Franklin, TN February 2025

LIFE + CULTURE

615APPROVED

LOVE LOCALLY THIS VALENTINE'S DAY

ENTERTAINMENT

DANIELLE BREEZY, WKRN'S WEATHER GURU

JOH N

SCHNEIDER:

A M AN OF MANY TALENTS

WHY DO YOU NEED ESTATE PLANNING?

To make sure your assets will go to the people you want to have them with the least amount of delay, hassle, and expense.

To let your family know you care about them, and want to provide for and protect them.

To keep your family from having to deal with the courts if you become incapacitated and when you die.

Yes, you do it for those you love. But you get a huge benefit, too—and that’s peace of mind.

PROCRASTINATION REASON 1: It’s expensive.

Unfortunately, most people will readily admit they haven’t participated in any meaningful estate planning but know it is something they need to do. Here are some of the more common reasons why we procrastinate about estate planning— and some information that just might get you moving.

Granted, a lot of people don’t have extra money lying around these days. But not doing anything can end up costing your loved ones much more than it would cost you to plan now. If you own assets and become incapacitated, your assets and your care will likely be placed in a court guardianship. This is not free. All costs (attorney fees, accounting fees, court costs, etc.) will be paid from your assets, and your family will probably have to ask the court for an allowance if they need money for living expenses. This process does not replace probate when you die; your family will have to go through the court system again, and that means more expenses and less for your family. Your assets will be distributed according to your state’s laws, which probably won’t be what you want. Estate planning does not have to be expensive. Find a reasonable attorney who can help you get started with some basic documents. Upgrade to a living trust later if you can’t afford it now. You may even be able to pay over time.

PROCRASTINATION REASON 2:

I don’t own enough.

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy. Costs for a court guardianship and probate usually take a higher percentage from smaller estates than from larger ones. Whatever you do own, you probably would rather see it go to your loved ones than to courts and attorneys.

PROCRASTINATION REASON 3:

I’m not old enough.

Estate planning is not just for “old people.” For some reason, young people think they are going to live forever. The reality is that any of us, at any age, can become incapacitated or die. Almost every day we read about someone whose life was cut short or changed dramatically in an instant.

PROCRASTINATION REASON 4:

It’s too confusing. I don’t know what to do. Uncertainty and indecision can be paralyzing. Attorneys are called “counselors at law” for a reason. As an experienced estate planning attorney we know what other families have been through, know what has worked well and what hasn’t. We can also help you understand the process and make challenging decisions easier.

Justin M. Gilbert, Esq.

Madelyn Stampley, Esq.

THERAPEUTIC

Locally Owned and Loved

PUBLISHER

Athena West | athena.west@citylifestyle.com

I'll let you in on a secret you may never have noticed. Each month our issue is curated to follow a mild theme. February's issue is affectionately called "Love Local" and is obviously a play on words for Valentine's Day. We certainly have a few stories with a nod to February 14, but the truth is, every monthly issue is a tribute to all things local in our area. We try hard to bring you stories about the people, events, and local businesses in our area. After all, behind every business is a local resident who lives here, works here, and is raising a family in our beloved cities and towns. This month is no different. We make sure we don't just tell superficial facts about the businesses we feature. Doing so would be nothing more than a glorified commercial. We want you to know the story behind the story. The passions, hobbies, and families behind the local businesses you frequent. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses account for around 44 percent of the U.S. economic activity, making them a significant portion of the overall economy. In fact, even I am part of that statistic. You will catch me at any of the local coffee shops on any given day, working and supporting fellow small businesses.

We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told in these pages, month after month. Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like. Our hope is that we inspire you to love it just a bit more than you did before. While we teeter between the chill of January winter and the excitement of spring, we hope you’ll be inspired to take a moment to come together with the people in your life. The ones in your home and on your street. In your neighborhood and your community. Happy February!

EDITOR

ATHENA WEST, PUBLISHER

@FRANKLINTNLIFESTYLE

Franklin Lifestyle is available for pickup at the following locations:

• Whole Foods - Franklin

• Fork of the South - The Factory at Franklin

• Optique - Downtown Franklin

• The Parker House on Main - Downtown Franklin

• United Country Real Estate - Leiper’s Fork

• Local doctors and professional offices around the area

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Maria Dinoia | maria.dinoia@citylifestyle.com

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Emily Smith | emily.smith@citylifestyle.com

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COPY EDITOR

Ed Atlas | ed.atlas@citylifestyle.com

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jessica Wayman, Kelllie Walton, Ed Atlas, Kathleen Davis, Judy Beaudin, Morgan Raum, Christina Madrid, Sarah Brown, Lisa Valentine, Sue Baldani, Coleen Janeway

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

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Step into timeless elegance at The Crescent View Mansion, a breathtaking estate rooted in Giles County heritage. Originally constructed in 1853, this storied property was thoughtfully relocated to Braly Lane in 1991 and meticulously renovated in 2022. It beautifully merges historic charm with modern luxury across 36.04 acres of enchanting landscaped grounds. From grand columns and a stunning spiral staircase to poplar floors in rich natural tones, each detail of The Crescent View Mansion reflects classic beauty. This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath sanctuary also boasts a resort-style stone pool, a charming guest pool house, a spacious 30x66 workshop, and a 10x20 barn with livestock fencing—perfect for serene family living, refined entertaining, or your dream private retreat.

Contact us to schedule your private tour at 2142 Braly Ln, Pulaski, TN.

Cindy Garvey

Owner/Principal Broker

(615) 202-9515

Cindy@LeipersFork com

Matthew Beadle

Co-Listing Affiliate Broker

Matthew@LeipersFork com (615) 319-3645

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: The dedication ceremony of Williamson County Animal Center’s (WCAC) memorial “Rainbow Bridge” built by local scout, Benji Barry of Troop 16, in memory of his family’s chocolate lab, Reagan, to honor the bond between people and pets who have passed.

until June 1, 2025. The opening reception took place at the Parthenon.

8-14: Metro Parks’ Parthenon and Centennial Park Conservancy announced Leiper’s Fork photographer Christy Lee Rogers - The Muses, a visually stunning underwater contemporary photography exhibition, is on display in the East Gallery of the Parthenon

A $50 Test Saved My Life! “ ”

Williamson County resident

Mark Harless credits a simple heart scan for revealing significant blockages.

His wife had gifted him a coronary calcium score screening last February. This quick, convenient procedure at Williamson Health uses a CT machine to take detailed images of one’s heart.

Mark had no prior symptoms but was referred for more tests and surgery. Today, Mark is doing well and credits the screening with saving his life.

¬ ¬ ¬ ¬

Gift Someone You Love with a Heart Scan!

With February being Heart Health Month, Williamson Health is pleased to again o er its limited-time $50 coronary calcium score screening. Call 615-435-5361 by Feb. 28 to schedule one for you or someone you love.

Meridian Cool Springs Announces Two New Businesses

Meridian Cool Springs, the mixeduse district off Carothers Parkway, continues to grow with the addition of Alloy Personal Training and First National Bank of Middle Tennessee.  These additions advance Boyle Investment Co.'s mission to create a destination that meets the evolving needs of businesses and the community alike. Both additions come during a period of evolution for Meridian Cool Springs. MeridianCoolSprings.com

announces the highly anticipated opening of Lona, a renowned contemporary Mexican cuisine restaurant, in early 2025.

This marks the third location for the renowned Fort Lauderdaleborn restaurant, following its successful establishments in Fort Lauderdale and Tampa and the first location for award-winning Chef Richard Sandoval in Nashville.

A collaboration between Sandoval and Pablo Salas, Lona brings bold flavors and vibrant Mexican cuisine to  Music City.  Lona will be in the space formerly occupied by Makeready L&L. Noelle-Nashville.com

Photography Courtesy of Noelle/Tuna Ceviche

New Wine Bar To Open At Nashville Yards

Southwest Value Partners, the owner and developer of Nashville Yards, announced plans for a new wine bar. Set to open in mid-2025, The Wine Bar at Nashville Yards is the second concept from the local ownership group behind Vintage Vine 100 in Franklin and will offer a curated selection of global wines and diverse tapas menu, and feature indoor, outdoor, and glass-enclosed patio seating for more than 150 people. Live piano music and sweeping views round out the experience. WineBarAtNashvilleYards.com

Photography by Interior rendering

Spots Available.

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Our team-building initiatives and community involvement foster a strong sense of camaraderie and purpose among our employees. We take pride in not only providing quality work and service but also building lasting relationships within our community and among our team members. At TN Quality Roofing & Siding, we are committed to the growth and safety of our employees because we know that when they thrive, our customers benefit. Trust us to provide exceptional roofing services, delivered by a dedicated and expertly trained team.

Franklin Fire Training Division Captain David Kolak Retires After 29-Year Career

After 29 years of service to the Franklin Fire Department, Training Division Captain David Kolak retired last month.

After volunteering with Williamson County for four years and obtaining his firefighting certifications and EMT license, Kolak was hired by the Franklin Fire Department in 1995. At that time, the department had 35 firefighters and three stations. Today, it has 153 firefighters and responds to more than 11,000 calls annually from eight stations across Franklin, providing Advanced Life Support (ALS), the highest level of pre-hospital medical care. Franklintn.gov/ government/departments-a-j/fire

Franklin Mom Creates Local Vendor Lookup

Local Vendor Lookup is a new, locally owned online directory of local vendors and farms in the Nashville area. Its purpose is to make it easier to shop local by putting artisan vendors and farms together in one place. Its founder, Franklin resident, Marcia Topiwala, created the website because she would find products at Pumpkinfest in Franklin, or at a farmer’s market, for example, but then not remember the vendor’s name and/or be unable to find their information later.  LocalVendorLookup.com

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Karrington Rowe Opens In Brentwood

Up Hospitality Partners (UHP), the team behind beloved neighborhood spots Germantown Café in Germantown and Park Cafe in Sylvan Park, proudly announce the opening of their newest concept, Karrington Rowe, located in the heart of Brentwood at 330 Franklin Road. Designed to foster connection and deliver an elevated yet approachable dining experience, Karrington Rowe marks Up Hospitality’s third community restaurant venture. Dinner, lunch and brunch reservations are available to book online.

KarringtonRowe.com

Photography Courtesy of Up Hospitality Partners

Tecovas To Open Store On Historic Franklin Square

Franklin’s historic downtown square is set to welcome a new addition to its vibrant retail scene. Tecovas, the iconic brand known for its high-quality leather goods and handmade boots, is announcing plans to open a new location at 306 Public Square in the Old Bank Building, a Ca. 1901 5,000-squarefoot space steeped in history.

Founded in Austin, Texas, in 2015, Tecovas is a leader in Western wear and boasts more than 40 storefronts across the country. Tecovas.com

Lotz House Unveils Newly Discovered

Original Painting

The Lotz House unveiled a new Matilda Lotz original painting that was donated by her great aunt who lives in New York City. The painting is entitled “Barnyard Christmas” featuring a sheep in a barnyard with two chickens by a holly tree. Many of Matilda’s subjects include farm animals with exceptional expression and calm.

Matilda Lotz was the daughter of German immigrant Johann Lotz who built the Lotz House in 1858. LotzHouse.com

Portraits

ARTICLE BY SARAH BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Jeremy Cowart Combines Art, Photography And Philanthropy

And Purpose

In the heart of The Factory at Franklin, you will find one of its longest-running tenants, world-renowned photographer, artist, and innovator Jeremy Cowart. Gifted with the ability to think and dream outside the box, Cowart’s award-winning work has been featured in Rolling Stone and Time magazines, and his art was showcased alongside Ansel Adams and Andy Warhol in a London museum auction.

Jeremy Cowart

A longtime Franklin resident, Cowart grew up in Hendersonville and studied graphic design in college. But for a creative mind like his, working for an ad agency quickly led to boredom. Having friends in the music business, Cowart was able to transition from creating ads to designing album covers and websites for friends. This turned into starting his own company, purchasing his first digital camera, and launching a career he had sworn was something he’d never do – become a photographer.

For many years, Cowart spent his time photographing celebrities. When asked about his most memorable experiences, Cowart replies, “Shooting an artist named Imogen Heap in Iceland, and touring the world with Chris Tomlin and his band was amazing.” He has done shoots with everyone from Taylor Swift to Emma Stone and found himself starstruck upon meeting Sting and Tyler Perry.

Now Cowart has made his artistry accessible at The Portrait Lab, offering locals the Hollywood treatment for a truly unique and revolutionary

portrait session. This one-of-a-kind studio is located in the main building at The Factory at Franklin. Sessions at The Portrait Lab are unique because Cowart has created over 200 backdrops that rapidly rotate on a large LED wall and are synced with rotating light setups. Following your session, Cowart sits with you to review your photographs, edit and retouch them, and offers custom backdrops. He describes the process as, “We shoot until we feel like we have it. It’s slow. It’s intentional. We can put whatever you want on that wall. So if someone wants to bring their own art, a photo of something or someone that means something to them, we can customize their backdrop. Or we can use what I already have there.”

Sting

Taylor Swift

“I’M ADDICTED TO LEARNING. I FEEL LIKE THE MINUTE YOU STOP LEARNING THAT’S WHEN YOU BECOME BORED, JADED, AND IRRELEVANT.”

Chris Stapleton

You may think portraits are best when taken in joyful moments, however, Cowart encourages clients to be open to capturing both the good and bad. Some of the most poignant portraits he has taken have been amid difficult circumstances.

For Cowart, the past couple of years have presented their own set of challenges as he was diagnosed with a rare genetic brain disease called Friedreich’s Ataxia, a disorder affecting the nerves, spinal cord, and cerebellum. It causes him to feel like he is in the ocean each time he stands up or walks around and can cause his speech to become slurred. Cowart says, “The good news is there are several avenues toward a cure, so I’m very hopeful.” Though the disease has affected Cowart’s coordination, he does not let that serve as a roadblock to pursuing his dreams and philanthropic ideas.

A visionary and entrepreneur, Cowart’s deep commitment to humanitarianism has fueled many projects. His work reflects his "belief in the power of art to foster empathy and healing,” he says. Cowart founded Help-Portrait, a global movement providing portraits to those in need, and launched Voices of Gatlinburg, a relief project following the wildfires. Another of his projects, Voices of Reconciliation, features Rwandan genocide survivors standing with those who killed their families and whom they now have forgiven.

Cowart’s talents are not limited to photography and art. He is the author of I’m Possible, a memoir challenging readers to face their fears, push beyond life’s challenges, and embrace their purpose. Additionally, his recent TedX talk at the Schermerhorn this past fall, will soon be available on all Ted Talk platforms. In

it, he shares a message that has been on his heart for years; “The idea that the human body is the same as a camera body. The light we are letting in creates the image that comes out of us.”

The image Cowart exudes is one of compassion and hope. It has fueled a dream 10 years in the making. The Purpose Hotel is “a hotel chain designed to support charitable causes through every aspect of its operations,” he says. The idea is that each room will sponsor a child, and every item in the room, right down to the room key, will support charitable causes. With the project gaining traction, Cowart looks forward to the day this dream becomes a reality.

To know Cowart is to know a man who sees and dreams beyond the lens of the camera. His accomplishments are more than a list of things he has done. They are a living record of his impact and legacy not only in Franklin but around the world.

JeremyCowart.com / PortraitLab.co

Lauren Daigle

ADAMS

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GAME

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUDY BEAUDIN

CHILI CHANGING

Gather Friends Around The Big Screen For Pro Football’s Biggest Night Of The Year

This chili has seen more football games and busy weeknights in my house than I can remember. The original version I created long ago is almost unrecognizable after years of tweaking to get the flavors just right.

Everyone has their favorite version of chili, from fiery hot to extra mild. This one hits right in between with a little heat, a little sweet, and loads of deep spicy flavor. Easy bigbatch foods are the ticket for serving a raucous bunch crowded around the tv for some serious football watching. Whip up this crowd-pleasing chili early afternoon and let it simmer an hour or two. Bake a batch of Buttery Mini Corn Muffins to set out in baskets. Add chili toppings and desserts, and you’re ready to kick back with everyone and cheer on your team from pre-game to the final seconds.

FAMILY FAVORITE CHILI

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 large onion, diced

• 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2.5 pounds ground beef

• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed fire roasted tomatoes

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1 ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base

• ¼ cup dark brown sugar

• 3 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 2 teaspoons coriander

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, drained

• 2 (15 ounce) cans great northern beans, drained

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

TOPPINGS:

• Sour cream

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Sliced scallions

• Corn Chips

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a large Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeño, and garlic.

2. Sauté 2-3 minutes.

3. Add ground beef. Cook and drain.

4. Stir in next 12 ingredients. Simmer over medium low heat for at least 1 hour.

5. Add beans and apple cider vinegar.

6. Serve with toppings and corn muffins.

Yield: 16 servings

Chili made in Staub Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven in Basil Green available at Williams-Sonoma, Cool Springs Galleria

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 400º.

2. Whisk first 5 ingredients in a medium bowl.

3. Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine.

4. Spoon batter into wells of a lightly greased 24-well mini muffin pan.

5.Bake 10-12 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.

Yield: 24 mini muffins

BUTTERY MINI CORN MUFFINS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cups cornmeal

• ½ cup sugar

• 4 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 eggs

• 3 tablespoons melted butter

• 1 cup buttermilk

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As

HOW ALEX GOULART IS SHAPING FRANKLIN’S VIBRANT BUSINESS SCENE

CREATIVE SPARKS

Franklin is a city bursting with creative energy, where every corner reveals the fruits of its residents' labor. Yet, it’s easy to overlook the stories behind the businesses that define this vibrant community. These enterprises are often the result of visionaries who channel their passions into impactful ventures. Alex Goulart, the owner of new creative agency, Fire Kite, exemplifies this spirit.

Goulart’s journey to Franklin is as unique as his work. A Brazilian raised in England, his upbringing was shaped by his parents’ careers in maritime law. “My childhood was spent living and traveling internationally in Europe, South America, and the U.S.,” he says. Despite initial plans to follow in his parents' footsteps, Goulart quickly discovered that law was not his calling. “After one week of reading the same sentence over and over, I realized a law degree wasn’t for me and switched to an English and modern languages degree. By 19, I knew I wanted to get into advertising.”

Creativity seemed to be an innate part of Goulart’s identity. “I’d write and perform skits at home and school, always adding to a book of ideas that I still carry around with me,” he recalls. This inventive streak paved the way for his current role as the founder of Fire Kite, a company with a bold mission - “Inspired by Ben Franklin’s key kite experiment, our goal is to help brands become legendary through audacious acts of creativity. Strategically grounded creative is an underutilized superpower that any business can employ to create an outsized impact in the marketplace,” Goulart says.

Fire Kite’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that blending in with the crowd is the riskiest move a brand can make. Instead, the company focuses on helping businesses stand out through “smart, logical thinking combined with uninhibited, creative leaps; reason and ‘unreason’ as it were.”

After two decades of honing his craft at global agencies like BBDO New York and 180 Amsterdam, Goulart made the leap to entrepreneurship. “I figured I had learned just enough to be able to set out on my own,” he says. Drawing on his background in copywriting and creative direction, he has assembled a talented team of partners specializing in brand strategy, production, and media planning. Together, they offer a comprehensive suite of services, including video, experiential, photography, social media and digital campaigns - whatever medium is most effective for a client’s needs.

One of Fire Kite’s standout projects last year was its work for Vaulted, the gold investment app from McAlvany Financial Group. To break through the conventions of the

a copywriter and Creative Director, Alex has enjoyed the challenge of turning words and ideas into business success for over 20 years/Photo by Nathan Johnson

In 2012, Alex worked as a Senior Copywriter for Nissan, winning creative awards for inventive ads like this one

precious metals industry, they resurrected King Tut as their brand mascot and even bought him a seat behind the home team's bench at a Denver Nuggets game, where the commentators talked about him on live TV. The campaign led to a 200 percent increase in account signups and trade volume and prompted McAlvany to sign Fire Kite as its agency of record for all three of its brands.

“It’s really exciting to build something from the ground up and connect with so many talented and ambitious people who all share the drive to make great, creative work,” he says. Goulart’s passion extends beyond his business. He’s committed to nurturing Franklin’s creative community and helping it gain national recognition. “I would like to see Nashville, and Franklin specifically become more prominent players on the national ad scene. There are many fledgling creative businesses led by very talented people popping up in our area, so whatever I can do with Fire Kite to draw attention to our local creative community will, hopefully, benefit everyone.”

The Fire Kite core team (L to R): Judy Kreiter, Head of Production; Zach Fugate, Creative Director, Benjamin Franklin, Head of Inspiration; Alex Goulart, Founder & Executive Creative Director; Tim Anderson, Head of Production/Photo by Nathan Johnson

Alex couldn’t do it without the support of his wife Heather Goulart, Owner of local wellness companies Hyssop Branch and Flower Crown/Photo by Nathan Johnson

According to Goulart, Franklin is poised for a creative renaissance. “The creative scene here is exploding," he says. "People with major market experience in design, animation and film are planting seeds right here in Franklin. Increasingly, creative excellence will be a hallmark of this region.”

With a clear vision and unwavering dedication, Goulart and Fire Kite are helping to shape Franklin into a hub of innovation and commercial artistry. By supporting local talent and fostering collaboration, they’re not just creating memorable campaigns—they’re building a community where creativity thrives.

FireKite.co

MAKER’S

Alex recently partnered with Hope Haven Rwanda on the “Write it Off” campaign: an invitation to make a tax-deductible gift that helps “write off" the expectations of a country scarred by genocide

Flipping the script on financial marketing conventions, Fire Kite resurrected King Tut as the spokesman for gold app Vaulted, even sending him to a Denver Nuggets game for a courtside appearance

To promote the time-saving benefits of Quickbooks Online Accountant, Alex partnered with a brewery in Rhode Island to brew a custom beer for CPAs which was picked up by local news

Coffee Anyone?

Four Of Franklin’s Buzzing New Coffee Shops

ARTICLE BY MORGAN RAUM

Home to some of the country’s finest southern charm, Franklin embodies what every town strives to have: good people, good restaurants, good shops and great coffee! With several new coffee shops now open within Franklin city limits, we are excited to share some of the latest and greatest finds that have recently been welcomed into town.

The Flower Kitchen

Blooming with pastels and gorgeous florals, The Flower Kitchen offers an array of teas along with a café menu consisting of craft coffee, pastries and brunch. Whether you stop in for their popular Oatmeal Cookie Latte or a fresh floral bouquet, this shop will be sure to brighten your day.

Hank’s Coffee Station

Hank’s has officially opened its second Franklin location, this one on West Main. Known as “your daily pit stop,” this vintage filling-station-inspired coffee shop is cozy and quaint with a rustic flair. From their signature Salted Whipped Honey Latte to Hank’s Honey Bee Tea Latte, the drinks taste as good as they look.

Offering everything from classic lattes to a variety of specialty drinks, these four shops are recent additions to the Franklin landscape and worth the visit. Coffee shops are the perfect place for connection, and any of these cafés would be the perfect place to catch up with a friend.

Each shop offers a different vibe; from cozy and comfortable to chic and artsy, and you are bound to love more than just their coffee. Whether you're on the hunt for your

new favorite latte or are simply looking for an excuse to try someplace new, an impressive collection of coffee shops is essential for a town like Franklin. To top it off, there is nothing quite like being met with the delicious smell of roasting coffee beans as you walk into a cute coffee shop. We hope you're inspired to go out and try one of these new, locally owned coffee spots right here in Franklin.

Elroy Coffee Co.

With earthy tones and impressive décor, Elroy’s is the perfect place to spend a morning or afternoon. This Australian-inspired café is mother-daughter owned and includes a selection of daily pastries, brunch foods –including their famous avocado toast – and, of course, coffee.

ELROYCOFFEECO.COM

Mr. Arts Coffee House

Mr. Arts is located on Hillsboro Road and offers an array of specialty coffees, pastries and breakfast foods. Entering the doors, you will be met with a neon sign and their friendly staff welcoming you in. From classic coffees to unique lattes, this new shop is worth the stop.

Valentine's Day A SWEET ESCAPE FOR

A LOOK INSIDE BUBBLE JOY

This Valentine’s Day, Bubble Joy invites lovers, friends, and families alike to step into a world of whimsy, sparkle, and delight. Bubble Joy is nestled in the picturesque village of Leiper’s Fork and has quickly become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, old and young. But this charming shop offers more than just candy – it’s a setting for creativity, celebration, and connection. Whether you’re celebrating friendship, family, or self-love, this one-of-a-kind destination has something for everyone this Valentine’s Day.

Jason Warner and deMarco DeCiccio, owners of Bubble Joy, make it a point to share the love in Leiper’s Fork. They also own and operate GratiDude Ranch where they live with their twin sons just down the road from Bubble Joy in Fernvale. GratiDude Ranch serves as an event venue and lodging destination offering farm-to-table dinners, the original “Family Hillbilly Clue” and “Rockabilly Clue” murder mystery dinners,

weddings, and other magnificent experiences. Warner founded a nonprofit called SAFE (Safe, Affirming, Family Environment) that also operates on GratiDude Ranch providing programming for foster children and foster families while also offering space for special events for the foster community. Through their events on the ranch, they have educated the community on the needs of the foster care system in Middle Tennessee for the past decade.

“In opening Bubble Joy, named after a song sung to me as a child by my mother, we wanted to do something really special for families in our community,” says Warner. Among beautiful galleries, antique stores, and restaurants, Leiper’s Fork was missing one thing – a place for families and kids. The “GratiDudes” decided to transform their new space at Leiper’s Corner Shoppes into something the whole family could enjoy. “An old-fashioned candy shop was a no-brainer,” says Warner.

“We wanted it to be more than just a candy shop – we wanted it to be an experience.”

Although on the second floor, it’s not hard to find – just look for the bubbles dancing in the air outside the store. Once inside, visitors are greeted with mounds of colorful candies in apothecary jars along the walls and counters. But keep going, and you’ll find that this isn’t just a place to buy sweet treats – it’s a backdrop for creating magical memories.“It’s Willy Wonka meets Walt Disney,” says Warner. “We wanted it to be more than just a candy shop. We wanted it to be an experience.”

At the heart of Bubble Joy is its Bubble Bar, a sparkling haven for creative concoctions that bring out everyone’s inner child. Start by picking from a selection of farm-crafted, pre-biotic or organic sodas, add your pick of flavored syrup, popping pearl boba bubbles (or Jeni’s ice cream), then top it off with edible glitter, and you’ve got the signature drink, The Bubble Joy. Add a popsicle and some cotton candy and you have The Bubble Joy Special. “The bubbles are edible, the drinks are glittery – it’s magic,” adds Warner.

The Parlor, which adjoins Bubble Joy, was inspired by Kidd’s Jewelry Heist in Los Angeles with its vintage charm and elegant décor, complete with a beautiful antique jukebox. The Parlor is open during regular store hours and offers apothecary merchandise, as well as a tea and mocktail bar where guests can enjoy locally blended herbal teas or handcrafted mocktails. A wide array of floral and herbal elixirs and tinctures, along with flavored popping pearls, can be added to beverages offering a creative twist to the celebrations.

For adults seeking a more elevated experience, the menu features a delightful selection of mushroom adaptogen mocktails and CBD mocktails. The bar will be serving festive Valentine’s Day mocktails such as the Love Potion alongside the regular menu items.

This sophisticated 1930s-inspired venue and event space is also perfect for hosting private gatherings such as birthday parties, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, or corporate events. In keeping with the creativity of the candy and drink bars, a jewelry bar is also available to patrons during store hours and can also be open for private events.

“What mirrors candy? Jewelry,” Warner says. The interactive, creative activity allows customers to choose from a variety of beads, charms, and chains, enabling them to create a unique bracelet, necklace, earring or key chain that captures their individual style. Once complete, the staff clamps and finishes your work of art, sending you home with your memorable, handmade keepsake.

Kidd’s Jewelry Heist is a birthday experience much like an escape room where kids discover a code to a treasure box through a list of clues. The treasure box holds the treasures that guests use to design the jewelry pieces they get to take home. Jewelry Heist birthday parties can be booked yearround at The Parlor outside of store hours.

For those last-minute Valentine’s shoppers, locally crafted vintage finished jewelry is also for sale and is currently 50 percent off. Lastly, while enjoying your beverage of choice or waiting for your jewelry to be completed, visit a colorful, bubbling oxygen bar where you can enjoy some relaxation, clarity or pick-me-up based on the essential oil recipe of your choosing. Using Young Living essential oils, guests can book a 10 or 20-minute session and immerse themselves in oxygen therapy, providing a calming and rejuvenating experience in The Parlor’s comfortable atmosphere.

On Friday, February 14th, enjoy a two-for-one Valentine’s Day special for couples who book an oxygen bar session.

The Parlor also hosts an open mic night every Friday night, perfect for Valentine’s Day this year as it falls on a Friday. If you would like to perform at an open-mic night, visit the website. Space is limited.

While Bubble Joy is undoubtedly a feast for the senses, it's also a place that beautifully captures the spirit of Leiper’s Fork. Its playful, colorful vibrations reflect the area's artistic heart. “For us, it’s all about giving back to our community and creating a place for people to come and experience joy and love,” says Warner. And really, isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is all about?

ILoveBubbleJoy.com

Bespoke Luxury Closet Designs

Stamp Of Approval

ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Photo by Savannah and Jon Hopkins, Hopkins Co

For Amy and Luis, hospitality has always been part of their story. After moving to Nashville from New Jersey, Amy found herself at a Germantown bar ordering from a local bartender that caught her eye. She returned the next day, slipped him her number, and the rest is history. They wed in 2024.

While dating, they began a joint Instagram account to document their eats and adventures together, and over the years, many locals and visitors alike have turned to their page, 615Approved, as an expert resource. They’ve amassed over 50,000 followers and counting, all while shedding light on the latest and greatest Middle Tennessee spots.

We’ve gathered the inside scoop on 615Approved and their favorite “approved” hotspots around town.

WHAT INSPIRED 615APPROVED?

We started 615Approved initially as a scrapbook for our relationship and to record the places we loved. When COVID hit, we highlighted some businesses offering family meals and other creative options. We joined TikTok and began creating videos of places we loved and wanted to see survive, and here we are today—highlighting not only bars and restaurants but everything from hotels to pickleball facilities, concerts, events…you name it!

WHAT’S THE MOST FULFILLING PART?

Getting the opportunity to meet others in the space and really feel the emotion behind the community here

in Nashville. We are so blessed and don’t take lightly how lucky we are to have people follow along with our recommendations—it means the world when we receive messages or comments about folks supporting these places and having great experiences.

ANY PERSONAL FAVORITES IN FRANKLIN?

So many! Stable Reserve, O Be Joyful, or Amendment XVIII for cocktails. Red Pony for a nice dinner, Wilco Fusion Grill for incredible arepas and the nicest staff on earth, and Tio Fun for excellent tacos and supreme vibes.

We also love having a meal and stroll at Southall, shopping at Vinnie Louise, and picking up a bottle of wine or an NA beverage at The Bottle Shop.

WHAT ARE YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SOMEONE VISITING NASHVILLE?

We recommend Noko for Asian wood-fired, Lyra for Mediterranean, Urban Cowboy Public House + Roberta’s Pizza for excellent cocktails, ambiance, and arguably some of the best pizza in town, Tempo for coffee and breakfast tacos, The Horn for chai and sambusas, and El Tapatio #1 has, hands down, our favorite burrito in town. We love grabbing cocktails at Four Walls, 1865 Club, Tiger Bar, and Bastion.

For more approved spots around the 615, follow along at @615approved.

“It means the world when we receive messages or comments about folks supporting these places and having great experiences.”

“We

started 615Approved initially as a scrapbook for our relationship and to record the places we loved.”

“This is our 6th real estate transaction with Blake Johnson, so that in itself says a lot! He is honest, responsive, helpful, and respectful. He is knowledgeable about the business and about the market. Because he has a team, open houses happen frequently and no detail is missed in the transaction process.”

synergypilatesnashville.com 607.258.9392

CURTAIN’S UP

Grassland’s Neighborhood Dance Studio Has Been Fostering Community For 12 Years

ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Maureen with her dog Artie /Photo by Three Wishes Photography

If you grew up in the world of dance, you know its benefits all too well: refined motor skills, teamwork, discipline, exercise, the list goes on. For Franklin native Maureen Sharp, dance has been a key part of her life since she was just three years old.

“I was born in North Carolina but moved to Tennessee when I was two,” Sharp says. “I’ve grown up here in Franklin. My mom put me in dance at three, and I fell in love with it.”

Now 37 years later, Sharp is keeping the fancy footwork going through her own studio, Grassland Dance Academy (GDA). While she now fosters a love of dance in children in the very community she grew up in, her full-circle journey to getting here found her in every nook and cranny around the world.

“I worked for Celebrity Cruise Lines for six years as a production dancer, performing Broadway-style shows and exploring various dance styles on board,” Sharp says. “With that, I got to travel around the world, and I moved into aerial silks like lyra and trapeze.”

She cozied up in her ship cabin and sailed the world performing for eager travelers, eventually moving into a director position for the cruise line where she helped cast the shows and assist the choreographers.

“Though it was so cool, when you’re in that transient lifestyle for such a long time, you don’t realize how much you crave normalcy,” Sharp says, recalling the days she had to be ‘on’ from the moment she stepped out of her stateroom. “I just wanted to get up in my pjs and have a cup of coffee.”

Eventually, she knew it was time to come home. She returned to the Grassland community and set her sights on opening a studio to continue sharing her passion for dance with the next generation. Twelve years ago, Grassland Dance Academy was born as a way for Sharp to pass on her passion for the art of dance in a community-focused setting.

Because of her career traveling the world, she worked with dancers from tons of countries and varying backgrounds. But one thing they all had in common? Good technique. She used this as the driving force behind her mission, focusing her programs on technical training and camaraderie as opposed to competition.

“The competitive dance world can be insane,” Sharp says. “It doesn’t train kids to be good dancers; it trains them to be competitive. On top of being a good dancer, it’s about being a good individual, having a good work ethic, and committing to their craft. Balance in life is so important.” CONTINUED >

GDA staff

Some GDA dancers

“On top of being a good dancer, it’s about being a good individual, having a good work ethic, and committing to their craft. ”

From the moment dancers and their families walk through the GDA doors, she hopes everyone feels her commitment to creating a welcoming and safe environment.

Classes begin at the age of three and continue through high school graduation. Students begin with a combined ballet, tap, and tumble class, then disciplines break apart and classes expand to include jazz, lyrical, acro, and the always optional hip-hop. GDA also offers classes and obstacle courses for boys.

In addition to dance classes, GDA is a popular choice for birthday parties offered in a variety of styles and themes: princesses, ballerinas, Bluey, Taylor Swift, superheroes, and many more. The all-inclusive package includes themed decor, snacks, juice, cupcakes, goodie bags, and themed activities for up to 20 kids.

Beyond dance, Sharp’s complex in Grassland has expanded to include a smoothie bar and salon suites. The smoothie bar offers healthy dining options like quesadillas, bowls, and fruit popsicles, and the salon suites house independent beauty professionals offering their services.

Reflecting on a successful 12 years (and counting) in business, Sharp says the most rewarding part has been the relationships she’s built from dancers who have graduated and returned to support the studio, to a staff instructor, Katie Trent, who has been with her from the start.

“We couldn’t be here without them,” Sharp adds. “It’s such a lifestyle; you dance together, and then you’re friends forever.” GDADance.com

The Sharp Family/Photo by Three Wishes Photography

THE ONLY THING ON OUR PRIX FIXE MENU

IS AUDACIOUSNESS.

When it comes to your marketing, we refuse to whisper sweet nothings in your ear. We’ll make your brand legendary - that’s our mission And buuer up the rolls instead

Catching Up With John Schneider

A Man Of Many Talents

ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLEN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY

John Schneider, both a celebrated actor and musician, has carved out a prominent place for himself in the entertainment industry. TV, music, theatre, podcasts, author - he's done it all and doesn't limit himself to one medium. Perhaps best known for his role as Bo Duke for seven seasons in the iconic television series, The Dukes of Hazzard, from 1979-85, the show became a cultural phenomenon and remains a nostalgic favorite for many fans. CONTINUED >

Schneider has continued to reinvent himself during his extensive acting career with roles that include  Smallville, Tyler Perry's  The Haves and the Have Nots,  Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, Nip/Tuck, The Secret Life of the American Teenager, Dancing with the Stars, and most recently, The Masked Singer On the theatre front, Schneider just wrapped a stage role in a who-dunnit off-Broadway New York City play, A Perfect Crime. "Doing live theatre is fantastic," says Schneider. "A Perfect Crime has been running since 1987 and is the longest-running show of any kind in New York. In fact, actress Catherine Russell, who has starred in the show since its first performance, has never taken a sick day or vacation day since 1987, and is in the  Guinness Book of World Records because of it . So it was definitely an honor to be brought into it. It was a great opportunity for me to get my acting chops back. The last time I did any theatre like it was before Dukes of Hazzard . It’s an amazing challenge. It’s where I came from."

In addition to acting, Schneider has also built a successful career as a country music artist that spans decades. His debut album, Now or Never, released in 1981, featured the single "It’s Now or Never," a cover of Elvis Presley’s classic hit. The song climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, and showcased Schneider’s vocal talents to a broader audience. "Where we really get to test our mettle as singers is when we’re sitting on a stool and the front row is four feet away and we’re singing live in a mic with no effects on our guitar or on our voice," he says. He has over 20 albums to his credit, including last year's Made In America. " I wrote Made In America to really bolster patriotism and try to remind people, as far as I'm concerned, that we do live in the greatest country the world has ever known. So let's celebrate that." Schneider sells his music through his website and adds, "They say nobody has CD or DVD players anymore, but I'm here to tell you that isn't true. They buy CDs like crazy. I sell all my music on CD and all my movies on DVD."

The Mount Kisco, New York-born Schneider is a man who isn't afraid to express himself, no matter the medium. "When I"m standing on stage with a guitar, there’s nothing better than that," he says. "But when I’m standing in front of a camera, there’s nothing better than that. When I’m behind the camera telling someone what to do, there’s nothing better than that. I’m in the moment and I consider myself a storyteller, so if I’m doing a play or a musical or singing a song or directing a movie, you’re gonna get the whole story. I express myself always."

“I consider myself a storyteller, so if I’m doing a play or a musical or singing a song or directing a movie, you’re gonna get the whole story.”

Outside of acting and music, he's a bit of a business man and his other ventures, of course, include self-expression - moonshine and CBD. He recently launched his own moonshine brand, Revenuer’s Reserve Premium Moonshine. Made by master distillers using a century-old recipe, Revenuer’s Reserve is available in Original, Blackberry and Apple Pie. "It's been a dream of mine since I started Dukes of Hazzard," he says. “It's a lot of fun.”

Schneider also has a popular CBD brand C BoD - which launched in 2020 and quickly became one of the top-selling CBD companies in the nation. He says, "I’d been a fan of CBD oil for a long time. Topically, internally, I’ve used it. With what I do {for a living}, there’s a tendency to be amped up and cramped up after your show and if you don’t sleep then your next show is gonna suck. So I started using it for that purpose. And I play a lot of very

bad golf and that’s when I discovered there was a CBD salve that you can rub on your hurt elbows or on your shoulders. It’s remarkable stuff. I was turned on to it, when I was 59 or 60 and someone said, 'OK, it’s time.' I discovered that it really worked and I knew I wanted to get involved."

To add to his already lengthy and busy resume, it’s worth noting that Schneider co-founded (with Marie Osmond) the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, which has raised more than $8.5 billion for 170 children’s hospitals throughout the United States.

TheJohnSchneider.com

“I

play a lot of very bad golf and that’s when I discovered there was a CBD salve that you can rub on your hurt elbows or on your shoulders.”

#1 Team at Onward Real Estate

Leveraging real estate resources with a creative and tenacious spirit, the LCT Team of Onward Real Estate are experts in delivering a synergy of success for each client with long-time REALTOR® Lisa Culp Taylor as team leader. We are ready to help you buy or sell a home in the Franklin, Brentwood, or Nashville areas - and we have the experience and knowledge to make the whole process easier for you. View listings at LCTTeam.com.

A Galentine's Day

SIX CREATIVE AND FUN WAYS TO CELEBRATE FRIENDSHIP

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA MADRID

GO GOO GOO:

Share your love for wine and chocolate at Goo Goo Cluster’s Secrets of Goo Goo event. In this 90-minute session, you and your friends will learn the history of the Cluster and how to pair Tennessee wines with handmade chocolates. You can also create your own four-ounce chocolate bar. Afterward, head to the Johnny Cash Museum across the street. GooGoo.com

To Remember

Red velvet premium Goo Goo

Photo courtesy of Goo Goo Clusters

FONDUE FLAIR:

Fondue is a fun way to enjoy a meal with friends without the hassle of cooking. There’s something special about gathering around a communal pot of melted cheese, wine and spices. Although traditionally served with bread, you can add apple slices, cured meats and veggies for variety. For dessert, try chocolate fondue with fruit, or any treat you can dip.

FARM FRESH ADVENTURE:

Join a one-hour field tour and tasting at Franklin’s Southall Farm and Inn. Walk through the kitchen gardens, sampling seasonal crops while learning about heart-healthy, sustainable farming practices. Afterward, you and your friends can unwind and rejuvenate at the spa. It’s an informative and memorable experience for all. SouthallTN.com

MOVIE MAGIC:

Whether it’s a classic like Dirty Dancing or a newer release, watching a romantic comedy with your friends is always a treat. Set up a hot chocolate station with toppings like whipped cream, sprinkles, and Amaretto, letting guests customize their own. Play a movie-themed trivia game, then break out the popcorn and enjoy the show.

Photo by Christina Madrid

Photo courtesy of Visit Franklin

SOUTHERN TEA:

Drink tea while spilling the tea! A tea party is a perfect way to spend time with friends while sampling tasty tea sandwiches and mini desserts. Three great options are the Glass Sparrow’s Nest Tea Room at the Painted Tree, the Southern Tea Room at Fork of the South, and The Tea Room and Tea Bar at The Parlor at Bubble Joy. All three options are in Franklin. ForkOfTheSouth.com  PaintedTree.com ILoveBubbleJoy.com

DAY TRIP!:

The charming Leiper's Fork village is just a short drive away and always a great time with friends. Visit the distillery for whiskey tastings and browse boutique shops for treasures. Then enjoy a meal at a local eatery while listening to live music. No matter what you choose, it’s sure to be an unforgettable day. VisitFranklin.com/ Communities/Leipers-Fork

Photo courtesy of Visit Franklin

Andrea Cambio MD, FAAD

Kristin Tetro MHS, PA-C

In Nashville

A HEART FOR WEATHER AND COMMUNITY

Danielle Breezy stands out not just for her fitting last name, but for her vibrant presence as one of Nashville's favorite meteorologists. She arrived in Nashville in 2016 after following a path that took her from Maryland to New York City to Oklahoma ("Where they have the most extreme weather you could ever have!") and then to Boston, where she met the man who would give her a very suitable last name.

But beyond delivering weather forecasts, Breezy is busy championing local events, supporting charitable causes, and embracing the lifestyle, culture, and values that make Nashville unique. And it's her warm personality that keeps fans tuning in day after day.

TELL ME A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW YOU GOT STARTED IN WEATHER.

Breezy: "I have loved weather since I was a child as a math and science geek, but the day that changed me was when a meteorologist by the name of Glenn "Hurricane" Schwartz, (who I think has a great name like me!) came to my school in Philadelphia and did the weather live and I thought, 'This is super cool.' So I went home and told my parents about it. They told me to reach out to him. I reached out to him and he invited me to the TV station. So I got to go, meet him, interview him, and I was hooked. That's

when I decided I was going to go into weather. I went to Cornell and studied atmosphere of science. I literally tell people I am a scientist. The broadcasting is secondhand. It's science first."  "I wrote for the Cornell Daily Sun , the paper there. I think I was the first-ever female person in the paper as a meteorologist. And this was in 2004. I was still one of the few females even majoring in this. It was mostly a male-dominated field. A general manager at a local TV station who also went to Cornell saw the Cornell Daily Sun and invited me to the station and asked me to start filling in. So I started on TV doing the weather at age 20."

CONTINUED >

YOU'VE RECEIVED SO MANY ACCOLADES AND AWARDS FOR YOUR WORK. IS THERE ANY ONE THAT REALLY SPEAKS TO YOU?

Breezy: "They're all wonderful and important to me, but I think getting the broadcaster of the year from the American Meteorological Society, which is your peers, the true scientists

"I THINK OKLAHOMA WAS THE PLACE WHERE EVERYTHING CHANGED FOR ME IN TERMS OF HOW I COVERED SEVERE WEATHER. PEOPLE WOULD SAY, 'YOU SAVED MY LIFE.' THAT WAS SUPER IMPORTANT TO ME AND I TRY TO REMEMBER THAT WHEN I'M DOING THIS."

and meteorologists in the country. For them to select me for my coverage of the 2020 tornadoes and for what I do in terms of going out to schools all the time, going out to communities and explaining how to stay safe during severe weather, they saw that and gave me that award. That's bigger to me than anything because it's my true peers saying you've done a lot."

YOU'RE VERY INVOLVED WITH SCHOOLS AS WELL. YOU DO A LOT WITH KIDS.

Breezy:  "I tell people that's one thing I'll never stop doing. And the reason is because a meteorologist came to my school in eighth grade, and he also had me as an intern in the summer. I have interns every summer. Our program has become very well known and I have interns from all across the country that come just to work in Nashville because they heard about it. They know they're going to get the training they need from us. And my weather staff, they're all phenomenal in that regard. They all want to help the younger generation. Those things are important to me because I think about my mentors, if they didn't do that for me and pave the way, I wouldn't be where I am."

YOU DO SO MUCH.

Breezy: "I think if you are going to be a public person, if you're not doing a lot, then what are you doing? It's part of your job. And part of that responsibility is to bring to light what's going on in communities and how we can help. I do think it's so important to give back. I grew up giving back. I grew up volunteering. My parents taught me that when I was a kid. So I just think it's important. You can give your time, you can give your resources, give your energy. I will do it. If it's a cause I believe in, I'll be on the forefront."

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOUR CAREER IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?

Breezy: " Nashville, to me, is now home. As an adult, it's the longest I've ever lived anywhere. I think I have the best management here that I've ever had. And we have such great friends, it's like our chosen family now, it would take a lot for us to ever go anywhere. We just love it here too much. I think this city, the 'it' city, really has us hooked. Everyone's nice, everyone wants to help, you want to help them. It's a magical place. I've never lived anywhere like it."

@daniellebreezytv

A young Danielle (R) with Glenn "Hurricane" Schwartz (C)

Creative Law

FROM THE COURTHOUSE TO THE SHARK TANK, BARRY SHRUM AND DENNIS DISNEY ARE HELPING CLIENTS NAVIGATE LEGAL WATERS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED ATLAS

Barry Shrum & Dennis Disney with Paralegal & Office Administrator, Doug Smith

Whether it’s the stage, the pulpit or the courthouse, Barry Neil Shrum has always sought an outlet for the creative streak running through him that led him to becoming one of the country’s leading entertainment attorneys.

As a youngster that meant playing drums in his brothers’ band, “Because that’s what everybody did in the ‘70s and 80s,” says the Lafayette, Tennessee native. Later he became a seminary student where he dug deeply into his spiritual sensibilities and earned a master’s degree before pivoting to the law.

“My desire at that time was to write books and pontificate, so when I went to law school, the people at the church where I pastored and taught said, ‘You took such a left turn,’” Shrum says. “But when you think about it, it’s just a different kind of law.”

Shrum began practicing with a Center City Philadelphia law firm, but soon thereafter formed his own practice called the Arts & Entertainment Law Group, which eventually brought him back to his Tennessee roots.

Around that same time, in small towns across Kentucky and West Virginia, Dennis Disney was traveling in a similar orbit. He and his musically inclined family sang as a group in their church and by the time he was in high school, found himself performing at country churches and revivals across the region.

“The experience instilled the music bug in me,” says Disney. “In college, I thought I was going to be a civil engineer. But someone with my GPA at that time should not be designing bridges,” he says with a smirk.

With common interests, experiences–they met while both were adjunct professors at Belmont University–and easy homespun humor, Shrum and Disney realized they were ideal business partners, so they combined their resources. They formed a partnership and, since January 2024, have practiced their craft at Shrum Disney & Associates, a Music Row law firm with a formidable presence in the entertainment industry.

“We have a passion for creative people, and we help them protect and exploit their creative ideas and their name, image and likeness,” says Shrum. Clients come from all business sectors, and all are treated like VIPs. But the roster includes notable names from publishers to celebrities and every aspect of the creative arts including music, film and television.

One of Shrum’s longstanding clients is Jay Leopardi, an American entrepreneur and marketing strategist. He’s the founder of Avenuear, a digital platform that enables aspiring artists to connect directly with music industry executives. They met years ago when Shrum helped him win a trademark infringement case against a major auto manufacturer.

Leopardi was eternally grateful, and the relationship led to another prominent client. “Ten years later, Jay was doing something else and he called and said, ‘You need to meet someone I’ve been working with,’” says Shrum. That ‘someone’ was another serial entrepreneur: Daymond John of Shark Tank fame. Shrum made the call and has handled the paperwork for many of John’s Shark Tank deals ever since. On the Shrum Disney website, John is quoted as saying, “Barry defends the principles that give entrepreneurs, inventors and creators the inspiration to take action and create new businesses–and new ideas–every day. I call him ‘the Closer.’”

Shrum has been a practicing attorney for more than 30 years. After graduating from Lipscomb University, he moved to Pennsylvania where he attended Westminster Theological Seminary and Widener University’s Delaware School of Law. He spent the early part of his legal career working for various firms in nearby Philadelphia before returning to Nashville where, in 1997, he rebranded his Philadelphia firm into Shrum & Associates.

His pivot to the law was prompted largely by a favor asked of him by his two older brothers. “They were trying to establish a music publishing and entertainment

Dennis Disney Barry Shrum

company and asked me if I could help them,” says Shrum. “At the time I was still at the seminary, but I bought every book on copyright law and music contracts I could find, and I figured out how to help them set up their business and navigate the issues of operating a music publishing company.”

That experience made him realize, ‘I can really do this.’ He completed his academic work at the seminary, quit his job as a teacher at a Christian college and applied to law school.

Around that same time, after graduating from Belmont in 1986, Disney embarked on a career as a music industry executive specializing in marketing, public relations, publishing and artist management. One of his first clients was a Belmont classmate and friend, multi-Grammy and Dove award-winning artist Steven Curtis Chapman. Disney managed Chapman over his first three albums.

Like Shrum, Disney found himself learning about the law during his everyday business activities. “While doing my job, I loved reviewing the legal contracts and working with our attorneys on revisions,” he says. “I always had a keen interest in the law, but I never acted on it.”

A few years ago, Disney felt that the timing might be right, so he met local music industry icon, Doug Howard–then the Dean of Belmont’s Curb College

of Entertainment & Music Business–for lunch and to discuss a career change. “I was thinking about teaching full-time, but I did not have a terminal degree,” Disney recalls of the meeting. “I told him I could go to law school, but I would be 61 years old by the time I graduated. He responded with a quip: ‘And in four years, how old will you be if you don’t go to law school?’”

Shortly after that meeting, Disney registered for the LSAT. In 2018 he enrolled at Nashville School of Law and continued working full-time until graduating and passing the bar. Armed with his degree, Disney reached out to Shrum, and the timing couldn’t have been better. “Barry asked me what I wanted to do, and I said, ‘I want to put my name on the door.’ And he said, ‘Let’s do it.’”

Combine the 30 years of experience as an entertainment, litigation and corporate attorney with someone who has been working in the trenches of the music industry for 40 years, and you get an authentic, boutique Music Row law firm, Shrum Disney & Associates, that takes the time to understand and serve the unique needs of each and every client. “We love to meet new clients,” Shrum says. “It’s a new experience every day.”

ShrumDisney.com

CHOCOLATE, WINE, AND WHISKEY, OH MY!

ARTICLE BY LISA VALENTINE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

What’s better than chocolate? Pairing it with wine and whiskey!

Whether you’re looking to plan a girls’ night out or a fun date night for Valentine’s weekend, the Nashville Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival has you covered. Enjoy indulging in decadent chocolate and scrumptious libations. “We’re excited to host the Nashville Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival. In our second year, we plan on having more Tennessee

wineries and distilleries and of course, more chocolates in various presentations,” says Charlie Adler, President of TasteUSA Festival Management.

“Nashville is such a fun city and we know that people love good food, good drink and overall fun entertainment, and this will be a blast.”

There is plenty of time to leisurely sip and sample your way through all of the festival’s treats. Tasting items include s’mores, cupcakes, cookies, candy,

Indulge In The Finer Things At The Factory's Second Annual Festival

donuts, and more to pair alongside samples of wine, whiskey, cider, craft beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. Specialty drinks also include candy cocktails, lushie slushies, boozy milkshakes, and spiked hot chocolate. The best part is that it’s all included in the ticket price. But if you need to balance the sugar overload, savory foods are available for an additional cost, as well as treats to take home.

“Chocolate, wine, and whiskey – It’s all the great things in life,” says Adler. “From our boozy milkshakes and other fun cocktail samples (yes – included in your ticket) to ooey gooey chocolate fondue, sweets and some really great local wines and whiskies – it’s an event that just screams ‘Let’s Celebrate!’”

• Saturday, February 15

• 21 and up

• 12:30 p.m.- 9 p.m.

• VIP options begin at 11:30 a.m.

• Located at The Factory at Franklin

• Tickets and information:  ChocolateWineWhiskey.com

BUCKING THE TREND

ARTICLE BY ED ATLAS

As a growing number of neighborhood veterinary clinics have been absorbed by corporate entities in recent years, Beauchamp Animal Hospital in Grassland has emerged as a bit of an outlier. And Dr. Adam Bush, the clinic’s veterinarian/owner, wouldn’t have it any other way.

While studying at Lipscomb University, Bush worked at the clinic under founder, Dr. Charles Beauchamp. “He told me that he’d hire me for a full-time job when I graduated from vet school and that one day he would sell the business to me,” says Bush. “And to have a mentor like him stick to his word tells you everything you need to know.”

Beauchamp didn’t just sell the clinic six years ago, “He sold it to me right when the corporations were buying a lot of vet practices for a lot of money,” says Bush. “I’m sure he turned down several offers. We’re a unicorn in the vet world; you just don’t see as many privately-owned practices like this anymore.”

Bush grew up on a peanut farm at the end of a dirt road in the town of Colquitt in Southwest Georgia. His father, Ted, passed away when Bush was 15 but his sister and mother still live there. It’s not a coincidence that the values and work ethic he acquired in those hot and dusty fields carry over to his veterinary practice.

“My childhood was very different compared to how it is for many kids today,” says Bush. “From planting and harvesting peanuts to

pulling weeds by hand, it was a lot of work. And there’s a lot of cotton down there too. We’d work through the fields, check for worms or pests and report back to the farmer. It was a different life, but it was a good life. Growing up where I did, you knew everybody and helped out during the harvest season. And the local vet, I went to school with his kids. He was part of the community. It absolutely shaped me.”

While Franklin and Williamson County are exponentially larger, his practice at Beauchamp embodies his small-town upbringing. His two associates, Dr. Molly Brinkmann and Dr. Jordan Seidman, are from the area and understand those values.

“The client experience really matters, and you’re treated that way,” says Bush. “We make an effort to get to know the client because that’s how we get to know their pet and that way we can provide better care. You’re a person who trusts us to care for your pet, not a number so that we can make our quota.”

Bush began thinking seriously about becoming a veterinarian during the summers of his college years in Nashville. He took a job in Nolensville working on a Tennessee Walking Horse breeding farm for Dr. William Gaw. “Back then, Nolensville was nothing but farms and Dr. Gaw was an amazing man and a wonderful boss,” Bush says. “I fell in love with working on that farm and decided that that is what I wanted to do.”

(L-R) Dr. Molly Brinkmann, Dr. Adam Bush, Dr. Jordan Seidman

What began as a summer job soon became much more. A few days after he started, the breeding manager quit, so Dr. Gaw trained Bush and his friend for the role, a position he held for two and a half years. Bush thought he would pursue a career in the equine industry but that changed after he went to work for Dr. Beauchamp. “I saw it as an opportunity to boost my resume for vet school,” he says. “But Dr. Beauchamp and I hit it off and I fell in love with the small animal aspect of vet care.”

Bush resides in rural Williamson County where he recently purchased some land where he has chickens, a couple of mini donkeys and a large garden. He has two daughters, Mary Michael and Lela. His personal pets include a couple of dogs and cats.

It’s a simple life that helps him stay grounded and connected to his rural roots. Likewise, that sets the tone for his work as a neighborhood veterinarian. “I’ve always tried to be healthy but in recent years I’ve thought more about nutrition and healthy habits,” he says. “And I think it translates into the way I practice. We keep it local and private and that’s who I am. Dr. Brinkmann and Dr. Seidman are the same way, and we are doing the best we can do to carry on Dr. Beauchamp’s legacy.”

BeauchampAnimalHospital.com

Dr. Bush and the practice founder, Dr. Charles Beauchamp

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ROCKING THE HOUSE

A Local “Surf” Band With A Bit Of Twang

When Colony House play music, they want listeners to not only enjoy it, but feel a sense of connection too. “One of the reasons we sing these songs with each other is to feel less alone in the world, and we hope that it does that for others too,” says Caleb Chapman, frontman and guitar player.

Caleb and his brother, drummer Will Chapman, have been creating music together most of their lives. A family friend, who they called Uncle Dave, tour managed the Highwaymen for decades.“We grew up hearing stories about them,” says Caleb. “They’re like the original trailblazers for knuckleheads like us trying to make a mark.”

In 2009, Scott Mills added his guitar skills to the band. “My only friend at college turned out to be Caleb and Will's cousin, and around that time they wanted to start a band,” recalls Mills. “My friend laid on a super shameless plug for me.”

Photo by Brandon Smith

Photo by Brandon Smith

It worked, and after Mills received the classic “Let’s jam sometime” text, Colony House was formed, and the rest is history. “Scott and I moved into the Colony House apartments in Franklin when we started getting serious about the band,” says Will. And the name stuck.

Colony House dropped its first record, When I Was Younger, in July 2014. One of its singles, "Silhouettes," was the most-played track on Sirius XM’s Alt Nation for four consecutive months and the album reached number three on Billboard’s Heatseeker’s Chart.

When bassist Parke Cottrell joined in 2016, the connection was complete. “Parke jumped on the When I Was Younger tour to fill in for our previous bass player while he got married, and he just never left,” laughs Mills.

The band jokingly classifies their music as landlocked surf rock. “One of our mentor/idol bands growing up was Switchfoot, and Will and I met them in a mall back in the day,” says Caleb.“Long story short, they invited us to play at their annual charity event in San Diego in 2015.”

Switchfoot, a surfing term, was also founded by two brothers who were surfers as well as musicians. When they heard Colony House play, they said they sounded like a surf band from Tennessee. The new genre was born and, seemingly, working. Their surf-rock hit, "You Know It," went viral on TikTok, and has amassed over 100 million streams across all platforms.

All Tennessee born and bred, many of their songs are full of nostalgia and love for their home state, which is especially reflected in their latest album, The Cannonballers, released in February 2023. The lead single, "Cannonballers", whose name is derived from the now-defunct Opryland rollercoaster -The Wabash Cannonball - reached the top 10 on alternative radio.

“One of the reasons we sing these songs with each other is to feel less alone in the world, and we hope that it does that for others too.”

The band checked another box on its list of goals by releasing a three-song Christmas EP,  Every Christmas, at the end of last year. They also recently visited Vanderbilt Children's Hospital to sing holiday songs to children with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. “If we can help them feel a little less scared during the holidays, that’s way more important than playing a sold-out show,” says Caleb. “Music is fun, but it's also a vessel to do things that matter.”

In addition to international touring, selling out the Ryman Auditorium and playing Bonnaroo all in the same year, the band has performed twice on both  Late Night with Seth Meyers and Conan , twice respectively, as well as appearing on TODAY, VH1’s Big Morning Buzz Live, and MTV Live - and they don’t have plans to slow down any time soon.

ColonyHouseMusic.com @ColonyHouse

Photo by Erick Frost

Photo by Erick Frost

Dining

A lot has changed since 1975, but one thing hasn’t! We still believe in always doing the right thing for our customers, as well as our community.

A SNOWY SOJOURN

Among The Mountains

Photo courtesy of Paws Up

Photo courtesy of Paws Up

Most snow-seeking travelers think of Big Sky, Montana for its scenic views or the adrenaline rush from skiing its awesome slopes. For those interested in the less-busy enclaves close to Whitefish, a world of boutique experiences will be right at your fingertips.

You won't want to miss the immaculate, vast sections of Glacier National Park. The snowfall in the winter months will guide you into quiet woods and lonely lakes where routes are traced not by tread but by the soft murmur of a moose in the distance, providing an isolation that is increasingly rare. Easy to travel between, Whitefish and Kalispell offer endless choices for whatever your travel mood dictates.

Apart from regular skiing and snowboarding, think about lacing up skates for a twilight spin on an outdoor ice rink surrounded by tall pines or discovering new territory by fat tire biking on clean wilderness paths just outside Bozeman. Less well-known than the headline attractions, these quieter pleasures allow you to explore Montana's more personal side, where unexpected wildlife encounters may serve as a reminder it is as much about tuning in to nature as it is about crossing-off items on a list.

For those travelers who love to shop, winter in Montana is a great time to look for local artisans who create handwoven blankets, carved wooden skis, or imbue of small-batch delights with the spirit of fresh-harvested mountain juniper. Visit Missoula's markets or check out an unannounced workshop on Helena's outskirts where a craftsperson could be combining modern flare with old-world skills to produce that one-off scarf or limited-edition whiskey that warms you from the inside out.

Glacier Rim Hats (GlacierRimHats.com) in Whitefish, a custom hat shop run by Todd and Becky Horning, is just the sort of hands-on boutique experience one might seek to create a one-of-a-kind custom-fit “your head only” hat. Known for their stylish and quirky linings and the customized stamped engravings on the inside leather sweatband, these hats are sure to please. It is not uncommon to see the Horning’s designs on celebrities and musicians alike, along with providing the official hats for Montana’s rodeo queens, Miss Montana and countless custom bridal orders. Be sure to book ahead of your trip as lead times can be anywhere from 3-to-4 months.

Todd & Becky Horning of Glacier Rim Hats

Photo by: @kylestansburyphotography

Photo courtesy of Paws Up

It will not be hard to adventure travel by day and find your inner epicurean by night at WinterFest, happening at the green o (TheGreenO.com), February 14-17. An adults-only escape located at The Resort at Paws Up. WinterFest is three days of winter-themed meals created especially for you by some of the country’s most illustrious chefs. Opus One Winery and winemaker, Michael Silacci will be a star participant this year. Silacci will be featuring a library wine-tasting and discussions about wine pairings at these exclusive dinners.

Now that your appetite for more is awakened, additional experience options at the Resort at Paws Up (PawsUp.com) can be yours, where 37,000 acres, 100 miles of trails and 10 miles of the Blackfoot River combine to make for the ultimate wilderness playground. The Paws Up staff can customize an adventure for you.

Red Awning/Photo by: David James

Photo courtesy of Paws Up

Photo by: @katytaylorphotography

"Even in the most remote, wintry regions, what truly counts is discovering authentic local offerings and forging meaningful connections."

— Tim Choate,  Founder and CEO of RedAwning

If all-inclusive is not your style, the properties found on RedAwning may be just your speed. Settle into a vacation home or condo all to yourself. Tim Choate, Founder and CEO of RedAwning (RedAwning.com) offers this thought to a discerning traveler: “As someone who has spent decades connecting travelers to exceptional vacation experiences, I’ve learned even in the most remote, wintry regions, what truly counts is discovering authentic local offerings and forging meaningful connections."

“Working in the vacation rental and digital innovation space has given me a unique lens to see how Montana’s winter landscapes, cultural traditions, and entrepreneurial creators can align with traveler expectations—especially when it comes to experiencing the state in all its frosty brilliance.”

Albeit vast and seemingly wild, Montana offers more than just a long weekend of fun. Planning your moments will be part of the excitement, a guaranteed solution for the winter blues. Montana is home to experienced guides who can assist in your trip planning. Whether it’s a tiny business in Livingston or an independent operator from Kalispell, seasoned local guides have stories that transcend the shiny brochures. They will bring you to hidden canyons for snowshoeing or thermal springs so you can watch the springs silently steam in the predawn cool, creating memories for a lifetime. Montana is for the solo traveler, the couple getaway or the perfect family trip, unique in its landscape, personalized only by the limits of your imagination.

Modern Garden Wedding & Event Venue

Are you ready to celebrate? Schedule your tour today! Now booking for 2026.

ARTICLE BY SARAH BROWN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Celebrate In Style

LOCAL HOTEL STAYS MAKE THE PERFECT VALENTINE’S GIFT

Give the gift of time to your sweetheart with a stay at one of these local luxurious hotels. There is something for everyone, whether you want to stay in Franklin, be in the heart of Nashville, or seek a quieter setting away from it all.

Hotel Nashville | Local guests receive up to 35 percent off their stay plus a $100 food and beverage credit and $100 credit to Bamford Wellness Spa, per stay. A valid Tennessee ID is required. 710 Demonbreun St., Nashville | 1Hotels.com

The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection By Hilton Offering a "Love Story" Valentine’s Day package throughout February. The Harpeth features elegant accommodations within walking distance from downtown Franklin. 130 2nd Ave. N., Franklin | HarpethHotel.com

Belle Air Mansion | Add on The Ultimate Package to include charcuterie, chocolate-covered strawberries, wine, and a dozen roses with your stay at this elegant bed and breakfast. 2250 Lebanon Pike, Nashville | BelleAirMansion.com

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville | Take advantage of the Romantic Valentine’s Escape Package this February. 100 Demonbreun Street, Nashville | FourSeasons.com/nashville

The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville | The Nashville Getaway includes breakfast or weekend brunch for two, valet parking for one vehicle, and a 2 p.m. late checkout based on availability. Use promotional code ZJL when booking. Valid for stays through February 20. | 401 Korean Veterans Blvd., Nashville | TheJosephNashville.com

Southhall Farm & Inn | Southhall offers a romantic retreat, including a spa, seed-to-table meals, and a speakeasy where you can enjoy a cocktail and music. 2200 Osage Loop, Franklin | SouthhallTn.com

Sarah Brown

Sarah Brown is a Nashville native, published author, freelance writer, and former teacher. She's passionate about writing stories that engage and inspire young readers and women. She has received the Women of Influence Award from the Nashville Business Journal and serves as a board member for the Patricia Hart Society of the United Way of Greater Nashville, focusing on childhood education and literacy. Brown lives in Spring Hill with her husband and two sons.

Photo by Sarah Brown

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Building the Perfect Bouquet

Valentine’s Day can be celebrated in many ways. Some people choose to go out for dinner and a movie, others hire a private chef for a romantic meal at home, some buy chocolates and find a fun activity in town, and some couples go out of town for an exciting getaway! One Valentine’s Day staple is giving a bouquet of flowers to someone special. Flowers are the gift that say I love you and can be given to your spouse, children, and mom. As a child, my father always got me roses on Valentine’s Day until I met my husband and he took over the tradition. A bouquet of flowers can say many things as each flower has a different meaning. If you’re wanting to say something special to the ones you love this Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of three popular flowers, what they mean, and what flowers to pair them with.

USE THIS GUIDE WHEN ORDERING VALENTINE’S DAY BOUQUETS

Roses

LOVE & ROMANCE

Roses are by far the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day. They are beautiful by themselves or you can add Baby’s Breath to enhance the bouquet. These two make a romantic bouquet and are the perfect flowers to give to someone special.

Lilies

PURITY & FERTILITY

Lilies come in a variety of colors and are eye-catching! For a softer looking bouquet, pair your lilies with carnations. These two combined are fun and heartwarming and are a great gift for anyone.

Tulips

PERFECT FOR DEEP LOVE

A bouquet of tulips will brighten any space! Adding some Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, will complement the tulips wonderfully. These flowers have a refreshing look that will decorate any home beautifully in a crystal vase.

ALMOST

LOVE POTION #9

ANNA BARNES

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY

A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY

WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?

This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• 1.5 oz rosé

• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice

• 5 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or sparkling wine)

THE HOW-TO:

1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.

2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.

3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.

4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.

5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.

6. Enjoy!

events

FEBRUARY 1ST

Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville

Music City Center | 9:00 AM

Runs through Feb. 2. Promising fine art, antiques, horticultural displays, and world-class speakers, this renowned show will be celebrating its 35th anniversary with headlining speaker Brooke Shields, actress, model and advocate for women's issues. Musicians will be performing throughout the grounds, including harpists and jazz ensembles. Tickets begin at $30. AntiquesAndGardenShow.com

FEBRUARY 1ST

Studio Tenn: Crimes of the Heart

Turner Theatre | 7:00 PM

Beth Henley's Pulitzer Prize-winning play  Crimes of the Heart is a heartfelt and humorous story about three eccentric sisters in a small Southern town who must confront their troubled pasts and support each other through a family crisis. StudioTenn.com

FEBRUARY 3RD

Mahjong Mondays at Fork of the South

The Factory at Franklin | 5:00 PM

Come enjoy a fun and friendly game of mahjong, where players of all skill levels are welcome to join, socialize, and learn some new strategies. ForkOfTheSouth.com

FEBRUARY 8TH

My Friend's House Mardi Gras Ball

The Factory at Franklin | 6:00 PM

This premier event features lively parades, top-tier entertainment, delicious cuisine, and dancing, all to raise funds for My Friend’s House, with proceeds supporting its annual operational expenses. MyFriendsHouseTN.org

FEBRUARY 15TH

Nashville Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival 2025

The Factory at Franklin | 11:30 AM

Enjoy a variety of decadent chocolates, sweet treats, and savory bites, along with unlimited wine, whiskey, craft beers, and non-alcoholic beverages, all included with your ticket. ChocolateWineWhiskey.com

FEBRUARY 16TH

Country Roads: A Tribute to the Legends of Country Music

The Franklin Theatre | 7:00 PM

Brady Seals, Richard Jacques, and Michelle Murray, backed by a talented band, celebrate country music legends like Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton. FranklinTheatre.com

Goldfish Swim School is the premier learn-to-swim facility for kids ages 4 months to 12 years. We use our holistic philosophy, The Science of SwimPlay®, to build life skills both in and out of the water using play-based learning in a fun and safe environment.

• Lessons for Kids 4 Months to 12 Years Old

• Trained & Certified Instructors

• Free Make-Up Lessons

FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL

THE SCOTTSDALE LURE OF

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

Photo courtesy of Experience Scottsdale

The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.

Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.

Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale —also known as Old Town

Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm (including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail

Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square, one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.

Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor minigolf destination Puttshack . What else is there to see and do? Plenty.

“WITH FEW RAINY DAYS, IT’S EASY TO PLAN YOUR DAILY ACTIVITIES WITHOUT WORRY. YES, THOUGH, THE SUMMER GETS HOT. BUT THE REST OF THE YEAR? PERFECTION.”

Photo courtesy of Experience Scottsdale

PLAY

Like golf? There are more than 200 golf courses in the Scottsdale area. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, there is a course for you. One of the most popular in the area is the TPC Scottsdale as it is the locale of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended golf tournament in the world.

For most of the year, Scottsdale boasts warm temperatures, making spending a day splashing in a pool a perfect choice. Many local resorts have pool areas that feature fun extras such as water slides, lazy rivers, and even a cooled sand beach. And even if you’re not an on-site guest, you can often purchase a day pass to be on-site through ResortPass.com.

Of course, there’s also plenty of outdoor recreation in Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale is a popular mountain to hike (as is the iconic Camelback Mountain, which is located in nearby Phoenix), and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a park and trail system spread over 11 miles. Kids love McCormickStillman Railroad Park , which boasts a small-scale train that circles the park and plenty of play areas.

A destination filled with numerous attractions is A rizona Boardwalk , a center that includes Butterfly Wonderland , OdySea Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , Museum of Illusions , and more.

CULTURE

The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.

However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!

There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.

On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.

Photo courtesy of Experience Scottsdale

by

Photo

Michelle Glicksman

Photo courtesy of Taliesin West

DINING AND NIGHTLIFE

From mom-and-pop restaurants to those run by James Beard Award-winning chefs and celebrity chefs, Scottsdale has it all. There’s Luna by Giada , by famed chef and TV personality Giada de Laurentiis; Uchi by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole; FnB by James Beard Award-winning chef Charleen Badman; and The Americano, which is helmed by celebrity chef and TV personality Beau MacMillan. Other local favorites are chef Joey Maggiore’s new The Italiano; Postino, for bruschetta and wine; Ocean 44 for seafood; and Old Town Tortilla Factory—which is set in a historic 75-year-old adobe home—for Southwestern with a Mexican twist.

If you’re looking for a night out, Downtown Scottsdale has the biggest concentration of clubs and bars. The walkable area has Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, El Hefe , Boondocks Patio & Grill , and many others.

If a more upscale lounge is your scene, check out the new Tell Your Friends speakeasy in North Scottsdale, located under The Americano restaurant.

EVENTS

Scottsdale is also known as a destination for events that draw attendees from around the world. Depending on your hobbies, time your visit to coincide with the one that interests you most. Golf lovers (and those who like to party) head to Scottsdale for the popular PGA tournament WM Phoenix Open , dubbed “The Greatest Show on Grass,” also includes concerts with well-known musical acts. Auto enthusiasts flock here for Auto Week , which includes the famous Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction . In late February and through March, the MLB’s Spring Training takes over the Valley, with Scottsdale Stadium becoming the home of the San Francisco Giants. There’s showmanship at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and rivalry on the field at the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Classic , which draws players from around the world and features polo matches, a fashion show, parties, and more. And in 2025, Art Week , the next big event in the art world, debuts in Scottsdale.

NEARBY

While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.

Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Fashion Square

Photo courtesy of Experience Scottsdale

Photo by Michelle Glicksman

615.591.6410

Where Technology and Compassion Meet

Our experienced team of audiologists is committed to providing exceptional hearing health care. We offer comprehensive evaluations, advanced treatments, and personalized solutions.

Offering State-of-the-Art Audiology Services Including:

Diagnostic Hearing Exams | Hearing Aids | Cerumen Management (Ear Wax Removal)

Pediatric Audiometry | Tinnitus Management | RealEar Measurements | Balance Evaluations

Tympanometry | Cognivue Screenings | Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Measurement

Auditory Processing Disorder Diagnostic Evaluations | Custom Plugs

Call or visit our conveniently located clinics for top-quality hearing services and discover how HearTN can improve your hearing health and quality of life.

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