SMITH LAKE, ALABAMA
(MAIN CHANNEL)
102 COUNTY ROAD 3087 DOUBLE SPRINGS, AL 35553 BEDS 7 | BATHS: 7 | SQFT: 4,615
Smith Lake (Main Channel) An exquisite well designed single level estate!
7 bedrooms and 7 baths which includes the bunkroom as the 7th bedroom.This is the definition of a true family luxury lake home. Lots like this are almost unheard of. In fact, the owners purchased two lots to combine this magnificent piece of real estate into one parcel. Enjoy a large aluminum dock tucked away in the cove.
**Price available upon request**
In the Fall, you will love watching SEC football on one of the many tvs behind the football bar. Escape to the fabulous lakeside screened porch and firepit at the waters’s edge any time of year. Just a few short steps and you are on the water with ease! This is truly an estate that every boater admires as they pass by on a Summer afternoon. Enjoy grilling and cooking in the lakefront outdoor kitchen.
Extra care and planning went into the design when it comes to extra refrigeration and large pantries to host many friends and family. The rustic finishes honor the landscape but also create a sense of place. The exterior features western red cedar, brown sandstone, solid beams, and cedar shingles.
This is a true authentic and timeless lake home. It blends in like it has been within the property for many many years. This home was built the right way and it shows throughout the property.
Interior finishes include natural elements such as pine paneling, a limestone surround, and marble counters. Windows bring in natural light and lake views of course. You even have a bunk-room in addition to the 6 bedrooms.
By water, you are just minutes from Duncan Bridge and Marina. Paved roads lead you to the property and you do not have any HOA fees. This is one you do not need to miss!
Justin Dyar, the leading Realtor® on Smith Lake with over 1 Billion in Waterfront Sales.
UNDER CONTRACT
8808 EDGECOMB DR. COLLEGE GROVE, TN BEDS: 5 | BATHS: 7 | SQFT: 4,512
Style and sophistication meet farmhouse flair in this GORGEOUS home in the Grove! Enjoy resort style living in this golf cart friendly gated community featuring an 18 hole signature course, golf learning center, pool, tennis, pickleball, fitness, spa, dog park, stocked fishing lake, equestrian center, casual and fine dining PLUS a full calendar of community events! Check back for the details on this stunning home including full photo gallery, floorplans, video, 3D walk through AND information on how to request your own private tour!
1227 ADAMS STREET, FRANKLIN, TN BEDS: 4 | BATHS: 3 | SQFT: 3,047
$1,675,000
The 4 bedroom 3 bath cottage boasts more than 3,000 sq ft and includes a brand new 500 sq foot primary suite addition, a new roof, new HVAC, new water heater, new stone patio with fire pit and lush new landscaping... this charming 1900’s cottage, just steps from Historic Franklin’s beloved Main St is simply PERFECT! From the quintessential front porch with porch swing, to a large and private backyard haven with room for a pool, guest house or anything else you can image! This beautiful home perfectly blends vintage charm with today’s modern-day amenities.
6306 WILD HERON WAY, COLLEGE GROVE, TN BEDS: 4 | BATHS: 5 | SQFT: 5,804
$2,949,000
This significant price reduction has just created a rare opportunity to own a fabulous golf course home with unobstructed views of the 2nd hole of the acclaimed Grove signature course for under $3 million! Imagine yourself starting the day with a leisurely golf cart ride to the clubhouse for a breakfast with friends before heading out to the course for a quick nine holes, the tennis or pickleball courts for a lively doubles match, to the fitness center for a workout … or to the spa, salon, fishing pond, equestrian center or any of the other resort amenities that living in the Grove offers!
Limited to 200 pieces. Exclusively available Brentwood Jewelry
Introducing the Limited Edition Supermarine GMT in ‘Ember’ Red: a bold, adventure-ready timepiece inspired by Iceland’s rugged landscapes. Built for explorers, this 300m water-resistant GMT watch combines Bremont’s precision engineering with striking design and unparalleled durability. Quick release stainless steel bracelet with micro-adjustment feature.
Join the excitement at the I roquois Steeplechase’s exclusive Hunt Club, where gourmet cuisine, premium cocktails, and prime trackside views create the ultimate race day experience. Celebrate Nashville’s R ite of Spring in st yle on May 10, 2025 — secure your spot in Hunt Club today!
The Home Issue
Home. So much contained in that little four-letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.
Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.”As we thought about home - we wanted to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That of course includes the food and drinks, the aesthetic and design, but most importantly - the people.
We feel like the lucky ones as we got to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise this city and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.
As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your city, neighborhood and most all of - your home.
Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.
Happy March!
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Downs | jennifer.downs@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Sophie Brock | sophie.brock@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Stephanie Krejci | Stephanie.Krejci@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Morgan Raum, Sophie Brock, Sue Baldani, Mary Compton, Michele Bogle, Allison Swan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Fifo Agency, Chris Little Photography, Mary Compton, James Williams, Nate Sheets
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
A Refresh for the Season, The French Way.
Our relationship managers are proactive, offering high-touch timely service, with a full range of personal/private and commercial banking services.
MCB boasts all the products, services, and technology you’ve come to expect with the responsiveness and personalized service of a community bank.
MCB clients experience:
Relationship Managers with decades of experience in the local market
Tailored credit solutions that fully meet their needs and timing
Concierge approach and feel when working together
Dedicated relationship manager who serves as a single point of contact, and who also has local decisioning of credit
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-4: The McNutt Pediatric Dentistry Team during the holiday season 5-6: AC Hotel’s Blogger Xchange 7: AC Hotel’s Connect, Create, Celebrate Annual Fundraiser
Meet Dr. Lambert
Cosmetic Dentist + Artist
Dr. Alyssa Lambert is a dedicated cosmetic dentist at Nashville Aesthetic Dentistry, where she combines her passion for aesthetic excellence with a commitment to patient comfort and comprehensive care. She has multiple awards for her outstanding clinical and research work. With her strong foundation in techniques and materials, Dr. Lambert provides personalized treatments that enhance smiles and improve health.
Dr. Lambert is originally from Memphis, Tennessee where she earned her degrees along with several scholarships and awards for her scholastic and clinical abilities. Her contributions to cosmetic dentistry are an asset to our practice and we value the smiles she creates with our patients.
An Accomplished Cosmetic Dentist
• Certified in MicroThin and DURAthin no prep veneers
• Completed one year apprenticeship with Dr. Wells
• Serving as a delegate for the Tennessee Dental Association
• Official dentist for Miss Tennessee USA and Miss Tennessee Teen USA
home services
Where Luxury Meets Lifestyle
Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty offers unparalleled expertise in the Brentwood real estate market. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to guiding you through every step of your journey to ensure that you find the perfect home that matches your lifestyle and aspirations.
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY is who we are. HOMESERVICES is what we do.
5107 Maryland Way Ste 100 Brentwood, TN 37027 / (615) 661-7800 2010 8th Avenue South Nashville, TN 37204 / (615) 292-3552 www.woodmontrealty.com
business monthly
Swig Grand Opening
Last month, Swig officially opened in Brentwood at 5024 Harpeth Dr. Swig is a Utah-based drive-through soda fountain chain best known for its popular "dirty sodas,” which are soft drinks mixed with cream, flavored syrup, and sometimes fruit juice.
Whataburger Announces Brentwood Location
Brentwood is about to get its first Whataburger location. While the opening date is still to be determined, it will be opening in the former Back Yard Burgers location at 5004 Maryland Way. This will also be the first Whataburger in Williamson County, and they are currently hiring.
36th Annual Brentwood Summer Concert Series Announced
The 36th Annual Brentwood Summer Concert Series is right around the corner, and the schedule has just been released. This year’s schedule includes June 8: Yacht Rock Night, June 22: Country Night, June 28: The Fifth Annual BrentFest, featuring a beer garden and fun zone for children, July 4: Red, White, and Boom.
HIT YOUR HIG H NOTE Y
A CASTLE OF ONE'S OWN
Downsizing does not mean living without luxury
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS LITTLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Empty nesters Chad and Jill Wright were looking for a home that would fulfill their needs now and in the future. A smaller place where they would not have to worry about climbing stairs but still large enough to host family and friends.
“Most days, it’s just my husband, myself, and our Labrador retriever,” says Jill. “But on the best days, our daughters, son, son-in-law, and three more dogs occupy the home.”
In order to get exactly what they wanted, they hired custom-home builder Castle Homes in Brentwood. “Many of our clients want an empty nester home that is very well appointed with high-end finishes and high-quality natural materials like we put into this house,” says Alan Looney, its president and founder.
He and his team of project managers, interior designers, a VP of production, an estimator, and others collaborated with Glenn Oxford of Oxford Architects, landscape architect Daigh Rick Landscape Architects, and Rozanne Jackson with The Iron Gate to bring the couple’s vision to life.
“Castle Homes worked side by side with our architect and design team to create something really special,” says Jill. “There were times when something looked good on paper, but the knowledge and expertise of the Castle team assured that it actually looked good and functioned well in reality. The functionality of the home took center stage in the design process.”
Since the home needed to be a fundamental gathering space for the family, Jill and Chad wanted the primary living areas open and centrally located and preferred the bedroom suites away from one another for privacy.
The modern and sleek kitchen includes a huge island with seating for six. “I am also really loving having a back kitchen,” she says. “Having the extra space to prep and clean up and then close a door has helped decrease the stress of entertaining in an open space.”
The total square footage of the home, including the basement with its yoga studio and workout room, is just shy of 4,000 square feet. “It’s in a gated community and tucked away on a ridge in Williamson County, right in the middle of nature and very peaceful,” says Alan. “They chose to build in that location because they wanted to feel connected to nature.”
Adds Castle Homes’ interior designer, Lexi Lange, “They wanted everything to be very earthy and to kind of bring nature inside with the big windows and a lot of stone and natural materials flowing from the outside.”
Indoor/ outdoor living was a key focus for the couple. “The indoor/ outdoor aspect of the home really allows the space to expand and contract as we need it,” says Jill. The backyard is like their own private little resort with lovely trees, a pool, and a patio with a fireplace.
She adds, “Designing and building a home is not for the faint of heart and Castle Homes was organized and engaged for every step of the process.”
Alan says the company’s design process sets them apart from other builders. “Being a design-build firm allows us to appropriate the right amount of time on the front end of the design phase, working with clients’ architects to pull together the plans and price every little item and detail so there are no surprises at the end.”
He explains that many companies still follow traditional methods, which can lead to challenges in the process. “Probably 97% of companies still build on a cost-plus basis. They don't really do a thorough estimate on the front end and instead do a kind of a guesstimate, and then they have massive overruns.” This results in very unhappy and frustrated clients.
“We're proud of what we do whether it’s a high-end custom home design-build, a big remodel, or an addition,” says Alan. After being in business for 30 years, he still gets excited about and enjoys the whole process. “It's amazing how at the very end it all comes together and just looks spectacular.”
CastleHomes.com
@CastleHomes
“ IT'S AMAZING HOW AT THE VERY END IT ALL COMES TOGETHER AND JUST LOOKS
GIGI’S PLAYHOUSE Nashville
GIGI’S PLAYHOUSE NASHVILLE IS CHANGING THE LIVES OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DOWN SYNDROME.
ARTICLE BY MICHELE BOGLE
In 2002, Nancy Gianni’s new baby girl, GiGi, was diagnosed with Down syndrome. Nancy knew her family’s life would change forever. What surprised her the most was the reactions of others. She received hugs of sympathy rather than congratulations. Nancy made a promise to GiGi that she would change the way the world looked at people with Down syndrome, and she has been keeping that promise for 21 years.
Within a year, Nancy set out to establish a place for families and communities to celebrate children and adults with Down syndrome. Founded in 2003, GiGi’s Playhouse grew to 61 centers across the U.S. and Mexico. Programs are offered 100% free to all families so that cost will never be a barrier to achievement and acceptance.
GiGi’s programs focus on life skills, social skills, safety, motor skills, math and literacy skills, and aiding them in speech and language.
For adults, GiGi’s has progressive learning programs designed to motivate adults with Down syndrome to achieve their highest potential by developing their abilities in the areas of wellness, communication, and career skills.
GiGi’s Playhouse is a place for families to come in and connect with other families, find resources, be part of a community, and have a place for their loved ones to participate in educational and therapeutic programming.
In 2013, a group of families and volunteers got together to organize funding for a Brentwood achievement center serving families throughout the Greater Nashville Area.
A virtual playhouse is available for those families unable to travel to the Brentwood location to attend programs. On the virtual platform classes can be viewed live, or families can watch previously recorded sessions. Virtual tutoring is also available.
The center is always looking for volunteers. GiGi’s programs are offered three semesters per year and are all led by volunteers with guidance from staff. Tutors are provided with training and curriculum. In 2023, the center provided 423 hours of math and literacy tutoring, all 100% free.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GIGI’S PLAYHOUSE NASHVILLE
GiGi’s current and past ambassadors: Ryan, Destiny, Taylor, Tori, Caroline, and Andrew
Executive Director of the Nashville center Denise Bayles remarks, “People at GiGi’s, whether a volunteer, host family, or part of the community, are vigilant in making sure that our participants are in a safe and welcoming space.” Many of the families who attend programs have been with GiGi Nashville since the beginning in 2013.
Denise Bayles joined GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville two years ago and brought with her a wealth of experience as a seasoned fundraiser with non-profits like the Los Angeles Children’s Hospital and Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.
She notes, “100% of our programs are free, but we really rely on the generosity of our community to help us raise the muchneeded funds to provide the programs to our Greater Nashville Area participants and families.
The success of GiGi’s Nashville is attributed to foundation grants, major and corporate donors, the “Get Down for Down Syndrome” Dance-a-Thon in the fall, an annual golf tournament, and their biggest fundraiser, the “I Have A Voice” Gala.
GiGi’s Nashville has been experiencing fundraising success, and this year, they are hopeful they can raise $800,000 with $435,000 of that coming from the gala.
Denise promises that this year’s “I Have A Voice” Gala scheduled for March 29th will be no less exciting than the last. Held and catered at the iconic Country Music Hall of Fame, the theme is aptly called “Blue Jeans and Ballgowns.”
The auction will feature a safari escapade, international and domestic trips, and exclusive whiskey tastings. The silent auction
of typically 130 items to choose from will include gift cards, sports memorabilia, experiences, and more.
As many will fondly remember, last year, one of Taylor Swift’s Grammy-award-winning songwriters, Liz Rose, performed three of Taylor’s big hits, signed a guitar with Taylor Swift lyrics on it, and donated a private concert held at the highest bidder’s home. Denise is hopeful that she will return this year. Liz has a granddaughter with Down syndrome, and is passionate about the center’s mission and extremely supportive of the community.
There were also performances by composer/songwriter Phil Barton, GiGi’s participant Maddox Rodriguez, an Elvis impersonator, Aaron Tornquist, and Amanda Browning.
This year, GiGi’s is planning on having additional songwriters perform. There will be a cocktail hour and a full dinner served. Denise expects 350 attendees this year. Contact Emily Fakhar at 615-370-1500 regarding sponsorship opportunities and auction item donations.
Denise shares, “We make a lifetime commitment to the families at GiGi’s Playhouse Nashville, and that’s our promise. When I joined GiGi’s, I knew my life would be changed by the individuals with Down syndrome who we serve, but I had no idea how profoundly they would change the way I would view the world."
Follow GiGi’s Playhouse on Instagram for updates and events.
gigisplayhouse.org/nashville @gigisplayhousenashville
Rylee and Ava
Alex and Destiny Dani, Lona, and Sarah Kathryn
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 3/31/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
A WONDERFUL DAY
Brentwood boasts stunning neighborhoods, and Rosebrooke is its latest gem. Nestled at Sunset and Split Log Roads, this 365-acre community, which began development in 2022, contains 248 luxurious homesites.
This thoughtfully designed community was brought to life by some of the finest custom home builders and the development team of Ford Classic Homes and CPS Land. Together, they’ve ensured that this property showcases the natural beauty of this once pastoral horse farm by retaining the rolling landscape, tree rows, and bubbling streams.
ROSEBROOKE IS THE LATEST LUXURIOUS BRENTWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
So, what sets Rosebrooke apart from other communities?
“We believe it is several factors,” CPS Land president and co-developer Rob Pease explains. “First, our attention to detail and the very selective architectural review process that we go through for each home built at Rosebrooke. From exterior selections to interior design and floor plans, our team makes sure that each home constructed at Rosebrooke has reached its fullest potential. Plus, we have the most extraordinary Builders Guild around!”
This group of builders has been carefully hand-selected to be involved in the Rosebrooke Builders Guild.
“They are a group of consummate professionals that believe in the utmost in quality craftsmanship and design with exceptional customer service,” says Mike Ford, co-developer and President of Ford Classic Homes. “And finally, our highly experienced and customer-focused sales team ensures that each buyer is cared for throughout the process of buying a new home.”
“ROSEBROOKE FEELS LIKE AN OUT-OF-THE-WAY PARADISE BUT IS STILL CONVENIENTLY LOCATED."
The developers of Rosebrooke are no strangers to creating gorgeous, luxury communities. They are also the masterminds behind Witherspoon, another luxurious community in Brentwood.
“We call Witherspoon our sister community,” Pease says. “When we began to near completion of Witherspoon, we knew we needed to find a replacement community that would offer the same beautiful homes and luxurious amenities.”
Rosebrooke has partnered with many of the same builders that contributed to the creation of Witherspoon, including Aspen Construction, Ford Classic Homes, Insignia
Homes, Legend Homes, Schumacher Homes, and Stonegate Homes. New to this lineup, Sipple Homes was brought on board to enhance the vision for this extraordinary development. Homes in Rosebrooke are priced from the upper $2 million to $7+ million, offering unparalleled luxury and craftsmanship.
The community’s luxurious amenities are just as stunning as the homes. Amenities include a clubhouse with a great room, kitchen, and conference rooms; adult and children’s pools; a large playground; and an event lawn with an outdoor fireplace. Rosebrooke has a network of
tree-lined sidewalks and paved multi-purpose trails that weave throughout the neighborhood and will eventually connect to the extensive bike and walking path system within Brentwood. These resort-style amenities help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging meaningful connections and friendly interactions among neighbors.
While the houses are stunning and the community is jampacked with so much to do, it also offers a convenient location. “Rosebrooke feels like an out-of-the-way paradise but is still conveniently located approximately 10 minutes from I-65; 15 minutes from I-24, Cool Springs, and Maryland Farms,” Mike points out. “Also, Jordan Elementary and Sunset Middle schools are 3 minutes away, and Ravenwood High School is 11 minutes from Rosebrooke.”
Recently, it was announced that Rosebrooke was selected as the location for the highly anticipated 2025 Home Builders Association of Middle Tennessee Parade of Homes, sponsored by Ford Communities. This event will showcase six stunning homes built by Aspen Construction, Ford Classic Homes, Insignia Homes, Legend Homes, Sipple Homes, and Stonegate Homes. Set to take place in October, the Parade of Homes promises a glimpse into luxurious living.
For more information on Rosebrooke and to see which homes and homesites are available, visit their website.
Rosebrookebrentwood.com
Experience Luxury
SHOP PROM!
law firm that exclusively handles estate planning, business succession and probate and trust settlement matters for clients throughout Middle Tennessee.
ESTATE PLANNING WITH COOK TILLMAN LAW GROUP
Specializing in Estate Planning, Cook Tillman Law Group is a premier law firm located in Brentwood, Tennessee. Building a passionate team with extensive knowledge and skill, Russ Cook and Josh Tillman are partners with the intent to help secure their clients’ legacy for generations to come.
Taking after his father and grandfather, Russ Cook is a third-generation estate planning lawyer and has been in the business for 35 years. Cook knew from a young age he wanted to extend his family’s legacy, which led to him ultimately becoming the first attorney to be recognized as an estate planning specialist by the Tennessee Board of Certification and Specialization. Starting this firm 18 years ago, he resides in Franklin alongside his wife, Joanna, and their three children.
For Josh Tillman, the journey to law was more circuitous but, like Russ’s, found its root in family. Being raised within a fourth-generation family business in the Chicago area, Josh came to understand the necessity of proper planning, both for family wealth and business succession. Before attending law school, Josh spent eight years in sales management with the Southwestern Company in Nashville, where he learned the value of asking the right questions and explaining oftentimes complex solutions in a way that makes sense – a skill he employs daily in his law practice. Josh lives in Franklin with his wife, Kelly – a graduate of Brentwood High School – and their two children.
Experts in their craft, the attorneys at Cook Tillman Law educate and guide their clients toward an estate plan custom-fit for their particular family – whether single or married, with
or without children, traditional families or blended, having significant assets with complicated tax liability, or just starting out. Such plans can range from simple wills and trusts and powers of attorney to more complicated structures focused on asset protection and tax planning.
In addition to their technical proficiency, with four attorneys and seven members on their support and management staff, the team at Cook Tillman Law strives to make the estate planning process for their clients as easy and seamless as possible. “We understand that nobody wants to talk about death and taxes,” Tillman shares. “Everyone knows it’s important, but in the busyness of life, such planning tends toward the backburner. The key is to get started. . . then, a good estate planning attorney can help make the process easy.”
The team at Cook Tillman begins each client relationship with a consultation, where the attorney can get to know your family dynamics and planning goals before proposing appropriate planning options. Nearly all of their plans are completed for a flat fee commensurate with the complexity of the selected planning option, so clients understand costs from the
“YOUR FAMILY IS OUR BUSINESS.”
beginning. Once a client decides to move forward, preparation and signing of documents is usually complete within four to six weeks, depending on the client’s schedule.
“It’s the most satisfying thing,” Tillman shares on what it means to be rooted in a career built around helping families. “After a plan is put in place, I love hearing a client remark that, ‘You made it so easy’ or ‘I feel so much better knowing that’s done.’ The peace of mind people receive is priceless. It has a real impact on families”
In addition to estate planning, the firm also offers probate and estate administration services, a department led by their third partner, Alex Fasching. What sets Cook Tillman Law Group apart is their primary focus is estate planning and commitment to making their team and clients feel like family – often their clients remain with them for multiple generations.
For more information on Cook Tillman Law or to book your consultation, visit their website.
cooktillmanlaw.com
The Heritage Is Home
When you choose The Heritage at Brentwood, you’re not just finding a new address – you’re discovering a community where you instantly belong. Here, accomplished individuals from all walks of life come together to create something extraordinary. As Williamson County’s only Type A LifeCare ® Community, we provide the freedom to pursue what matters most, backed by the security of lifelong care.
Why let tomorrow’s uncertainties hold you back today? Join a community that empowers you to live life your way and find how you can make The Heritage uniquely home.
#1 Team at Onward Real Estate
YOUR LAWN'S ONE-STOP SHOP
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
LAWNVALUE MAKES YOUR LANDSCAPE DREAMS BECOME A REALITY
As we prepare to greet spring with open arms, now’s the time to get to work to ensure we have the picture-perfect lawn and landscape we’ve always dreamt of. An idyllic outdoor space perfect for events year-round like spring grill outs, summer pool parties, and fall bonfires, March is the best time to get a head start on your landscape transformation. Rather than jumping through several hoops to prepare your lawn for the year, consider heading to LawnValue, your one-stop shop, where you can get the outdoor space you’ve always wanted.
Before creating LawnValue, co-owners Dave Kmita and Todd Baker met while working together as Engineers in automotive engineering. They identified a gap in the market for a company that could simplify outdoor projects and maintenance by offering all-inclusive landscaping services, eliminating the need for customers to use multiple companies.
“We left our corporate jobs at the time because we saw a need for better customer focus, better technology, and just overall a better way of doing business quickly and efficiently in the outdoor service industry,” Dave Kmita says.
Thus, LawnValue was born. The company’s number one goal, ensuring its customers are happy, sets it apart. LawnValue is customer-service-first. Calls are always answered, emails are responded to, meetings are set up, quotes are sent out quickly, and their average turnaround time from customer approval to job completion is less than a week. It’s all possible with great communication and a strive to make customers happy, says Kmita.
“It’s always a rewarding process,” Todd Baker says. “Everyone is happy because they’re getting something new and exciting done, and you’re providing a value-add service to them rather than a reactive recovery service that we’ve been used to. Everything that we do has a happy ending, and everyone is excited about it.”
LawnValue offers every type of outdoor service you could dream of. From routine mowing and lawn maintenance, to elaborate landscapes, outdoor kitchens, pavilions, as well as irrigation and lighting installation/maintenance, and so much more! This makes it manageable for their clients to have a stress-free, gorgeous outdoor space without using multiple companies and consolidating to that one point of contact, LawnValue.
Thanks to this model and the app they’ve created for their clients, which allows them to set up a service at their fingertips, it’s safe to say that LawnValue ensures customer satisfaction. That, mixed with the speed that they get things done, sets them apart from the rest. The feedback that LawnValue routinely receives from customers that reach out to multiple companies for a bid is that LawnValue gets the customer meeting set up, quote out, and project completed before their competitors even get back to them with their bid.
“Anytime we go to a customer, they always want something different,” Dave explains. “It’s fun to work with the customers and hear what they want. They're all calling us, and they’re all happy because they get exactly what they wanted, so the customer interaction is great. We design it all, so seeing projects progress from the first customer interaction and hearing what they want, next from designing to approval, and then pulling the project all together, it is amazing to watch that process unfold.”
Within the five years the company has been open, Dave and Todd have accomplished a lot, ranging from small projects to over one million dollar commercial installations. Last year marked the first year that LawnValue was eligible for the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing businesses, and it is no surprise that the company placed #4 in Tennessee and #248 in the nation for all businesses.
“Seeing the expeditious increase in demand for our company and our capability to adapt and build a strong team has been really exciting for me,” Todd says.
LawnValue is continuing to grow and plans to start franchising. Last year, Dave and Todd opened a corporate location in Florida and hopes to start opening up franchises in the Southeast area this year.
As the company continues to expand and innovate, LawnValue remains dedicated to its promise of customer satisfaction. Whether you dream of a lush lawn, a stunning hardscape, or a tailored landscape design, LawnValue is ready to turn your vision into reality—one happy customer at a time. Visit their website to see all the services they provide and take the first step towards the outdoor space you’ve always imagined!
lawnvalue.com
“EVERYTHING THAT WE DO HAS A HAPPY ENDING, AND EVERYONE IS EXCITED ABOUT IT.”
Elevate your space with the perfect blend of modern sophistication and timeless craftsmanship. Our new thin shaker cabinet is a masterclass in understated elegance, featuring crisp lines, precise proportions, and exceptional quality that sets the standard for luxury cabinetry. As thin shaker continues to dominate design trends, experience the Tiger Cabinetry difference - where fashion meets function and artistry meets attention to detail.
AGING IN PLACE
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES WILLIAMS
As people age, the house they’re currently in may no longer meet their needs. But they love the house, the neighborhood, and their neighbors and don’t want to start all over again somewhere new.
“Many older homeowners want us to give them that one floor living in their current homes, so main floor primary suites are a very popular request,” says Mark Williams, founder and owner of RSU Contractors. “There are also situations where aging parents are moving with their children and their families, or those children are moving back in with their parents. This primary suite gives them their own little apartment.”
One Brentwood couple, Richard and Joy Miller, who live in the Inglehame Farms neighborhood, actually had a contract on another home that would give them that one-floor living, but ultimately decided they didn’t want to move.
“I had an epiphany about two o'clock in the morning and thought, ‘What are we doing? We have this perfect location,’” says Joy. Plus, their house was the central hub for their family and they wanted plenty of room for everyone to come and visit.
Adds Richard, “It seemed a little over the top to add a sixth bedroom when it’s just me and my wife, but she convinced me. I also realized we were adding square footage to the house, and it wasn't necessarily just a luxury like adding a pool.”
So, they reached out to various local contractors and ended up choosing RSU. “One of the things that was awesome about this project was the price – it was very competitive,” says Richard. It was also important for him to sit down with Mark. “I wanted to talk with him and look him in the eye and ask, ‘As the owner, are you telling me this is going to be a great project? Are you going to work with us, etc.’ He came out, sat with us, and gave us a firm handshake and the assurance that it was going to be great.”
“Adding this primary suite is an investment,” says Mark. “They're not trying to resell their house for profit, but they do want to invest money in a place where it's going to hold its value. They got immediate equity in the home.”
That was in April of 2020, and by the fall, the 550 square-foot extension was complete. RSU not only did the primary suite with a large walk-in closet, laundry area, and bathroom, but also added a kitchen pantry and an office on top of the bedroom suite.
“I wasn't looking for a fancy space, but a space that worked for us,” says Joy. “We wanted something very functional that looked great at the same time. I really liked working with RSU because they were very on board with me just doing what we needed and working with my vision.”
Of course, the team did use their expertise to assist with that vision. “One day Jim [Walker – the production manager] came in and said some LED lights would look really good over the double sinks. So, we put up those lights, and he was right. Everyone was so helpful.”
Adds Mark, “We've been in business for over 40 years. We have employees that have been with the company for 35-plus years, plus a long list of trusted vendors and subcontractors. We do a lot of work in Brentwood and have formed many great relationships.”
spring activities you’ll be buzzing about
These Spring activities will have you skipping out of the house and out of the Spring cleaning too.
Brentwood Lifestyle recommends these amusing and creative activities for when you need a break from Spring cleaning or just want to enjoy the gorgeous sunny weather.
Makeup Master:
Become a beauty mastermind by making your own makeup, custom lipstick, balm, or gloss. Lip Lab shares with you how to create your perfect lip color made by you. As Coco Chanel said, “The best color in the world is the one that looks good on you.” You will work with a Color Expert to find your perfect lip shade and can even add a flavor like mango, vanilla, espresso, and other options as well.
Liplab.com
ARTICLE BY MARY COMPTON
Creative Spark:
There is nothing more magical than a beautifully lit candle with comforting vibes that are relaxing and calming. Let your creativity spark with Paddywax Candle Bar located at the Gulch. This candle-making workshop will teach you how to custom-make a beautiful candle for your home’s unique aesthetic and style. The candles are vegan-friendly, clean-burning, and sustainably made with a soy wax blend.
Thecandlebar.co
Travel to Mesopotamia:
The ancient art of mosaic from Mesopotamia is here today to learn. This March, Art Master Class in Nashville is offering mosaic classes. Teachers will instruct you on
how to create mosaic candle holders or lamps with a wide variety of sparkling examples to choose from. Try a stylish new look for your home with these unique and vibrant accents of color from this age-old tradition.
Artmasterclass.com
Fire It Up:
Located in Green Hills Court, Brushfire Pottery Studio offers a collection of unfinished pottery to paint and decorate. Use your artistic side and come join the fun by booking a reservation for you and your girlfriends. They have over 400 items to choose from. They glaze and fire your pottery as well. March 27th is Ladies Night Out at the studio from 5-8 p.m. with a half-priced studio fee. Have a great time out of the house for a night of fun.
Brushfirepottery.com
Other reasons to have a blast outside:
• Picnic with a friend
• Flying a kite with the kids or like a kid
• Berry picking
• Exploring Cheekwood Botanical Gardens
• Night sky exploration with Dyer Observatory
• Feeding the ducks
• Hike at Radnor Lake
• Planting a Spring garden
Luxury Lake Living
THIS ONE-OF-A-KIND LISTING HAS JUST HIT THE MARKET
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK
With summer swiftly approaching, there’s no better time to turn your dream of owning a serene lakeside retreat into reality. Imagine spending your days soaking up the sun and unwinding with breathtaking sunset views over the lake. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway to relax and recharge or an adventure-filled escape with boating, fishing, and fun for the whole family, investing in your perfect lake house will provide the ultimate sanctuary for unforgettable weekends.
Only three hours from Nashville lies 102 Count Road 3087, Double Springs, AL 35553, the newest and hottest lake house on the market. This house is truly one of a kind, as it includes six bedrooms, all with en suite baths, and is 4,615 square feet. It is located on the western side of Smith Lake and even has a private dock.
“This home sits on two perfectly flat lots,” Justin Dyar of Lake Homes Realty explains. “The current owners purchased two vintage lake cottages that were side by side many years ago.
Eventually, they had both of them torn down, and this spectacular home was built in their place.”
During the construction of this stunning lakeside retreat, the builders carefully selected timeless materials that enhanced the home’s beauty and made it feel like it had been a part of the landscape for generations. This listing is built to stand the test of time, offering both elegance and durability for years to come. Ideally situated, it provides convenient access to Duncan Bridge Marina by water, while also being just a short distance from Bankhead National Forest.
Between a bunk room and spacious land surrounding the house, this property is the perfect getaway for someone with a big family. “The home is multigenerational,” Justin points out. “All family members can enjoy the entire home both inside and outside. You have a covered porch, screened porch, outdoor kitchen, and just spectacular views.”
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Whether you're driving across the lake on a boat during the dog days of summer, feeling the breeze as you soak up the sunshine, or savoring unforgettable autumn evenings on the screened-in porch while watching SEC football with friends and family, this exceptional lake house is perfect for year-round enjoyment. Or, enjoy watching the sunset over the lake year-round, letting you unwind in comfort. From vibrant summer adventures on the water to cozy winter nights by the fire, this lakeside retreat offers the ultimate escape in every season and certainly won’t last long on the market.
For more information about this listing, reach out to Justin Dyar.
justindyar.com 205-468-6375
102 Count Road 3087, Double Springs, AL 35553 sits on Smith Lake (Main Channel). It's an exquisite, well-designed single-level estate with six bedrooms each and en suite baths. This is the definition of a true family luxury lake home. Lots like this are almost unheard of. In fact, the owners purchased two lots to combine this magnificent piece of real estate into one parcel. Enjoy a large aluminum dock tucked away in the cove. By water, you are just minutes from Duncan Bridge and Marina.
Hearing With Your Heart
You deserve to hear better. Hearing connects us to the world and to one another. Not hearing well triggers a feeling of disconnect and isolation, making social situations that once were fun bring dread. In addition to improving your hearing, we empower you to restore your sense of wholeness and youthfulness. The majority of people with changes in their hearing are under the age of 65 - years of listening to loud music or operating noisy equipment without protection, common health conditions, and genetics can all impact the ability to hear. If you’re hearing differently than you used to, come in for an evaluation. Be proactive now to prevent additional loss later. Learning to hear better is a team effort, and support is part of the journey - and of course we’re with you every step of the way.
BRENTWOOD & NASHVILLE’S
Premier Hearing Aid Center
Rebecca Grome, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology~
Dr. Rebecca Grome feels incredibly humbled to be growing a community where hearing loss and hearing aids are no longer stigmatized. You will be celebrated no matter where you are on your hearing journey. She loves looking at you as a whole person and empowering you to tackle the unique challenges you present to her. You can be sure that you will receive personalizedevidence based care from Dr. Grome while learning from one another. When not practicing audiology, Dr. Grome finds joy in reading, puzzles, cooking, and hiding from her children. Hailing from Ohio, her favorite sound is the silence of snow!
LIVING A LIFE OF
HOW TWO BEST FRIENDS TURNED THEIR LOVE OF FASHION INTO A FULL-TIME CAREER
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
When they met in middle school in Boston, Emily Bache and Abigail Breslin became fast friends who shared a passion for fashion. “We happened to be the same shoe and clothing size, so from the very beginning, we decided to share clothes,” says Breslin. “In order to have a bigger wardrobe, I'd buy the pants, she'd buy the top, and then we’d swap.” That was 25 years ago. They have since turned their passion into a full-time career, and are known as The Wanderlust Girls. It all started with a blog they began in
2009 during their senior year of college. They were attending different schools - Bache in Long Island and Breslin in Florida - and wanted to share what they were wearing with each other.
“This was at the very beginning of blogs, and Instagram and Twitter didn't even exist yet,” says Bache. “I would make a post saying ‘Hey, I bought this dress, this is how I wore it, and you'll own it too when we reunite.’ Then Abigail would write back, and it was really just going back and forth.”
Someone who saw the blog remarked that other people were following them and they might want to do something more with it. The two already had a plan to move in together and live in New York City after graduation, and having a successful blog would open up opportunities.
“We feel so comfortable together, and we're so ambitious together, so we were able to really throw ourselves into a city like New York and just figure out a way to be in the world of fashion,” Bache says. “We saw bloggers starting to go to Fashion Week and we wanted to go too.”
They emailed every single designer who was showing and all of their PR companies to introduce themselves, explain what they like to do and how many views their blog had. “We ended up covering 60 shows our first Fashion Week, which was wild.”
The two best friends started getting hired to write about products, cover events, style lookbooks and campaigns, and provide blog-related activities. “Clients liked the way we dressed and put together
looks for our blog,” says Bache. “We then got hired by a big brand and knew we had to form a company.”
In 2011, they founded Wanderlust Fashion LLC. “We were watching this inspirational video, Wonderfully Lost in My Wanderlust, and we thought wanderlust was such a beautiful word,” says Breslin. “At first, we were Lovely Wanderlust, but we didn't feel like it really aligned with us. As fortune would have it, one of the street style photographers at Fashion Week forgot our name and instead called us The Wanderlust Girls, and we liked that so much better!”
When hired to promote a product or put together a wardrobe, they definitely do things their own way. “We're very big into storytelling,” she says. “We like themes, and we love to come up with concepts that are fun. We really like to make things a little bit dramatic and that have more heart than just a picture of something on a table. We come up with theatrical ideas that are a bit more unique.”
One day, they were hired by a videographer to do a creative video with beautiful flowing dresses on a rooftop. He asked them to find a designer and pull some pieces. “We ended up turning it into this very dramatic kind of Romeo and Juliet inspired modern day video,” says Bache. “It was really cool.”
The videographer posted the video all over social media. Shortly after, they were out in town when, from across the room, they saw a man looking at them. “He came up to us, and he asked if we were The Wanderlust Girls,” she says.” They quickly realized it was Logan Neitzel, who designed the dress that was used for the video. “He told us he loved the video and wanted to keep in touch and talk.” They did, and Neitzel ended up hiring them to style Macklemore for Saturday Night Live “That's how we get a lot of our jobs - from people noticing us kind of stepping outside of the box and doing something that pushes things a bit or is a little more unique,” says Bache.
While living in New York, the two visited Nashville a couple of times. They ultimately fell in love with the city and decided to move here in 2017. “New York kind of lacked the luster that it had when we first moved there,” says Breslin. “It was a little too corporate and felt like a lot of the artists had left or were pushed out.”
They found their new circle in Nashville. “It seemed like everyone we met was a sculptor, a painter, a musician, or some other type of artist,” says Bache. “We were so excited to be surrounded by these super creative people.”
Today, The Wanderlust Girls have over 20,000 followers on Instagram and more than 50,000 across all social media. They are also writing a book about their experiences.
Over the years, instead of doing what everyone else is doing, they say they’ve really stayed true to themselves and their style. Their fans seem to appreciate that – some of their followers have been with them for 14 years. “People say they feel like they're friends with us,” says Bache. TheWanderlustGirls.com
Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.
According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.
“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner.
INNOVATION MEETS
design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.
“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”
Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.
“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage.
ARTISTRY
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS
I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”
Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.
Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen
Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”
Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.
“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARY COMPTON
YOUR OWN INTERIOR DESIGNER
Upstage your home with this upcycling project
If you are addicted to the Home and Garden channel on TV like me, then chances are you have stumbled across the show Flea Market Flip once or twice. The show’s premise is upcycling, the process of taking an item such as a lamp, cabinet, picture frame, or mirror and refurbishing it to create a new and elevated piece of furniture. For this article, a cabinet and lamp were selected to upcycle. The journey of upcycling is an entertaining process, one that needs a little patience and time on your part, but worth the effort because it is such an enjoyable adventure. Your inner Interior Designer will surely shine through with this home project.
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First step, research. Gather ideas online, from magazines, or at stores to see what type of transformation you are wanting to incorporate and what type of trends are out there at the moment. Explore styles, trends, colors, and fabrics all to match your home’s decor.
Second step, hunting. Look through existing furniture, the pieces that may need a touch up, or travel to the nearest consignment center to do some shopping. Goodwill and Graceworks both have a diverse selection of furniture and usually have what you are looking for. Estate sales, yard sales, and basement exploring are other options for finding furniture.
Thirdly, prep. After spotting the perfect furniture for upcycling, whatever strikes your fancy, it is time to begin by cleaning it with a gentle soap. Sugar soap is recommended. If the object is a cabinet up-change like shown, remove all handles and knobs to work with a clean and even surface. Check for imperfections and repair as needed with a wood filler or other material.
Next, sand. 120 grit was used for our cabinet. Use a tack cloth, after sanding, to clean away any dust or debris. Now the cabinet and lamp are ready to be painted.
Apply one coat of primer. After the primer has dried, apply your first and second coat of paint. Places like Home Depot and Lowe’s have an array of paint colors to choose from with options of matte, semi-gloss, gloss, and high gloss. We went with a high gloss Shamrock green for the cabinet and a high gloss Caviar black paint for the lamp.
Once your furniture piece is painted, style as you wish. Upscale the knobs and handles for the cabinet and buy a fashionable lamp shade or create a new shade with a gorgeous fabric for the lamp. This cabinet upcycle can also be used as seating. You just need to place a cushion or decorative pillow on top of the cabinet.
Lastly, it’s on to the next one, as upcycling can be addicting.
Items you will need:
• Selected furniture piece
• Sugar soap
• Sandpaper 80 grit to 120 grit
• Tack cloth
• Paintbrush
• Primer
• Selected color of paint
• New lamp shade or cabinet handles and knobs of your choice
2024 Porsche Macan Electric
