was thrilled when she had the chance to purchase French’s Cabinet Gallery in Franklin in 2024. Taking the helm of a company that has been part of the Franklin and Brentwood community for 26 years, she saw an opportunity to build on that history while bringing a fresh perspective to the showroom, the design experience, and the way clients think about cabinetry. “I wanted to honor what French’s had already built, but also knew there was an opportunity to evolve,” she says. Helping her take the business to the next level is her daughter, Kate Brzica, who joined the family business to lead growth, partnerships, and marketing. Together, they are introducing French’s to a new generation while preserving the personal service that has always set the company apart. French’s has a reputation for exceptional quality and award-winning design, and Stacy and her team work with homeowners, contractors, and builders to find the perfect cabinets for every project. For her, a kitchen has never been simply a collection of cabinets—it’s the heart of the home. “It is where families and friends gather, and everyday life happens. No matter how beautiful and inviting the rest of the house is, people always gravitate toward the kitchen.” Spend a few minutes talking with any of the designers at French’s Cabinets about kitchen design, and the one thing that becomes clear is that they want to know how you live. “Everyone has their own routines,” says Stacy. “A beautiful kitchen is wonderful, but if it doesn’t make your everyday life easier, we haven’t finished the job.” Clients love all the organizational elements and details that can be customized for them in every kitchen. That might mean deep drawers for pots and pans instead of traditional cabinet doors. It could mean hidden spice storage, built-in knife organization, a dedicated coffee bar and/or an appliance garage that keeps counter clutter to a minimum. CONTINUED >
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“Instead of opening a cabinet door and just having an open box, there are so many things we can add to make that a useful space,” she says. “In the world of cabinet organization and kitchen tech, there’s some really cool stuff.” Not only are the insides of cabinets and drawers extremely functional, but chargers can also be built right into the countertops. We’ve talked about what’s happening inside the cabinets, but what about what’s happening on the outside? “There are quite a few design trends, but what I find interesting is that no matter the hearsay, the white kitchen continues to defy its supposed expiration date. We still have a lot of homeowners leaning that way, so we help warm that up and layer the all-white kitchen.” The designers do this by using unexpected shades of white and warmer tones to replace the stark whites of the past. They might add an island or pantry in a stained wood tone to add depth. They might even add a third finish or a paint color to the cabinet layout to really add dimension. One misconception Stacy would like to change is that working with a specialty cabinet showroom automatically means spending more than you would somewhere else. French’s offers cabinetry across a range of styles and budgets, from approachable cabinetry for a straightforward renovation to highly customized kitchens with furniture-style details and specialty finishes.
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“People sometimes walk in, see the displays, and immediately think, ‘This is going to be out of my budget,’ but we have options at several different price points. We have six different custom and semi-custom cabinetry lines. A beautiful kitchen doesn’t have to mean an unlimited budget.” What clients receive at French’s is something difficult to find in a big-box environment: personal guidance from beginning to end. A designer helps navigate cabinetry layout, finishes, and the countless small decisions that can make it feel overwhelming. “You don’t need to know cabinetry terminology or have every decision made before you walk through our doors,” she says. “That is what we are here for.” French’s has been part of Williamson County for more than two decades, and Stacy wants its next chapter to feel both familiar and new. “The goal is not to become the biggest cabinet company. Instead, it is to be the place people feel comfortable walking into with an inspiration photo, a rough sketch, or no idea where to begin” A kitchen is an investment, but it’s also where so much of life happens. “We want to create something beautiful, and more importantly, a space that feels like home.” Visit their website to see the myriad of choices available. @frenchscabinets FrenchsCabinets.com
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Tucked away in a secret corner on the grounds of Southall Farm & Inn, Dottie’s Speakeasy offers a night out that feels a little more like a secret discovery. Officially opened in May 2024 and located inside an unassuming house overlooking the property, the intimate hideaway blends craft cocktails, live music, and plenty of old-school charm. Access begins at January, the property’s signature restaurant, where select diners are discreetly granted a card with instructions for entry. When Dottie’s is open, guests quite literally follow the green light, tracing a path of glowing green lights across the farm to discover the hidden bar. Dottie's has always been "open" to the public with a ticket for live music, but these new offerings are the first time outside guests can book specific culinary experiences aside from attending after dining at January.
1. THE SECRET-SPOT FEELING Part of the fun is finding it. Follow the path to the hilltop house and look for the green light signaling that Dottie’s is open. The tucked-away setting gives the evening an exclusive, if-you-know-you-know feel.
2. THE DECOR Leather seating, antique furnishings, framed artwork, vintage-inspired details, and eclectic collections create a richly layered atmosphere made for lingering. The property describes the space as a nod to the glamour and intrigue of classic American speakeasies, paying homage to the Roaring Twenties in an intimate ambiance.
3. CREATIVE COCKTAILS The drinks are a destination of their own. Dottie’s serves handcrafted cocktails with unexpected ingredients and playful presentations, including riffs on classics and creations inspired by Southall’s seasonal ingredients. Tiny 'Tini Tuesdays are part of new weekly programming where guests can explore a rotating selection of mini martinis.
4. LIVE MUSIC On select nights, cocktails come with a soundtrack. Dottie’s regularly features live music from local musicians, creating an intimate setting for enjoying everything from familiar tunes to unplugged sets. On Fridays & Saturdays, guests can spend the evening with resident musician Mike Godwin as he fills Dottie's with a mix of soulful favorites, familiar classics, and laid-back acoustic performances.
5. THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW Dottie’s new programming gives guests a reason to keep coming back. In addition to Tuesday’s Tiny 'Tinis, Dottie's offers Wednesday educational tastings of wine, bourbon or tequila; Thursday champagne and caviar service; and weekend live music. Each offers a different way to settle in, find your favorite corner, and let the night unfold. SouthallTN.com/dinner-franklin-tn/dotties
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5 REASONS TO LOVE DOTTIE'S SPEAKEASY AT SOUTHALL ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA Photo by Patrik Argast, Argast Photography
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Courtesy of Burns & Co.
ACTRESS JEN LILLEY IS ADVOCATING, WRITING, AND CHANGING LIVES
Jen Lilley is the ultimate multi-hyphenate. She's an actress, producer, author, advocate, podcaster, wife, mother, and singer. Ask her what she does for a living and the common thread in her response is clear. "I would describe myself as a storyteller," she says, "because I can tell stories through acting. I can tell stories through producing. I can tell stories through books. I can tell stories through music. I can tell stories through inspirational speaking. So I think that's really what ties it all together for me."
ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA
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Photo by Morgan Raum
Long before Lilley was known for her work in holiday movies, she was growing up in a home where the concept of family was expanded. Her parents were, as she describes them, "unofficial foster parents," consistently opening their home to families and teenagers navigating hard seasons of life. The idea of someone staying in her house who wasn't a blood relative was not a foreign concept. That foundation led her to eventually become a child advocate through Child Help, an organization she describes as possibly the original child abuse prevention organization in the country, and one she remains an ambassador for to this day. Through their Special Friends program, similar in structure to Big Brothers Big Sisters, she became a mentor. And through that mentorship, she and her husband fell deeply in love with one of their mentees.
In the effort to get licensed as foster parents as quickly as possible to maintain their relationship with that child, they met Kayden. "Our very first placement actually was our son Kayden," she says, "and then we fostered other children, but then we fostered his biological brother, Jeffrey, who is also our son now. So we adopted both of them out of LA County's foster care system through Child Help." The child they originally set out to foster eventually aged out of the system and is now part of her family. "She's in college and she's spending all of her holidays and stuff with us," she says. "So that had a happy ending." That emotional journey became the catalyst for her book Called to Foster, co-written with Dr. John DeGarmo, a nationally recognized expert in foster care whom she met during the pandemic when they both appeared on a CNN segment. A shared trip to Capitol Hill to lobby Congress for foster care reform solidified their partnership. "I really realized that I wanted to duplicate myself," she says, "because there's only so many kids I can help." The book is an honest and personal account of what foster care actually is, written by someone who has lived it. "My specific mission has really been to recruit other people to foster and to demystify it because there's just so many myths and misconceptions." Chief among them: the idea that children in foster care are somehow difficult or troubled. "51% of surveyed Americans believe children in foster care are bad kids," she says. "Children in foster care are often associated with the juvenile justice system and things like that. But that's really the aftermath of being abused or neglected and then being passed through a broken system with no one who's consistent or no one who says your story can look a different way." CONTINUED >
Courtesy of Hallmark Channel NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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Courtesy of Burns & Co.
"If I can do this, you can do this," Lilley says, "because I have no business fostering. I'm traveling all the time. I have a thousand hats that I'm wearing sometimes at the same time. And so I just feel like I want to make people think that they can do it, but I also want to be honest and say, here's what it entails. So don't go into this with rose-colored glasses. It's hard." Foster care advocacy aside, this month brings one of the most meaningful acting roles of Lilley's career: Gloria Stewart, wife of the legendary James Stewart, in the biopic Jimmy, opening in theaters nationwide on November 6th, just ahead of Veterans Day, with the movie's premiere planned at The Franklin Theatre. "I fell out of my chair," she says of the moment she got the call to play Stewart's wife. "Who doesn't love James Stewart?" The film explores Stewart's deep desire to serve his country during
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World War II. MGM famously tried to circumvent his service on his behalf, and that briefly made him a target of public criticism before the full story became clear. He served without special treatment, flew missions the military called suicidal, and came home profoundly changed. "He came back as a shell of a man," Lilley says. "Hollywood didn't want him anymore. He served, I think, three years and they were like, 'You're a has-been.' And that was before Hitchcock, before It's a Wonderful Life, before the work that we really remember him for mostly." "I truly believe with everything in me that when people leave the movie theater, they're going to leave feeling a lot more united as a country and as a nation," she says. "And that's something we desperately need right now."
This coming year is, predictably, full for Lilley. A new song called "It's Going to Be Okay," recorded with an artist named Roosevelt, is releasing with 100% of proceeds benefiting Child Help and their child abuse hotline. A new book, Into the Supernatural, based on her podcast of the same name and co-written with Billy Hallowell for HarperCollins, is coming in 2027. And another biopic, One Beautiful Life, in which she plays Jenny Phillips — a remarkable singer who left her career to become a mother and eventually built one of the most successful homeschooling curricula in the country — is also on the way. When asked what she most wants people to know about her, she says, "I love people. I want people to know me by my love, and I want people to just feel seen and known and heard and loved when they're around me. So that's my number one driver." JenLilley.com / @jen_lilley
Photo by Morgan Raum
Beyond the biopic, Lilley remains one of the most recognizable faces in holiday cinema. Her latest Hallmark Channel film, Love Under the Mistletoe, has her playing Grace Rankin, an interior designer whose high school crush returns to town to settle his grandmother's affairs, and with whom she eventually rediscovers something she never quite let go of. "I love stories like that," she says. "I love when they have a longstanding relationship that you get to build from the get-go." As for why audiences love their holiday movies with the same predictable stories that continue to draw enormous viewership, Lilley says it's an "escape. There is a lot of psychology behind why classic stories or classic movies are watched over and over, and it's because they're predictable and it's a break for our brain." She cites psychological research suggesting that these comforting stories are genuinely beneficial and that the genre's most devoted viewers are perhaps not who you'd expect. "They say lawyers, judges, detectives, police officers, people with very high-stress jobs are the number one demographic. And moms," she adds.
Courtesy of Burns & Co.
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Your Body Is Changing. Your Healthcare Should Evolve With You.
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LUXURY LIVING IN THE HEART OF FRANKLIN
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
FRANKLIN
RIDGE
Toll Brothers is bringing a new expression of luxury living to one of Middle Tennessee’s most sought-after destinations with Franklin Ridge, a boutique community of luxury single-family homes in Franklin, Tennessee. Set amid the rolling landscape of Williamson County, Franklin Ridge pairs expansive home sites and sophisticated home designs with an exceptional location near the shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation that define the Franklin lifestyle. Located at 237 Berryhunter Lane, Franklin Ridge offers an intimate collection of 34 single-family homes. With views toward Roper’s Knob and the surrounding rolling hills, the community offers a beautiful backdrop for residences designed with both architectural character and modern living in mind. CONTINUED >
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“WE’RE STILL VERY MUCH IN THE BEGINNING STAGES OF WHAT WE HOPE TO CREATE IN TERMS OF OUR PRESENCE IN FRANKLIN A ND MIDDL E T ENNE S SEE.” JORDA N H A R T IG A N SOPHISTICATED HOME DESIGNS
Franklin Ridge features four thoughtfully designed floor plans ranging from approximately 3,929 to more than 4,415 square feet, before structural options that add additional living space. Home designs offer four to seven bedrooms, spacious main living areas, and two- or three-story options, with select homesites offering walkout basements. Second-level balconies provide an elevated connection to the surrounding landscape, with many home sites capturing sweeping views across Franklin’s scenic terrain. The Liora model home, which just recently opened to the public, showcases the possibilities within Franklin Ridge. The Transitional design features a first-floor primary suite, expansive outdoor living space, and a finished basement with a full home gym and elevated speakeasy. Together, these spaces demonstrate the thoughtful architectural details, flexible living environments, and opportunities for personalization available at Franklin Ridge.
PERSONALIZATION THAT REFLECTS INDIVIDUAL STYLE
At Franklin Ridge, personalization is an integral part of the homebuilding experience. Homebuyers have the opportunity to
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select sophisticated fixtures, finishes, and design details through the Toll Brothers Design Studio, allowing them to create a home that reflects their individual preferences and lifestyle. This approach brings together the craftsmanship and quality associated with Toll Brothers with the flexibility to personalize the spaces that matter most.
A NATURAL SETTING WITH EVERYDAY CONVENIENCE
While Franklin Ridge offers a serene setting, its location places residents close to the energy and convenience of Franklin and Cool Springs. The community is situated near the McEwen Interstate 65 interchange, providing convenient connections to Brentwood, downtown Nashville, and destinations throughout the South Nashville corridor. Shopping, dining, arts, entertainment, and outdoor recreation are all within easy reach. Within Franklin Ridge itself, natural surroundings remain an important part of the community experience. Pocket parks and a walking trail create opportunities to connect with nature within the community. The combination of expansive home sites, scenic surroundings, and convenient access to nearby destinations
creates a distinctive balance between tranquility and connectivity.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR TOLL BROTHERS IN FRANKLIN
Franklin Ridge also marks an important milestone for Toll Brothers as its first community in Franklin. The community opened for sales in the early spring of 2026, introducing a collection of luxury residences designed to complement the character and appeal of this highly regarded Tennessee city. With elegant architecture, expansive home sites, sophisticated personalization opportunities, and a location that brings Franklin, Cool Springs, and Nashville within easy reach, Franklin Ridge offers a refined approach to new home living in Williamson County. It is a community where thoughtful design meets natural beauty, creating an elevated setting for the next chapter of homeownership in Franklin. Toll Brothers is also planning on opening Magnolia Green in 2027, another Franklin community that will be located off Hwy. 96 and Ralston Ln. “We’re still very much in the beginning stages of what we hope to create in terms of our presence in Franklin and Middle Tennessee,” says Jordan Hartigan, Division President of Toll Brothers in Tennessee. “When customers walk into our model homes, they can feel the difference – they are inspired by the company’s quality and offerings,” says Travis Chapman, Vice President of Sales at Toll Brothers Tennessee Division. “Our goal is to build something that everyone can be proud of and that brings value to the entire area,” added Chapman. The public is welcome to stop by the sales center at 237 Berryhunter Lane for a tour of the model home and community. Hours of operation and additional details can be found at LiveAtFranklinRidge.com
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ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON
WHERE TO WALK OFF the Feast Thanksgiving has its traditions: turkey, pie, football, and catching up with family. But after hours together inside, you may be looking for a reason to get out of the house. So before someone claims the recliner for a football game or post-turkey nap, check out these Williamson County places to stretch your legs, burn off a little energy, and make a few fresh-air memories between helpings of pie.
Pinkerton Park & Storybook Trail, Franklin Best for: Families with young children and curious explorers Got little ones in tow? Pinkerton Park is an easy post-feast outing. The 34-acre park has a one-mile paved trail, Harpeth River views, and the Tinkerbell playground many Franklin families know and love. Along the way, the Storybook Trail turns a simple walk into an adventure with storybook pages posted along the path to give little walkers a reason to keep moving. Family Challenge: See who can spot every Storybook Trail station before the playground steals everyone's attention. Bonus points for squirrels, ducks, or anything else moving along the Harpeth.
“A post-Thanksgiving walk might just become your family's newest holiday tradition.”
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Peacock Hill Nature Park, College Grove Best for: Young kids drawn to the Storybook Trail, plus older kids and adults up for a longer hike For families who want more than a quick loop, Peacock Hill Nature Park delivers. With 246 acres, six trails, two ponds, and one of Williamson County's highest points, it is the biggest adventure on this list. Its Storybook Trail gives younger hikers something to enjoy before the group heads toward longer climbs and overlook views. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you go. Deer, wild turkeys, foxes, and other woodland creatures all call this area home. Family Challenge: Choose a “trail captain” and rotate the role every five minutes. Each new captain gets to pick the group’s next task: read the next Storybook Trail page aloud, point out one thing visible from an overlook, or guess how many hills everyone has climbed so far. See how many captains it takes to reach the top.
Liberty Park, Franklin Best for: Mixed-age groups who would rather play than stroll If your family would rather throw, toss, race, or compete than take a quiet walk, head to Liberty Park. Located in Cool Springs, the park has a paved trail, playground, open fields, dog park, and a disc golf course tucked among the trees. That means toddlers, teens, adults, and four-legged family members can all find a way to join in. Family Challenge: Host your own Thanksgiving Olympics. Frisbee toss, football throw, a playground obstacle run, maybe a round of disc golf. Winner takes home the Golden Drumstick (a real drumstick, a fake one, your call) and holds bragging rights until next Thanksgiving.
Timberland Park, Franklin Best for: Teens, nature lovers, and families ready for an adventure Just off the Natchez Trace Parkway, Timberland Park feels like a secret even some longtime locals haven't found yet. Dense hardwood forest and more than five miles of trails offer everything from an accessible path near the interpretive center to longer routes that climb and curve deeper into the woods. It's less about the destination here and more about the quiet. Family Challenge: Play Nature Detective. Find three different leaf shapes, an acorn, evidence of wildlife, a bird, and a tree too large to wrap your arms around.
Bonus Walk: Harpeth River Greenway, Franklin Best for: Grandparents, strollers, and anyone who just wants an easy walk Need something low-key? The Harpeth River Greenway is a flat, paved route following the river and connecting several Franklin parks. It is stroller-friendly, grandparent-friendly, and about as low-effort as outdoor time gets. The pace is easy, the river views are peaceful, and there is plenty to see along the way making this one of the easiest places to enjoy a post-meal stroll. Family Challenge: Make it a game of outdoor bingo. Look for a duck, squirrel, bike rider, dog walker, acorn, bridge, and a reflection in the water. Whether your crew is ready to hike, play, wander, or simply take the scenic route, a post-Thanksgiving walk might just become your family's newest holiday tradition.
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ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALYSHA CLARK, WNBA IMAGES BY JACOB CONDA & MICHAEL GONZALEZ
WNBA star Alysha Clark Embraces A New Role As Author
Beyond The Court
WNBA veteran Alysha Clark has found ways to turn both joy and heartbreak into something meaningful. She shares that perspective through her debut children’s book, Paw Paw's Playlist, a heartfelt story inspired by love, loss, and the power of music. About a year after Clark lost her father, she was sitting at home with her youngest niece, watching television, not even talking about him, when her 3-year-old niece looked up and asked, 'Auntie, papa's in the sky, right?' "My heart just sank," says Clark. "I thought, she's trying to process this, like it's hitting her now. She's trying to figure out where her papa went and why he isn't here anymore."
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not just to the children who would hear it read aloud, but also to the adults doing the reading. "As much as this is a children's book, my co-author Kiara Marsh and I really wanted to make sure that the adults that would be reading it to them also could have a little whimsy and take a message away that resonates with them too." Clark kept the project close for a long time, working through the manuscript privately, processing the grief and making sure the story she was telling honored the people it was about. She didn't tell her family until the editing was nearly complete. "I kind of didn't tell anybody from the beginning," she says. "Partly because the idea was still forming and partly because the emotion was still raw." CONTINUED >
In that profound moment, the idea for Paw Paw's Playlist was born. Clark, who grew up loving books and is passionate about the power of reading, began to think about what it would mean to honor her father and his legacy through the thing she and her nieces and nephews loved most: reading together. The title of the book, Paw Paw's Playlist, points to the idea that the people we love leave behind a kind of playlist. Not just the songs they listened to, but the foods they loved, the memories they created, the moments that made them who they were. When we encounter those things after they're gone, we are, in a sense, playing their playlist again."When you maybe eat their favorite food or you listen to their favorite song, you're playing their life's playlist again and keeping them near," Clark says. Music was a natural anchor for the story because music was inseparable from her father himself. "Music is my family's love language," she says. "Both my parents are musicians. All my siblings sing and do music in different capacities." She co-wrote the book with Kiara Marsh, a close friend and editor whose own family was navigating the loss of their grandmother at the time. Together, they made a deliberate choice to ensure the book spoke NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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When she finally shared it with her family, the reaction was everything she had hoped for, yet more complicated than she expected. "They were really excited about it. Obviously really sad as well. It was just this constant conflict of emotions: gratitude to honor our dad and my mom's husband, but also a sadness as to why the book needed to be written." "There's so much vulnerability in telling stories, especially personal stories," she says. "This is very personal to me and my family, and it's based on my nephew and my dad's relationship. I wanted my nephew to see himself in this book. I wanted my nieces to see themselves in this book." And the response from readers has exceeded Clark's hopes for the book. Families, child therapists, teachers, and parents have reached out to share how the book has become a tool for navigating one of the hardest conversations a family can have. "The feedback has been the most amazing thing for me and the most surprising thing," she says. "Surprising in a really beautiful way." "I'm just excited that this is something that can be a tool for families to talk about the heavy topic of grief and talk about it in an encouraging and hopeful way," Clark says. "While also acknowledging that kids can handle these big feelings. They have them. It's just helping them navigate how to get through them." Clark loves the platform professional basketball has given her. "From day one, when I finally signed a contract that allowed me to play in the WNBA, I knew I wanted to use this platform to help people and inspire people and just spread goodness," she says. Some of Clark's inspiration and goodness comes from her Middle Tennessee upbringing. "The formative years of my growing up, my teenage and
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adulthood, were in Middle Tennessee," she says. Clark attended Mount Juliet High School, Belmont University, and later MTSU. "I carry that with pride and how I was raised and what the area has to offer. Any chance that I get, I'm making sure that the Middle Tennessee area is something I'm always talking about and representing it to the highest of my ability." She has fond memories of time spent in Franklin as well — through training, AAU camps, tournaments. "When you're there, it's like a welcoming and warm community," she says. Clark is thinking about what her next chapter might look like. "I want to have the same lasting impact at home that I've had in other places," she says. "And be able to share that with the people back home." As Alysha Clark continues to make her mark on the basketball court, she's also extending her impact well beyond the game. AlyshaClark.com / @alyshaclark
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“We’re serving a selection of Thanksgiving activities that everyone can agree on.”
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7 Ways to Celebrate T hank sgiving Ah, Thanksgiving. The one holiday a year when we all have an excuse to eat leftover mashed potatoes for breakfast the next day—excluding Christmas, Easter, and my birthday, of course. (Just a Sullivan family thing? Oh well.) Carbs aside, there’s still plenty to love about the fourth Thursday in November. And what better place to celebrate than Franklin, Tennessee? Whether you’ve traveled into town to sop up the seasonal spirit or you’re a local looking to fill your out-of-town guests’ plates and schedules, you’re holding the long end of the wishbone. We’re serving a selection of Thanksgiving activities that everyone can agree on. (Yes, even your cousins who’ve been arguing over fresh vs. canned cranberry sauce since ’02. Just bring both, guys!) First thing on the menu: Place an order with Rose and Plum Living. No, they can’t magically make your relatives agree on politics or football. But they can take the stress out of Thanksgiving cooking. Their chef-prepared holiday menu is beautifully packaged and ready to serve, giving you more time to enjoy the people around your table. Start with a Baked Brie with Apricot Compote or a festive Crudité Wreath, then choose from holiday favorites like Smoked Turkey, Gluten-Free Italian Sausage Stuffing, Green Bean Casserole, Sweet Potato Soufflé, Creamed Corn, Mac
& Cheese, and Cheddar Chive Biscuits. Save room for Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie, or the house-favorite RPL Banana Pudding. Pickup is available from their Cool Springs kitchen on Wednesday, November 26. Visit RoseAndPlumLiving.com/holiday-specials Now you know your morning will be free, so hang up your apron and sign up for the Turkey Trot benefiting GraceWorks. With races ranging in distances from 10k down to a kids 1k Turkey Chase, you’ll be ready to gobble up a Thanksgiving feast when this annual event ends. The gravy on top? The Turkey Trot gives runners, or as GraceWorks calls them, Trotters, the chance to donate $10 when they register. Their donations provide turkeys for families in need. If you can’t wait to indulge in something sweet, Five Daughters Bakery in The Factory at Franklin has you covered. Their autumn menu features a can’t-miss Molasses Pecan Pie donut, complete with molasses glaze and roasted pecans. For something more traditional, save room for a slice of Merridee’s French silk pie. Once the crumbs are off the table, and the leaves above the Harpeth River have been colored red, orange, and gold, pull out your purchase from Made in TN: True South Puzzle Company’s Tennessee Map Puzzle. Assemble it as you assemble biscuits from the leftovers you just finished putting away. We see your Tupperware-Tetris abilities, and we respect them. CONTINUED >
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If you’re anything like my mom, as soon as you’re full, you’ll want to start celebrating Christmas. Actually, if you’re anything like her, you’ve had Christmas music on from the second you flicked off the front porch lights on October 31, but that’s neither here nor there. Those who are bobbing their heads in agreement—not because a Dolly Parton Christmas album is playing—should hop in the car and head to FrankTown Festival of Lights. This drive-through light show kicks off…err, plugs in, at 5 p.m. on November 20. Located at the Williamson County Ag Expo Center, it features more than 200 scenes that sparkle to classic Christmas songs. Once you’ve made your way through the displays, grab a hot chocolate and roast a s’more, then snap a photo with its 30-foot tree. We all know Black Friday, but have you tried Small Business Saturday? Downtown Franklin is the perfect place to participate, with hundreds of independently owned shops and restaurants offering special deals, local treats, and festive finds at The Factory and along Main Street. Best of all, a free, heated trolley runs every 30 minutes between the two areas all day, so you can explore without moving your car. Socializing around the dinner table is fun, but we’ve got something even better: socializing around a picnic table at Arrington Vineyards. If you’re a visitor who’s still in the area when the weekend rolls around or a local with relatives who don’t fly out until Sunday, you’ve got to carve out some time for Jazz on the Hillside. Save yourself a kitchen cleanup and purchase a Brie Plate from Simply Living Life to snack on. Pair it with Arrington’s Fall Frosé, and toast to family, friends, and Franklin.
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Welcome to Tennessee’s first treetop vacation home community, just minutes from beautiful Dale Hollow Lake. Now selling at The Preserve at Dale Hollow — Modern 1, 2, & 3 bedroom architect-designed treetop homes, just 2 hours from Franklin. Tucked in pristine Tennessee wilderness and only minutes from Dale Hollow Lake, these architect-designed treetop homes give you your own slice of nature. Wake up to breathtaking views above the treetops, sip coffee on your rooftop deck, and watch the woods roll out beneath you. Step outside to miles of stunning trails, or don’t step anywhere at all. Craving adventure? You’ll have a crystal-clear lake for boating, world-class bass and fly fishing, and enough whitetail, turkey, and small game nearby to turn every weekend into a story worth bragging about.
Prices from the high $200,000’s to the low $500,000’s Only 13 homesites remain in Phase 1 So come choose your piece of nature before someone else does!
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TRADING ONE MISSION FOR ANOTHER A Navy Veteran Who Never Felt He Did Enough Now Plays 300+ Shows A Year To Honor Those Who Served
ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON
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For Navy veteran Brooks Herring, purpose has never been a vague idea. Give him a mission, and he will pour everything into it. Take it away, and he feels lost. Today, the Nashville singer-songwriter plays close to 300 shows a year, and nearly every one is a way of staying in the fight for the veterans and military families he loves. "You give me a mission, and I execute it," he says. That instinct to serve started early, in Conway, South Carolina, where Herring and his older brother, Paul, spent their days in the woods wearing their dad's old Air Force uniforms and playing soldier. As a high school freshman, he joined JROTC, as did his schoolmate Chad Owens. Herring was a sophomore when the September 11 attacks unfolded on a classroom television. Most of his friends were seniors, and he knew they were about to enlist. "I knew that all my friends were fixing to go," he remembers. "They were going to head off and fight, and I was going to be stuck there for a couple of years waiting on my turn." When his turn came, he joined the Navy with his sights set on becoming a SEAL. A color vision deficiency ended that contract early, and he became a weapons specialist. Chad joined the Army and deployed to Iraq. When he came home on mid-tour leave, Herring, who was stationed stateside, went to see him. Two weeks later,
Chad was killed in Baghdad, where he saved several lives before giving his own. "I felt so useless," he says. "I felt so guilty. I felt I wasn't doing my part." So he went looking for a mission. When his command asked who wanted to go to Iraq, Herring shot his hand up, thinking he had to be first. "I was literally the only person with my hand up," he says. He deployed to Iraq and Africa. Every time, he came home. Instead of relief, he carried a question that would follow him for years. "I just never felt like I did enough." A $60 pawn shop guitar from El Paso, Texas, ended up with him during his deployments. He bought it for something to do overseas, nothing more. "It wasn't like, oh, this is something that'll help me heal," he says. But in a bunker in Iraq, he started writing songs. When Herring left the Navy in 2011, he felt like a man without a compass. The structure, the orders, and the sense of being needed were gone. "I felt like I lost my purpose. I lost my mission," he says. Herring took a civilian job with the Army in Afghanistan, started writing and posting songs again, and slowly felt purpose returning. Still, when he finally came home for good and the VA offered to pay for his education, he faced a question he had never been asked. "I volunteered for the military
Photo by Justin Collins
Photo by Jeremiah Stuart
and I had been given a mission," he says. "And now someone was telling me that I get to choose the mission. I didn't know what to do with my life. I had no idea." What he chose was service of a different kind. He had known wounded veterans who thrived and others who struggled, and he wanted to be part of the difference. He became a physical therapist, earning his doctorate at the University of South Carolina, and founded Run Phase, a nonprofit built on a simple idea. Most veterans were rehabilitated just enough to walk and care for themselves, he says, but many wanted more. "They wanted to run again," Herring says. "They wanted to work out. They wanted to lift and play sports and do things with their family." CONTINUED >
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Photo by Paige Bartz
Music kept pulling at him, though. In college, he played drums for a country musician, and whenever the musician took a break, Herring would step out from behind the kit, pick up a guitar, and sing a few songs. Soon venues wanted to book him as a singer, for three hours at a time. "I only knew three songs," he recalls. "So I better get on that." He put in the work, and by the end of the summer break he was playing five, six, and seven shows a week. Then, in March 2020, he attended a CreatiVets retreat in Nashville, a program that uses songwriting to support veterans, just days before the world shut down. "I didn't know that songwriting could be a profession," he says. "It was like a blind man being able to see for the first time." His two worlds, healing and music, finally met, and he did not have to choose between them. He finished his doctorate and released his first single, "Why Me," a song about survivor's guilt, the loneliness of coming home when friends did not, and the gap between being called a hero and feeling unseen. In January 2023, he moved to Nashville, where he went on to earn a songwriting degree from Belmont University. Since then, Herring has become a fixture among the organizations that bring veterans and music together, including Operation Encore, Operation Song, Guitars for Vets, and Memories of Honor. In 2026, he was inducted into the South Carolina Military Veterans Hall of Fame. Herring sings for Gold Star families who have lost a loved one in military service. "I could never feel all of that pain, but I feel some of that pain," he says. "At the same time, it is such a blessing to be able to sing with them, sing for them, write songs for them, and honor their memory." The reward often comes after the last song, when a stranger walks up or a message arrives from someone who found something in the music. "That means more than any paycheck ever could," he says. "I heal a little bit more every time something like that happens."
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For all that he has given, Herring is candid about his doubts. Audiences may see a confident performer on stage, but the reality is different. "I have very little confidence in myself," he admits. "I struggle every day with wondering if I'm enough." Ask him about fame, and his answer is quick. "I feel like being a star without being able to serve would just leave me empty again. I don't really care about the fame. I want the platform." He pictures a much bigger platform, one that brings healing music to "tens of thousands at a time instead of tens at a time. I want to leave a legacy of servant leadership," he says. I was lucky to hear Brooks sing at the Boot Bash for Memories of Honor, and his performance was moving. He is genuine, his music is authentic, and you do not have to be connected to the military to appreciate it. If you ever get the chance to hear him live, take it. Follow Brooks Herring on Instagram at @brooksherringmusic or visit BrooksHerringMusic.com.
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THE PLACES THAT KEEP Franklin Connected
WHY EVERYDAY CONVERSATIONS MAY BE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER ARTICLE BY ATHENA WEST | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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Photo by: Jessica Jeffers Exec Dir Photo by: Delaney Fisher-Cassiol
Community building does not always require a committee, a calendar invite, or a name tag. Sometimes, it starts with a coffee shop, a library, a porch, or simply saying hello to someone you see every week. For sociologist Kalinda Fisher, that simple idea is at the heart of her work with Advocate Market Research and The Great Reset. Her interest in belonging began early. “I’ve always been someone who asks, ‘Why?’ My mother could tell you stories from the time I was very young - wanting to understand why people celebrated differently, lived differently, believed different things, or simply navigated the world in different ways.” That curiosity eventually led Fisher to sociology and to a deeper understanding of what brings people together. Growing up in a small, largely homogeneous town before attending a diverse university exposed her to people with vastly different backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences. Those interactions helped shape her belief that differences do not have to create distance. That idea became the focus of her inaugural TEDx Franklin talk, which explored the concept of “third places,” the spaces outside of home and work where people can gather, interact, and simply be part of a community. According to Fisher, a true third place is about much more than its physical location. “A true third place is as much about the people as it is the place.” Think coffee shops, libraries, parks, pubs, recreation centers, houses of worship, or even a neighbor’s front porch. The magic is not necessarily in the coffee, the books, the playground, or the rocking chairs. It is in the opportunity to linger without an agenda. CONTINUED >
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Franklin has plenty of places where that kind of connection can happen. The library, for example, offers far more than books. It can be a place to hear stories, attend a book signing, learn something new, make something, or share a conversation with people you might never otherwise meet. Harlinsdale Farm creates connection through polo events, The Round Up, Family Day, and the Pilgrimage Festival, which bring people together. Even the newest coffee shop or a familiar spot at the YMCA can become a place where faces become familiar, and conversations become friendships. Fisher believes those everyday interactions are increasingly important. When she started The Great Reset, she was concerned about the “bubblification” of society, the tendency to surround ourselves with people who think and live much as we do. Now, she sees another challenge: exhaustion. People are busy, tired, and often connected to their phones while being surprisingly disconnected from the people around them. That makes the smallest interactions meaningful. “Those small encounters stretch
our world. Familiar faces become acquaintances. Acquaintances become neighbors. And over time, neighbors become community.” One example Fisher experienced firsthand was a Porch Talk at the library hosted with the McLemore House and the African American Heritage Society. Over a meal centered around soul food, she listened to stories and talked with neighbors she had never met. Nothing had to be forced. People simply showed up, shared a space, and allowed connection to happen. For Franklin residents looking to feel more connected, Fisher recommends starting small. Smile at someone. Hold the door. Look up from the phone. Say hello to the person you keep seeing at the coffee shop, the Y, or the library. Or, if you spot one of the area's new “Happy to Chat” benches, take a seat. Community does not always begin with a grand gesture. Sometimes it begins with three very simple words: “I see you.” Franklin has plenty of places to gather, but it is the people who show up, linger, and connect who turn those places into community.
“Those small encounters stretch our world. Familiar faces become acquaintances. Acquaintances become neighbors. And over time, neighbors become community.”
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Cranberry Chambord Chutney
There always seems to be a debate of some kind or another on whether homemade cranberry sauce or canned is best for your holiday table. Whether you are in the homemade camp or the canned camp, this recipe is a must-try for everyone. It’s easy and packed with yummy goodness! And if you’re in the canned camp, you may surprise yourself that you ever thought canned was the easiest route to your table! This sauce is a great addition to your poultry or pork when fresh cranberries are in season, but frozen cranberries can certainly be used in a pinch.
Ingredients • 1-pound fresh cranberries • 2 cups sugar • 2 tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves • 1/8 teaspoon allspice • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon • zest of 1 lemon, cut into julienne strips • zest of 1 orange, cut into julienne strips • 1/3 cup Chambord liqueur
Cooking Instructions 1. Rinse and pick over cranberries. Discard any that are green or mushy and remove stems. 2. In a 2-quart saucepan, place cranberries, sugar, and diced apples. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. (No need to add liquid.) 3. Uncover and stir in spices. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Uncover and add lemon and orange zest. Cover the pot and cook for another 5 minutes or until the mixture has thickened and the berries have popped. 4. Cool for 5 minutes, then stir in the Chambord and refrigerate until serving time.
WANT TO BREAK FREE FROM THE CAN? THIS HOMEMADE SAUCE WILL WOW YOUR THANKSGIVING GUESTS! ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
146 C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
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615-761-8751 Lindora.com @LindoraFranklin
NOVEMBER 2026
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S
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Holiday Movies at The Franklin Theatre The Franklin Theatre | 5:00 PM Get into the holiday spirit with holiday classics on the big screen at the Franklin Theatre. Catch favorites such as Elf, Home Alone, The Polar Express, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, The Santa Clause, and White Christmas. Gather family and friends for a festive Franklin tradition. Check the website for specific movie dates, showtimes and ticket information. FranklinTheatre.com/all-events/ NOV E M BE R 6T H - 8T H
Williamson County Public Library Used Book Sale Williamson County Public Library, Franklin | 9:00 AM Stock up on gently used books, movies, music, and more while supporting library programs. This annual community favorite offers thousands of affordable titles for readers of all ages. Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. ($10 Bag Sale). WCPLTN.org/393/2026-Book-Sales NOV E M BE R 7 T H
City of Franklin Family Day The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, Franklin | 10:00 AM Enjoy Family Day, the City of Franklin's free fall festival, featuring wagon rides, pony rides, a petting zoo, cane pole fishing, and much more! Connect with neighbors while celebrating Franklin's parks and recreation programs. FranklinTN.gov NOV E M BE R 7 T H
Mingle Jingle Downtown Franklin Downtown Franklin | 10:00 AM Shop Mingle Jingle, a festive holiday shopping crawl featuring fourteen locally owned shops and boutiques across Downtown Franklin. Visitors can explore a diverse mix of independent retailers offering exclusive holiday discounts, complimentary treats, festive sips, and Christmas music. Just look for the signature holiday balloons marking each participating storefront to shop small this season. NOV E M BE R 1 1 T H
Veterans Day Parade Downtown Franklin | 11:00 AM Join the community in honoring the men and women who have served our country during Franklin's annual Veterans Day Parade. The patriotic procession features veterans' organizations, military representatives, marching bands, civic groups, and local leaders. Spectators line Main Street to celebrate the sacrifices and service of our nation's heroes, making this one of Franklin's most meaningful annual traditions. FranklinTN.gov NOV E M BE R 1 4 T H - 1 5TH
Franklin Flea Market Williamson County Ag Expo Park | 8:00 AM Browse antiques, collectibles, vintage treasures, home décor, handmade goods, and more from hundreds of vendors at one of Middle Tennessee's largest flea markets. Saturday 8 a.m -5 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m -4 p.m. StewartPromotions.com/franklin_nashville.asp CONTINUED >
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SMC x Filmmakers in Franklin Presents Mulan The Franklin Theatre | 2:00 PM Experience Disney's animated classic Mulan on the big screen at The Franklin Theatre, followed by a special appearance from co-director Tony Bancroft. Guests will gain behind-the-scenes insight into the filmmaking process, character development, animation techniques, and the enduring impact of one of Disney's most celebrated films. A must-attend event for movie lovers, families, and aspiring filmmakers. FranklinTheatre.com NOVE M BE R 1 9 T H
Merry Little Market The Barn at Sycamore Farms | 4:00 PM Merry Little Market brings together local vendors, artisans, makers, and small businesses for a festive holiday shopping experience. Shoppers can browse unique gifts, holiday décor, handmade goods, and specialty foods while supporting the community. The event also features complimentary food and drinks, photos with Santa, and special entertainment for the whole family. NOVE M BE R 2 0 T H - 2 1 ST
Made South Holiday Market Liberty Hall at The Factory at Franklin | 9:00 AM Shop small, support more than 60+ makers and artisans, and do all of your holiday shopping in one stop. VIP and Early Bird shopping is Friday, November 20, and two shopping sessions (9 a.m. and 1 p.m.) on Saturday. A portion of the proceeds from this year's Holiday Market will benefit One Generation Away. Visit MadeSouth.com for tickets. NOVE M BE R 2 1 ST - 2 2 N D
Centennial High School Holiday Market Centennial High School | 9:00 AM The 28th Annual Centennial Holiday Craft Show where more than 200 artisans will fill the school with handcrafted jewelry, home décor, artwork, specialty foods, holiday gifts, and unique treasures. All proceeds will benefit Centennial High School through the PTSO's educational enhancement programs. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (VIP Shopping 8-9 a.m.); Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. CentennialHolidayShow.com NOVE M BE R 2 6T H
GraceWorks Turkey Trot Meridian Cool Springs | 5000 Meridian Blvd., Franklin, TN 37067 | 7:00 AM Turkey Trot is a multi-award-winning charity event that benefits GraceWorks Ministries, a Franklin-based nonprofit that provides food, shelter, and support services to Neighbors in need. Join 4,700 walkers and runners as they take on the 10K, 5K, or Kids’ Turkey Chase challenges. Make memories and love on your neighbors right in the heart of Cool Springs! GraceWorksTN.org/events/turkey-trot NOVE M BE R 2 7 T H
Free Open Wine Tasting at Saint Goose Saint Goose Wine + Spirits | 5:00 PM Friday nights at Saint Goose are all about European wine, with a rotating selection of bottles highlighting different regions, grapes, producers, and styles from across the continent. The tasting is completely FREE, and no reservation is required. Just stop by anytime between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., grab a glass, and taste along with us. SaintGoose.wine
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Untreated Hearing Loss Is Linked To: - Cognitive Decline & Dementia - Social Isolation & Loneliness - Depression & Anxiety - Balance Issues - Lower Quality of Life Protect your hearing. Protect your connections. Care for your brain.
Because Hearing Is More Than Just Hearing. November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month It’s a time to cherish the memories, connections, and people we’re most thankful for. Research has found a link between hearing loss and an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Caring for your hearing may be an important part of caring for your brain—and staying connected to the people and moments that make life meaningful. Your hearing matters. Your health matters. Your connections matter. Take the next step toward healthier hearing at HearTN.com.
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info@HearTN.com www.HearTN.com