Nfocus March 2024

EPICUREAN DELIGHTS

Sperry’s celebrates 50 years, chocolate lovers delights, La Bella Notte and more

2404 BELMONT BOULEVARD

$3,950,000

Open the gates to this historic, four square home and appreciate how beautifully it has been restored in keeping with the Belmont neighborhood. This iconic street is where cars give way to bicycles and sidewalks lead pedestrians to a walkable host of restaurants, coffee houses, shops and musical venues in the popular Belmont and 12 South areas. Take a seat on the covered front porch and enjoy this unique feeling of place. But not for long, because a surprise awaits as you cross the threshold and experience a jaw dropping three story entry foyer, and a fresh, modern, open concept. This fully renovated home offers the latest amenities and superb quality finishes. This home checks all of the boxes with a 4-stop elevator, a Savant control system, dedicated gym, home theater, game room/or 4th bedroom suite, covered back porch with an outdoor kitchen, a newly completed pool/spa, an incredible pool/guest house with a full bath, kitchenette, and a home office/studio. The Pella disappearing pocket doors open to your very own private oasis. Make this your perfect primary home, or an easy “lock and leave” second home.

615. 566. 1610 C | 615. 327. 4800 O beth@bethmolteni.com

615. 587. 3867 C | 615. 263. 4800 O

colehubbardhomes@gmail.com

CONTENTS features

19 For the Love of Chocolate Artisan chocolatiers tell the story of their love and pursuit of an enduring favorite

27 Sperry’s: Where Old School Is Cool A Nashville icon celebrates 50 years

32 Love and Olive Oil How Mimo elevated the table with liquid gold

35 The Birds and the Bees Planting pollinator gardens to support local ecosystems parties

43 Snowy Celebration PENCIL’s Cabaret Night honors Angie Adams

44 Elevating Community Ballet Ball Patrons Party highlights the importance of community engagement

46 Promising Futures

Evening of Promise, benefiting the Blake McMeans Foundation

50 A Prima Donna Evening

La Bella Notte Patrons Party embarks on a creative journey through song

53 A Look Back

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County opens the new Moore-Morris History and Culture Center

57 This Is the Night

La Bella Notte delivers a beautiful evening of opera

63 Stronger Together

The Mind What Matters Concert for Caregivers celebrates four years

66 Have a Heart

Sarah

ON THE 10 57

March 2024 | Vol. XXXI, No. 3 19

departments

8 In Our Words

Exploring the transformative nature of food

10 Behind the Scenes With Sarah Worley of Biscuit Love

12 Step Inside The Malin

14 Nstyle

The latest from style gurus Bentley Caldwell & Carson Love

70 By Invitation

A collection of some of our favorites from 2023

72 Pencil In Mark your calendars for these upcoming events

74 Taking Vows

Sara Best marries

Mason Bass Foote

76 Nretrospect

Celebrating the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs

Just a Taste

Exploring the transformative nature of food

FOOD CAN BE transformative. Just as heat applied to a mixture of flour, water and yeast creates bread, so too can our experience with food transform us. Food sits at the core of so many of the key memories and impactful moments that define our lives. Be it the photos of ourselves as birthday-cake-engulfed toddlers, the times when we’ve gathered around a feast-laden table to watch the big game, or the moments friends have brought covered dishes to comfort friends and loved ones, food is there to mark the milestones. Food is at once a curiosity, a novelty, a once-in-a-lifetime experience — and a Tuesday night routine.

As epicurean-curious as we are at Nfocus, we’re always excited to learn more about the culinary masters that keep us fed. In this issue, Nancy Vienneau sits down with three local chocolate makers to discuss their passion for the confection. She also visits with the owners of Sperry’s — known locally as “Belle Meade Country Club without the dues” — as they celebrate the 50th anniversary of their culinary institution. We also explore (and indulge in) the single-source olive oil served at Mimo Restaurant and Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Nashville. After trying it at a menu launch last year, I had to understand what makes it so delicious.

Without pollinators, we would not have food. Carrington Fox sits down with local experts to find out what you can plant right now to make your garden pollinator-friendly. We alsogo behind the scenes with Sarah Worley, half of the dynamic duo that brought us Biscuit Love.

As the spring social season kicks off, we take you inside the top events in the city. We cut a rug with PENCIL’s outgoing CEOAngie Adams as she says goodbye at Cabaret Night. We hit the high notes with Nashville Opera’s stunning La Bella Notte. And we celebrate the highly anticipated opening of the Moore-Morris History and Culture Center of Williamson County with those who helped make the space a reality. This month also marks the 50th anniversary of the Middle Tennessee Heart Gala, and we capture the celebration as supporters raise crucial funds for cardiovascular health.

We’re also thrilled that four local culinary stars have been named semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Foundation Awards. These Nashville chefs and restaurants are: Trevor Moran (Locust) for Best Chef Southeast, Arnold Myint (International Market) for Best Chef Southeast, Kisser for Best New Restaurant, and D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe for Outstanding Bakery. Many congratulations and best of luck to these local epicurean champions.

BY JANET KURTZ

Janet moved to Nashville 25 years ago. She is an avid reader, traveler and collector of fountain pens, and she lives in downtown Nashville with her husband, Ron, and their dog, Julep. Email her at jkurtz@nfocusmagazine.com or follow her on Instagram @musiccitytraveler

Editorial

founding editor

Herbert Fox, Jr.

editor-in-chief

Janet Kurtz

contributing editors

Lindsey Lanquist, Jack Silverman social correspondent

Gloria Houghland

contributors

Beth Alexander, Emily Bache, Jessica Baladad, Abigail Breslin, Bentley Caldwell, Whitney Clay, Melissa Corbin, Carrington Fox, Margaret Littman, Carson Love, Sandra Nelson, Nancy Vienneau

Art art director

Christie Passarello

senior photographer

Eric England

staff photographer

Angelina Castillo

contributing photographers

Michael Scott Evans, Lorenzo Huerta, Hamilton Matthew Masters

graphic designers

Sandi Harrison, Mary Louise Meadors, Tracey Starck

Marketing

events and marketing director

Olivia Moye Britton

marketing and promotions manager

Robin Fomusa

Advertising publisher

Jennifer Trsinar Jezewski

advertising solutions consultants

Teresa Birdsong, Maddy Fraiche, Michael Jezewski, Carla Mathis, Allie Muirhead, Heather Cantrell Mullins, Niki Tyree, Alissa Wetzel, Keith Wright associate account executive

Kailey Idziak

sales operations manager

Chelon Hasty advertising solutions associates

Audry Houle, Jack Stejskal

Circulation

circulation manager

Gary Minnis

Business president

Mike Smith

chief financial officer

Todd Patton

IT director

John Schaeffer

Owner

FW Publishing, LLC Bill Freeman

“Businesswasoriginallyintendedtobeperson-to-person.After34+yearsintheindustry,Iammoresure nowthaneverthatbeingaREALTOR®goesfarbeyondabusinesstransaction. It’saboutauthentic relationshipsandcommunity .Thatiswhyourofficefocusesoncreatingopportunitiestocultivatea positiveandcollaborativecultureofprofessionalsandrelationshipactivists.Thishasbeenconsistent sincetheverybeginning,whichiswhyIcansayIamproudofwherewehavebeen,and Iamproudofwherewearegoing.”

- l -larrylipmanBroker|Owner|CEO

For the Love of Biscuits

Behind the scenes with Sarah Worley

FOR SARAH WORLEY — co-founder and CEO of Biscuit Love — a love of fellowship and cuisine began during a trip to Europe. While traveling, Sarah discovered the magic of sharing a meal with friends, which brings people together. Settling firmly on creating a space for herself in the culinary arts, Sarah looked to Johnson & Wales University in Denver. Just before she left, she met her husband, Karl Worley, and the two set out for culinary school together. After school, the couple moved back to Nashville with their young daughter Gertie, and Sarah went on to receive her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Belmont University.

THE BASICS

Name: Sarah Worley

Hometown: A small town in Northeastern, Pa., called Dallas

ZIP code: 37211

Years in Nashville: 26 years [of] calling Nashville home

Number of biscuits you have made: Way more than I can count. Biscuit Love did 484,000 last year, but I can’t take credit for many of them!

As the story goes, with nothing but a business plan, a borrowed food truck and $40 in their bank account, the Worleys launched Biscuit Love Truck — what would later become a nationally acclaimed restaurant concept — in 2012. As the business continued to grow, the couple looked for a bigger space to accommodate their large following of fans. In 2015, they opened their first brick-and-mortar store in the Gulch. The white-hot brand now has a total of four Middle Tennessee outposts and recently opened its first out-of-state location in Birmingham, Ala.

Sarah is a sought-after speaker and leader in the community. When she is not overseeing operations for the stores, Sarah likes to hit the road with Karl and Gertie. Sometimes, the family takes their Airstream on road trips to the coast of Maine or on family trips to Disney World. Other times, they travel to Europe to enjoy all of the culinary joys in France and Italy.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPH BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

What did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be an attorney. I think that probably came down to the fact that I liked to argue a lot.

What advice would you give to a woman looking to start a business? Find your mentors. Find people you trust and also people who trust you enough to tell you the truth. Finding a solid female mentor who is on an entrepreneurial journey or in an executive leadership role has been pivotal for me.

What legacy do you hope to leave with Biscuit Love? Karl and I always wanted to create a place of belonging for employees. We set out to create a non-restaurant restaurant environment where people could find community, kindness and belonging.

How have you evolved with the growth of the business? Every day I’m evolving by surrounding myself with people who love the business as much as I do. I think my greatest evolution has been learning how to let go and let other people do what they are good at. Biscuit Love started as a food truck with only a few employees. And as it has grown to the size it is now, my perspective has had to change. I’ve had to think more globally.

What’s the best advice you’ve received on your entrepreneurial journey? Early on, Ari Weinzweig at Zingerman’s told us to hone in on what our non-negotiables for the business were and to never make decisions outside of those. Especially when it comes to the culture of our business and our spaces, we’re always making decisions with that in our lens.

What brings you joy about what you do?

The people. Being able to do life with the people who choose to make Biscuit Love their home has been the greatest joy of my life. Watching them start families, watching them struggle through things and overcome them, and watching them grow into their own set of leadership skills. Truly, it gives me an immense amount of joy.

When you are not working, where are you on a Saturday night? I’m probably eating rigatoni and roasted chicken at Rolf & Daughters.

What is next for you? Continuing to grow the incredible group of leaders I have within the organization is my goal for the near future. My far future involves working in a bookshop in a tiny town in Maine.

Home Sweet O ce

The Malin, a design-focused luxury coworking concept, comes to Nashville

IT’S NO SURPRISE that The Malin, a work-centered members club in WedgewoodHouston, is beautifully furnished with custom velvet sofas and club chairs in rich colors, like mustard yellow and deep navy. The design-forward workspace is the brainchild of furniture designer Ciaran McGuigan.

“Intentional spaces foster intentional work,” says Ciaran. “Every detail is chosen or designed to maximize members’ comfort and productivity.” The club’s color scheme is striking but unobtrusive. “We don’t shy away from designing vibrant spaces,” he says. “It’s great for inspiration and energy. That said, we are intentional about using a balanced palette.”

The Malin’s 16,000-square-foot space sits on the second floor of the building at 1131 4th Ave. S. The furniture is organized into thoughtful groupings. There are light wood desks with supple leather chairs and relaxed sofas with overstuffed armchairs — many covered in Schumacher fabrics in interesting colors, textures and prints. Guests may also book five meeting rooms, two libraries and seven private offices that more closely resemble spaces in a luxury hotel than an office.

“We’re proud to lead the conversation around bringing unparalleled service and hospitality into the workplace,” says the Irish-born Ciaran, who is also creative director of family business Orior Furniture. “While The Malin prioritizes work, we offer the comforts of home and the resources of an office at the highest

level. No detail is too small.” Much of the team also comes from leading hospitality brands. “So we know exactly how to provide hightouch concierge-level service,” he adds.

The space is designed for members to move from one area to another. The idea is to create a sense of community.

“We trick ourselves into thinking that we’re happy alone, but I think we are meant to be connected to one another,” says Graham Harlin, general manager of the Wedgewood-Houston location. “I’ve worked from home leading up to this, and [since then] I’ve just generally felt so much happier. I appreciate the compartmentalization of being able to come to work and do my work and go home and focus on home.”

Nestled among the early 20th-century industrial buildings, the newly built Nashville Warehouse Company blends in seamlessly with the former May Hosiery Mills, now home to popular brands like Apple Music and the Soho House. The Nashville Warehouse Company is the city’s first large-scale mass timber building and is accented by pine ceilings and beams.

The Malin in Wedgewood-Houston is the first outside New York, where there are three neighborhood workspaces — in SoHo, the West Village, and Williamsburg, Brooklyn. There will soon be a second Nashville location in the Paseo South Gulch area.

BY WHITNEY CLAY PHOTOGRAPHS BY SEAN ROBERTSON

MEMBERSHIP HAS ITS PRIVILEGES

Monthly membership at The Malin, which opened in December, is $395. It includes printing, access to community spaces and amenities (like a kitchen), co ee and espresso drinks, and soundproof phone booths. Members also get discounts when booking private spaces.

The rate for a dedicated desk and file cabinet is $725 a month. For those who’d like to try out The Malin, there is also a $50 day pass. Members include individuals, as well as companies that book the space for their remote employees, says Graham.

FAMILY TIES

Ciaran has a special connection to Nashville. His wife, Logann, grew up here. The couple met at the Savannah College of Art and Design. These days, their home base is Brooklyn. They also spend a lot of time in Ireland.

And they frequently visit Music City, especially since The Malin will soon have two locations here.

“We’re big fans of Nashville,” says Ciaran. “It’s a vibrant professional and cultural city, home to some brilliant creatives and entrepreneurs looking for a workspace that supports their ever-changing and flexible needs.”

A NEW WORK MODEL

Since the pandemic, remote work has been on the rise. According to a recent Forbes article, 12.7% of full-time employees worked remotely last year. By 2025, that number is expected to nearly double, according to an Upwork study cited by Forbes

It’s little surprise more coworking spaces are cropping up. Working from home can be isolating, and it’s easy to become distracted by anything from the dog barking to an Amazon delivery, says Graham. At The Malin, the focus is productivity.

HER STYLE

Fostering a more ‘sustainable’ spring wardrobe

WHILE I MAKE a point to regularly discuss “sustainability” with my clients, I feel the need to use air quotes every time I say the word. It seems like sustainability can take on so many different meanings, and it’s often used as a way to create buzz without any backing.

When I talk about creating a “sustainable wardrobe,” I mean one that is not only a little friendlier on the environment — but that also feels more sustainable for you to maintain.

Spring is the perfect time to tackle this challenge. As we clean out our closets and stock up on summer clothes, we can all take steps toward creating more sustainable wardrobes.

This talk of sustainability in fashion might give the impression that you need to exclusively shop at thrift stores or turn up your nose at anything that isn’t organic, fair trade cotton. But the most effective strategy for building a sustainable wardrobe doesn’t involve how or where you shop — it actually doesn’t involve making a single purchase.

The best way to foster sustainability in your closet is to wear what you already own. I know this sounds simple, but increasing the versatility and lifespan of the items in your closet is not only nicer on the planet — it’s also more economical. Plus, cutting down on impulse purchases can even help you connect with your personal style.

In order to do this, it is paramount that you take care of your closet and clothing, which likely means starting with a good closet edit and shopping with intentionality. Other tips for creating a sustainable wardrobe include:

• Take inventory of what’s already in your closet

• Get rid of items you no longer wear or need

• Tailor your clothes so they fit just right

• Invest in timeless staples, then add trendy touches

• Rent special occasion items you’ll only wear once

I hope you take time this spring to evaluate what you already own, and see if you can style it in a fresh way!

BY CARSON LOVE

Carson Love is a wardrobe and personal stylist based in Nashville. Her main goal is to help clients present as and feel like their best selves, so they are ready for whatever life brings them. Find her online: CarsonLove.com or follow her on Instagram @carsonmlove.

HIS STYLE

A smidge about heritage

GENTS! HAPPY MARCH and happy birthday month to me. (Yes, we are celebrating the entire month.) As I’ve gotten older, I’ve started thinking about legacy. What will I leave behind for younger generations? How will I be remembered? And what will I be remembered for? Other than being really, really, really, ridiculously good-looking, of course. (Zoolander, anyone?)

Naturally, I started thinking about this in fashion terms. What is the fashion world equivalent of “legacy”? I landed on “heritage,” as nothing in the fashion world embodies legacy quite like a heritage brand.

What is a heritage brand?

In men’s fashion, a “heritage brand” refers to a brand with a deep legacy rooted in tradition, craftsmanship and an unwavering attention to detail. These are your OG brands, which often trace back several decades — and in some cases, several centuries.

Typically, these brands use old-school manufacturing techniques that have been passed down through generations to create beautifully crafted garments and accessories. In short, heritage brand garments and accessories are made to last.

What are some notable heritage brands?

There are many examples of heritage brands in men’s fashion. There are well-known fashion staples, like Brooks Brothers, Alden, Levi’s and Carhartt. And there are more modern, lesser-known heritage brands, like Dehen 1920, White’s Boots, Viberg and Iron Heart.

Each of these brands brings its own unique, timehonored traditions to crafting garments and accessories that will outlive you.

Why should you care?

According to the National Retail Federation, American shoppers returned $816 billion (with a b!) worth of goods in 2022. Where did the majority of those returned goods go? Landfills.

Unlike fast-fashion pieces, items crafted by heritage brands are made to last. Not only are they timeless, but they’re also ethically and environmentally more sustainable. You’ll be lucky if that shirt from Zara makes it through the weekend!

In a world full of fast-fashion trends, be a heritage brand. Leave a legacy. Be good, and be good at what you do. Until next time, peace and love!

BY BENTLEY CALDWELL

Bentley Caldwell is a Nashville-based men’s personal stylist who helps guys up their style and confidence and take the guesswork out of dressing themselves. Have a fashion or styling question? Visit his website: BentleyCaldwellStyling.com or follow him on Instagram @bentleycaldwell.

Shelly Bearden

Richard Courtney + Lisa Peebles

PLATINUM

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PLATINUM

PLATINUM

Keri Cannon

Keri Cannon

GOLD

Donnel Milam The Milam Group

+ Lisa Peebles The Milam Group

Award Recipient Award Recipient

GOLD

Award Recipient Award Recipient

GOLD

Donnel Milam The Milam Group

Award Recipient Award Recipient

Shea Ghertner + Whitney Musser

Shea Ghertner + Whitney Musser

Beth Molteni

Beth Molteni

Lydia Armistead

Shea Ghertner + Whitney Musser + Whitney Musser

Lydia Armistead

Shea Ghertner + Whitney Musser

Lydia Armistead

Shea Ghertner + Whitney Musser

Starling Davis

Margaret Davidson

Ashna Tipnis

Fiona King

Julie Dretler

Starling Davis

Davidson

Tipnis

Fiona King

Julie Dretler

Megan Garrett

Courtney Jenrath Mary

Valerie Roberts Mara Thompson Jennifer Stadler Trish Woolwine

Lisa Owings

Christy Reed Suzanne McMillan Ann Marie Stickmaker Guiding you Home with Award Winning Service since 1966 NASHVILLE • 615-327-4800 | FRIDRICHANDCLARK.COM | WILLIAMSON CO. • 615-263-4800

Cathy Award Recipients SAPPHIRE 2023

Mary

Nancy

Mara Thompson

Nancy Brock

Leah Crutchfield

Tom Fussell

Christy Reed

Jennifer Stadler

Trish Woolwine

Sam Coleman

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Award Recipients SILVER

Tidwell Cathy

+ Maria Carter Award Recipients Mary Kocina Diamond Award Gold

Award Nancy

FOR THE LOVE OF CHOCOL ATE

Artisan chocolatiers tell the story of their love and pursuit of an enduring favorite

ONE OF THE WORLD’S most beloved flavors starts with the cacao tree, native to South America. Archaeologists have found evidence of its use in a fermented quaff as early as 1900 B.C. The word “chocolate,” etymologists believe, is derived from the Nahuatl “xocolatl,” meaning “bitter drink.” Spanish conquistadors marveled at cacao beans — which Aztecs concocted into a frothed beverage served in gold goblets to Montezuma — and brought them back to Spain. Reception for the cacao-infused drink was poor until Spanish friars sweetened it — a game changer. It became a must-have, first for king and court, before the pursuit of chocolate took hold throughout Europe. The year 1760 marked the debut of Chocolaterie Lombart, claimed to be the first chocolate shop to open in France.

With the Industrial Revolution, people found ways to more easily process and produce chocolate — making it into something to eat as well as drink. The creation of treats such as milk chocolate bars, semi-sweet bonbons and dark chocolate-coated caramels captured the imagination and tastebuds of the masses. This instilled a love of the bean that persists to this day, while propelling the craft to more refined, delectable heights.

BY NANCY VIENNEAU PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND AND ANGELINA CASTILLO

Tempered Fine Chocolates

Temper, temper! For a chocolatier, “temper” refers not to the flare of emotion, but to science. The method of melting, stirring and cooling chocolate to specific temperatures yields a product that feels ultra-smooth, looks glossy and hardens to the proper snap. Tempering is a crucial step in making superb confections. At the Tempered Fine Chocolates shop and cafe in Germantown, you’ll find a selection of gorgeous truffles, bars, clusters and more — and a chocolatier studiously tempering pans of chocolate behind the counter.

“We import all of our chocolate from Switzerland, which we believe is the finest,” says owner and chocolatier Angelica Clark. “And while we formerly used a mechanical process for tempering, we prefer the more intimate hand-stirring.”

Angelica worked in event design and hospitality before assuming ownership of Tempered in 2019. Haylee Swartz, head chocolatier, had come on board a year earlier.

“I couldn’t do this without her,” Angelica says. “Haylee’s work is so exceptional that we sent her to Switzerland in 2022 to further her studies. She is now a certified master chocolatier.”

The two women work closely together regarding flavor profiles. Angelica keeps a dream notebook filled with ideas and inspiration. Haylee is the guide, having the final say on what ingredients will be compatible and delicious. Seasonal themes come into play too. For the month of March, Haylee has created St. Patrick’s Day-inspired confections: Jameson whiskey caramels in milk chocolate, Guinness chocolate cake in dark chocolate, and Lucky Charms truffles in white chocolate.

Tempered also offers a number of ways to enjoy its chocolates. With its tin ceiling, cafe tables, and gilt mirrors and lighting, the shop has an of-a-time Parisian ambience. It’s a charming place to stop in for a beverage and hand-crafted treat — like some hot chocolate, coffee or red wine to savor with a coconut almond bar, coffee milk chocolate truffles or shards of toasted sesame dark chocolate “glass.” Thursdays through Sundays from 6-7 p.m., the cafe kicks off The Green Hour, serving flights of absinthe paired with chocolates.

“What we do is unique in our city,” says Angelica. She points to a shelf of traditional absinthe fountains. “We set up the cafe tables with these,” she says. “We also have all the absinthe that is legally available!”

Chocolate pairing experiences with either whiskeys or wines are also available by reservation or walk-in. Tempered is proud to partner with local businesses Pennington Distilling Co., Leiper’s Fork Distillery, Belle Meade Winery and Americano Lounge, whose wares are featured in the pairings and as ingredients in specialty combination bars. From time to time, truffle-making classes are offered.

The company is on an upward trajectory. Angelica has updated branding while improving packaging for shipping to a wider audience. Tempered has established a presence at the Nashville International Airport and a few local boutique hotels. Looking ahead, the women see the need for a larger production space. However, they are content to continue offering the pleasures of the old-world shop for their guests.

Crieve Hall

Wellington

O: 615.327.4800 | M: 615.533.8353 richard ryan@gmail.com New Construction in Oak Hill Green Hills Midtown

Crieve Hall

Werthan Lofts Green Hills Houston Bellevue

Wellington

Arms Donelson

Brentwood

Poppy & Peep

Atop Herron Drive, the tiny Poppy & Peep shop is bright and sunny, imbued with a playful vibe. When you step inside, your eyes will widen in childlike wonder at the array of confections. One display case is filled with hand-painted bonbons that look like jewels. Another boasts piped meringues, dark chocolate-dipped honeycombs, candied orange peels, and tubes of caramels in compelling flavor profiles. Arranged on shelves are inclusion bars in a variety of colors and textures, along with containers of chocolate-coated espresso beans, mendiants and sugar-crusted pâtes de fruits. Across the counter, a glass warmer spins rich drinking chocolate. For Mark and Evane Stoner, this family-owned chocolate microfactory is a dream come true.

Like father, like daughter: Mark (aka Poppy) and Evane (aka Peep) share similar traits that created this dream. Both are entrepreneurial by nature and possess more than a sweet tooth. “More like sweet teeth,” Evane says with a laugh. “We always loved to visit candy stores.” They also have complementary talents. “Evane is the artist,” says Mark. “I am into the structure of the business and the marketing.”

Their collaboration began when Mark found a franchise opportunity and called his daughter to ask: “Do you want to go into the chocolate business with me?” Evane responded with a resounding “yes.” In the end, that business didn’t suit them, and they set out to build their own brand.

“We attended the Chocolate Academy in Chicago,” Mark says. “More than learning the craft, it gave us a roadmap to define ourselves. We learned how to focus small, and that initially was on bonbons.”

They found their space in a new development, assembled equipment and began practicing the chocolatier’s art. In February 2020, they launched Poppy & Peep. Those early days in the midst of the pandemic were fraught with tough lessons — “chocolate drama,” Evane calls it. But they persevered. They brought on experienced chocolatier and confectioner Kristy Fogle. “When Kristy came on board, our trials had less error,” Mark says. “She is our implementer.”

“For many of our confections, we use Valrhona and Cacao Barry chocolates,” adds Evane. “I originally wanted to do everything bean-to-bar, but that was not possible, cost-wise.”

Bean-to-bar is a labor-intensive process of micro-batch chocolate-making, using sustainably grown single-source cacao beans to start. The steps to roast, grind, conch and temper yield bars whose flavors tell a unique story of place. Currently, Poppy & Peep offers four hand-crafted bars representing Haiti, Belize, Ghana and Guatemala.

Mark, Evane and Kristy have compatible goals for the company. Mark is looking at profitability — how to scale the business. That includes a corporate subscription service for gifting. Kristy is looking to combat what she calls the “summer pain point”: humidity and heat. Evane has a dream of getting their bonbons into an airline’s first-class service, while also going into mass production of quality confections at the lower end. And the trio is always excited by custom work and collaborations — more ways to share their chocolate love.

VOCE: Nashville’s first Condo-Hotel

More than a place, VOCE is an all-encompassing way of living. The VOCE experience prioritizes individuality, flexibility and ease for those seeking to invest, live, stay and work in Nashville’s dynamic tourism industry.

VOCE features 194 finely appointed residences, with the option to develop a customized usage plan and participate in the hotel hospitality program.

Ode to Joy

Even though Marissa “Ris” Joy Wheeler had long been immersed in food and hospitality, becoming a chocolatier was never part of her plan. Over a 10-year period in Dallas, she explored a number of avenues, working in restaurant kitchens under great chefs, as well as independently catering parties and events. She thrived in those creative, high-energy environments. When Ris moved to Nashville for a position that ultimately didn’t work out, she took a job at a chocolate shop and cafe as a stop-gap. It was fun, different, and opened her up to a new world. When a head chocolatier unexpectedly left, Ris was asked to step up and design some recipes.

“The accidental chocolatier,” she laughs. “But I plunged into the process and found that I loved it. I became adept at hand-tempering. My background in cooking helped inform the flavor profiles. In mid-2019, I decided to go out on my own — start my own company.”

Ode to Joy is primarily an online retail and wholesale enterprise, its name drawing on Ris’ middle name, the uplifting Beethoven choral, and the simple joy that chocolate brings. You can order Ris’ products through the Made in TN gift shop and the Ode to Joy company website. Currently, she offers four bars in distinctive flavor combinations: blueberry lemon white chocolate, sea salted mint dark chocolate, coconut matcha dark chocolate and rosemary cayenne milk chocolate. It’s worth noting that both dark chocolate bars are vegan, and all four bars are gluten-free, soy-free and peanutfree. Ris prides herself on using only fair trade certified chocolate with minimal lecithin as a binder.

“I keep the product as clean as possible, while keeping it affordable,” she says.

Separately, Ris concocts medical-grade hemp-extractinfused bars (cannabis-free) she sells through The Turnip Truck. A new mother of twins, she has plans to introduce other confections, such as truffles that incorporate seasonal ingredients, to the Ode to Joy roster after the babies get a little older.

Her wine-and-chocolate pairing experience is popular with small groups and corporate team-building events. It is also a rewarding aspect of her business that taps into her spirit of catering and service. Ris partners with sommelier Lou Vargo of Toast & Taste to curate fun and memorable tasting events.

Ris creates her beautiful small-batch chocolates in a commercial kitchen that she shares with Jay Zubov of The Broth Stop. Their goal is to eventually open a shared retail shop so the public will have ready access to their artisanal wares. She plans to add other confections and chocolate combos to her stable of founding flavors.

“We all know the benefits of dark chocolate, how its antioxidants boost your health,” Ris says. “But I encourage you, no matter what kind of chocolate, to eat it with intention, gratitude and joy.”

Congratulations to our Awards of Excellence winners who demonstrated unparalleled client satisfaction, outstanding performance, and unwavering community support in 2023.

TEAM – DIAMOND ELITE Award

MELANIE BAKER DIAMOND ELITE Award Between Life

DANA BATTAGLIA SAPPHIRE Award Life Member

STEPHANIE BROOKS SAPPHIRE Award Life Member

ANNIE HICKERSON SAPPHIRE Award Between Life

STEPHANIE LOWE SAPPHIRE Award Life Member

SAMANTHA INGLIS SILVER Award First Year

SHAUNA BROOKS DIAMOND Award Life Member

MISSY BROWER SAPPHIRE Award Life Member

STEPHANIE KLEINER DIAMOND Award Life Member

MIKE MATWIJEC SAPPHIRE Award New Life Member

MCLEAN STINSON SAPPHIRE Award New Life Member

BROOKS SPELLINGS SAPPHIRE Award Life Member

SUNSHINE WEAVER SAPPHIRE Award New Life Member

SARA LUDLAM SILVER Award Between Life

NATHAN MATWIJEC DIAMOND Award Life Member

JAY LOWENTHAL PLATINUM Award Life Member

KIMBERLY DOUGHER SAPPHIRE Award Life Member

TONY JACKSON SILVER Award Between Life

MOLLY ESWORTHY SILVER Award First Year

BOBBY JOHNSON SILVER Award Between Life

STEPHANIE AYCOCK SILVER Award First Year

KIM BRANNON TITANIUM Award AMI KASE TITANIUM Award

ANNA CAMPBELL PLATINUM Award JESSICA TORRES PLATINUM Award

ELROD-LASKEY GROUP PLATINUM Award

LAURAN HECKMAN GOLD Award

MICHELLE GLASS SILVER Award SHAWN TATE GOLD Award

ANGIE LANGFORD GOLD Award BRAD LANGFORD GOLD Award

JILL FROST, JEN KUTZNER, JIM YOUNGBLOOD, MARK SHARP, TARA DESELMS, BOB ESPOSITO, TIM WARREN, BOB HOFF, DANIELLE TAYLOR

SPERRY’S: WHERE OLD SCHOOL IS COOL

A Nashville icon celebrates 50 years

FIFTY YEARS AGO, Nashville’s fine dining scene was, in a word, spare.

Mario’s and Jimmy Kelly’s Steakhouse held sway. Julian’s had recently opened, offering haute French cuisine. At 5109 Harding Road, first home to Sue Thomas’ Garden Gate Garden Center, a popular restaurant called The Brass Scales had fallen prey to financial woes and folded. Not content to see failure, partner Houston Thomas and his brother Dick purchased the place from the other partners. Together, they set out to create a singular beef and seafood restaurant that melded the moody mystique of an Old English tavern with the warmth and vitality of the South. In March 1974, Sperry’s (named for the brothers’ great-grandfather Burton Sperry) opened its

doors. It quickly became beloved for its well-marbled steaks, pristine martinis and hallmark salad bar — the first in the city. In the life of a restaurant, there are ebbs and flows. After 25 years, Sperry’s had become a bit well-worn, its owners older and weary. In 2000, Houston’s son Al and his wife Trish bought the business with the intention of giving it a refresh while keeping it the same — a fine line to tread. To that end, they have been extraordinarily successful. Now, as the restaurant celebrates 50 years, Sperry’s stellar reputation reaches far beyond the Belle Meade community it anchors. Across the city, across the generations, Sperry’s is a go-to for date nights, family dinners, happy hour meet-ups and celebrations of all kinds. Old school is still cool.

Dick Thomas, Houston Thomas

Trish and Al Thomas

We sat down with Al and Trish to get some of their thoughts as they reflect on the restaurant’s history and legacy.

A LIFE IN HOSPITALITY

AL: I’ve been looking over family pictures, trying to piece together our story. This life in hospitality didn’t happen in a vacuum! My parents loved to entertain. There was always a party. People genuinely enjoyed their warmth and hospitality. Opening a restaurant was a natural progression. I legitimately got into the business starting at age 14. It became my path. Before helming Sperry’s in 2000, I had more than gotten my feet wet. I’ve worked in all capacities in many restaurants over the years. It gave me a rich background in the good, the bad and the ugly of the biz. It’s in my DNA — my running joke is that I bleed au jus.

TRISH: Al’s been reading Danny Meyer’s book, Setting the Table. It talks about making eye contact, smiling, presenting a welcoming attitude — things that seem obvious in the restaurant business, but are not always in play. And that has been at the heart of Sperry’s, creating that experience of Southern hospitality.

ATTENTION TO QUALITY

AL: It is simple, in a way. I don’t want what’s a “good deal” — I want the good stuff! We have visited the ranches where we get our beef, and we can serve those meats with confidence and pride. Always. That is key: There is no quality without consistency. Our customers count on it.

TRISH: There’s critical attention to ingredients and details. Al has enough hands-on kitchen time to be a certified chef! He knows and understands the recipes. I remember when he worked over six weeks, tweaking the French onion soup.

AL: That attention also means being open to some needed changes. When we brought Bob Tappan on board as our culinary director/director of operations, he helped fine-tune procedures. He is also responsible for redoing the crab cake recipe, a move that could’ve gotten huge pushback from our longtime customers. However, I believe — at 98% crab meat — ours are now the best in town.

FOREVER FAVORITES

AL: When we took over, I wanted to make subtle changes with lighting and pictures, but I wanted to maintain the integrity of the menu. I remember Mrs. Fred Harvey telling me, “This is food I can understand.” There’s no gimmick.

TRISH: If you were to come to Sperry’s for the first time, I’d recommend starting with our escargots. Followed by the salad bar, of course. Our green goddess dressing is always a favorite.

AL: It’s like the Baskin-Robbins of salad bars — 31 items. We don’t want to overcomplicate it. Right now, I’m partial to the roasted garlic vinaigrette.

TRISH: The bleu cheese-stuffed filet is our No. 1 seller. When Prince William dined with us, he ordered and loved it, and we named it after him. Our twice-baked potatoes are truly twice baked. You can’t find that just anywhere.

AL: For dessert, you’ve got to have our bananas Foster, prepared tableside. Finish the night with our Cafe Sperry’s. Made with brandy, Kahlúa, 151 and a dollop of fresh whipped cream, it is dangerously good.

CHERISHED MEMORIES

TRISH: There are so many special moments. In my mind, I can see Al’s mother and me sipping frozen Brandy Alexanders together and just enjoying the community of this place.

AL: If we speak about community, this story comes to mind. When we were hit by the historic 2010 flood, we were trapped in Bellevue and couldn’t get to the restaurant, which had flooded, for five days. When we finally got there, we were stunned. A contractor friend and longtime Sperry’s patron had his trailer truck in the driveway. He, along with many of our customers, had pulled everything out of the restaurant. We were overwhelmed by these kindnesses. And because of that, we were able to reopen in 14 days.

TRISH: It also comes down to our staff, some who have been with us for decades.

AL: Yes, Connie, Scott and Jeff. Talk about quality and consistency. They are our mainstays. Our family.

LOOKING AHEAD

AL: This spring, we’ll be opening a second Sperry’s Mercantile, in the former Shoney’s building in Bellevue. The first one, opened in 2015, has been a resounding success. People love being able to pick up our special cuts of steak, chops, fish, seasonings and dressings to prepare at home. Our daughter, Cate Buchanon, will be running it. And because the building is large enough, we are also launching Cafe Sperry’s coffee shop there, which will feature a drive-thru service.

But we want to continue being the place that provides that experience, makes that memory, creates that story. So if someone asks you about Sperry’s, you can start by saying, “It’s our tradition.”

BY NANCY VIENNEAU PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

LOVE AND OLIVE OIL

How Mimo elevated the table with liquid gold

THOUSANDS OF YEARS AGO, nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Basin, people began to grow olive trees and extract oil from their fruit. That oil was used in soaps, perfumes and even for anointing the dead. It was used by ancient Greek athletes as they covered themselves head to toe in preparation for pre-event massages. There were also — as there are today — a number of uses in cuisine.

While the rest of the world has long understood the complexity and myriad uses of olive oil, it did not really catch on in the United States until the 1980s, when reports of its benefits in controlling cholesterol emerged. As Nashville has enjoyed the benefits of the development boom, we’ve seen the arrival of many new and unique restaurants. But the variety of olive oils these inventive chefs use has not often been a topic of conversation.

Enter Laudemio olive oil — the special enhancement at Mimo. A newcomer to the culinary scene, Mimo Restaurant and Bar — located in the new Four Seasons Hotel Nashville — has brought another elevated dining spot to downtown Nashville. The restaurant’s neutral palette and simple furnishings allow its food to take center stage.

At Mimo, each meal begins with a lovely presentation of Laudemio olive oil. As the server pours the liquid from the unassuming bottle, it’s clear the olive oil is special. While many Italian-themed restaurants douse their olive oil with balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper, Mimo’s stands alone. Its fragrant aroma fills the air with notes of earthy floral essence — and it tastes as good as it smells.

What makes Laudemio stand out, aside from its incredible flavor profile, is the unique terrain from which the olives are harvested and produced. Picturesque olive groves are scattered throughout Tuscany, where they thrive in the mild climate and optimal soils. Laudemio works with a consortium of 21 producers, each with their own special terroir, to create 21 unique flavor profiles. Launched in 2017, Laudemio has become a favorite of chefs throughout the world — including the culinary team at Mimo.

“Laudemio olive oil was selected for its extraordinary character,” says Mimo sous chef Nicky Miscia. “It’s a fantastic extra-virgin olive oil that enhances the taste of our dishes without overpowering them.” He notes that the olive oil beautifully complements several of the restaurant’s dishes, including its beef carpaccio, tuna tartare, three-tomato spaghetti and “latest burrata creation.”

Regardless of its use, the oil is a treat to be savored and enjoyed. And it’s worth trying, as soon as you get the chance.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

THE BIRDS AND THE BEES

Planting pollinator gardens to support local ecosystems

MIRIAM MIMMS REMEMBERS long-distance car trips in childhood, when her family had to pull off the road periodically to wipe dead bugs from the windshield. That’s how many insects were in the air when she was growing up. As an adult driver, Miriam can’t think of a similar experience when windshield bugs caused a problem.

That seemingly convenient absence of interstate insects poses an inconvenient truth for the environment, which depends on the symbiotic web between plants and the critters that pollinate them.

“If pollinators aren’t carrying pollen from one plant to another, we lose our apples,” Miriam says. “Or our corn. Or —”

The list goes on and is devastating.

In her role as metro beautification and environment commissioner for District 18, Miriam and a team of volunteers have cultivated an urban wildflower meadow in the heart of Hillsboro Village. Once an overlooked grassy right-of-way, Portland Park now provides a hopeful link in a growing chain of pollinator refuges.

In fact, if you keep your eyes peeled this spring, you might be surprised how many efforts to promote pollinators you see. From pocket parks to rooftop planters, forward-looking gardeners are cultivating flowers, shrubs and trees to attract and nurture birds, bees, butterflies, bats and beetles.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

“There is a whole movement for the health of cities,” says Jennifer Smith, horticulturist with Metro Water Services. “As we get more urbanized, people are starting to think about how to keep cities natural as well.”

In public parks, school campuses and private yards where pollinator gardens are popping up, the shared goal is to preserve the critical web of life between plants and pollinators. In this timeless cycle, plants feed and shelter pollinators, which transport pollen to fertilize plants, which in turn, clean the air, retain soil, filter stormwater, and house and feed pollinators.

But modern land development and agricultural practices — including deforestation, mowing, pesticide use and landscaping with nonnative invasive plants — threaten that delicate web by eliminating pollinator habitats.

“This is an important issue that we can do something about,” Jennifer says. “Everyone can do something on a different scale.”

It doesn’t take a large property to make an impact on the environment. Homeowners can

invite pollinators to a planter on a balcony or a garden plot smaller than a parking space. Enough small stations can provide pollinators pathways that tie larger acreage together.

Across the city and state, landscape and garden professionals, along with nonprofit organizations and governmental departments, are helping homeowners support pollinators in ways that work for their properties.

Among the largest efforts to support pollinators in Tennessee is Project Milkweed, an initiative of the Tennessee Department of Transportation, which has provided 800,000 free packets of milkweed seed to promote habitats for monarch butterflies. The mail-order project will resume in June 2024 for home gardeners who want to sow the essential host plant.

While deliberate insect habitats might not seem to mesh with immaculately manicured lawns, landscaper David Humphreys says some of the most elegant gardens he works with take a pollinator-friendly approach. In some yards, his team has designed and installed centerpiece

layouts of native perennials intended specifically to support native butterflies. In others, he more subtly emphasizes native perennials, organic products and sources of water and shelter for pollinators. Some of his clients even post signage designating their yards as certified wildlife habitats through a program of the National Wildlife Federation.

In fact, you can expect to see more signs popping up in gardens, promoting campaigns such as the University of Tennessee Extension’s “Tennessee Smart Yards” and the Tennessee Environmental Council’s “Generate Some Buzz,” which guide homeowners in sustainable practices related to water, habitat and natural resources. The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation offers a cheerful metal sign denoting a “pollinator habitat,” while the Nashville Wildlife Conservation Center distributes seasonal signs explaining that a homeowner is “leaving [their] leaves for wildlife.”

Breaking long-term traditions and harmful habits related to manicured landscaping will

PHOTOGRAPH BY JOY BOVEN

take more active communication than signs at the mailbox. “Talk to your landscapers,” advises Miriam. Ask them to abandon pesticides, leave the leaves, mow less often and less tight to the ground, plant more natives, and eliminate nonnative invasives, including various privet, ivy and vinca, which do little to nourish local pollinators.

For home gardeners who prefer to plant and tend their own pollinator plots, many local resources provide native plant material, garden layouts and growing advice.

The nonprofit Wild Ones Middle Tennessee Chapter promotes biodiversity with pollinator kits designed to provide continuous nectar supply spring through fall. Sales of the 18-plant kits benefit Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary.

At Bates Nursery & Garden Center, horticulturist Austin Lohin says that 2022’s extremely cold winter demonstrated how non-native plants don’t fare as well as their local counterparts, and the results stoked appreciation and demand for native species, such as hollies. His team can “design on the fly,” helping homeowners select plants to suit their unique planting space and sun exposure.

At Wonder Gift & Garden in Kingston Springs, co-owner and horticulturist Joy Boven carries a mix of native plants and garden supplies to support biodiversity and habitat repair. Boven and her team can suggest plant combinations to both attract pollinators and nourish them for the long haul. For example, colorful annuals may catch a pollinator’s eye, but native host perennials — aster, goldenrod, coneflower, milkweed and oak — will feed them and encourage them to stay.

“Our goal is to make native plants accessible and joyful — both to pollinators and to gardeners,” Joy says.

BY CARRINGTON FOX

BY JOY BOVEN

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BELL BAILEY

contracting now arriving this summer

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Snowy Celebrtion

PENCIL’s Cabaret Night honors Angie Adams

On Saturday, January 20 — one of the coldest and most treacherous evenings of the season — PENCIL supporters gathered at Music City Center to enjoy a special Cabaret Night honoring Angie Adams. Angie spent three decades in the nonprofit world, serving as PENCIL’s CEO for eight years before passing the mantle to Christiane Buggs in January. The inclement weather left some stuck at home, but those who made it out were glad to celebrate Angie’s legacy of service.

“The snow has not dampened our spirits,” Angie said. “It just means we have to dance extra hard and long to make up for the cold that’s outside.” Even before guests arrived, Angie was on the dance floor — snow boots and all — warming up to Beyoncé’s “Run the World (Girls).” As a final act of service, proceeds from Cabaret Night would benefit the Angie Adams Fund of PENCIL’s Endowment, supporting the organization’s mission to provide vital resources to Metro Nashville Public Schools.

The party opened with a cocktail reception featuring The Angie, a lemon drop martini made with Ketel One Citroen. Guests enjoyed a buffet including roasted vegetables, mac and cheese, grilled chicken breast and hickory-smoked brisket. A nearby dessert station offered chocolate mousse shooters, carrot cake and Angie’s favorite — banana pudding with vanilla wafers.

Former PENCIL board chairs Norman Merrifield and Lonnell Matthews served as the evening’s emcee and DJ, and Judge Sheila Calloway serenaded Angie with a heartfelt rendition of “I Hope You Dance.”

There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Angie’s daughter, Maggie Adams, took the stage. “My mom has taught me the importance of dreaming big — and that you can achieve whatever you put your mind to, but no one is going to give it to you,” she said. “You have to work for it. I think we can all agree that she’s been the perfect example of this. She’s always decided what she wanted, and she’s gone out there and gotten it on her own.”

The program continued with several roasts and toasts — and ended with Angie dancing to a medley of empowering songs. The audience joined her during this grand finale, dancing the night away and dreaming big.

BY MELISSA CORBIN PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Laurie Taylor, Angie Adams, Maggie Adams

Norman Merrifield, David Plazas, Lonnell Matthews

Kevin and Kathleen Hritz, Johari Matthews

Kendrick Robinson, Kfir Alexandroni and Christy Smith

Rhonda Switzer-Nadasdi, Sallie Hussey, Bill and Kaki Friskics-Warren

Juan and Latonya Williams

Andrew and Julie Galbierz, Laurie Eskind, Steve Sirls and Allen DeCuyper

Elevtin Community

The Ballet Ball Patrons Party highlights the importance of community engagement

On a lovely evening in January, patrons of the Nashville Ballet gathered at the new home of Vanessa Falk. As guests entered, they enjoyed exquisite violin music expertly performed by local musician Jacob Tudor. The bright and welcoming room was a perfect setting for mingling, as patrons visited with Ballet Ball co-chairs Evelyn Cate Galletti, Bob Deal and Jason Bradshaw. The co-chairs planned a special surprise for guests: Noted actor and singer Brian Charles Rooney took to the front of the room and entertained the crowd with his impressive vocal range.

After guests mingled, Nashville Ballet artistic director and CEO Nick Mullikin took to the floor. He thanked guests for their continued support of the ballet and emphasized just how important their generosity is to the organization. “Last year, your support allowed us to welcome kindergarteners from 19 Metro Nashville Public Schools to our studios for our presentation of Degas & the Little Dancer; provide 2,000 free Nashville’s Nutcracker tickets to local families facing financial uncertainty as part of our annual Holiday Magic initiative; [and] invite 1,620 students, educators and staff from Title I schools to join us for a special educational presentation of Act I of Nashville’s Nutcracker,” Nick explained. The room remained silent as Nick continued to list the many ways the Nashville Ballet supports and engages the local community.

Evelyn then took the microphone to echo Nick’s sentiments. “Each year, the Ballet Ball directly funds Nashville Ballet’s community engagement efforts, making arts accessible and bringing free programming to tens of thousands of children across Middle Tennessee,” she said. This helps the Nashville Ballet fulfill its mission to “create, perform, teach and promote dance as an essential and inspiring element of our community.”

“We know that when children participate in the arts, it helps with academic achievement,” Evelyn added. “That comes in the form of graduation rates — it comes in the form of higher test scores.” Amy Joyner then shared the history of the Ballet Ball with the crowd and encouraged everyone to build excitement around the beloved event.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Vanessa Falk, Bob and Susan Falk

Julie Galbierz, Laurie Eskind

Evelyn Cate Galletti, Ruth L. Cate, Chuck White

Bob Deal, Evelyn Cate Galletti, Jason Bradshaw

Vicki Horne, Kayla Counts

Apphia Maxima, Nick Mullikin

Bill and Debi Tate, Amy and Owen Joyner, Lisa and Robert Westergan

Promisin Futures

Evening of Promise, benefiting the Blake McMeans Foundation

Chaired by Allie Barry, Mimi Beaver and Virginia Voigt, the Evening of Promise drew a crowd of young dolls and handsome guys to The Bell Tower on a cold but clear evening. In its 24th year, the fundraiser might be — to pull a title from Guys and Dolls — the oldest established, permanent floating fundraiser in Nashville. Fresh venues and yummy menus distinguish the event, and this year was no exception. Nathaniel and Mimi Beaver played host in their own venue, which they personally renovated with warm wood floors and framing on massive windows that reveal views of downtown.

Emceed once again by board chair Clay Stauffer, the evening kicked off with comfortable cocktails and hugs exchanged by those who attend every year in support of the Blake McMeans Foundation. Those loyal attendees feel a personal pride in the growth of the event, its success and its spokesman Blake.

The evening’s live auction was spirited, thanks to professional announcer Shawn Parr, who read the crowd with skill. Shawn knows his way around an auction table and raised, as the song says, a lot of lettuce for the cause.

Funds raised at Evening of Promise support Blake’s mission to bring awareness, especially to young people, about the dangers of drinking and driving. Through the foundation’s work over more than two decades, thousands of teens have been moved to make smarter decisions behind the wheel. With his speech, Blake reminded the adults in the room about their responsibilities too. His relaxed delivery and always timely message engaged the crowd with truth and humor.

Blake was a healthy, happy teenager dreaming of a professional tennis career when he went out drinking with friends — just three months shy of starting on the tennis team at the University of Tennessee. As Blake was driving home that night, his car hit a tree and flipped three times. While Blake didn’t break a bone in his body, a significant head injury put him in a coma for several months. This experience inspired Blake to passionately share his message and save teens from making similar mistakes.

BY BETH ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Chip Hickerson, Al Blakley, Cynthia Hickerson, Lisa Blakley

Liz Vaughn, Emily Cox, Kelsey Bickley, Mary Catherine Healy

Audun Hansen and Amanda Hara, Justin Daugherty, Nicholas Cardwell

Blake McMeans, Jenny Ketchum

Co-chairs Virginia Voigt, Allie Barry, Mimi Beaver

Allison Graves, Jennifer Gaw, Aprill Tate

Jacky Bradley, Mariko and Harlin Hickerson, Patrick Bradley

Dave Alexander, Jencie and Waymon Tipton

GREATER NASHVILLE REALTORS CONGRATULATES

OUR 2023 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE WINNERS

Mad Ha tt er in

2023 REALTOR® OF THE YEAR

THE DESELMS

FAIR HOUSING HERO

TEIA

THE KNOX TEAM, COMPASS RE

FRIDRICH

FAIR

T.

MARK DEUTSCHMANN

THE CITYLIVING GROUP WITH PARKS

THE KNOX TEAM, COMPASS RE

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

DAI ZA MANG

HISTORIC & DISTINCTIVE

GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD

LIZ ZIPPERER PARKS

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

AFFILIATE OF THE YEAR

DEBBIE

TOP TEAM SELLING AWARD BRANDON KNOX

HOMES, LLC

RISING STAR AWARD LYNN SMITH COMPASS

TOP INDIVIDUAL LEASE AWARD THERESE WINNINGTON

LEWIS REAL ESTATE & DESIGN

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& CLARK REALTY

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DIAMOND ELITE AWARD WINNERS

Melanie Baker, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Shelly Bearden, Fridrich & Clark Realty

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Richard Bryan, Fridrich & Clark Realty

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Alicia Griffith, The Wilson Group

Real Estate Services, LLC

Tove Gunnarson, Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Woodmont Realty

Grantland Hammond, Metropolitan Brokers, LLC

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Beth Molteni, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Therese Winnington, T. Lewis Real Estate & Design

Sally Barkley, Barkley & Hodges Group, Compass RE

Sara Beth Bivens, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Grant Burnett, The Hometown Team, Parks

Richard Courtney, Courtney - Peebles, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Carina Cristofalo, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Tara DeSelms, The DeSelms Team

Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Bob Esposito, The DeSelms Team, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Rachel Friedman, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Jill Frost, The DeSelms Team, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Hagan Stone, Parks

Mary Thomas, Parks

Allison Ulvila, Parks

Chip Wilkison, Engel & Völkers Nashville

Fran Wolfe, Compass RE

Liz Zipperer, Parks

Theo Antoniadis, BRETT & THEO, Pilkerton REALTORS

Margaret Davidson, Davidson - Tipnis, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Scott Evans, Your Team Nashville, Parks

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Shea Ghertner, Ghertner - Musser, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Jack Gaughan, The Gaughan Group, RE/MAX Choice Properties

Leslie Hill, Leslie Hill Group, Parks

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Bob Hoff, The DeSelms Team, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

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Brandon Knox, The Knox Team, Compass RE

Erin Krueger, The Erin Krueger Team, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Gabriela Lira, The Lira Group, Compass RE

Julie McConnell, The Hometown Team, Parks

Tara McGuire, Happy Tara Homes, Parks

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Allison Noel, The Noel Collective, Compass RE

Cara Owen, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Franklin Pargh, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Lana Pargh, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Lisa Peebles, Courtney- Peebles, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Chris Grimes, Partners In Grimes, Corcoran Reverie

Rachael Harmon, Harmon Home Team, Parks

Jackie Henson, Henson Team, Keller WilliamsHood Company

Tyler Henson, Henson Team, Keller WilliamsHood Company

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Jacob Kupin, The Kupin Group, Bradford Real Estate

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Ashna Tipnis, Davidson - Tipnis, Fridrich & Clark Realty

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Andrea Woodard, Your Team Nashville Parks

PLATINUM AWARD WINNERS

Sam Anto, Compass RE

Autumn Roth, Music City Residential Specialists, Parks

Chad Sain, Music City Residential Specialists, Parks

Jessi Sgarlata, The Southbound Group, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Mark Sharp, The DeSelms Team, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Erin Tunney, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Tim Warren, The DeSelms Team, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Amy Wyatt, The Pargh Team, Compass RE

Jim Youngblood, The DeSelms Team, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

DIAMOND AWARD WINNERS

Jeanie Barrier, Pilkerton REALTORS

Christie Bradley, The Wilson Group Real Estate Services, LLC

Shauna Brooks, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Jennifer Claxton, Parks

Lori Cloud, Keller Williams Realty

Darin Cunningham, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Isam Aziz, simpliHOM

Sam Coleman, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Cindy Cook, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Kay Cook, Compass RE

Brad Copeland, Parks Lakeside

Brian Copeland, Parks

Molly Copeland, Parks Lakeside

Denise Creswell, Pilkerton Realtors

Cindy Crocker, The Wilson Group

Real Estate Services, LLC

Leah Crutchfield, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Kimberly Cunliffe, The Wilson Group

Real Estate Services, LLC

Lise Deschenes, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Shawanda Dodson-Crawford, Compass RE

Kimberly Dougher, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Catherine Jones, Paul Bullington & Catherine Jones, Realty Executives Hometown Living

Jane McCracken, McCracken Property Professionals, Keller Williams Realty

Justin Spurlock, The Spurlock Team, Red Bird Realty

Tiffany Watts, The Spurlock Team, Red Bird Realty

SILVER AWARD WINNERS

Fo Abdullah, simpliHOM

Lindsey Aeverman, Parks

Stephanie Aycock, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Jake Berisa, PARKS LAKESIDE

Kayla Brown, TYLER YORK REAL ESTATE BROKERS

Meaghan Baker, The Baker Brokerage, LLC

Chelsea Bell Bailey, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty

Keri Cannon, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Katie Christopher, Parks

Cayla Cook, Parks

Autumn Faughn, Compass RE

Lisa Gaston, Compass RE

Janet Gatewood, Pilkerton REALTORS

Ansley Goodheart, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Karen Hoff, Historic & Distinctive Homes, LLC

Michele Johnstone, Parker Peery Properties

Jacob Jones, MW Real Estate Co.

Caroline Keenan, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Jay Lowenthal, Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty

Kara McCormick, Compass RE

Sarah Milligan, The Wilson Group Real Estate Services, LLC

Crystal Morgan, Parks

Abby Murphy, The Wilson Group Real Estate Services, LLC

Deneen Murphy, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty

Starling Davis, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Allen DeCuyper, Parks

Julie Dretler, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Megan Garrett, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Sara Gooch, Pilkerton Realtors

Joe Jennings, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Courtney Jenrath, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Aaron Joyce, Corcoran Reverie

Fiona King, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Stephanie Kleiner, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Cheryl Macey, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Dai Za Mang, Historic & Distinctive Homes, LLC

Nathan Matwijec, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Mary May, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Martha Montiel-Lewis, Compass RE

Barbara Keith Payne, Pilkerton REALTORS

Betsy Peebles, Pilkerton REALTORS

Chase Smith, Parks

Ruby Elshafei, Fridrich & Clark Realty

John Fairhead, Parks

Dawn Franklin, Benchmark Realty, LLC

Tom Fussell, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Sylvia Giannitrapani, Parks

Eric Grasman, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Dana Griscom, Pilkerton REALTORS

Debbie Guthery-Owen, Pinnacle Point Properties & Development

Dawne Harris, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Suzan Hindman, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Sherri Hoskins, Pilkerton REALTORS

Christa Hughes, Compass RE

Allison Klausner, Pilkerton Realtors

Stephanie Lowe, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Mike Matwijec, Zeitlin Sotheby’s

Michael McKee, Pilkerton REALTORS

Suzanne McMillan, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Marcie Nash, Pilkerton REALTORS

Lisa Owings, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Carrie Peery, Parker Peery Properties

Lee Pfund, Parks

Christy Reed, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Kendra Nitz, RE/MAX Homes and Estates

Thomas Rassas, Pilkerton REALTORS

Matt Reed, Compass RE

Brad Reynolds, Synergy Realty Network

Jamie Shea, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Callie Southerland, simpliHOM

Shira Sturm, Realty Executives Hometown Living

Fiorella Villarruel-Calzada, Parks

Debra Waters, Benchmark Realty, LLC

William Wilson, William Wilson Homes, LLC.

Josh Wright, Compass RE

Jenilee Anthony, Jenilee Anthony & Co., Compass Tennessee, LLC

Amanda Beam, The Beam Team, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Wesley Harvey, The Harvey Team, Parks

Thomas Murray, Murray Specialist, Engel & Völkers Nashville

Sarah Paul, SB Home, Parks

Damon Smith, Damon Smith Team, Compass RE

Evan Thomas, Thomas Twins Team, Parks

Kevin Wilson, Our House Nashville, Pilkerton REALTORS

Elaine Reed, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Valerie Roberts, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Tish Roney, Weichert, Realtors - The Andrews Group

Paul Russell, CENTURY 21 Prestige Nashville

Amy Smith, Engel & Völkers Nashville

Elizabeth Smith, RE/MAX Choice Properties

Jaclyn Smith, Parks

Regina Smith, Pilkerton REALTORS

Brooks Spellings, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Greta Springer, Pilkerton REALTORS

Peggy St. Peters, PARKS LAKESIDE

Jennifer Stadler, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Donnie Stanley, Pilkerton REALTORS

McLean Stinson, Zeitlin Sotheby’s

Ann Marie Strickmaker, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Blair Teasdale, Crye-Leike, Inc., REALTORS

Andrew Terrell, Pilkerton REALTORS

Brittney Testerman Griffith, Compass RE

Mara Thompson, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Jay Toms, Southern Life Real Estate

Katie Wayne, Clearbrook Realty, LLC

Sunshine Weaver, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Trish Woolwine, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Eric Workman, Workman Group, Keller Williams Realty

SAPPHIRE AWARD WINNERS

Andy Allen, VILLAGE

Dana Battaglia, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Teresa Beard, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Mary Bonadies, Parks

Ronnie Lee Booth III, Parks

John Brackeen, RE/MAX Choice Properties

John Brittle, Parks

Nancy Brock, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Missy Brower, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Terry Carter, Compass RE

Jennie Clements, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Shanelle Burton, Historic & Distinctive Homes, LLC

Cyndal Callihan, PARKS LAKESIDE

Andrea Champion, Parks

Staci Coleman, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Brent Cooper, Parks

Scott Cornett, Parks

Brittany Cyr, Prime Rentals and Real Estate

Christopher Davis, Realty Executives Hometown Living

Mary Lynn Davis, Corcoran Reverie

Jarod DeLozier, Bradford Real Estate

Dawn Doll, simpliHOM

John Dotson, Parks

Molly Esworthy, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Leena George, Compass RE

Steven Haley, Parker Peery Properties

Anna Hollingsworth, Compass RE

Jonathan Hoo, Parks

Paris Hughes, Parks

Momoko Imai, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Samantha Inglis, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Jane Jackson, Pilkerton REALTORS

Tony Jackson, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Stephanie Brooks, Live Local Nashville, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Leigh Ann Emerson, EM Homes

Pilkerton REALTORS

GOLD AWARD WINNERS

Lydia Armistead, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Denise Battles, Parks

Joel Borski, Parks

Libby Bruno, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Amanda Crist, Ragan’s Five Rivers Realty & Auction Company

Karen Crouch, Century 21 Prestige

Angela Deal, The Wilson Group Real Estate Services, LLC

Beth Edwards, Realty Executives Hometown Living

Pamela Elcan, Parks

Karla Frieson, Compass RE

David Gordon, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty

April Harrington, EXIT Real Estate Experts

Misty James, Crye-Leike Realtors

Bobby Johnson, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Trisha Johnson, Reliant Realty ERA Powered

Elizabeth Lawson, Exit Real Estate Experts East

Elizabeth Leanza, Synergy Realty Network

Sara Ludlam, Zeitlin Sotheby’s Intl Realty

Lindsay Manifold, Parks

Adam Mayberry, Hearthstone Realty

LaQuesa Mayberry, Compass RE

Carolyn McHaney-Waller, Benchmark Realty, LLC

Gwendolyn Moore, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Amanda B. Morris, Keller Williams Realty

Leslie Panfili, simpliHOM

Elizabeth Payne, Coldwell Banker Southern Realty

Katie Pearson, Parks

Scott Pettus, Miracle, LLC

Cheryl Pitney, Century 21 Prestige

Tammy Porter, Pilkerton REALTORS

Richard “Chip” Potts, Southern Life Real Estate

Patrick Pruett, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty

Samantha Remington, Parker Peery Properties

Sherry Reynolds, Keller Williams Realty

Spencer Sadler, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Alton Sherick, Compass RE

Ben Jasek, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty

Aaron Kinssies, Parks

Megan Manly, Parks

Michael Oliveira, Compass Tennessee, LLC

Kent Patterson, Southern Life Real Estate

Virginia Rogan, Parks

Eva Angelina Romero, Century 21 Capital Properties

Dianne Rucker, RE/MAX Choice Properties

Tony Tabb, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService

Kathleen Timberlake, Parks

Emilee Warner, Parks

Kayla Williams, Realty Executives Hometown Living

Jessica Bird, The Bird Team, Keller Williams Realty

Paul Bullington, Paul Bullington & Catherine Jones, Realty Executives Hometown Living

Heather Sisemore Warmbrod, The Wilson Group Real Estate Services, LLC

Megan Smith, Parks

Sarah Spann, Compass RE

Jason Sparrow, Southern Life Real Estate

Denise Stinson, Crye-Leike Realtors

Rae Thomas, The Wilson Group Real Estate Services, LLC

Hayley Thornton, Parker Peery Properties

Jill Tidwell, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Deborah Vahle, Parks

Renea Veach, Realty Executives Hometown Living

Jamil Wahidi, Pinnacle Point Properties & Development

Jan Walters, Parks

Chandler Whitley, Parks

Brandie Wiehl, Vision Realty Partners, LLC

Teia Wilson-Davis, Historic & Distinctive Homes, LLC

Eric Wyse, Parks

Maria Carter, East - Carter, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Alison Cooke, The Cooke Team, Corcoran Reverie

Jennifer Cooke, The Cooke Team, Corcoran Reverie

Cathy East, East - Carter, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Ashlee McVoy, The Red Bird Realty Team, Red Bird Realty

Debbie Spurlock, The Red Bird Realty Team, Red Bird Realty

A Prim Donn Evenin

La Bella Notte Patrons Party embarks on a creative journey through song

The highly anticipated La Bella Notte Patrons Party was an evening for the senses. Held in the stunning Northumberland home of Jennifer Harris and her husband Joseph Sliskovich, the evening was a creative tour de force set in four acts. The concept — created and executed by Jennifer — embodied the passion and beauty that lovers of the arts experience. Each of the four acts drew inspiration from a different opera: Mozart’s The Magic Flute, Daniel Catán’s Florencia en el Amazonas, Ruggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci and Michael Nyman’s The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat. And each included delicious food by Keshia Hay of BōTANIQUE, formerly Sip N Bite, paired with excellent wines.

As hors d’oeuvres and carefully paired wines passed through the room, guests admired the art and design of the home. La Bella Notte co-chairs Julie and John Schneider visited with guests throughout the evening. At the conclusion of the first act, Jennifer took to the front of the room to thank everyone for the tremendous support for the Nashville Opera. She then invited John Hoomes, Nashville Opera CEO and artistic director, and board member Patrick Clark to say a few words. Much to the room’s delight, Patrick highlighted the hard work of the opera and noted that both the Patrons Party and La Bella Notte were already sold out. After their remarks, the evening’s first act concluded with a performance by Sabreena Cherrington — one of the Nashville Opera’s Mary Ragland Emerging Artists. She performed “Meine Lippen, sie küssen so heiß” from Giuditta by Franz Lehár.

As the evening continued, guests enjoyed three more rounds of food and wine coordinated with stunning opera selections.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Sabreena Cherrington

Lenny and Tammy Magill, Natalie Sliskovich

Ann Marie and Martin McNamara

Co-chairs John and Julie Schneider

John Hoomes, Patrick Clark

Jennifer Harris and Joseph Sliskovich

Bill and Tracy Wade

Kelly Schandel, Jim and Kimberly Lewis

MUSIC CITY CENTER

DAVIDSON BALLROOM

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

ThePowerofthePurse® 2024 Speaker

CORRINNE TARVER

Gymnast, Head Coach and Trailblazer

As a student-athlete at the University of Georgia, Corrinne became the first black gymnast to win an NCAA all-around championship. Her success continued as she earned an undergraduate degree in social work from UGA, followed by a law degree from New York Law School. With a wealth of experience in college athletics and over 30 years of gymnastics coaching, Coach Tarver joined Fisk University to lead the country’s first gymnastics program at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Corrinne is an example and inspiration for all. With style, strength, and grace, she has navigated unchartered territory for women and gymnastics. Her trailblazing impact is an achievement for all to celebrate.

The Power of the Purse® luncheon benefits The Women’s Fund endowment and furthers the grantmaking impact to nonprofits serving women and girls in Middle Tennessee. Since 1994, The Women’s Fund has granted over $2.8 million to organizations who support economic self-sufficiency, prevention of violence, and the promotion of health, well-being and talent of women and girls.

A Look Bck

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County opens the new Moore-Morris History and Culture Center

On a chilly day in February, the sun shone as supporters and dignitaries gathered at the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County’s new Moore-Morris History and Culture Center. The center has been created to steward, interpret and exhibit artifacts and immersive narratives related to the social, economic and cultural history of the area.

“The History and Culture Center of Williamson County is the first state-of-the-art, interactive exhibition space dedicated to telling Williamson County and Middle Tennessee’s comprehensive history,” said Bari Beasley, president and CEO of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. “It will honor and share stories of the people, places and events that make up the fabric of this region and influence our national story and culture.”

Later that evening, top supporters of the Heritage Foundation gathered to toast and tour the new building. What guests found when they toured the center was an immersive interpretation of the region’s history predating the arrival of white settlers.

Each floor of the center — built in 1905 as a jail — has been meticulously restored and represents significant moments in time. With three galleries interpreting history from 1783 to the 1950s, the center documents milestones like the emerging commercial economy, the Industrial Revolution and post-World War II commerce. The exhibits are punctuated by holograms and videos, which support and enhance impactful regional stories — like those of the prisoners from the Old, Old Jail once located next to the center.

The Heritage Foundation is “dedicated to preserving Williamson County’s architectural, geographic and cultural heritage, as well as promoting the ongoing revitalization of downtown Franklin in the context of historic preservation.” The MooreMorris History and Culture Center expands on that mission by preserving the region’s history through education and interaction. Additionally, to sustain the center’s endeavors, the space will be available for private events such as weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events and much more.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND AND HAMILTON MATTHEW MASTERS

Ward Brown, Tyler Berry, Bari Beasley, Paul Jankowski

Nat Taylor

Sondra Morris, Bari Beasley

Ed Silva, Jamey Parker

Tyler Berry, David Garrett, Rick Warwick, Cory Beasley

Allen Sills

Susan Andrews, Susan Whitaker

Nancy Cunningham, Emily Magid, Alma McLemore

Sondra Morris, Bethni Hemphill

SAVE THE DATE

WEDNESDAY JUNE 5, 2024 5:30-8:30PM

THE OAK ROOM AT NELSON’S GREEN BRIER DISTILLERY

NFOCUSFRESHFACES.COM

Join us as we celebrate up-and-coming Nashville philanthropists with our Fresh Faces of Philanthropy reception. The distinguished honorees are 45 years or younger, active in the community and nominated by the nonprofit organizations for which they volunteer or serve on a board or committee. Honorees will be featured in the wildly popular June issue of Nfocus, and celebrated at an evening soiree featuring light bites, cocktails and conversation.

PURCHASE TICKETS AND LEARN MORE!

This Is the Niht

La Bella Notte delivers a beautiful evening of opera

On the night of La Bella Notte, the weather outside was indeed frightful. But the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts looked stunning draped in Gilded Age decor. As guests arrived, they were greeted by tempting silent auction items, including a magical experience to the Grand Masked Ball at Versailles and a splendid display of jewelry from Cindi Earl. Co-chairs Julie — looking resplendent in her gorgeous metallic jacquard gown — and John Schneider visited with guests and kept a watchful eye as the bids continued to grow.

After cocktail hour, guests entered the Grand Foyer for a wonderful dinner from Flavor Catering. Throughout the meal, guests enjoyed performances of opera songs, like “Quanto è bella, quanto è cara” from L’elisir d’amore and “O soave fanciulla” from La bohème, and Broadway showtunes, like “Stars” from Les Misérables and “Mister Snow” from Carousel. The stars of the evening were the Mary Ragland Emerging Artists, who performed each of the songs. Appearances by Nashville Opera stars Sarah Joy Miller and Adam Diegel also punctuated the elegant event. As the evening continued, Donald Holmes was presented with the Francis Robinson and Marion Couch Award for his outstanding support of the Nashville Opera.

While the evening was by all accounts a success — the largest attendance since 2012 and an auction that raised the most funds in the history of the Nashville Opera — the mission of the event was not lost on the crowd. With the funds raised at La Bella Notte 2022, the Nashville Opera was able to reach 50,000 new fans with the Opera on Tour and Opera on Wheels programs. This year’s educational tour — a fully staged production of The Three Little Pigs featuring music from Mozart — will visit over 70 venues, bringing opera to approximately 25,000 schoolchildren. Since its inception, the tour has exposed nearly 800,000 children to the art of opera.

These initiatives also support local musicians, many of whom perform with the Nashville Opera. “The chorus and orchestra are all locals,” said Will Shutes, Nashville Opera director of marketing and public relations. “I tell people the story — and it’s totally true — that when we did Das Rheingold in 2022, many of our regular cello players weren’t in the orchestra because they were in Vegas with Chris Stapleton at the Grammys.” Musicians make up the fabric of Nashville, and events like La Bella Notte offer a beautiful way to give back to those who lend heart, soul and artistry to our city.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Sabreena Cherrington

Red and Shari Martin Joseph Sliskovich, Elizabeth and Larry Papel, Jennifer Harris

Co-chairs John and Julie Schneider

Andrew Payne

Jamie Eskind, Maria Pargh, Jenny Michaeli

Andy Valentine, Nancy Coleman, Judy and Bob Fisher

Donald Holmes, John Hoomes

Shawn and Mayra Lehman-Grimes

Maria De Conzo

Mary Ragland Emerging Artists Andrew Payne, Maria De Conzo, Sabreena Cherrington, Jordan Costa, Frances Ho

John Hoomes

Jason Bradshaw, Tracy Wade, Bob Deal

Michelle Nowell, Brittainy Jones

Gary Parkes, Sarah Joy Miller, Adam Diegel

Cathy and Claude Pressnell

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Stroner Toether

The Mind What Matters Concert for Caregivers celebrates four years

On a rainy February evening, the energy inside City Winery was lively and spirited. The fourth annual Mind What Matters Concert for Caregivers was underway. The evening’s host and organization’s founder, Elizabeth Humphreys, welcomed guests to an uplifting evening of song and thanked them for supporting Mind What Matters’ mission to offer “support to the new generation of Alzheimer’s caregivers.” Elizabeth — whose mother had Alzheimer’s and passed away in September — was inspired to create Mind What Matters while navigating her own journey as a caregiver.

During cocktail hour, guests mingled and took pictures with friends in a beautiful photo booth. They also enjoyed a stunning display of jewelry and gifts from Uncommon James. When it was time for dinner, hosts invited partygoers to be seated and hear how Alzheimer’s had personally affected others in the room.

Gloria Day moved the crowd as she read poetry she’d published about her experiences as a caregiver. Mind What Matters board member Dan Jaworski, who has early-onset Alzheimer’s, shared a story of competing in the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii that highlighted his grit and determination. Finally, Elizabeth spoke about the challenges facing underserved caregivers and the health disparities affecting minorities with Alzheimer’s. She also addressed how hard it is to fight the disease, even with every privilege — and shared that it is nearly impossible to make it through alone.

After the moving talks, it was time for an incredible auction. Thoughtfully curated items included a 1-hour consultation with board member Ed Park, who founded the preventive health company NeuroReserve; a 1-hour consultation with Travis Macy, a speaker, author, coach and endurance athlete; and a year’s supply of RELEVATE, a brain health supplement from NeuroReserve.

Finally, two Nashville-based artists took the stage for a rousing concert. SistaStrings — fresh from a Grammy Awards performance with Brandi Carlile and Joni Mitchell — joined Liz Longley for an uplifting and inspiring performance that made the evening more magical for all in the room.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL SCOTT EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY

Hunter and Marion Humphreys, Madelyn Humphreys, John Bennet Waters, Elizabeth and Hunter Humphreys

John McLarty, Matt Cassel

Deborah Osborne, Jessica Guthrie

Hina and Sree Suryadevara

Janet and Rick Pyne

Madelyn Humphreys with Elizabeth Humphreys

Jill Talbert, Kate Figler, Neel Young, Ramsey Corn, Cami Stoddard

Chauntee and Monique Ross (SistaStrings), Liz Longley

Andy and Harper Kelley, Julie and Dan Jaworski, Derek Gushiken

Paige Succop, Chelsie Worrell, Emily Wicke

Angie and Ryan Harris

Curt and Katy Swilley

Heather Dunn, Stephanie Askew

Hve  Hert

The Middle Tennessee Heart Gala celebrates 50 years

golden anniversary is cause for celebration — especially when it is paired with a centennial. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Middle Tennessee Heart Gala, which raises funds to support advancements in cardiovascular health. Additionally, 2024 marks the 100th anniversary of the American Heart Association, whose mission is “ensuring equitable health in all communities.” To mark the occasion, guests gathered at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to enjoy the 2024 Heart Gala and support the organization behind it.

The HCA Lobby was a welcoming oasis on the chilly evening, with Champagne on silver trays awaiting guests as they entered. Peppered in between silent auction bid cards were sweet photo opportunities. After guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and a rousing live auction teaser, it was time for dinner. Once everyone was seated, co-chairs Ken Marlow and Greg Maczko took the stage and brought the AHA’s mission to life, reminding the audience that “too many lives in this room have been touched by heart issues.” As the program continued, the co-chairs presented Emily Shirden with the Leaders of Impact award, which recognizes the individual who raised the most money through the AHA’s local Leaders of Impact campaign.

The room fell silent during the Open Your Heart moment, which recognizes someone who’s been personally impacted by the AHA’s efforts. Callie Morefield was born with truncus arteriosus, a rare congenital heart defect. She had her first open heart surgery at just 8 days old, spending roughly a month in the hospital. Today, the precocious 7-year-old loves playing with her big sister Chloe and listening to country music. Callie’s story offered a beautiful illustration of how the AHA impacts families by saving lives.

The co-chairs then honored Wright Pinson with the Martin E. Simmons Award for raising the bar of excellence at Vanderbilt University, the Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the AHA. After he took the stage, Wright highlighted that the AHA has not only been impactful in preventing cardiovascular mortality but also in implementing policy that has helped improve the health of many Americans.

The evening concluded with a lively Nashville Heart Gala Late Party as guests danced the night away.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Brittany and Mark Adamiak, Keri McInnis, Fahad Tahir

Herman and Jeannie Williams

LeeAnne and Paul Gilbert

Co-chairs Ken Marlow and Greg Maczko Wright Pinson and Anona Johnson

Callie Morefield with Jessica Morefield

Jamie Thompson, Bari Ray Robbie Bell, Nicole Britt

Brent and Katie Ford, Trent and Claire Webb

Laurie and Jim Seabury

Joseph and Belinda Webb

Robinson and Doug Regen

Keith and Deby Pitts

Trip and Leslie DeMoss

Charlie Clark, Spencer Bowers

Josh and Jessica Hopson, Carolyn Sparks, Jennifer Holder

Jamie and Jessica Morefield with Chloe and Callie

Dorothea and André Churchwell, Martin and Flor Montenovo

By Invitation

A collection of some of our favorites from 2023

Oscar Wilde said it best in The Importance of Being Earnest: “Nothing annoys people so much as not receiving invitations.” We are social creatures, and we yearn to be invited. I’ve often said the party doesn’t start when the guests arrive. The party starts the moment the invitation graces the mailbox.

Being a fourth-generation stationer, marrying fine papers and beautiful fonts is in my blood. Smart invitation sets are my weakness. Thick cotton card stock tucked into a perfectly lined envelope dressed with elegant calligraphy speaks an old-school language that never goes out of fashion.

In 2023, patrons of Nashville’s social scene experienced special moments throughout the year, as postal carriers delivered an array of exquisite presents with stamps as their bows.

BY JAY JOYNER PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANGELINA CASTILLO

Swn Bll

Cheekwood’s invitation to the Swan Ball arrived as a breath of fresh air in the spring. Co-chair Ashley Rosen worked in collaboration with her daughter Kate Rosen and Anna Peebles of You’re Invited Gifts & Paper to craft a stately vision of powder-green card stock and gold calligraphy by Valorie Ward Cole. e set was wrapped in a delicate laser-cut representation of Cheekwood’s entrance gates, re ned by Ashley Cole.

Herite Bll

September brought the exciting arrival of the Heritage Ball invitation. Event coordinator Amos Gott worked with Ink Nashville to create a stunning clover wrap, crafted from lightweight vellum and adorned with a custom acrylic HF monogram. e gold-foiled invitation held within was a truly special celebration of the 50th anniversary of Franklin’s longest-running black-tie gala.

Symphony Bll

As late fall approached, the Nashville Symphony heralded the Symphony Ball with an invitation set of ne Italian deckled-edge paper ensconced in a custom cranberry pochette sealed with wax bearing an embossed trumpet logo. Production was a team e ort between the co-chairs of the event, event planner Bruce Pittman, and Joyner and Hogan Printers. Valorie Ward Cole designed the entire invitation text with custom calligraphy.

2

BALLET BALL

MARCH 2

This year’s Ballet Ball will be a feast for the senses. Celebrating its 35th year, the Ballet Ball raises funds for the Nashville Ballet and its mission to create, perform, teach and promote dance as an essential and inspiring element of our community. The ball will feature a seated dinner, exquisite performances and music, the Nfocus Portrait Studio and more. Additionally, the following Late Party will allow guests to dance the night away. nashvilleballet.com

MA RCH

MARK

CLAWS, PAWS AND JAWS

DONORSOCIETY RECEPTION

MARCH 5

The Claws, Paws and Jaws Donor Society reception is an evening dedicated to the Nashville Zoo and its commitment to conservation. Top Nashville Zoo donors will gather together for an evening of fun and visit with some beloved animal ambassadors. This is an evening of fellowship and education — all in support of the Nashville Zoo’s mission to inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership. By Invitation nashvillezoo.org/donor-society

MARCH 10

A celebration of the cinema, A Red Carpet Evening — benefiting the Belcourt Theatre — will be a night to remember. The event will feature a cocktail buffet, full bar, silent auction, glamorous VIP backstage lounge, and the Oscars — Hollywood’s biggest night — projected on the big screen. This black-tie-preferred evening supports the theater’s mission to engage, enrich and educate our community through innovative film programming. belcourt.org

STRADIVARIUS SOCIETY DINNER

MARCH 27

The Nashville Symphony Stradivarius Society Dinner is an evening filled with delicious cuisine and beautiful music — all to support the Nashville Symphony and its mission. Top donors of the Nashville Symphony will gather to celebrate an evening of song. The Nashville Symphony has continued to bring top performances to Music City and has extensive community outreach and education programs to bring music to a wider audience. By Invitation nashvillesymphony.org

PATRONS PARTY

MARCH 20

Supporters of the arts and the Frist Art Museum gather together each year, weeks before the First Gala, at the First Gala Patrons Party. This year’s event will offer guests an opportunity to view the museum’s most recent exhibit, Southern/Modern, which will run through April 28. The first comprehensive survey of paintings and works on paper created in the American South from 1913 to 1955, Southern/ Modern features more than 100 pieces from public and private collections across the country. By Invitation fristartmuseum.org

FRIST GALA

The Ultimate Chef Throwdown!

Sara Best Marries Mason Bass Foote

SARA BEST AND MASON FOOTE met through mutual friends in Nashville years before they started dating in 2019. Mason proposed to Sara on a mountain while skiing at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah, on Sara’s 30th birthday in January 2023. They celebrated with her family at an après-ski tent and continued celebrations with family and friends upon returning home to Nashville.

The couple married October 28 at Trinity View Farm in Franklin. The groom’s cousin, Charles Nelson IV, officiated the outdoor ceremony — just as he had at Mason’s two brothers’ weddings.

Sara wore an ivory gown designed by Lihi Hod and carried a bouquet of cosmos and chamomile created by FLWR Shop. Her “something borrowed” was a double strand of pearls once belonging to Mason’s late grandmother Edie Bass. The bride processed down the curvy,

flower-lined aisle to “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and the newlyweds recessed to “Mr. Blue Sky,” played by Austin Filingo.

The couple and their families worked closely with Fran Grote Events to plan the wedding of their dreams. Valorie Ward Cole Calligraphy and You’re Invited Gifts & Paper designed the invitations, using custom envelope liners that matched the patterned linens at their wedding.

Immediately following the reception, guests sipped “tini ’tinis” to kick off the celebration. Johnny Haffner catered the dinner, and Dessert Designs created the groom’s favorite hallelujah cake.

The Downtown Band played nonstop, keeping everyone on the dance floor all night long. A lover of karaoke, the groom got onstage and sang “Blame It on the Boogie” and “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!” with the band, while guests sang along. After the reception,

the band’s horns guided the guests through a lane of rose petals to a vintage silver Jaguar getaway car provided by Matchless Transportation.

After their honeymoon in Majorca, Spain, the couple returned to their dog Piper and their home in Sylvan Park. Sara, a graduate of Sewanee: The University of the South and the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, works as a nurse practitioner at the Vanderbilt Student Health Center. Mason, a Belmont University graduate, works remotely as the senior manager of revenue operations for LiveSchool, an education tech company. Their parents are Bonnie Best of Alpharetta, Georgia; Patty and Peter Best of Pacific Palisades, California; and Lisa Bass Foote and the late Douglass Foote Jr. of Nashville.

BY SANDRA NELSON PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOLLY PEACH

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Celebrtin the Chîne des Rôtisseurs

IN 1983, WALTER THRAILKILL , Houston Thomas, Mario Ferrari and other friends gathered together to create the Nashville chapter of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. The organization was originally formed as the Guild of “Les Oyers” — a fraternity of roasters of geese — and later expanded in scope and numbers. Today, the organization exists to celebrate the excellent world of viticulture, cuisine and les plaisirs de la table (the pleasures of the table). Houston and his wife Sue loved to play host for the newly founded chapter, making many cherished memories with friends.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SPERRY’S