Caleb Gamblin
For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue.
But for others, January can be a reminder of failed attempts from years past and the burden of expectation that this year will be different.
We approached this issue of Music City City Lifestyle from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term but valuing what is sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional and mental health.
When it comes to anything in life — business, finance, food, home and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that move the needle — it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse!
For instance, taking a vacation every day would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is doable. Having a beautiful steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night for dinner isn’t best for your health, but doing so once in a while might be fine!
It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most of the time choices.
So plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a fitness community or gym AND enjoy that fabulous dessert you’ve been wanting to try at Blue Aster. It’s not what you do some days - it’s what you do most days that will lead to a more peaceful, filling and fabulous 2023.
Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Kaufman | j.kaufman@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Delia Jo Ramsey | Delia.Ramsey@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Stephanie Krejci
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Melissa Corbin, Julie Brown Patton, Delia Jo Ramsey, Sue Baldani, Myra McEntire
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker
Proverbs 3:5-6
JENNIFER KAUFMAN, PUBLISHER
Where neighbors can see and be seen.JODY DOMINGUE
A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.
Turner Smith Evans became associate attorney at Tressler & Associates, PLLC. Turner worked as a full-time legal assistant at the firm since May 2019. He graduated summa cum laude from the Nashville School of Law with a JD degree. He took the bar exam during July 2022, and was sworn in as a new Tennessee Bar Association member in November. He plans to continue his work in the firm's estate planning and probate services.
The highly anticipated rooftop lounge at luxury hotel 1 Hotel Nashville launched as an upscale, lively yet intimate, rooftop entertainment spot. Guests can partake of an assortment of shareable dishes created by 1 Hotel Nashville Culinary Director, Chris Crary and Chef de Cuisine, Togi Chuluunbaatar. The drink menu boasts a collection of bespoke libations and innovative cocktails. A variety of rotating rooftop programming reportedly will occur every weekend with DJ sets, live performances and activations.
Photography 1 Hotels
The Preservation Society of Nashville was launched in December by a dozen board members as a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and championing Nashville's unique stories, neighborhoods and architecture. Founding members are a lead donor group that contributes $500 or more per year. Memberships range from $20 to $50,000. Visit PreserveNashville. com for further details and events. Funding goes toward one to two fulltime staff members in the first year and building a revival fund.
Our two-year residential community offers women survivors of trafficking, prostitution, and addiction a sanctuary to heal and thrive.
Your support helps her live a life she never thought possible.
thistlefarms.org
As a unique, personalized and comprehensive aging assistance program in Middle Tennessee, LiveWell By Blakeford offers lifetime memberships for adults 60 years of age and older who want to live independently at home as long as possible. Blakeford Senior Life’s president and chief executive officer Brian Barnes says LiveWell combines the best aspects of long-term care insurance, customized home care and community living for its members in an innovative package of benefits.
“It’s the plan for people who want to be proactive, preventative and stay at home as they age. Unlike conventional LTCI policies, a LiveWell membership gives members and their families peace of mind that when a need arises, there are no waiting periods, caps or medical approval requirements to receive benefits,” adds Brian.
Health industry data indicates that aging-in-place services, such as meal delivery, transportation and care management, can noticeably benefit seniors in staying active, engaged and fulfilled. “With LiveWell By Blakeford, members live better, so they also may live longer,” says Brian.
LiveWell is designed to eliminate stressors that aging can place on spouses, families or individuals. Brian says the LiveWell team handles care coordination for members and takes a pre-emptive approach toward preventing issues through home safety assessments, nutritional counseling, fitness programming and patient advocacy.
“As we age and our health status changes, the LiveWell program adjusts to fit varied needs,” he adds, sharing that many seniors are eager for this type of plan because they don’t want to burden their relatives or neighbors.
LiveWell combines the best aspects of long-term care insurance, private home care and retirement community living into an innovative package of benefits that are expertly administered and delivered personally. “We work proactively with people to map out how they’re going to be able to stay at home. Then we provide the individual attention that’s needed case-by-case with each member,” Brian assures. “As people live longer, we’re evolving the program and services to meet those needs.”
Oftentimes, an unexpected incident, such as a stroke or post-surgery recuperation, opens one’s eyes to the need for planning ahead, says Brian. LiveWell relieves members from the concern of depending on family and reduces the anxiety associated with managing both home and health care, he adds. “Relatives of some seniors live in completely other cities, so we fill in to decipher advice from medical professionals and to provide services needed, either temporarily or permanently.”
LiveWell membership assures clients’ non-medical health care costs are simultaneously covered and contained. Membership fees aren’t increased, state LiveWell representatives, due to any changes in one’s health status. In the event that a member requires nursing or assisted living care, a LiveWell membership not only ensures priority access to that level of care but also covers it financially, protecting members against potential care costs that could surpass $100,000 per person per year on average.
Signing up for LiveWell while still healthy and independent has many advantages, Brian asserts. The program incorporates myriad wellness initiatives and holistic approaches to aging while offering a lifelong guarantee of care. LiveWell members can visit and tap into the amenities and services of Blakeford at Green Hills, a 10-acre Continuing Care Retirement Community campus. During 2023, Brian and his staff are eager to reveal a fully renovated Wellness Center on campus, including a new indoor pool, fitness gym, salon, dining room, art studio and event space.
In 1996, a group of citizens founded Blakeford, a nonprofit provider of quality senior lifestyle solutions and health services to senior adults. Brian began his tenure with Blakeford in 2018. He has more than 17 years of senior leadership experience, while currently leading the financial and operational aspects of this multi-site, not-for-profit senior living company. He has substantial experience in running high-quality, fiscally strong and vibrant communities. He's also developed new communities from the ground up, as well as started new home and community-based service programs.
Brian says each LiveWell member also is assigned a personal care coordinator who is available to solve issues related to urgent needs and to assist with daily tasks, such as discussing medical jargon, ensuring a home is fit for aging or taking members to a doctor’s appointment. "For members, this is a much-needed resource, and for the family, the relief in knowing there is someone there who can be trusted to care for their loved one is priceless."
LiveWell team specialists indicate that it’s most beneficial to consider aging-related plans when people are in their 50s, followed by securing plans before entering their 70s.
Brian says the LiveWell team offers complimentary seminars regarding the program’s history, services and costs. “Between 85 and 90 percent of people want to stay in their own homes for their entire lives. Helping seniors do that is my calling, and knowing that we’re assisting generations of families to make such important decisions is gratifying.”
615.665.0694
Blakeford.com/LiveWell
The new year is a springboard for new habits. Managing finances is an investment in one's future, and using an experienced financial planner provides safety and security, ensuring money is handled with care.
Music City City Lifestyle secured the following advice from David Adams, CPA, CFP, founder of Adams Wealth Partners at 2905 12th Avenue South, #108, in Nashville.
• 401(k) Plan: Be sure to set up 401(k) contributions for the new year at the highest percentage possible, ideally maxing it out. A great tax deduction!
• Education Costs: Plan ahead for education expenses and contributions into 529 college savings accounts, which run on a calendar-year basis. Anyone can contribute up to $16,000 per year. With education expenses rising, this is a great way to pay for children’s futures.
• Employee Benefits: Review benefits and make sure to enroll for the new year and take advantage of all employers offer.
• Charitable Contributions for the New Year: For retired people, did you know that charitable contributions can be made directly from retirement accounts to avoid paying taxes? These are called qualified charitable contributions (QCD) and are a great way to give to others and help oneself from a tax standpoint.
• Legacy Goals: Estate planning isn’t only for the very old and very wealthy; there are things to do at every stage of life to make sure to realize family hopes and dreams.
David says these tips can help individuals focus forward on what they hope to achieve with their financial, investment and retirement goals. He adds that such actions allow everyone to perform a health check on plans to date, while allowing plenty of time to pivot, if necessary, to safeguard paths toward financial successes.
615.435.3644
AdamsWealthPartners.com
Radianté Spa was founded as a medical spa in the heart of midtown Nashville, specializing in offering alternatives to injections, invasive procedures and surgery.
Founder Doylene Knapper, or as most people know her, "DeeDee," is passionate about what the 100% female-owned spa provides. She wants potential clients to know they can get great results without taking long-term risks.
A country girl at heart, DeeDee was raised on a farm in Robertson County, north of Nashville. She was one of five children plus many foster children that her family raised and adopted as she was growing up. As the oldest daughter on a farm with many hands to feed, she quickly learned valuable lessons on work ethic and how to take care of others.
DeeDee has been married to Charles Knapper for 15 years and together they have a combined family of six children, 11 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and one Chocolate Lab. Needless to say, DeeDee's life is busy and filled with much love. DeeDee has been a registered nurse for more than 44 years; 39 of those years she worked as a labor and delivery nurse in Nashville hospitals and birthing centers. Through the years, she says she was blessed to have the opportunity to help approximately 10,000 Nashville area families during one of life’s pivotal and precious moments: the birth of their child.
After a major knee injury, DeeDee was forced into retirement following several surgeries and extended recovery. Because she’s not one to sit idle and give up, she recalls thinking it was time for a new direction, so in 2019, she stepped into a totally new arena as co-owner of Your Best Body Today Nashville. YBBT Nashville was founded as a licensed medical spa providing fat reduction and HIFU non-surgical facelifts at affordable pricing. Three months later, COVID-19 struck.
DeeDee says tenacity is the secret to her success and her determination to just keep pushing forward. “Just keep swimming” seemed to be her motto, as the business came through the pandemic when some estimates point toward 80% of small businesses closing.
This year, after restructuring, she founded Radianté Spa Nashville, with a mission to provide affordable, non-invasive options that harness one's own body’s power to rejuvenate, plus provide nonsurgical options in body sculpting.
DeeDee says she loves making people smile and feel good about themselves, adding that "confidence is beautiful and powerful." She says her passion for helping people from all aspects of life crosses generations and socioeconomic groups regardless of race, beliefs or sexual orientation.
"We are all people who deserve to be loved and valued and noticed," says DeeDee.
"WE ARE ALL PEOPLE WHO DESERVE TO BE LOVED AND VALUED AND NOTICED."
SERVICES OFFERED AT RADIANTE SPA:
Skin and Body:
Body Sculpting: Sentient Sculpt is a new technology labeled "remarkably effective and painless" because it uses 2.45 Gigahertz energy, microwave frequency to kill fat and stimulate tightening and remodeling of the skin. Body Sculpting provides approximately 20% fat loss after one treatment.
Hifu Facelift: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound is a one-time treatment utilizing ultrasound to stimulate collagen production in the face and neck. It’s great for lifting volume back up to cheeks, decreasing jowls and loose skin at the corner of the mouth and jawline.
PRx: PRx is a new treatment for rejuvenation and prevention of aging. PRx is performed in a medical office or spa and gives an immediate perk-up and signature glow to the skin, with zero downtime.
Pain and Healing Services:
PEMF: (Pulsed ElectroMagnetic Field) Therapy can be used to treat chronic pain or any kind of traumatic injury, including surgery or fractured bones. PEMF is being used in sports and veterinary medicine to reduce recovery time after injuries. Its healing response can give dramatic pain relief because it increases circulation and drainage to the area while decreasing swelling and inflammation.
"I’VE ALWAYS FELT BLESSED THAT I'M IN A POSITION TO HELP PEOPLE THROUGH THEIR STRUGGLES.
WHEN WE SERVE OTHERS IN LIFE, IT ALWAYS REFLECTS BACK TENFOLD. I'M THANKFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO HELP OUR CLIENTS REACH THEIR PERSONAL GOALS AND SEE THOSE HAPPY FACES WHEN WE SUCCEED," -DOYLENE "DEEDEE" KNAPPER
Introducing FACE FOUNDRIÉ, a focused facial bar located in Noble Park in the Gulch. Gone are the days of overpriced facials that take up half your day. We understand that in the modern day and age, skincare needs to be accessible while also being efficient + effective. Come get the best glow of your life in under an hour + under $100! We can’t wait to touch your face!
Enjoy a free enhancement on us when you mention this AD! From an ultra-hydrating collagen mask to dermaplaning that gives an instant-glow, we have you covered with a variety of options to customize your service! Book your service at facefoundrie.com and follow us on Instagram @facefoundrie to stay in-the-know!
This new year, why not make a resolution to get all estate paperwork in order, providing peace of mind from knowing wishes are legally binding?
Tressler & Associates, PLLC, professionals make planning easy by offering a bundle that includes a will, a durable power of attorney, a health power of attorney, and a living will or advanced care directive. “You want to be prepared so you can take care of your family and set them up for the future,” says Megan Climer, the firm’s chief marketing officer. “It’s important to have someone knowledgeable working with you and your family to ensure interests are protected.”
Having these bundled services can reduce the concern about costs because clients understand the financial commitment upfront. It also makes it easy to figure out which documents are the most critical. “This is a service that is so approachable and accessible for people to get things in order,” she says.
Working with an expert also takes the emotion out of the planning. “There's a lot of dynamics that go along with probate and family, and we can help people through these difficult situations,” she says.
“We approach things a little differently than traditional law firms when it comes to how we work with
our clients. We really take the time to meet with clients to understand their needs before we move forward with any transactions.”
What this does, explains Megan, is enable its legal team to educate clients and the community on what certain documents are, what they do, and how they protect them and their families. “Planning for the future can be empowering. You're really setting things in place so your wishes and interests for you and your loved ones are protected.”
Later, when these documents are needed, there is no additional stress for the family. “When you lose a loved one, that in and of itself is hard,” she says. “This way, you will have someone you can rely on, to be that voice outside of the situation and help guide decisions and facilitate matters.”
Adds Megan, “Everyone needs to have their estate plans in order, regardless of their age and health. A new year is a perfect time to make a plan to ensure your estate is distributed the way you want, so your loved ones are not left to take it on themselves.”
615.444.2345
TresslerAssociates.com
Sarah Larson wasn't born in Nashville, but it's safe to say she's fallen into a stride after nearly a decade here in Middle Tennessee. A Tennessee transplant who moved to the area from New Jersey for college at MTSU in 2013, Sarah has called Nashville proper home since 2016. Fast forward to 2022, when Sarah saw "City Girls Who Walk Dallas" on TikTok and saw an amazing opportunity to bring safe group walking opportunities to women in Music City.
"I saw Dallas, Texas, post about their group and I thought 'Woah, 200 girls all walking together through a park ... what an amazing concept!' From there I researched the background of it all and searched for Nashville’s City Girls Who Walk. When I couldn’t find one, I figured at least one other Nashville woman must be feeling the same way (that we should have one) so I jumped on Instagram and created an account. From there, it kind of just took off. It’s just such an amazing idea. A group tailored to making friends, exploring the city, walking safely, and getting some steps in," says Sarah. "We’ve even started partnering with some stellar businesses in town so it has helped twine into Nashville even more."
Within months the group has grown quickly, and Sarah loves seeing the camaraderie among the women as strangers turn to friends during the 3-mile walks.
"It’s just overall such a heartwarming group, and I’m glad that so many want to be a part of it. So many girls come to the walks after just moving here two weeks prior; so it’s a great way to settle into Nashville, but it’s also great for the girls that have been here longer that are just looking to be a part of a community. It’s a win-win for all," says Sarah.
On the group's social media platforms, Sarah has posted several helpful tips for walkers and runners on ways to protect themselves if doing so alone. If having to walk alone, some essential safety tips include ensuring oneself in well-lit areas, keeping keys or mace nearby, using those items as a weapon, and taking a local self-defense course.
"My best advice to someone on the fence about coming to their first walk would be to take the leap. At every walk, at least 50% of the ladies are at their first walk and feel the same way (AKA nervous). With that being the case, it is so easy to make friends because sharing the same emotions is such a good icebreaker. I always say at the beginning of each walk, 'if you see someone walking by themselves, grab them and make a new friend; that’s what this group is all about' -- that usually helps as well. We are all showing up for the same purpose and I think that brings comfort to everyone," states Sarah.
Instagram: instagram.com/citygirlswhowalknashtn (3,777 followers at press time).
ARTICLE BY MELISSA CORBIN
A recent YouGov poll reports that out of the 30% of people surveyed, 50% of them listed getting fit as their number one New Years' resolution. If this is your goal, the Nashville area welcomes two new ways to do just that. As part of the Exponential Fitness brand, STRIDE Fitness and AKT aren’t your typical experience. Expect the studios to be a little bit darker with fun club-like lighting and banging playlists to fit the vibe. Along with the experience and science behind the locally-owned studios, this year just may be the year you actually keep your resolutions.
The California-based STRIDE Fitness will soon be calling Murphy Road home offering a treadmill-based interval training concept. The treadmills are Woodway treads which general manager, Jodi Suglio explains was designed to mimic the feel of outdoor running/walking but with less impact. Holding a master's degree in exercise and nutrition science from Lipscomb, Jodi says one of the things that will set STRIDE apart from other studios is the use of MyZone Heart Rate System. “Part of the science in our training style is that in the middle of class our coaches will coach people to be in a certain heart rate range based on the workout that day.’
“But, don’t think I’m not a runner so I’m not going there,” Jodi encourages, “I always say to start small. You don’t want to do too much right away, or you might be tempted to say forget this.”
Perfect for walkers, joggers, and runners, three class formats and leveling systems will be offered for all fitness levels. STRIDE Fitness Certified Coaches
lead classes that focus on actual stride along with total body workouts, and ones that are core focused. Open gym time will also be available for members to access treadmills on their own with the digital platform XPlus also an option.
Jodi Suglio’s favorite beats: “Give me some Nirvana or Breaking Benjamin and I’ll do some awesome things.”
AKT
Or, maybe you dance like no one’s looking? Coming soon to White Bridge Road in Belle Meade, the New York City-based AKT (Anna Kaiser Technique) features four full-body dance-based class formats focusing on low-impact, high-intensity, booty-lifting moves sure to improve anyone’s strength and flexibility. "When you're taking our Dance class, you're getting that cardio calorie burn but you're also increasing strength by transferring your weight to your toes and engaging muscles throughout the entire body to keep you balanced and agile,” general manager, Kaycee Bales explains how dance can not only give you that tight booty dancers are known for but an overall body workout.
Each move of a routine is broken down during each class. But, as Kaycee says, “If exercise isn’t fun, you’re likely to not follow through.” Holding a kinesiology degree from Miami University, Kaycee also was a professional dancer in Los Angeles prior to moving to Nashville. She says, “You get to celebrate your progress as you learn and master a new dance routine every three weeks."
Push AND Pull is the name of the game in the Tone class where isometrics is key to that booty burn. In the Bands class, alternate between dance and strength intervals for a workout that challenges attendees to the core. Or, opt to get hit from all directions with the plyometrics applied in the Circuit class. Offering a free introductory class, from there Kaycee promises all of the classes at AKT are beginner-friendly.
Kaycee Bales' favorite beats: "You'll catch me dancing all day to ‘Whip It!’ by LunchMoney Lewis. But, I also love the Michael Jackson classic ‘Don’t Stop ‘til You Get Enough’!”
“I always say to start small. You don’t want to do too much right away, or you might be tempted to say forget this.”
As we move through the season of spandex when most of us feel we’d rather not leave our stretchy pants, we wanted to feature three distinct looks using the same pair of Foil Snake Print Faux Leather leggings from Spanx.
Whether you’re brunching with the babes or getting ready for date night, these versatile leggings can carry you through from casual to chic. While there are endless ways to wear them, we’re going to show you three ways to start styling them today.
Who doesn’t love a good brunch with the girls after your workout complete with mimosas to celebrate? Our suggestion is to layer your tank with loose layers and a light jacket to swiftly transition you from the barre to breakfast.
A hat is always a good option to have on hand in case you worked too hard and that hair is showing it. We opted for easy-to-slip-on sockless sneakers that breathe.
Lastly, don’t forget a cute tote or bag. Consider throwing in a clean tank and any makeup or face wipes you may need for freshening up on your way.
Whether you want a bit of a boost, a hint of a lift, or just a little tuck, you won’t go wrong with this versatile shapewear. And with these styling tips, you’re ready to throw them on for any occasion!
What we love about Spanx is their inherent ability to elevate your look, regardless of the occasion. Stretchy pants in a faux leather snake design? Say no more. Pair them with edgy booties or colorful pumps for a more elegant aesthetic. Playing with different textures is a good way to add interest and intrigue. Consider a chunky sweater with some unexpected details like the bare shoulder shown here, a thick boucle or intricate detailing. We love a good leather jacket with hardware details draped over the shoulder(s) for chilly evenings as you traverse the town. Pair this look with a gorgeous sparkly clutch and chunky bracelet.
Whether you’re headed to a child’s sports game or a bar to watch the big game with your friends, leggings offer the structure and flexibility you’ll want as you find your spot among the fans in the bleachers or indulge in some lovely libations.
Layers are life for this look. We tied a button-down around the waist which is so nice through the colder winter months as both an outfit accessory and a layering piece. Fur-lined high tops provide practical footwear for this look — because who doesn’t love some killer sneaks? A shacket and crossover bag complete the look.
For those looking to enjoy the night, the month or life without booze, Nashville has plenty to offer those still looking to sip on an excellent beverage. Whether it’s dry January or one is sober-curious, check out these 10 fabulous non-alcoholic drink options around town.
1/ Cafe Roze
1115 Porter Road: The cozy all-day cafe’s “Turmeric Cooler” is a spiced turmeric blend with lemon and sparkling water.
2/ The Continental
1000 Broadway, Suite 101: Their stellar Bloody Mary is also available sans alcohol, and it tastes every bit as good as the regular version.
3/ Denim
401 Korean Veterans Blvd., Floor 21: Head to the top floor for stellar views and sips like lead bartender Serene Branch’s “Break The Ice” with Seedlip Grove 42, blood orange, agave and lemon.
4/ Mimo
100 Demonbreun St.: “Sage The Day” serves up a well-balanced splash of flavors
with Limonata soda, pineapple juice, yuzu and sage.
5/ Common Ground
4001 Charlotte Ave.: “This Side Up” packs a sophisticated punch with orange-honey shrub, spicy walnut bitters, pineapple, cinnamon and fresh lemon.
6/ Hathorne
4708 Charlotte Ave.: The former fellowship hall serves up great bites alongside a slew of signature NA drinks such as the “Giovanni,” with Lyre’s Italian Orange Dry Aperitif, London Dry and orange oil.
7/ The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club
2905B Gallatin Pike : The stellar cocktail bar’s “Bird Of Paradise” is a tropical delight with Dhōs Bittersweet, pineapple, sesame orgeat and lime stock.
8/ Mother’s Ruin
1239 6th Ave. N: Head to Germantown for NA options crafted around favorite flavor profiles.
9/ Adele’s 1210 McGavock St.: “Berry Is The New Black” features basil, lemon, apple cider vinegar and ginger beer.
10/ Etch
303 Demonbreun St.: “Cucumber Mint Fizz” is a mixture of cucumber puree, simple syrup, lemon juice, soda and mint.
Image 1: Cafe Roze’s “Turmeric Cooler”
Image 2: The Continental’s zero proof
Bloody Mary
Image 3: Denim’s “Break The Ice”
Image 4: Mimo’s “Sage The Day”
Your generosity impacts lives.
