Mount Juliet, TN November 2025 by City Lifestyle

Photo credit to Leigh Ann Remke

Hello November

In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.

Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back, and celebrating the people and organizations that make Mount Juliet such a special place. We’re endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep each month, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile.

As we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives. This holiday season, may we find contentment not in possessions or accolades but in the connections we nurture and the good we do for others.

Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude and grace,

Your Publisher,

KIMBERLY THOMAS, PUBLISHER

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Kimberly Thomas | kimberly.thomas@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kourtney McComb | kourtney.mccomb@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Lindsey Conder

COPY EDITOR

Summer Thomas

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Karly Thomas

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kourtney McComb, Paige Turner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lindsey Conder, Coast to Coast & Co., Grace Photography, Blue Sky Productions, Chelsea Summar Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

FALL ING FOR AUTUMN?

The odds are that you’ve had a fall or know someone who has. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and older, fall each year—that’s 14 million adults.

Hughston Clinic Orthopaedics is committed to keeping you active for as long as possible! Our doctors, staff, and therapy team are dedicated to improving your quality of life, helping prevent falls, and getting you back in action if you’ve experienced a fall.

ANN BEADLE, RN, ACNP

KRISTINA MOORE, PA-C

LUCAS B, RICHIE, MD

JONATHAN P. CORNELIUS, MD

SHAWN P. MOUNTAIN, DO

WILLIAM N. MELTON, MD

JENNIFER M. O’DONNELL, MD

MATTHEW P. RUPERT, MD

100 Physicians Way, Suite 110 | (615) 547-6700

tn.hughston.com

Scan me for more info

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-4: Shauna Bowers and Katie Jorge celebrate three years with their Glow WilCo Team! 5-6: Mayor Hutto moderates an informative panel discussion with leaders from Fire Departments, WEMA, city Ambulance Services, 911 and Vanderbilt ER/Trauma.

Hughston Clinic Orthopaedics welcomes Dr. Jennifer O’Donnell

Hughston Clinic Orthopaedics announces the addition of Dr. Jennifer O’Donnell, Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon, to its team of award-winning physicians. Published in leading medical journals, Dr. O’Donnell specializes in treating neck and back pain, slipped discs, spine fractures, arthritis, sciatica, and related conditions. She is accepting patients at the Nashville–Centennial, Smyrna–StoneCrest, and Lebanon locations. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit tn.hughston. com/providers/odonnell or call 615-342-6300.

Scan to read more

Photos with Santa booking now!

Lindsey Conder Photography in Mt. Juliet invites families to capture the magic of the season with Photos with Santa on November 29 from 2–4 PM. Each 15-minute session includes five digital images, an online gallery, and one 5x7 print. Spots are limited, so book now! Visit lindseyconderphotography.com to reserve your session and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Scan to read more

Photo Credit: Relive Studio

MOONLIT BALANCE

HOW SELENE SKIN BLENDS FAMILY, FITNESS, AND THE FUTURE OF WELLNESS

ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COAST TO COAST & CO.

In Old Hickory, Tennessee, Selene Skin feels less like a medspa and more like a sanctuary, a place where beauty and wellness meet the grounding values of family. At the heart of it all is Katie Boxler, Registered Nurse, mother of two, and visionary behind the boutique space that radiates earth tones and warmth. Even its name, Selene-the middle name of her daughter, meaning “Goddess of the Moon”-is a reflection of how deeply family inspires the work she does.

When Selene Skin first opened its doors, Katie was in the thick of new motherhood. One treatment room was outfitted as a nursery so her infant son could stay nearby while she cared for clients. “Despite being a business owner, I will always put my children’s schedules and needs above convenience,” she says. It’s this blend of professional excellence and personal devotion that shapes Selene Skin’s culture.

Katie’s background is as dynamic as her days now. A former competitive equestrian, junior Olympic volleyball player, and NFL cheerleader for the Buffalo Bills, she grew up with discipline, leadership, and a drive to always be her best. Today, she channels that same energy into helping clients feel strong, confident, and radiant. “Taking care of yourself starts from within-your mind, your body, your skin,” she notes.

Selene Skin offers some of the most advanced technologies in the industry. The InMode Empower device allows for everything from microneedling and jawline sculpting to women’s health treatments, while injectables like Sculptra stimulate natural collagen for lasting rejuvenation. Katie, once a national trainer for InMode, ensures every treatment is delivered with both safety and artistry.

But beyond the technology, it’s Katie’s philosophy that makes Selene Skin stand out. Parents are welcome to bring their children to appointments. Wellness memberships are designed to fit into busy lives. And Katie herself is living proof that balance is possible, navigating early parenthood, her husband’s construction business (he built out the spa himself), and her own journey toward a Doctorate in Nursing, which she will complete in 2027.

“We’re building something beautiful for our family and for this community.”

“I know this grind won’t last forever,” she says. “We’re building something beautiful for our family and for this community.” Because at Selene Skin, beauty isn’t only skin deep, it’s about family, strength, and creating a space where everyone feels at home.

H O P E

with YOU

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“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 charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

EVERY ABILITY DESERVES A SPOTLIGHT

Join us for The Lucky Classic, a celebrity charity softball game hosted by MLB’s Jake Burger — where baseball and community come together to celebrate every ability. Come watch players such as Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, Corey Seager, Chris Bassitt, Brandon Lowe, Brent Rooker, Bryan Reynolds, Vinnie Pasquantino, and many more MLB All-Stars — as well as Tucker Wetmore, Colbie Caillat, Russell Dickerson, and more.

NOVEMBER 16 | FIRST HORIZON PARK | NASHVILLE, TN

Every ticket supports the Burger Family Foundation, empowering families with disabilities through direct support and community programs.

Home is where gratitude grows. This season, Ferguson Home is thankful for the families, memories, and moments that make every house a home.

From timeless design to inspired details, we’re honored to help you create spaces you love coming back to. Discover your next home inspiration at Ferguson Home–where thankfulness begins.

ARTICLE

A Tiny Gallery with a Big Heart

Mt. Juliet now has its very first art gallery—and it’s delightfully pint-sized. Local illustrator and former fine art gallerist Catherine Masters has opened a Free Little Art Gallery (FLAG) at the corner of Elizabeth and Ridgetop Drive. Just like a Little Free Library, this miniature gallery invites neighbors to “Take Art, Leave Art, or Just Enjoy the View.”

Open 24/7, the FLAG is a joyful hub for creativity where artists of all ages, from professionals to schoolchildren, can share their mini works of art. Masters hopes the space inspires connection in a city still building its arts scene. “Art brings people together, sparks conversation, and adds beauty to daily life,” she says.

With rotating tiny exhibits, pop-up collaborations, and community art swaps, the FLAG proves that art doesn’t need grand walls to make a big impact. No tickets, no pressure—just a sidewalk box of inspiration reminding us that art belongs to everyone. Follow along at instagram.com/flagmtjuliet.

Mini Art Gallery in Mount Juliet

(Sculptra) - Wellness Shot s - Morpheus8 (microneedling with radio frequency skin tightening) - Women’s health - vTone (think: 20,000-30,000 kegels per session!) - Tone (think: 20,000-30,000 crunches or squat s per session!)

First wellness shot FREE when purchased with another ser vice!

off all Morpheus8 packages $300 OFF all vTone + Tone packages for the month of November

A Mother’s Faith, a Daughter’s Courage

THE OETTELS’ JOURNEY THROUGH CHILDHOOD CANCER

ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY

For most families, childhood is a time of scraped knees, first days of school, and backyard adventures. But for the Oettel family of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, childhood took a drastically different turn when Vivian, their bright and spirited daughter, was diagnosed with cancer. What followed was a journey filled with fear, uncertainty, and countless hospital stays—but also remarkable resilience, unwavering faith, and a bond between mother and daughter that grew stronger with every challenge. Through sleepless nights, rounds of treatment, and moments that tested the limits of human endurance, Jessica and Vivian discovered the extraordinary strength within themselves and the sustaining power of faith. Their story is not just about survival; it’s about love, courage, and hope in the face of life’s most unimaginable trials.

When Jessica Oettel first heard the words “your child has cancer,” it felt like the ground dropped out from under her. “My first reaction was pure terror. My mind raced through every worstcase scenario-Would she survive? How much would she suffer? How could we possibly do this? I felt like my chest was caving in. All I wanted was to protect her, but I realized I couldn’t shield her from what was coming. That helplessness was crushing. At the same time, I felt a desperate cry rise up inside me: ‘Jesus, please. Please don’t take my baby.’ My prayers were raw, unpolished, just begging God to spare her life. Faith didn’t cancel the fear, but it gave me something solid to hold onto. I feared losing her, feared the unknown, feared for our family. Even in the fog, the mama-instinct kicked in. I asked the doctors questions, wrote everything down, tracked meds and symptoms, and reached out to family and friends. Those first days were a blur of fear, prayer, and survival mode. I didn’t know what the journey would hold, but I knew I would fight for my daughter with everything in me, and cling to Jesus every step.”

Vivian recalls sensing the fear. “I wasn’t sure what cancer meant, but I could tell something bad was happening from the looks on my parents’ faces.”

Life during treatment became a world apart. For nearly a year, hospital walls became home, and days were measured by chemotherapy schedules, lab results, and the constant beeping of monitors. Holidays, birthdays, and ordinary routines faded. “Our whole world flipped upside down. Daily routines weren’t ‘daily routines’ anymore—they were hospital life. We lived in the hospital for nearly a year, everything revolved around chemo, rounds, and labs. Isolation became normal. To protect her fragile immune system, we couldn’t risk being around people. Our home was quiet and closed-off, but in the middle of all that loss, we had more family time than ever. I never left her side. She could look over and know I was right there. And somehow, even on the hardest days, Vivian kept bringing laughter. She lightened the heaviness with jokes, silly dances, or a smile at impossible times. We carried each other like that: I stayed so she was never alone, and she kept finding ways to make me laugh.”

Vivian remembers it simply: “Mama was always with me and prayed with me. She never left the hospital and let me sleep beside her once we came home.”

There was never one single moment when everything suddenly felt “okay.” Jessica explains, “It was a slow realization that even in the darkest places, Jesus was carrying us. There were nights I thought I couldn’t do it another day, but morning would come, and we’d do it again. That strength didn’t come from me—it came from Him. Vivian amazed me with her courage and laughter. The only thing that gave us strength was Jesus. Believing His promises even when fear screamed louder. Knowing we weren’t walking it alone. That was the turning point-not when circumstances got easier, but when I understood He would never let go of us.”

Vivian adds: “When things felt too much, I remembered friends who had made it through treatment and trusted that Jesus had a plan.”

The start of her teenage years brings new challenges. “Nothing about life after treatment feels ‘normal.’ Cancer may be behind us, but long-term effects remain. Physically,

“Even in the fog, the mama-instinct kicked in. I asked the doctors questions, tracked meds, and reached out to family and friends. Those first days were a blur of fear, prayer, and survival mode.” – Jessica Oettel

“Mama was always with me and prayed with me. She never left the hospital and let me sleep beside her once we came home.”

– Vivian Oettel

she has side effects to manage. Emotionally, the shadow lingers. One of the hardest parts is helping her move out of the ‘cancer child’ mentality. During treatment, indulgence and comfort were necessary. Now, we’ve had to guide, set boundaries, and teach responsibility, which can feel like whiplash. She’s figuring out who she is, battling health anxiety, and carrying a legacy most peers won’t understand. There are heavy moments, but we face them together. Vivian and I are truly best friends. She might push back like any preteen, but underneath it all is a bond forged in hospital rooms and sleepless nights. Even when working through hard stuff, she knows I’m beside her, and I know she’s strong enough to keep walking forward.”

Vivian’s goals are clear: “Now that treatment is done, I want to grow my foundation to help as many kids going through cancer as possible. I’d love to make this my full-time job and help kids nationwide.”

Healing is ongoing. Jessica says, “This is a daily journey. We cling to faith. We are both in counseling. We lean on each other and our ‘safe people.’ All five of us are working through some PTSD, and that takes time to heal.” Vivian reflects: “During my first year, I didn’t realize how sick I really was. I didn’t know I should’ve been scared. Looking back, I am so thankful God pulled me through, which has deepened my desire to be close to Him and in the Bible every day.”

Embrace

Faith has been central. Jessica shares, “As a parent, there’s a place you pray you’ll never know, the place where you are on your knees, begging God to save your child while machines breathe for them. I never wanted to know that place, but I did. While I would give anything for Vivian to have been spared suffering, in that agony, my faith deepened in ways I never thought possible. It was raw, desperate, unpolished, but real. I found a God who never let go of us.”

Vivian’s faith is equally remarkable: “I know Jesus was with me the whole time. When I was scared, I just talked to Him. I know He’s the reason I’m still here. Now, I work through anxiety with prayer, worship music, and support from my mom and friends. I focus on my foundation, adding items to wishlists and finding ways to help. I keep believing and praying that one day the fear will get better, and that other kids don’t have to feel this way.”

Their story is a testament to love, resilience, and faith. Through sleepless nights, endless treatments, and fear, the Oettels discovered the extraordinary in the ordinary: the strength of a mother’s presence, the courage of a child, and the sustaining power of faith. While the journey continues, both mother and daughter carry a hope beyond their own healing-a hope that their experiences can light the way for others facing life’s most unimaginable battles.

After treatment, Vivian started a foundation to support kids battling cancer, offering hope, encouragement, and resources. Helping others is part of her healing, turning fear and struggle into a mission to inspire and uplift families.

BLOOM PEDIATRIC THERAPY

ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COAST TO COAST & CO.

When Kelcy Bonham opened Bloom Pediatric Therapy in Mount Juliet, her vision was simple yet powerful: create a place where families feel truly seen, supported, and celebrated. “Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all,” she says. “Every child has unique needs, and our job is to meet them right where they are—while also supporting the family as a whole.”

That individualized approach shines through in the way Bloom makes therapy both effective and joyful. Sessions are built on trust and play, with activities tailored to each child’s world. “What feels like play to

them is carefully structured learning,” Kelcy explains. Favorite toys and fun, engaging activities often disguise just how hard kids are working.

Breakthroughs big and small fuel the Bloom team’s passion. Kelcy recalls one unforgettable moment: a non-speaking child said “mama” for the very first time with his parents watching. “The joy on his face, and on his parents’ faces, is something I’ll never forget.”

Parents are part of the process every step of the way. Each session includes education and simple activities

Helping Children and Families Thrive

for families to carry progress into daily routines. This team approach, combined with Bloom’s values of collaboration, advocacy, and integrity, creates a community-like atmosphere where families know they’re not alone.

Growth has been steady, and Bloom recently expanded with new therapy rooms, a large sensory gym, and added staff space—all designed to better serve children and families. Looking ahead, Kelcy is focused on expanding accessibility through more insurance options, increasing availability, and finding new ways to support families in and beyond the clinic. And as for the future? She hints there may be some surprises up her sleeve.

Through every stage of growth, her mission remains clear: helping children bloom—and ensuring families feel supported every step of the way.

At Bloom Pediatric Therapy, owner Kelcy Bonham has created a warm, family-centered space where children can grow, communicate, and thrive. Every session is rooted in trust, play, and individualized care—what feels like fun for kids is actually carefully structured learning. From helping non-speaking children find their voices to supporting families through everyday milestones, Bloom’s approach goes far beyond the clinic. With a recent expansion that includes new therapy rooms and a sensory gym, Kelcy and her team are continuing to grow while staying true to their mission of making therapy accessible, engaging, and full of heart. And as Kelcy hints, there may be a few exciting surprises still up her sleeve.

realty report

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Shop Local

When you’re starting to shop for the holidays, keep in mind some of the incredible gifts you can find right here in Mount Juliet and the surrounding Nashville area. From filling bellies with local sweets, to wearing your city proud! Make sure you look for those local makers to support.

(1) Crumby Bites

Satisfy that seasonal sweet tooth!

Crumby bites hit the spot, from themed custom cookie boxes to their newest Banana Cream Cheesecake, Sheanna has it all to choose from! @crumbybites

(4) Mt. Juliet Hats

Support Local by wearing it! Mt. Juliet hats you can exclusively find at Sisters Whimzy Boutique! Various colors and styles available! @sisterswhimzy @coasttocoastandco

(2) Children’s book by Danika McKellar

This charming picture book from New York Times bestselling author and math education advocate Danica McKellar is a wonderful learning resource and perfect read-aloud at bedtime!

(3) Warfighter Wax Co.

Warfighter Wax Co. is a local veteran-owned small business specializing in small-batch soy wax candles and natural soap bars. The company’s playful military branding, tropical themes, and subtle sarcastic undertones are juxtaposed with its real-world focus on sustainability, American manufacturing, and generosity toward military and first responder-centric organizations. www.warfighterwax.com

(5) Estelle Wine Glasses

Festive Estelle Wine Glasses you can exclusively find at Brookes on Main! @brookesonmain

NOVEMBER 6TH

Invisalign Day at Berry Dental Group

66 E. Hill Street, Mount Juliet, TN 37122 | 8:00 AM

Berry Dental Group in Mt. Juliet invites the community to Invisalign Day on Thursday, November 6, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Guests will enjoy complimentary consultations, digital scans, and special perks including 20% off treatment, free whitening, and raffle entries. With limited spots available, this once-a-year event is the perfect chance to begin the journey to a straighter smile!

NOVEMBER 18TH

Christmas Tree Lighting in Mt. Juliet

Charlie Daniels Park, 1075 Charlie Daniels Parkway, Mt. Juliet | 5:00 PM

Kick off the holiday season on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Charlie Daniels Park for Mt. Juliet’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Come enjoy holiday tunes, warm drinks, and the big countdown as the tree sparkles to life. A cozy evening of community and cheer—don’t miss it! Visit www.mtjuliet-tn.gov for more details.