MAURY COUNTY LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 ISSUE by Music City Publications, Inc.

COLUMBIA

SPRING HILL

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2026

Holiday Desserts TASTES FROM AROUND THE WORLD Delicious desserts inspired by traditions near and far

MAKE SPACE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

NASHVILLE MURPHY BEDS THE DUETS OF CHRISTMAS LUCAS HOGE & REBECCA LYNN HOWARD

HEROES & HOLIDAYS

A SALUTE TO SERVICE AND SACRIFICE

2027 ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOW OF NASHVILLE TIMELESS: LIVING A COLLECTED LIFE NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Give a gift that sparkles

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NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

Building on nearly 75 years of care

For seven decades, it has been our privilege to care for southern Middle Tennessee — and now, we have entered our most transformative chapter yet. Through our major campus improvement project and our evolution into an academic medical center, Maury Regional Health is expanding what’s possible for local health care. We are investing in modernized facilities, advanced technology and resident physicians who will care for our region for decades to come. Thank you for growing with us as we build for the future.

Find a doctor or location near you at MauryRegional.com. NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

MUSIC CITY publications

INC.

Publishing MAURY COUNTY LIVING WILLIAMSON COUNTY LIVING NOV EM B ER | DECEM B ER 2026

From the Publisher ... The countdown has begun! The most wonderful time of the year is quickly approaching, and I can already smell the turkey. Whether this year has brought moments of laughter or seasons of tears, the delight of being together with family and friends during the holidays reminds us that the simplest moments become the memories we treasure the most. So, as you sit down to share a meal, gather to decorate a gingerbread house, or watch movies and play games, I hope you find the peace in Him that makes this season so bright. Our cover features a beautiful — and delicious — pavlova. Inside this issue, you’ll find the recipe for the tasty pavlova, along with two other irresistible desserts that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Discover how Nashville Murphy Beds creates custom Murphy beds to help solve those holiday space dilemmas when family and friends come to stay. In need of a new style this season? The Wardrobe by Amy Montgomery may have just what you’re looking for. Turn the pages to read about Heroes & Holidays, which salutes the service and sacrifice of our military and first responders. Lucas Hoge and Rebecca Lynn Howard are bringing their voices together for The Duets of Christmas. Discover an extraordinary Christmas experience that APEX Backstage will curate for you. If it’s your turn to host, A Twist of Lime will help serve your guests cocktails for the most enjoyable party experience. Check out local magician Frankie Foti’s new magic special, Ask For Magic. Take a peek inside the 2026 Polk Ball Designer Showhouse. Finally, mark your calendar for the 2027 Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville and this year’s theme, “Timeless: Living a Collected Life.” I hope the stories within these pages remind you of the kindness and goodness that surround us in our community. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes this year, and for supporting the businesses featured in this magazine. They truly appreciate your continued patronage.

PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kathy Fox DESIGNER | ART DIRECTOR

Shelly Wells LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Amy Montgomery CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katie Baker Connor Bostelman Kathy Fox Laura Lynn Amy Montgomery Elizabeth Shane PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jessica Amerson Kathy Fox Ross Jaynes Visual Media Co. ONLINE

maurycountyliving.com williamsoncoliving.com SOCIAL MEDIA

@maurycountyliving @williamsoncoliving

Christmas blessings, ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

Connect with us Publisher | Editor in Chief

@maurycountyliving

musiccitypublications@gmail.com Music City Publications Inc., publishes Maury County Living and Williamson County Living magazines. Both magazines are printed six times per year and distributed via the United States Postal Service to some of the most affluent homes in Williamson and Maury counties.

“And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21 New Living Translation)

The entire contents of Maury County Living and Williamson County Living are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The articles and content expressed in these publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Music City Publications Inc., nor does Music City Publications Inc., assume

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responsibility for writers’ opinions and content or the products and services advertised herein.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2026 n VOL. 36

31 Inside the Songs of the Season 37 A Twist of Lime for the Holidays 42 2027 Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville

10 10

Nashville Murphy Beds — Making Room for the Holidays

16 Something New for the Holidays 20 Heroes & Holidays — Folds of Honor TN 26 Lucas Hoge & Rebecca Lynn Howard —

Bringing Their Voices Together

48 48

Cover Feature: Holiday Desserts from Around the World

26 8

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54 Ask for Magic This Season 60 Inside the Polk Ball Designer Showhouse ON THE COVER: STRAWBERRY PAVLOVA, A SHOWSTOPPER OF A

DESSERT NAMED FOR FAMED RUSSIAN BALLERINA ANNA PAVLOVA. PHOTO BY KATHY FOX — ENHANCED WITH AI.

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s the holiday season approaches, many homeowners face a familiar challenge. Extra guests arrive for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's gatherings, yet giving up an entire room for a bed used only occasionally can be impractical. Bonus rooms grow cluttered, home offices lose purpose, and the joy of hosting competes with limited space.

CUSTOM MURPHY BEDS BUILT IN NASHVILLE

Making Room for the Holidays BY CONNOR BOSTELMAN

PHOTOS PROVIDED AND BY KATHY FOX

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

Since 2014, Nashville Murphy Beds has offered a refined local answer. The Middle Tennessee company builds custom Murphy beds in Nashville using real wood and local hands, turning everyday spaces into rooms ready for daily living and seasonal entertaining. What began as an idea between longtime friends has grown into a trusted business serving homeowners from Belle Meade and Green Hills to Franklin, Brentwood, College Grove, and Columbia.

In 2019, Allan Hicks joined as co-owner and CEO, bringing business experience and a shared respect for the craft. “I had spent my career around businesses that made things you couldn't hold in your hands,” said Hicks. “Then I stood in Billy's shop and watched him fit a cabinet door by hand until it closed with this soft little click. I went home that night knowing I wanted in.”

The idea was born when coworkers Billy Simon and Pete Strayer at General Dynamics turned a coffee-break conversation into a business, one coffee break at a time. “We kept meeting at the coffee station and talking about furniture instead of work,” Simon remembered. “I had the wood shop, Pete had the marketing mind, and Nashville had a lot of houses running out of bedrooms. At some point one of us said we should build the thing, and neither of us could think of a good reason not to.” That wood shop still sits behind Simon’s south Nashville home, and it remains the heart of the business. Before Simon built furniture, he wrote songs, and he will tell you the two crafts are not as different as they sound. Both start with a rough idea, both get reworked a dozen times, and both are done when they feel right, not just when they measure right. Step inside on a December afternoon, and the shop smells like sawdust and fresh lacquer, with cabinet doors lined up on the workbench waiting for a final coat, each one tagged for a family expecting company.

“

I had spent my career around businesses that made things you couldn’t hold in your hands. Then I stood in Billy’s shop and watched him fit a cabinet door by hand until it closed with this soft little click. I went home that night knowing I wanted in.

”

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

“

We build furniture, but what people are really asking us for is more time with the people they love.

” Ask the team for a project that stuck with them, and they point to a bonus room in Franklin. A family had recently moved to town and wanted to host extended family, but couldn’t because the only spare room in the house was a bonus room full of exercise equipment and moving boxes. Early that fall, the family had the room measured, cleared, and fitted with a queen-size Murphy bed with side built-ins, painted to match the trim in the rest of the house. In December, for the first time, everyone woke up under the same roof on Christmas morning. “That's the part that stays with you,” Hicks said. “We build furniture, but what people are really asking us for is more time with the people they love.”

Unlike mass-produced wall beds, every Nashville Murphy Bed is built locally, by hand, and built to blend in, using real wood rather than particleboard or laminate. Cabinets feature high-quality lacquer finishes, soft-close drawers, and solid construction meant for years of daily use. Clients can choose shaker-style trim, custom stains, or paint matched to existing Benjamin Moore or SherwinWilliams colors, so the finished piece reads as permanent millwork rather than an add-on. Customization runs deep. Projects can include side built-ins, fold-away desks, media consoles, LED lighting, USB charging ports, and even extended sofas, in any bed size from a twin nook to a king-sized retreat. A home office can convert into a guest suite for visiting relatives, or a bonus room can serve as a movie space by day and sleeping quarters by night. In August, Nashville Murphy Beds showcased a custom queen-sized bed unit, painted in Sherwin-Williams Stargazer, complete with a desk, side built-in shelves, floating shelves, lights, and charging ports for Project Open House. The project benefited Folds of Honor Tennessee, and as a Platinum Sponsor, they helped raise $18,000 for FOH. 12

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That combination of longevity, local roots, quality materials, and attentive service has earned recognition, including features on WSMV's Today in Nashville, Williamson County Living, and Maury County Living. Homeowners value that the same craftsmen who design and build the beds also stand behind their finished work. That commitment to quality, paired with the company’s dedication to giving back, makes for a company built on integrity. 

Every project is truly custom, and the process starts with a free in-home consultation. A team member visits, measures the space, talks through placement options, and listens to how the family lives. There is no pressure, no fixed menu of products, and each project is priced based on the requested customizations. “People sometimes apologize when we show up for a consultation, like a cluttered bonus room is something to be embarrassed about,” said Hicks. “I love those rooms. Every one of them is about to become the place where somebody's family or friends sleeps, and that never gets old.” Once a design is approved, a 50 percent deposit begins the build in the local Nashville shop. When the piece is ready, the company schedules white-glove delivery and professional installation, anchoring the unit securely and walking the homeowner through care and use before the first guests arrive. Final payment is then collected at installation.

Nashville Murphy Beds is based in Nashville, Tennessee, and serves Williamson and Maury Counties and the greater Nashville area. Call (931) 272-8992 or visit nashvillemurphybeds.com to schedule a free in-home consultation. Make room for what matters this holiday season and into 2027!

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

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Something New for the Holidays

PHOTOS PROVIDED

BY AMY MONTGOMERY

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

’ve always believed the best wardrobes are collected over time. They’re filled with pieces that fit beautifully, feel wonderful, and somehow always seem right for this year, next year, and several years from now. I’ve never been particularly interested in chasing trends. Give me something classic with beautiful fabric, thoughtful details, and a wonderful fit, and I’ll find a dozen ways to wear it. That philosophy is at the heart of The Wardrobe by Amy Montgomery. Every woman needs certain pieces — the top you reach for when you don’t know what to wear, the perfectly cut pants, a great jacket, and jeans that can take you almost anywhere. I especially love what I call “dress jeans”… denim with a more polished cut and feel that wears almost like a trouser. Add a beautiful blouse or a classic bouclé jacket, a casual heel or dressy boot, and suddenly denim feels entirely appropriate for dinner. Then there are the pieces that simply make getting dressed more fun. A beautifully tailored jacket can change an entire outfit. The right handbag adds richness and texture. And sometimes all you need is one wonderful piece of jewelry to make something you’ve worn a hundred times feel new again. For the holidays, I’m especially drawn to evening clothes that don’t feel like traditional evening wear. One of my favorite combinations is a gorgeous taffeta skirt paired with a beautiful, warm sweater. The taffeta gives you that wonderful sense of occasion, while the sweater softens the look and makes it feel comfortable, current, and approachable. It’s exactly the kind of outfit I love for a holiday dinner or gathering. You’re dressed enough to feel special without ever feeling overdressed.

For something a bit more polished, pair that same skirt with a rich velvet blazer. Then, once the holidays are over, wear the sweater with your favorite jeans or trousers and bring the velvet blazer back out with denim. I love pieces that can move easily from one occasion to another and truly earn their place in your wardrobe. Accessories should do the same. I have chosen three jewelry collections for the new shop because of their quality, lasting finishes, and timeless designs. These pieces aren't meant to be worn for one season and forgotten. They are elevated fashion jewelry meant to be enjoyed often and kept for years. For fall and winter, there is also something irresistible about the warmth of a beautiful handbag in rich suede or leather. And at the opposite end of the wardrobe spectrum, I’m equally particular about what I wear at home. The pajamas available at the shop are made from some of the softest fabrics you can imagine because comfort and beauty certainly don’t have to be mutually exclusive. My taste has always been traditional, but traditional doesn’t have to mean predictable. To me, great style is about choosing well: beautiful fabrics, flattering shapes, thoughtful details, and pieces that feel like you. A wonderful wardrobe isn’t about having more. It’s about opening your closet and finding things you genuinely love to wear. 

Stop by the new Amy Montgomery Home shop, now open in Columbia Plaza at 421 W 7th Street in Columbia, Tennessee! For additional information, visit amymontgomeryhome.com and follow on social media @amymontgomeryhome. NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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Heroes & Holidays A Holiday Salute to Service, Sacrifice, and the American Spirit On Thursday, December 3, 2026, the Tennessee Chapter will host its annual Heroes & Holidays celebration at The Pinnacle Nashville. More than a holiday gala, the evening is an opportunity to celebrate the season while honoring the men and women who have served our country and communities and standing beside the families whose lives have been forever changed by that service.

BY FOLDS OF HONOR TENNESSEE

PHOTOS BY NICOLE MURPHY

Folds of Honor provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Since the Tennessee Chapter was established in 2020, it has provided 3,457 scholarships totaling more than $16 million in educational support, representing thousands of individual stories of families moving forward while carrying the legacy of someone they love.

he holidays have a way of bringing us back to what matters most: family gathered around the table, traditions passed from one generation to the next, and gratitude for the people who make those moments possible. For some families, however, the season also carries the absence of someone who served. This December, Folds of Honor Tennessee will bring together friends, families, community leaders, and supporters for an evening rooted in that understanding, and in three values that have long connected Tennesseans: faith, family, and freedom.

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

Folds of Honor provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military service members and first responders.

Heroes & Holidays has become one of the chapter’s signature fundraising events and a meaningful way to close the year with purpose. For 2026, the celebration embraces the theme “A Holiday Salute: American Music. American Service. The American Spirit.” Drawing inspiration from the style and spirit of 1940s America, the evening will evoke a time when communities rallied around those who served, reimagined through a distinctly modern Nashville experience. Guests will enjoy dinner, live and silent auctions, meaningful stories from the Folds of Honor community, and live entertainment. Music will provide a fitting soundtrack, culminating in a performance by The Eaglemaniacs, a group of exceptionally talented studio musicians performing the Eagles’ greatest hits.

Heroes & Holidays has become one of the chapter’s signature fundraising events and a meaningful way to close the year with purpose.

But at the heart of the evening are the families. A Folds of Honor scholarship provides financial support for an education, but its meaning reaches far beyond tuition. For a spouse pursuing a degree after life has unexpectedly changed, or a child carrying forward the legacy of a parent who served, education can represent possibility, independence, and hope for what comes next. It is also a promise: your family’s sacrifice will not be forgotten. Heroes & Holidays brings that promise to life by connecting supporters with the people and stories behind the Folds of Honor mission. Funds raised throughout the evening help create educational opportunities for military and first responder families, turning one night of generosity into an impact that can last for generations.

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

At a time of year when we are reminded to count our blessings, Heroes & Holidays offers another invitation: to remember the people behind them. To gather with gratitude. To celebrate with purpose. And to ensure that the legacies of America’s heroes live on through the families they love. Heroes & Holidays is one of several signature events Folds of Honor Tennessee hosts throughout the year. Looking ahead to 2027, supporters will also have opportunities to experience the mission through the Rock ’N Jock Celebrity Softball Game and Freedom Invitational Golf Tournament.  With scholarships valued at up to $5,000, every table, sponsorship, auction purchase, and contribution helps Folds of Honor continue creating educational opportunities for deserving military and first responder families. Across Tennessee, including in Williamson and Maury Counties, businesses, families, and community leaders have embraced that mission and helped turn gratitude into meaningful support. And when the final song ends, the impact of the evening continues in classrooms, on college campuses, and in the lives of spouses and children pursuing their own dreams while carrying forward the legacies of those they love.

Heroes & Holidays Thursday, December 3, 2026 6:30–10:30 p.m. THE PINNACLE NASHVILLE | 910 E XCHANGE LANE

To learn more about Heroes & Holidays, upcoming events, and ways to support Folds of Honor Tennessee, visit tennessee.foldsofhonor.org or send an email to Tennessee@foldsofhonor.org.

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

PHOTOS PROVIDED

hristmas music has a way of transporting us. A familiar melody can take us back to childhood, to a house filled with family, a glowing Christmas tree, a church pew on Christmas Eve, or a long drive home for the holidays. This Christmas, musical artists Lucas Hoge and Rebecca Lynn Howard are hoping to create a few of those memories themselves with their new collaborative holiday project, The Duets of Christmas.

LUCAS HOGE & REBECCA LYNN HOWARD

Bringing Their Voices Together for The Duets of Christmas BY LAURA LYNN

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

The album brings together two distinctive voices, two accomplished singer-songwriters, and a shared love for the traditions and music that make Christmas such a special time of year. Rather than simply recording a collection of familiar holiday favorites, Hoge and Howard wanted to create something of their own. The pair have been writing original Christmas duets together, approaching the project much like any other songwriting session — starting with a story, an emotion, or an idea and letting the song take shape naturally.

The result is a collection designed to feel nostalgic without being dated, traditional while still offering listeners something new. “We wanted to create something that felt timeless,” said Hoge. “Rebecca is such an incredible singer and songwriter, and when our voices come together, there’s something really special about it. We’ve been having a blast writing these songs and creating a Christmas record that we hope families will enjoy for years to come.” For Hoge, whose career has taken him from country music stages to adventures around the world as host of the television series Hoge Wild and Hoge Wild Heroes, the project offers an opportunity to return to one of the simplest things that first drew him to music: telling stories through a song. Howard brings an unmistakable vocal presence of her own. Known for her powerhouse voice, soulful delivery, and accomplished songwriting, she brings both strength and emotion to the collaboration. Paired with Hoge’s warm, traditional delivery, the contrast creates a natural duet sound that quickly became one of the project’s defining elements. “Lucas and I have such a natural connection when we sing together,” said Howard. “Our voices are very different, but they complement each other in a way that feels effortless. Writing and singing these Christmas songs together has been so much fun. There’s something magical about Christmas music, and I’m excited for people to hear what we’ve created and hopefully make these songs part of their own holiday traditions.” That idea, tradition, sits at the heart of The Duets of Christmas. Christmas songs are unique in that they return every year. Generations grow up hearing many of the same melodies, yet every family attaches its own memories to them. Hoge and Howard wanted their original songs to carry that same spirit: music that feels at home playing quietly beside a Christmas tree, filling the kitchen during a family gathering, or providing the soundtrack to a December road trip home.

“

We wanted to create something that felt timeless. Rebecca is such an incredible singer and songwriter, and when our voices come together, there’s something really special about it.

”

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

The songwriting has allowed the pair to explore different sides of the season, from the romance and warmth of Christmas to the nostalgia, faith, family, and simple traditions that make the holidays meaningful. While much of the project centers around original music, Hoge and Howard knew there was room for at least one song audiences already know and love. The album will include a beloved holiday standard, reimagined as a duet and shaped around their individual voices. Rather than simply recreating a familiar recording, the goal was to make the song their own while respecting everything that has made it endure through generations. It is also one of the recordings the pair are especially excited for listeners to hear. At its core, however, The Duets of Christmas is less about making another seasonal album and more about creating something that can become part of the season itself. Recording Christmas music comes with a special responsibility. These are songs people play while decorating trees, opening presents, gathering around dinner tables, traveling home, and celebrating with the people who matter most. The best Christmas records eventually become intertwined with those moments. That is exactly what Hoge and Howard hope will happen with this project. Two friends. Two unmistakable voices. New songs, an enduring classic, and a shared love for a season built around faith, family, memories, and togetherness. With The Duets of Christmas, Lucas Hoge and Rebecca Lynn Howard aren’t simply singing about Christmas. They are hoping to create the kind of music listeners will pull out every December — and, somewhere along the way, make part of their own Christmas story. Available on your favorite streaming service and onerpm.link/duets. n LAURA LYNN is the founder and partner of FORGE ENTERTAINMENT LLC.

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

INSIDE THE SONGS OF THE SEASON

A BESPOKE NASHVILLE CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE

For those who crave the magical spirit of the Holidays... Brought to life as only Nashville can. NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

There’s a magic in Nashville that comes once a year, when the lights shine a little brighter and Christmas draws near. But beyond all the lights is a world few will see... a Christmas built around you, as magical as you wish it to be. Step inside the music, where every detail is yours, and Nashville, at Christmas, Opens its doors...

Not every sleigh has reindeer, or glides through the snow. Some have twelve wheels and a guitar, and know just where to go. Step aboard a private artist tour bus, where inside a Nashville artist plays. And with Christmas songs around you, you’re merrily on your way…

And where might your Christmas sleigh bus take you? Somewhere few will ever dine— To a legendary Nashville recording studio, now dressed in Christmas candlelight. A beautifully catered Christmas meal awaits, with glasses raised in cheer. And who should be there to welcome you? Why, Santa himself is here!

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

The strings begin softly, with Christmas songs they play. Then, as if by Christmas magic, ballerinas dance your way. The music swells. The candles glow. And for one enchanting evening... Christmas puts on a show.

Then the guitars come out, and everyone gathers round. Nashville artists and hit songwriters fill the room with Christmas sound. Songs are sung. Stories are shared. The kind of Christmas gathering that could only happen here. And just when you think the last wish has come true... Your favorite artist at the door, with a Christmas song for you. (Because when it’s Christmas in Nashville... you never know who might appear.)

Eventually the last song ends, and your sleigh bus brings you home. But what you take away that day is something all your own. Built around the people you love, with every detail made for you. A Christmas possible only in Nashville— and one that belongs only to you.

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

SCAN FOR CHRISTMAS MAGIC

Make Memories in Maury County

November and December in Maury County DECEMBER

NOVEMBER 6th - First Fridays - Downtown Columbia

4th - First Fridays - Downtown Columbia

6th - Columbia Tree Lighting- Downtown Columbia

4th - Christmas Barn Bash-Culleoka

11th - Veterans Parade - Downtown Columbia

5th - Columbia Christmas Parade

14th - Columbia Rotary Pancake Breakfast - Mem Bldg.

4th & 5th - Maury Christmas Historic Home Tour

21st - 22nd - A Very Maury Christmas - The Factory

11th - All Men Are Created Equal - Rippa Villa

27th - Finally Friday Shop Hop & Cruise In - Mt. Pleasant

11th & 12th - Mt Pleasant Christmas Home Tour

27th & 28th - Columbia’s Cowboy Christmas

12th - Spring Hill Christmas Parade 31st - MuleDrop-Downtown Columbia

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M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

Q & A WITH TIFFANY DODSON

A Twist of Lime for the Holidays

BY KATHY FOX

PHOTOS PROVIDED

BY K ATHY FOX

PHOTOS PROVIDED

he holidays are meant for gathering. Twinkling lights, favorite playlists, beautiful food, and the sound of friends and family filling the house are all part of the magic. But anyone who has hosted a holiday party or a wedding knows that creating that effortless atmosphere often takes plenty of behind-the-scenes work. One way to spend more time enjoying your own celebration is to bring in the professionals. For Tiffany Dodson, owner of A Twist of Lime Bartending Services, creating a memorable bar experience is about much more than pouring a glass of wine or mixing a cocktail. It’s about setting the mood for the evening, creating drinks that feel as special as the occasion itself, and letting the host enjoy the party!

What inspired you to start a mobile bartending service, and how did A Twist of Lime come to life?

“I was getting ready to have my second child and was tired of living paycheck to paycheck. I wanted to give my kids more, not just financially, but through more experiences and more time with them. At the time, I worked a full-time job during the week and bartended on the weekends. I was missing so much time with my family, and after working late nights, I was exhausted the next day. Then, completely out of the blue, someone reached out and asked if I would bartend a wedding in Lawrenceburg. I had never worked a wedding before, but I agreed — and I loved it. Something just clicked. I remember thinking, ‘I could do this.’ It gave me the flexibility I wanted while letting me do something I genuinely enjoyed. Most importantly, I could still be present and active in my kids’ lives. That one wedding changed everything, and in 2016, A Twist of Lime was born.” NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

Gingerbread Martini

A FAVORITE HOLIDAY COOKIE IN MARTINI FORM

What makes A Twist of Lime stand out as a bartending service?

“For me, that personal connection is so important. I take the time to get to know you, understand what you need, and make you feel like more than just another customer. I really value having that personal connection with my clients. I like following their journeys, their kids, and their lives after the event. I still have clients to this day that I talk to. For example, a client from 2023 reached out. We had a special drink at her wedding that her mother loved. Sadly, her mother passed away recently, and they were having a celebration in her mom's honor, so she messaged me asking for the recipe for that drink. I remembered it, pulled up my notes from a couple of years ago, and sent it to her.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Syrup

Instructions

MAKES APPROXIMATELY 12 OUNCES

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, sugar, molasses, and spices, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves completely. About 4-5 minutes. Cool and refrigerate.

n 2 cups water n 2 cups brown sugar n 1/2 cup molasses n 4 teaspoons ground ginger n 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon n 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg n 1/4 teaspoon allspice n 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves,

optional

TIP: Store-bought Monin or Torani Gingerbread syrup also works well.

Additionally, I’ve handpicked every person on my team, and I’m very selective. I look for certain qualities and morals in their personality, character, and how they treat people. When someone hires A Twist of Lime to be part of a special occasion, I want them to know that all the bartenders bring the same level of care, professionalism, and personal attention that I would.”

Q: A:

What is one of the most memorable events you have done? “That's a tough one! I would say the most memorable events are the ones where I can provide my service as a gift to family or friends. When my nephew got married, that was my gift to him. I provided the bar service for his wedding, and I could still be a guest. But we have done all types of events, from birthday parties to funeral receptions to baby showers and retirement parties. We just booked our first Friendsgiving, so I can add that to the list now. We want people to have the best and safest experience possible with us, no matter the occasion.”

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

Ingredients for Martini

Instructions

n 1 1/2 ounces vanilla vodka

Add vodka, Baileys, gingerbread syrup, and heavy cream to an icefilled cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds and strain into a chilled martini glass. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and crushed gingerbread cookies.

n 2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream n 1 1/2 ounces gingerbread syrup n 1 ounce heavy cream or half & half n Whipped Cream n

Gingerbread cookie

What do you bring to an event when someone hires A Twist of Lime?

“We supply the bartender along with all necessary bar tools, such as bar mats, ice bucket, pour spouts, shaker, strainer, and a cooler. We provide light bar-top decor, including greenery. I will help the host create a signature drinks menu and provide the ingredient list, but the host supplies the alcohol, mixers, and ice. We also offer photo booths and have a horse trailer as a bar rental option. Most importantly, our licensed bartenders know the effects of alcohol and know the signs to look for, so no one is overserved. A professional bartender lets your friends and family enjoy the moment with you and elevates the experience.”

Q: A:

What is your favorite go-to drink? “Right now it’s a glass of Caymus Vineyards Cabernet. My favorite cocktail is something with a good bourbon, like a pineapple bourbon smash.” This holiday season, prepare the food, turn up the music, and let someone else handle what's behind the bar. Then raise a glass to good friends, good memories, and a host who finally gets to enjoy the party, too. 

Christmas Maple Old Fashioned AN OLD FASHIONED WITH A HOLIDAY TWIST Ingredients

Instructions

n 2 ounces bourbon

Stir the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with ice and strain over a large cube. Express the oil from an orange peel over the cocktail, then garnish with the peel and rosemary or cinnamon stick.

n 1/2 ounce pure maple syrup n 2-3 dashes of bitters n 1 orange peel n Sprig of rosemary n Cinnamon stick optional

To book A Twist of Lime for your next event, email, call, or text Tiffany Dodson at atwistoflimebts@gmail.com or (615) 946-5472. Follow on social media @atwistoflimebartending. Cheers to the season!

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

Antiques & Garden Show OF NASHVILLE

TIMELESS: Living a Collected Life BY ELIZABETH SHANE

he Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville will return to Music City Center January 8–10, 2027, with “Timeless: Living a Collected Life” as this year’s theme. Presented by Northern Trust, the annual event benefits Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and Economic Club of Nashville (ECON) Charities. This year’s theme celebrates the beauty of a home thoughtfully collected over time — spaces filled with treasured heirlooms, meaningful objects, and the personal stories that transform a house into a home. For nearly four decades, the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville has brought together a shared appreciation for beautiful interiors, extraordinary gardens, and timeless design. Now celebrating its 37th year, the Show welcomes more than 17,000 guests annually to discover over 150 antiques, art, and horticulture exhibitors, inspiring garden showcases, engaging lectures, and special events. Yet beyond the beauty and inspiration found throughout the weekend is a tradition of giving back. Since its founding in 1990, the volunteer-led Show has raised more than $13 million for Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and ECON Charities, which partners with local nonprofits dedicated to strengthening children and families throughout Middle Tennessee. Making its impact on the Nashville community every bit as meaningful as the experience itself. Co-chairing the 2027 Show are longtime friends Allison Schaufele and Lynn Brown, brought together by a shared love of design, community, and giving back. A Nashville native and longtime Show volunteer, Schaufele brings experience in luxury hospitality and nonprofit fundraising, while Brown’s involvement includes four years as floral chair. Together, their experience and enthusiasm reflect a deep appreciation for the Show’s legacy and a commitment to continuing its meaningful support of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and ECON Charities.

"Timeless: Living a Collected Life resonated with me because the most beautiful spaces are not created all at once — they evolve over time,” said Schaufele. “They are layered with pieces that have meaning, objects that hold personal stories, and treasures that remind us of the people and places we love. There is something deeply personal about a home and garden that reflects not just how you live, but where you have been and what you value. To me, this is what makes a life and a home truly timeless." PHOTOS BY JESSICA AMERSON

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

Bringing the 2027 Show to life, Schumacher will help set the visual tone, joined by Exclusive Paint Sponsor Benjamin Moore and a talented team of designers, landscape architects, and volunteers. Together, they will transform Music City Center into an inspiring celebration of antiques, gardens, and beautiful design. Three immersive garden showcases will offer guests an up-close look at exceptional landscape design. At the same time, the lecture series will bring internationally recognized designers, authors, and creative voices to Nashville for a weekend filled with fresh ideas and inspiration.

"While design elements can change in different seasons of life, their essence remains — the soul of who we are endures. Les Fougeres from Schumacher was an easy choice. Its history, artisanship, and connection to nature embody a timeless quality that transcends any era,” said Brown. “I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors, whether spending time in nature or bringing it indoors through plants and florals. Nature stirs something inside, reminding us of the life we are created to live. What is more timeless than that? I love that about our show this year.”

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

The 2027 lecture series brings an impressive lineup of celebrated designers, artists and tastemakers to the stage. Friday begins with a Keynote Lecture from Cordelia de Castellane, artistic director of DIOR Maison and Baby DIOR, followed that afternoon by a Design Panel featuring Mieke ten Have, Aldous Bertram and Schuyler Samperton, moderated by John Bossard. On Saturday, master floral designer Ariella Chezar joins watercolor artist and illustrator Matthew Rice for the morning’s Floral Lecture, moderated by author and tastemaker Frances Schultz. The weekend’s conversations continue Saturday afternoon with a Lifestyle Panel featuring Honorary Co-Chairs Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence, moderated by Anne Hardy, contributing editor at House & Garden UK. Adding to the creative talent behind the Show, Amanda Khouri of Amanda Khouri Interiors will serve as Stage Designer, while Kate Figler of Kate Figler Interiors will create the welcoming entrance experience. The weekend’s special events will also feature familiar names from the worlds of fashion and lifestyle, with Sid and Ann Mashburn serving as Honorary Chairs of the Preview Party. Southern Living Editor-in-Chief Sid Evans and Senior Lifestyle Editor Ivy Odom will serve as Honorary CoChairs of the Bourbon Party, bringing even more Southern style and hospitality to the weekend’s festivities.

The historic Hermitage Hotel returns as Presenting Hotel for the 2027 Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville, continuing a partnership that beautifully blends timeless style with Southern hospitality. During Show weekend, guests can carry the celebration beyond Music City Center with theme-inspired cocktails in the hotel’s elegant Grand Lobby and a special Afternoon Timeless Tea, honoring The Hermitage Hotel’s recognition as a National Historic Landmark. 

Lectures and special events require separate tickets in addition to General Admission, and select events have limited availability. For the complete schedule, featured speakers, beneficiary information, and tickets, visit antiquesandgardenshow.com. Follow @AntiquesandGardenShow on Instagram and AntiquesandGardenShow on Facebook for the latest news and event updates.

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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Designing Homes for the Holidays

ARCHITECTURE PEOPLE PL ACES ALL SEASONS

Wishing our clients, partners, and communities a joyful Christmas and a beautifully designed New Year. 615.617.7477

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OFFICES IN COLUMBIA, TN & FLORENCE, AL NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

Holiday Desserts Tastes from Around the World BY AMY MONTGOMERY

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

Mocha Roll SERVES 10

here’s something especially lovely about gathering around the table during the holidays ... favorite dishes, familiar faces, and traditions we look forward to year after year. And sometimes, adding a little something new makes the celebration even sweeter. This year, make room beside the pies and cookies for three delicious desserts inspired by traditions near and far. With its roots in the classic European rolled sponge cake, a mocha roll is a beautiful combination of rich chocolate and coffee. This one is a beauty with chocolate sponge cake wrapped around a fluffy mocha filling. The deep cocoa flavor paired with the freshness of coffee makes it feel especially suited to the holiday season. Sliced and served on a pretty platter, its lovely swirl makes it every bit as beautiful on the table as it is delicious. From Scotland comes tablet, a rich, buttery confection made primarily with sugar, butter, and milk. Think of it as a Scottish cousin to fudge, but with a texture all its own. It is slightly crumbly at first bite and then wonderfully melt-in-your-mouth. Cut into small pieces, it’s just the thing to pass around after dinner and enjoy a piece with coffee or a good cuppa, or wrap a few pieces in a pretty box for a homemade holiday gift. It’s simple, sweet, and just a little different from the usual holiday treats — and you may find yourself making it every holiday — it’s that good! And then there is pavlova, a showstopper of a dessert claimed as a beloved tradition by both Australia and New Zealand. Named for famed Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, who toured there, it has a crisp meringue shell that gives way to a soft, almost marshmallow-like center, topped with clouds of whipped cream and fresh fruit. Strawberries make it especially beautiful for the holidays, although raspberries, pomegranate seeds, or a combination of berries would be equally lovely. One of my favorite things about entertaining is finding little ways to make the familiar feel special again. Sometimes that means pulling out your grandmother’s china, lighting a few more candles, or simply putting something on the table that no one is expecting. So keep the pie if your family would never forgive you for leaving it off the menu. I certainly wouldn’t suggest starting a holiday revolt! But perhaps make room for one new tradition, too. You may just discover something wonderful enough to become part of your own holiday table for years to come.

Ingredients Cake n 6 egg whites, room temperature n 3/4 cup sugar n 6 egg yolks n 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa n 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract n Pinch of salt n Confectioners' sugar, for dusting the towel

Filling n 1 1/2 cups heavy cream n 1/2 cup powdered sugar n 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa n 2 teaspoons instant coffee n 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions 1. Grease a jelly-roll pan and line it with wax paper. 2. Beat the egg whites at high speed to soft peaks. Add 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time, beating until stiff peaks form.

3. In another bowl, beat the yolks at high speed; add the 1/2 cup sugar and vanilla and beat for 4 minutes.

4. At low speed, beat the cocoa and salt into the yolk mixture until smooth, then fold the yolk mixture into the whites until blended.

5. Pour batter into jelly-roll pan and smooth top with a spatula. 6. Bake for 15 minutes at 375 F. 7. Sprinkle confectioners' sugar on a clean flat-weave cotton towel. Turn the cake out onto the towel, let it cool halfway, and roll it up in the towel.

8. For the filling, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar, cocoa, instant coffee, and vanilla.

9. Unroll the cake, spread the filling 1/2 inch thick, roll back up seam side down, and refrigerate. TIP: Drizzle with chocolate sauce, dust with powdered sugar, then add plastic holly leaves and fresh cranberries for that festive touch.

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

Instructions 1. Preheat the Oven to 225˚ F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Using your stand mixer, beat 5 egg whites on high speed for 1 minute until soft peaks form. With the mixer on, gradually add 1 1/2 cups sugar and beat on high speed for 10 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. It will be smooth and glossy. 2. Use a spatula to fold in vinegar and vanilla extract, then fold in cornstarch and mix until well blended. 3. Spread the meringue into a large circle in the center of the parchment paper. Indent the center with a spoon to allow room for cream. Bake at 225˚ F on the middle rack for 90 minutes, until dry and firm. Depending on humidity, it may take longer. Then turn off the oven and, without opening the door (the meringue will crack with the air temperature change), let the meringue sit in the hot oven for another 30 minutes. The outside will be dry and crisp to the touch and very pale cream-colored, and the insides will still be marshmallow soft. 4. Transfer the pavlova with the parchment paper onto the counter or a cookie rack and allow it to cool to room temperature — approximately 4 hours.

Strawberry Pavlova SERVES 12

Ingredients Meringue n 5 large egg whites, room temperature n 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar n 1 1/4 teaspoons cornstarch n 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar n 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Cream filling n 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (very cold) n 1/3 cup powdered sugar (more or less depending on how sweet you like it) n 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping n 4 cups fresh sliced strawberries n Rosemary sprigs, basil or mint leaves for garnish— optional

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

5. In a large, cold mixing bowl, combine cold whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla and beat on high speed for 2 to 2 1/2 minutes or until whipped and stiff peaks form. 6. Place pavlova on serving dish and spread whipped cream on top, then cover with sliced strawberries. Notes: Add any fruit of your liking — berries, mango chunks, kiwi slices, diced peaches, etc. They all taste good! TIPS: You can make the meringue in advance; store it loosely wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid humidity. Whipped cream can be made 2 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to assemble. Eat assembled pavlova within a few hours, as the meringue will absorb moisture from the whipped cream and soften.

Scottish Tablet BY LESLEY HOGG, SCOTTISH-BORN AND BRED! YIELDS 64 PIECES

Ingredients n 2 pounds granulated sugar n 1/4 pint condensed milk n 1 pint milk n 1/2 pint cold water n Small knob of butter n 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, to be

added once the mixture thickens

Instructions 1. Add everything to a heavy pan and heat gently, stirring occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick or burn. 2. When the mixture is smooth and completely dissolved, turn the heat up a little and bring it to a boil. 3. Test for readiness as it changes colour. A sample should form a ‘soft ball’ in a cup of cold water. 4. Turn off the heat and put the pot in a bowl of cold water (to cool quickly) and beat the mixture steadily. I use a wooden spoon, but electric beaters work too. 5. Once it thickens, add a teaspoon of vanilla and mix it in.

6. Pour the tablet mixture into a greased tin (mine is 8" x 8") 7. Cut into 1" squares before it hardens. Leave to cool. Store in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment paper between the layers.

AMY MONTGOMERY is the owner and creative force behind Amy Montgomery Home, located at the Columbia Plaza on West 7th Street, in Columbia, Tennessee. The shop features entertaining essentials, timeless home décor, and The Wardrobe by Amy Montgomery. Visit amymontgomeryhome.com for additional information.

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

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NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

ASK FOR

MAGIC THIS SEASON BY KATHY FOX

PHOTOS PROVIDED

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

omething about the holidays makes us believe in magic. Perhaps it’s the cookies made just for Santa, the excitement of presents waiting beneath the tree, or simply the way the season encourages us to spend time with family and friends, and believe that something wonderful can happen. But some of life’s most meaningful magic isn’t found in an illusion or a perfectly wrapped package; it’s found in people willing to lend a hand, offer a few words of wisdom, or be there when you need them most. For Nashville magician Frankie Foti, that idea became deeply personal, inspiring Ask For Magic, his first magic special and a heartfelt exploration of something many of us find surprisingly difficult: asking for help. Foti’s special weaves world-class magic with a story about the difficulty of asking for help and the vulnerability that comes with letting others in. “Now most people choose to become a magician, but because of the cards that life dealt me, I had to become a magician. I never knew where magic would take me, but I always imagined that by 30 I would have released my own magic special,” Foti said. “Then all of a sudden it was two weeks before my birthday; I had no plans, I needed advice, and I am the worst at asking for advice.”

“

I never knew where magic would take me, but I always imagined that by 30 I would have released my own magic special.

” NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

What changed for Foti was hearing a phrase that made him reconsider getting advice — good advice is like a little magic formula that makes life better. “I used to be able to call my dad whenever I needed it. Somehow, he always knew exactly what to say, but I realized without him I've become terrible at asking for advice,” Foti explained. “I know I'm not alone in that, so I decided to ask my friends to share the best advice they've ever received, hoping that their wisdom might inspire us all.” Adding to the magic in Ask For Magic, Foti brings a few talented friends into the spotlight as well, with performances by Franco Pascali, cardistry consultant for Brad Pitt; Riccardo Berdini, who has appeared on Penn & Teller: Fool Us; and Jackson Ridd, whose own performances have entertained stars including Charli XCX and Lana Del Rey.

Franco Pascali

Jackson Ridd

An award-winning magician and resident performer at Nashville’s House of Cards, Foti was also a member of Shin Lim’s winning magic team on America’s Got Talent and is no stranger to performing for impressive audiences. Over the years, his magic has entertained celebrities including Shania Twain, Josh Brolin, Gary Oldman, Nicolas Cage, Gerard Butler, Kristen Bell and Post Malone, along with members of Linkin Park, Panic! at the Disco and Fall Out Boy. His talents have also caught the attention of major brands, with performances for Netflix, McLaren, Maserati, and CBS Studios. Now Foti can finally add the release of his first magic special to his list of accomplishments, which he also produced and directed with support from the production team at Pop Media LA. “I had one goal for Ask For Magic,” said Foti. “I wanted to create a cinematic magic special that also says something meaningful.” Through magic — an art rooted in trust, connection, and a willingness to let go of control — Foti offers a thoughtful reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is ask for a little help. Watch for yourself; now streaming on YouTube. 

For more information or to book Foti, visit FrankieFoti.com. Follow him along on Instagram @fotimagic.

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BY KATIE BAKER

INSIDE THE 2026

POLK BALL DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE BY KATIE BAKER

Back foyer inspired by Loblolly Interiors and Baker Group Realty

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Dining room inspired by Elegant Event Rentals

or one evening in September, historic Antrim welcomed guests of the 2026 President James K. Polk Ball for an evening that brought together dinner, dancing, and historic preservation with a twist of design inspiration. Attendees were invited to experience the estate through a new lens as the Ball introduced its first-ever Designer Showhouse.

The idea was rooted in something especially relevant to a community like Maury County that has an abundance of historic homes: old houses do not have to remain frozen in time to be preserved. With thoughtful design, antiques, art, and furnishings, their history can be celebrated while the spaces continue to feel beautiful, livable, and relevant for generations to come. Antrim provided an extraordinary canvas. Built in 1810 and recognized as the first brick residence constructed south of the Duck River, the home carries more than two centuries of Maury County history. Rather than compete with that history, each participating designer was challenged to work with it, creating spaces that complemented the home’s architecture and character while bringing a distinct point of view to the rooms.

Entrance foyer inspired by Thurman Design Studio

Beautiful rattan-back chairs, layered rugs, collected furnishings, and a dramatic accent wreath gave visitors their first glimpse of what the Showhouse was intended to accomplish.

Guests began their tour in the entrance foyer, transformed by Thurman Design Studio. Beautiful rattan-back chairs, layered rugs, collected furnishings, and a dramatic accent wreath gave visitors their first glimpse of what the Showhouse was intended to accomplish. The space felt fresh and thoughtfully designed, while complementing the home's architectural details. Continued on page 64. NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

MAURY COUNTY’S LUXURY BROKER Katie Baker | 931.548.2010 |

@tnkatiebaker

710 N. Main Street |Ste. 200 | Columbia, TN

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

Bedroom inspired by Baker Group Realty

Continued from page 61.

From there, the tour offered a playful, history-inspired bedroom. A portrait of President Theodore Roosevelt already belonged to the room, providing the inspiration for the room’s refresh. Rather than removing it, the Baker Group Realty (BGR) team embraced it, incorporating antique furnishings, richly patterned animal rugs and African mounts as nods to Roosevelt’s wellknown passion for hunting and the outdoors.

The den also became one of the evening’s most memorable stops: the Champagne Room. A vintage Moët champagne chiller served as both décor and function as guests were offered a glass of champagne while making their way through the Showhouse. Surrounded by refreshed antiques and artwork, some original to Antrim and others curated from Loblolly Interiors and BGR staging, it was a fitting example of the evening’s balance between history and hospitality. At the back of the home, Lisa Bennett Interiors transformed Antrim’s expansive sunroom into a layered gathering space inspired in part by the equestrian theme of this year’s Polk Ball. The room’s original brick fireplace, distinctive ceiling, and walls of windows remained part of the story. At the same time, rich blues, warm autumn tones, collected artwork, and comfortable furnishings brought new life to the space.

Den inspired by Loblolly Interiors & Baker Group Realty

Surrounded by refreshed antiques and artwork, some original to Antrim and others curated from Loblolly Interiors and BGR staging, it was a fitting example of the evening’s balance between history and hospitality. 64

M U S I C C I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C .

The adjoining dining area became a celebration of fall entertaining. An autumn tablescape filled the table with amber glassware, layered place settings, and natural textures, while keeping views of Antrim’s grounds and historic outbuildings part of the experience. The tablescape itself ultimately found a new home when one Polk Ball guest purchased it, with proceeds benefiting the President James K. Polk Home and Museum.

Sunroom inspired by Lisa Bennett Interiors

Elegant Events and Rentals carried the atmosphere of the Ball into Antrim’s dining room with a thoughtfully set table that complemented the room’s antique furnishings and historic character. Layered place settings, patterned dishes, and carefully selected tabletop details brought color and personality to the space, showing how a beautiful tablescape can make even a centuries-old dining room feel ready for guests. That same collected approach continued into the den and back foyer, where Loblolly Interiors contributed layered antiques, artwork, and furnishings into the historic hallway. Artwork by artists like Fred Price helped give the rooms the feeling of a home assembled over generations rather than decorated all at once. Preservation is sometimes interpreted as leaving a historic property untouched. Antrim demonstrated another possibility. Contemporary fabrics could sit alongside antiques. A centuries-old room could accommodate a fresh tablescape. An existing portrait could inspire an entire design concept. Nothing about the home’s history had to disappear for something new to be introduced.

Antrim is remarkable without a single addition. Its architecture, landscape, and history have endured for more than 200 years. But for one evening, designers inspired guests to see Maury County's old homes a little differently: not simply as reminders of what came before, but as places that can continue to evolve, inspire, and be part of the way we live today. 

KATIE BAKER is a local REALTOR and the owner of Baker Group Realty, Maury County’s boutique brokerage. Baker Group specializes in Fine Properties, Historic Homes, Vacation Homes, and Commercial Real Estate in Middle Tennessee and the Tennessee River. Call (931) 548-2010 to schedule an appointment, and follow them on social media @bakergrouprealty.

That philosophy felt particularly fitting for the Polk Ball. Proceeds from the biennial event support the President James K. Polk Home and Museum and its work to preserve and share history with future generations. The Designer Showhouse extended that mission beyond museum walls, offering a tangible example of how preservation and continued use can coexist. NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2026

One medical group. Every stage of life. Health care isn’t only a single appointment — it’s a lifelong journey. At Maury Regional Medical Group, our physicians and advanced practice professionals are with you and your family every step of the way. From your child’s pediatric checkups and your own routine wellness visits to unexpected urgent care stops and specialized care, every part of your health is thoughtfully connected. And if life ever calls for a hospital stay, our dedicated hospital medicine and critical care specialists at Maury Regional Medical Center are right by your side. With convenient practices throughout southern Middle Tennessee and the backing of a unified regional health system, your health history, care plan and medical team stay seamlessly connected — giving you expert, coordinated care close to home. Find a doctor near you at MauryRegional.com/MRMG.

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