A Window into a Festive Fall
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves start to paint the town in shades of orange and gold, we’re thrilled to welcome you to our October issue—a celebration of everything that makes fall so special, from the warmth of shared meals to the beauty of the season’s changing landscape.
In this edition, we’ve curated a delightful mix of recipes and seasonal tips that are perfect for enhancing your fall gatherings and quiet evenings at home. Whether you’re whipping up sweet and spooky treats for a Halloween party or savoring spiced cocktails by the fire, these recipes are crafted to bring comfort, warmth and joy to your table.
But fall isn’t just about the food—it’s about community, tradition and the simple pleasures that make this season so memorable. That’s why we’re shining a spotlight on Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, where the sense of community thrives and brunch becomes an experience that brings people together in the heart of Gallatin. It’s a place where connections are made and the spirit of the season is alive and well.
We’ve also rounded up some of the best local experiences to help you make the most of autumn. Take a tour of nearby wineries and cider mills, join in the festivities at local Oktoberfest celebrations, or hit the road on one of the scenic routes we’ve mapped out, perfect for taking in the vibrant fall foliage. And if you’re looking to bring that autumn charm to your doorstep, we’ve got creative tips for decorating your front porch, turning your home into a cozy, welcoming retreat.
We invite you to dive into this issue and explore the rich flavors, vibrant communities and stunning scenery that make fall in Gallatin and Middle Tennessee truly magical. May these pages inspire you to embrace the season with open arms, sparking your creativity in the kitchen and bringing a touch of autumn magic to your everyday life.
NICOLE BELL, PUBLISHER @GALLATINLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Nicole Bell | nicole.bell@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Scott Bell | scott.bell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Renee Donnell | renee.donnell@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Stacey Norman | stacey@plumpoppyphotography.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Estee McIllwain
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
IvieAnn Anderson Baker, Nicole Bell, Scott Bell, Heather Finn
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
IvieAnn Anderson Baker, Nicole Bell, Jackson Morgan, Alex Nuyianes, Natalia Pacheco, RedFork
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
JOIN US OCTOBER 24TH
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As a Gallatin resident and insurance agent for 14 years, my team and I proudly rank in the top 1% nationwide We offer comprehensive insurance solutions, including home, auto, commercial, life, and more! We’re excited to introduce our new department, TN Medicare Concierge, dedicated to helping you easily navigate Medicare. Whether you’re approaching Medicare age or assisting loved ones, our expert advisors are here to provide the guidance and support you need.
Open Enrollment October 15th | SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY (615) 452-7037 | farmersagent.com/ehobdy | 402 Maple St, Gallatin, TN 37066
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Light The Night: Celebrating new signage with ceremonial lighting at Highpoint Health Sumner 2: BEC Innovations demonstrates exceptional team spirit, dedicated to fostering a stronger, vibrant community 3: Scott and Nicole Bell and Randy and Ashlee Nash at the Annual Cragfont Gala 4: Memories made at the Friends Take Flight event at Gallatin Miracle Park 5: Jeremy and Erin Riggs enjoy an evening at the Cragfont Gala 6: School Resource Officers welcome students back to school in Sumner County 7: Shalom Zone at Community Resource Center’s All In For Hygiene Casino Night
Want to be seen in the magazine?
ERIN RIGGS
HIGHPOINT HEALTH WITH ASCENSION SAINT THOMAS
SUMNER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
KAREN HARRELL WEST
BEC INNOVATIONS
BETHANY SULLIVAN
NICOLE BELL
THE TOP DESTINATION FOR YOUR PET
Luxury Awaits | Opening Soon
Farmers Insurance
Elizabeth Hobdy Jones Agency Expands Into Medicare
For 14 years, Farmers Insurance Elizabeth Hobdy Jones Agency has proudly served the Gallatin community, offering a wide range of insurance products, including home, auto, umbrella, commercial and life coverage. Recently, they have also launched TN Medicare Concierge, a dedicated service designed to guide the community through Medicare-related questions and needs. Whether you’re approaching Medicare age or assisting a loved one, their expert team is here to provide trusted support and solutions.
Kim Baker Named United Way’s 2023 Advocate of the Year
United Way of Sumner County (UWSC) recently hosted its annual Community Impact Breakfast, presented by Meta. Gallatin Chamber CEO Kim Baker was honored with the 2023 Advocate of the Year award in recognition of her unwavering support for United Way and her dedication to empowering organizations that improve the lives of local residents and strengthen the community.
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A Taste of Italy in Downtown Gallatin
Step into the heart of Gallatin and be transported to Italy! Once a beloved sandwich shop, this charming eatery has evolved into a traditional Italian restaurant and café, right here in Gallatin. With fresh ingredients, exceptional customer service and an inviting ambiance inside a historic building, this culinary experience is one you won’t forget. Owners Laura and Garrett are passionate about bringing authentic Italian flavors and culture to our growing city.
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Preferred Care at Home Joins Forces with The Veranda
Preferred Care at Home is excited to partner with The Veranda, a remarkable organization led by MaryAnne Oglesby-Sutherly. The Veranda provides a safe space for individuals with dementia and much-needed respite for their families. MaryAnne’s expertise in Teepa Snow’s dementia care approach shapes The Veranda’s culture, and PCAH has benefited from her training. Together, they look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the dementia community.
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX NUYIANES, NATALIA PACHECO, REDFORK
Breakfast Gem Gallatin’s Heartfelt
KEKE’S BREAKFAST CAFE IS CRAFTING MORE THAN JUST DELICIOUS
DISHES
We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Nothing can set the tone for both your body and mind to get the day started more than satisfying your hunger with an amazing first meal. Couple that with the great company of family and friends, and experience that in a comfortable, inviting setting, and you couldn’t ask for a better way to begin your day!
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe in Gallatin has quickly risen to become a cherished spot in our local dining landscape, not just for its mouthwatering breakfasts and brunches but for its deep-rooted connection to the community. As only the second location in Tennessee (after Hendersonville), Keke’s Gallatin has been embraced with open arms in short order and an outpouring of local love that has fueled their passion to give back. This warm reception has inspired them to infuse the menu with local flavors like classic cheesy grits and to forge meaningful partnerships, such as their collaboration with CASA Nashville to uplift local kids, making Keke’s an integral part of Gallatin’s heartbeat.
What truly distinguishes Keke’s from other breakfast spots in Gallatin is its uncompromising commitment to quality and authenticity! Every dish is crafted with meticulous care, reflecting a philosophy that values freshness above all else—no microwaves, no shortcuts. The simple act of hand-cracking eggs, freshly slicing bananas and cutting potatoes daily speaks to a deeper dedication to the craft of cooking. This attention to detail is more than just
a practice; it’s a promise that every meal, whether breakfast, brunch or lunch, delivers not only on taste but on the assurance of consistency and satisfaction, reinforcing Keke’s reputation as a place where quality isn’t just expected—it’s guaranteed.
The atmosphere at Keke’s is a sensory delight that is noticeable from the moment you step through the door. The vibrant decor bursts with color, creating an energizing backdrop that instantly lifts your spirits and prepares you for the entire experience. Upbeat music fills the air, setting a lively tone that resonates with the joyful chatter of diners. But it’s the warm, genuine smiles of the friendly team members that truly make Keke’s feel like home—a place where you’re greeted not just as a customer, but as a cherished guest. Here, breakfast isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that starts your day with a burst of happiness and flavor.
The menu at Keke’s mirrors the rich diversity of the Gallatin community, offering a culinary journey that caters to every palate. The “Create Your Own” omelet invites you to craft your perfect breakfast, while the signature Florida Pancakes topped with an abundance of fresh fruit and powdered sugar tempt you with their fluffy, golden perfection. For those seeking comfort foods, the classic Chicken & Waffles, accompanied by housemade sweet and spicy syrup, delivers pure satisfaction. Keke’s menu continues to evolve seasonally with new, limited-time delights including gluten-free pancakes and the indulgent pumpkin spice-stuffed French toast, ensuring there’s always something fresh and exciting to savor.
“The only thing better than breakfast or brunch is having both with family and friends.”
As Keke’s looks to the future, expanding to meet the needs of our growing area is on the horizon. Being involved in the community and providing a place where friends and family can enjoy will always be the mission. Keke’s looks to also expand further into Donelson and Mt. Juliet and is driven by a simple yet heartfelt vision: to become the beloved brunch destination that serves up fresh starts and brings people together every day. But even as they grow, Keke’s remains deeply committed to the area that first embraced them in Middle Tennessee--here in Gallatin and neighboring Hendersonville. Their roots here are strong, and with every new location, they carry forward the same warmth, quality and sense of belonging that have made them a cherished part of so many lives and stories already. For Keke’s, it’s not just about serving great meals; it’s about creating a place where memories are made and connections are nurtured, no matter where the journey takes them.
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe
1152 Nashville Pike, Gallatin Kekes.com
@KekesBreakfastCafe
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DECLARING THE SEASON
ARTICLE BY IVIEANN ANDERSON BAKER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDED BLOSSOM FLORIST & MERCANTILE
TURN YOUR FRONT PORCH INTO A SEASONAL DELIGHT FOR ALL TO SEE
As the crisp autumn breeze sweeps in and the leaves turn brilliant shades of gold and red, there’s no better time to transform your front porch into a festive fall haven or wonder. Decorating for Thanksgiving and the fall season is a cozy way to embrace the spirit of the season and welcome guests with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you choose a traditional harvest theme or something more whimsical, the process of adding seasonal touches to your porch is a joyful celebration of the moment. It’s an opportunity to create a charming and welcoming space that reflects the beauty and warmth of fall. This season, Branded Blossom Florist and Mercantile in Gallatin share some design ideas to help you show off your porch like a pro without breaking your budget. These fun ideas will have your front porch being the envy of your street!
BrandedBlossomCo.com @brandedblossomco
If you’re a neutral lover, you may gravitate toward white, gray or green pumpkins. To the lover of color (like us!), select bright oranges, golds and multi-colored ones. Your pumpkins and gourds can determine the entire color palette for your porch!
Southerners love porches with multiple planters. Transitioning the colors and textures in your existing pots to fall is easy! You can take out summer annuals and add pansies, mums, kale or cabbage. Another fun idea is to add corn stalks to your planters and tie them with a ribbon!
FOLIAGE WREATHS
PUMPKINS TEXTILES
02 03 04
Layers create warmth and dimension. On your soft seating, add layers of pillows or a quilt for coziness. Layering rugs in the doorway of differing sizes and materials creates an inviting space. You can always add your favorite things that make it feel more like home.
A door wreath is your opportunity to add flare and style to your transition into fall. This can be simple fall foliage, all green with white pumpkins, or you can make a colorful statement! We love to add in pops of nontraditional colors and florals.
Eerie Eats and Halloween Treats
TRY OUT THESE SPOOKY SNACKS THAT WILL BE PERFECT FOR SCHOOL OR PARTIES WITH FRIENDS.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER FINN
Heather Finn, local real estate agent and DIY Expert
Kid
Friendly Witch’s Brew
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 1 container of Rainbow Sherbet
• 2 liter of Sprite
• 46 ounce can of pineapple juice
• Gummy worms
• Punch bowl (or cauldron)
DIRECTIONS
1. Add all the sherbet to the bottom of your punch bowl.
2. Pour the Sprite and pineapple juice on top of the sherbet (this will make the punch foam).
3. Serve and add extra gummy worms to each drink!
Creepy Crawly Spider Donuts
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• Donuts
• Donut holes
• Decorating icing
• Candy eyeballs
DIRECTIONS
1. Take one donut and use your decorative icing to draw 3 “spider legs” on each side of the donut.
2. Add a donut hole to the middle of the donut.
3. Make two dots of icing in the middle of the donut hole and place two candy eyeballs on top of the icing (this helps hold the eyes in place).
4. Repeat with all of your donuts and serve!
Char-Boo-Terie Board
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• Variety of your favorite Halloween candies and treats
• Your favorite snacks (pretzels, cookies, cheese, fruit, popcorn)
• Spooky props (small pumpkins, skeleton hands, mini spiders, etc.)
• Small bowls
• Serving board
DIRECTIONS
1. Start by arranging your small bowls on your board and filling with your favorite Halloween candies.
2. Begin filling the board with your favorite snacks; rotate open spaces as you go. Do this until your board is complete.
3. Add your Halloween props to make this spooky, crowd-pleasing snack for your get together!
DR. ANTHONY TURNER D.C.
Sipping into Autumn
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACKSON MORGAN
Indulge in the Rich Flavors of Fall with this Creamy and Decadent Caramel Pumpkin Martini
When the crisp, autumn air arrives, it immediately becomes time to sample and embrace the flavors of fall! Sip into autumn with a Caramel Pumpkin Martini made with Jackson Morgan Southern Cream in Spiced Pumpkin Roll. This cocktail is a delicious blend of creamy, spiced pumpkin and rich caramel flavors, perfect for cozy evenings and festive gatherings.
ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons caramel sauce, divided (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
• Ice
• 2 ounces caramel vodka
• 2 ounces Jackson Morgan Southern Cream in Spiced Pumpkin Roll
• Whipped cream
directions:
Step 1. Drizzle 1 Tbsp caramel sauce inside a chilled martini glass.
Step 2. Dip glass rim in caramel sauce, then into graham cracker crumbs to coat.
Step 3. Fill a shaker with ice, vodka and Jackson Morgan Southern Cream. Shake for 30 seconds.
Step 4. Strain into prepared glass, top with whipped cream and drizzle with more caramel sauce.
AUTO HOME LIFE BUSINESS
As your local Gallatin independent insurance agent, I specialize in creating customized insurance solutions just for you. Since 2005, My Team Insurance Services has prided itself in putting you first, listening to your needs to ensure you have the right coverage at a competitive price. We also understand that your needs change over time, and we are there for you through life’s changes to make sure you are protected today, as well as in the future, with access to flexible options for any phase of life. myteaminsurance.com | 615.619.2508 | Located in Gallatin B Bart Browder - My Team Insurance Services, LLC
Our autumn Round-Up
GET OUT AND EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF THESE FALL EVENTS
As the colors of autumn take over the landscape, there’s no better time to explore our local area! Discover the charm of local wineries, where you can sip on handcrafted vintages while soaking in the breathtaking views. If festive celebrations are more your speed, don’t miss out on Oktoberfest events that bring the best of German culture right to our doorstep. And for those who crave a scenic drive, we’ve mapped out a route that showcases the most stunning fall colors. We proudly present to you a local guide to experiencing the very best of the season around us!
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
1/ Experience Nashville Oktoberfest, a German Beer Festival and vibrant Street Fair. It’s Nashville’s oldest tradition and America’s second-largest Oktoberfest! 2/ Cheekwood Harvest returns with 75,000 pumpkins, pumpkin houses, vibrant mums, a scarecrow trail, beer garden and perfect photo ops! 3/ In mid to late October, the Natchez Trace Parkway showcases brilliant fall foliage as maple, hickory and oak trees change colors. 4/ This event invites beer and wine lovers to savor craft brews and diverse wines amid the historic charm of Two Rivers Mansion.
1/ Nashville Oktoberfest
2/ Cheekwood Harvest
3/ Natchez Trace Parkway
4/ Tennessee Beer, Wine & Shine Festival
JOIN US FOR GALLATIN'S FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITION...
November 8, 9, and 10
Scan to see participating retailers in and around Gallatin
OCTOBER 5TH
Main Street Festival
Downtown Gallatin | 10:00 AM
Gallatin’s Main Street Festival has become a beloved fall tradition, with over 200 vendors and 30,000-plus visitors. This rain-or-shine event features arts, crafts, nonprofit and commercial booths, live music on two stages, and a large children’s area. With plenty of food options and activities, it’s a festive celebration that brings the community together each year.
OCTOBER 5TH
28th Annual Candlelight Cemetery Tour
Gallatin City Cemetery | 4:00 PM
The Gallatin City Cemetery, established in 1814, hosts the 28th Annual Candlelight Cemetery Tour with a musical theme this year. Explore historic tombstones and memorials while discovering the stories of notable figures connected to music. Tours start at 5:00 PM, departing every seven minutes. Tickets are timed, and the event is held rain or shine.
OCTOBER 11TH & 12TH
Music City STOL
Music City Executive Airport (XNX), 1475 Airport Rd, Gallatin | 9:00 AM Music City STOL, an exciting aviation fly-in and STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) competition, will be held on October 11-12. Pilots will showcase their aircraft’s short takeoff and landing skills. Enjoy family-friendly activities, food trucks, live music, including performances by Connor McCutcheon and Noah Hicks, and more. Remember to check the weather and bring necessary gear for a great experience!
Relax In Your New Screened-In Porch
All Year Round
CONTINUED
OCTOBER 12TH
Black Cat Bash Vintage & Makers Market
Gallatin Farmers Market, 160 W Franklin St, Gallatin | 4:00 PM
Celebrate Spooky Season at Black Cat Bash Night Market, hosted at Gallatin Farmers Market! Discover vintage clothing, handcrafted items and sweet treats, while enjoying live music and food from local vendors. This festive event, presented by Earth First Vintage, The Ramblin’ Bee and Green Jeans Plants & Cement Knick-Knacks, promises a night of fun and community.
OCTOBER 17TH
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for Broadway Mortgage Group
132 N Water Ave, Gallatin | 3:00 PM
Join us to celebrate the grand opening of Broadway Mortgage Group’s new location! Enjoy giveaways, delicious food, refreshing drinks and great opportunities to connect with others. Broadway Mortgage Group is dedicated to providing personalized mortgage solutions and is excited to share their new space with the community.
OCTOBER 24TH
Harmony For Hope
EPIC Event Centre, 394 W Main St, Gallatin | 6:00 PM
Join us for a lively Songwriters Night featuring a silent auction, balloon pop, bar, delicious appetizers and fun photo ops— all in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Don’t miss this night of great music and giving back! events
You deserve quality care. You deserve compassion. You deserve specialty treatment and innovation right here, close to home. Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas brings nationally recognized clinical expertise and talented caregivers together to improve healthcare for all of us who call Gallatin home.
As your caregivers, we’re dedicated to putting patients’ needs first. This is the care you’ve trusted for generations, now with a new name. Together we make our communities healthier. Together we care. See what we can do together at HighpointHealthSystem.com