Photo credit to Leigh Ann Remke
Home Sweet Home, Mount Juliet
Home. So much contained in that little four letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.
As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your city, neighborhood and most all of - your home.
Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.
Happy March!
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Kimberly Thomas | kimberly.thomas@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kourtney McComb | kourtney.mccomb@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer Thomas
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Karly Thomas
STAFF WRITER
Courtney Stockton
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kourtney McComb, Angi Hockett, Courtney Stockton, Vanderbilt
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kimberlee Brooke & Co., Aerial Innovations
Southeast, Shanta Harper
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Vanderbilt celebrates the opening of its new Oncology Cancer Center in Lebanon, TN.
Photo Credit: Relive Studio
Exploring Andrew Jackson’s Legacy at The Hermitage
On January 20, Cumberland University’s Dr. Mark Cheathem will delve into the myths and realities of Andrew Jackson’s 1829 inauguration at A Historic Inauguration at The Hermitage. A noted historian, Cheathem, will explore Jackson’s impact on American politics. Can’t attend? Catch his insights on C-SPAN’s American History TV in February! For details, visit: www.c-span.org.
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Bluegrass Nights Return to the Ryman!
The 31st annual Springer Mountain Farms Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman kicks off June 17, bringing a stellar lineup to Nashville’s historic stage! Catch legends like Ricky Skaggs, Rhonda Vincent, Dan Tyminski, and more. Season passes are on sale now, with single tickets available Feb. 21. Don’t miss this summer tradition! ryman.com/bluegrass
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Nishann LaNata discusses traveling on a budget on NPR!
Catch Craft Wealth Services, Nishann LaNata, as she discusses ways to travel on a budget without completely draining your bank account! Scan the code to listen to the NPR podcast episode, How to Travel on a Budget. https://www.npr.org/2025/01/23/1226281133/how-to-travel-on-a-budget
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Anderson Architects Celebrates the Grand Opening of TruRoots Health Center
Anderson Architects is pleased to share another successful design story! They are so grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with incredible chiropractors to bring their vision to life in the TruRoots Health Center.
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Glow Wilco welcomes Nicole Stroop to their team
The ladies at Glow Wilco are excited to announce the newest addition to their staff, board-certified Nurse Practitioner and certified Functional Medicine Provider Nicole Stroop, MSN, FNP-C, IFM. Nicole specializes in gut health, thyroid, and hormone optimization. Call today to set up an appointment!
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Bradford Lawn & Turf
Year ONE of lush lawns, vibrant landscapes, and serving the local community we love! Thank you for trusting our team of experts to keep your outdoor spaces beautiful, weed and pest free. As we step into another season, we’re ready to help your landscape thrive. Let’s grow together - Call us for expert lawn care, landscaping, and outdoor pest control solutions!
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Honkey Tonk Creamery Now Open!
Matt and Sheanna Harville and their four children celebrated the opening of their labor of love, Honkey Tonk Creamery. Weaving their talents with Matt's background in entertainment and restaurants the past decade and Sheanna's incredible desert recipes, they wanted to bring something new and fresh to Mount Juliet.
Nido Launches Office Tots Program
Nido Kids Cafe introduces Office Tots, a flexible co-working and childcare solution for parents in Nashville. With enriching care for ages 3 months to 3 years, flexible scheduling, and a supportive community, parents can work while staying close to their little ones. Join Nido Kids Cafe’s for various events throughout March! Book online –Limited spots! www.nidoplayspace.com. Want
PREMIER SEATING.
Join the excitement at the I roquois Steeplechase’s exclusive Hunt Club, where gourmet cuisine, premium cocktails, and prime trackside views create the ultimate race day experience. Celebrate Nashville’s R ite of Spring in st yle on May 10, 2025 — secure your spot in Hunt Club today!
MAGGIES Legacy
A love story of restoration and heritage in Mount Juliet
ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANTA HARPER
In the heart of Mount Juliet, Tennessee lies a historic home affectionately called “Maggie” by its current caretakers, Lindsey and John Michael Kennedy. What began as a casual visit to a friend’s farmhouse turned into a life-changing journey to restore and preserve a piece of history. For the Kennedys, Maggie represents more than a home; it’s a legacy, a tangible link to the past that they are determined to honor and maintain for generations to come.
The Kennedys first encountered Maggie through the Baird family, longtime stewards of the house and descendants of Blake Rutland, whose name is woven into local history. Lindsey recalls being invited to tour the property after lunch one Sunday. “We fell in love with the house and its legacy, not knowing how it would change our lives,” she says. The connection was immediate, and as they walked through the grand yet weathered halls of the home, they felt a deep pull to become its next caretakers.
Originally built in 1898 by Herschel P. Cawthon, the Folk Victorian-style farmhouse was once part of a 200-year-old Century Farm used for corn and cattle. The 2,700-squarefoot home retains many of its original features, including pine tongue-and-groove floors, a statement staircase, a stunning wraparound porch, and 23 eight-foot windows with handblown glass. “The craftsmanship is unmatched,” Lindsey shares. Each detail of the home tells a story—the gentle creak of the floorboards, the intricate woodwork framing the doors, the perfectly imperfect glass panes that have stood the test of time.
The Kennedys live in the home full-time, honoring its history while making it their own. They lovingly named the house after Herschel’s wife, Margaret, affectionately known as Maggie. “The name felt right,” Lindsey says. “It’s a tribute to the love and life this home has witnessed.” They view themselves as stewards rather than owners, embracing the responsibility of preserving its story.
While preserving the home’s historic charm, the Kennedys have introduced modern updates, including plumbing and electricity. Their unique approach to restoration, which they call “reorigination,” blends original craftsmanship with thoughtful, functional improvements.
“We’re not just renovating; we’re preserving the architectural features that make this house special while ensuring it meets today’s needs,” Lindsey explains. Every decision is made with care, ensuring that the home’s soul remains intact even as they bring it into the 21st century.
Restoring Maggie has come with its fair share of challenges. “Building a house sometimes feels like doing everything inside out,” Lindsey laughs. “Timelines and financials are always unpredictable, but the best things take time and hard work.” Unexpected hurdles often arise, from uncovering structural issues to navigating the complexities of maintaining historic integrity. But despite the obstacles, the process has brought the couple even closer. “John Michael is the carpenter, and I’m the designer,” Lindsey says. “It’s been an incredible journey of teamwork, problem-solving, and, at times, a few tears.”
One of Lindsey’s favorite additions to their home has been creating space for barn cats to roam the property. “Finally having space for them has been a dream come true,” she says. The cats have quickly become part of the charm of the home, weaving through the gardens and lounging on the sun-drenched porches, as if they, too, have claimed Maggie as their own.
Behind the Scenes: Filming with The Magnolia Network
“The name felt right,” Lindsey says. “It’s a tribute to the love and life this home has witnessed.”
The Kennedys’ journey has captured attention beyond their local community. A production company discovered them through Instagram, leading to their feature in Season 7, Episode 8 of Magnolia Network’s In With the Old. Lindsey hopes the episode inspires others to restore historic homes. “We wanted to be advocates for saving old houses and show people they can do it too, one step at a time,” she says. The process of restoration is not just about bringing an old house back to life; it’s about storytelling, about giving a second chance to a place filled with history and heart.
Despite their growing audience, the Kennedys plan to keep Maggie a private residence. “This house is our haven,” Lindsey explains. “We have no plans to rent it out or turn it into a business. We’re thrilled to continue living here, preserving its history while building our future.” To them, Maggie is more than an architectural gem; it is a place of comfort, of belonging, and of continuity in a world that is constantly changing.
For Lindsey and John Michael, Maggie is more than just a home—it’s a testament to resilience, craftsmanship, and love. “We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be stewards of this property,” Lindsey says. “It’s an honor to preserve it for future generations and for those who feel connected to its history.” They understand that they are merely one chapter in the house’s long story, and they take pride in adding their own mark while respecting the pages that came before them.
To follow their journey, visit www.reorigination.com or @reorigination on Instagram and Facebook. While it is a private residence, the Kennedys welcome anyone inspired by their story to connect with them online and join a growing community of old-home enthusiasts keeping history alive. Whether you are an experienced restorer or simply a dreamer who loves the charm of historic homes, Maggie’s story is sure to inspire a deeper appreciation for the past and the potential within old walls.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY VANDERBILT
VANDERBILT HEALTH HAS BEEN CARING FOR WILSON COUNTY SINCE 2019 AND EXPANDING ITS DEDICATION TO DELIVERING WORLD-CLASS COMMUNITY HEALTH CARE
CARING FOR WILSON
In 2019, Vanderbilt Health acquired the hospital in Wilson County and has since made investments to deliver
Heather Potts, FNP, assistant director of advanced practice at Vanderbilt Center for Women’s Health Lebanon.
“I LOVE THE RELATIONSHIPS I HAVE WITH PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES DURING SOME OF THE MOST VULNERABLE TIMES OF THEIR LIVES.”- HEATHER POTTS, FNP
care in the community that builds on the Vanderbilt Health legacy of worldclass care.
To honor five years of Vanderbilt Health’s commitment to Wilson County, Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital team members share what this community means to them and how support from Vanderbilt Health has transformed health care locally.
As the community grows, Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital has enhanced the level of care available to expectant families. Investment in the health of local families through a robust labor and delivery department has included OB-GYNs, specialty nurses, in-house midwives, new in-house pediatric services, as well as adopting Vanderbilt Health’s best practices.
“It's unique for patients to be able to give birth in a small, community hospital that can boast the quality of care that Vanderbilt Health is known for. The continuity of care is different,” said
Potts is proud to serve the families of Wilson County, noting, “I love the relationships I have with patients and their families during some of the most vulnerable times of their lives.”
Another important service available in Wilson County is interventional cardiology. Since 2022, Vanderbilt Health has expanded its cardiology offerings to include general cardiology, interventional cardiology and cath lab services. Serving patients in both clinic and hospital settings, Xiangke Huang, MBBS, MS, interventional cardiologist and assistant professor of Clinical Medicine, shared that they're seeing more patients than ever. “People hear about the quality care provided at the hospital and are choosing Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital as their preferred location for cardiology care and treatment.”
“Our clinic staff treat patients as family members,” said Huang. “When we take care of people from our
community, we feel we are in the same family, and it is very rewarding.”
As part of Vanderbilt Health’s growth in Wilson County, the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Lebanon recently moved to a new facility — offering worldclass cancer care in a comfortable and spacious setting.
Waleed Khalaf, MD, PhD, medical director for Regional Network Cancer Care at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, shared how building relationships with patients and their families is the most fulfilling part of his work.
“I don't view it as something that's just a service to a patient. It’s a relationship, and that's how we become part of the community,” said Khalaf.
Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital is home to the first and only Level III trauma center in the county. This designation indicates the hospital’s ability to provide 24-hour, immediate care by emergency physicians and quick availability of trauma-trained surgeons and anesthesiologists.
Steven Katz, MD, medical director at Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital, shared more about the importance of nearby access to high-level emergency services.
“Our hospital has this feeling of a tightknit community that can support its neighbors and do it well. Everybody has the mentality that they want to be part of the system, especially in an emergency.”
The investments Vanderbilt Health has made in Wilson County in the last five years build on the legacy of providing quality care to the community. With growth in key services and expanded care options, Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital continues to serve its neighbors across the region.
Heather Potts, FNP
REBUILDING RESILIENCE
ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AERIAL INNOVATIONS SOUTHEAST
HOW KAATZ, BINKLEY, JONES & MORRIS ARCHITECTS BROUGHT SCHOOLS BACK TO LIFE AFTER THE 2020 TORNADO
In the early hours of March 3, 2020, Mount Juliet was rocked by a powerful tornado that tore through the community, leaving widespread devastation. Among its hardest-hit landmarks were Stoner Creek Elementary and West Wilson Middle School—cornerstones of the area. While many were still reeling from the destruction, KBJM Architects was already on-site, assessing the damage and planning the rebuild. Jason Morris of KBJM shares his firsthand experience of the storm’s impact and the journey to bring these schools back stronger than before.
Morris remembers the night vividly. His home, five miles north of the tornado’s path, was spared, but his office was just 2.5 miles away from the wreckage. "We knew storms were coming, so when the warnings got serious, we took shelter in the laundry room," he recalls. "At 5:30 a.m., I got the call—Stoner Creek and West Wilson had been hit." Hours later, he stood among the ruins, taking stock of what remained. "I saw a suitcase wedged into a broken window. It was a small thing, but the force it must have taken to get there stuck with me."
The extent of the destruction soon became clear. "It wasn’t just the walls and roofs torn away," Morris explains. "The wind compromised much of the structural integrity, and water damage from sprinklers and rain had ruined almost everything inside. In the end, there was no choice but to rebuild from the ground up."
But rebuilding was no straightforward task. One of the first hurdles was navigating regulatory requirements. "At the time, Tennessee’s State Fire Marshal was using 2012 building codes, but Mount Juliet had adopted 2018 codes, which required storm shelters in schools," Morris says. "After extensive discussions, we moved forward with the 2018 standards. We weren’t just replacing buildings—we were future-proofing them."
And then came the challenge of working through COVID-19. "The pandemic turned an already complex project into a logistical puzzle," Morris recalls. "Some of our team worked from home, while others split into groups to limit exposure. Meetings that were once face-to-face had to go virtual. It slowed us down, but we adapted and kept moving forward."
For KBJM, student safety has always been a priority, but the tornado reinforced the importance of designing for resilience. "We've been incorporating secure vestibules into our school designs since the ’90s and began integrating FEMA-rated storm shelters in 2010," Morris explains. "Schools have to be built to withstand both extreme weather and everyday wear and tear. That’s why we use concrete block for interior walls—it resists damage far better than drywall. For exteriors, we use brick veneer over concrete block, creating a strong barrier against flying debris during storms."
The storm shelters, in particular, were a crucial addition. "They’re built to withstand the worst," Morris says. "Reinforced concrete walls filled with steel, impact-resistant doors and windows, and roofs designed to handle extreme wind and debris. Each shelter is also equipped with emergency water supplies and backup power. When the next big storm comes, these shelters will provide a safe haven."
But beyond durability, KBJM wanted to honor the community’s history. "I grew up here, and I remember the old junior high’s brick-walled dining area. That little detail always stuck with me," Morris says. "So when we designed the new schools, we included interior brick elements in key spaces like the commons and dining areas—a way to blend the past with the future."
The exterior design also reflects Mount Juliet’s identity. "We used metal roofing as a nod to the town’s agricultural roots, while large windows bring in natural light and create an open, welcoming environment. We also positioned the main entrance and student entryway facing Mount Juliet Road, reinforcing the school’s connection to the community."
KBJM has been part of Mount Juliet since 1987, and that deep local connection shaped their approach to the project. "We don’t just design schools and move on," Morris says. "We build longterm relationships. When we work with a school system, we’re invested in their future. That’s why we focus on practical, cost-effective designs that will serve generations of students."
And while KBJM is known for its work in education, the firm’s impact extends beyond schools. "We designed the Wilson County Jail addition and the new four-story Judicial Complex, and we’re currently working on commercial and residential projects right here in Mount Juliet. Schools may be a big part of what we do, but they’re not the only thing we do."
Looking back, the tornado tested Mount Juliet in ways no one could have anticipated, but it also showcased the resilience of its people. For KBJM Architects, this project wasn’t just about reconstructing buildings—it was about restoring a sense of normalcy and security for students, teachers, and the community. "At the end of the day, these schools are more than just walls and roofs," Morris reflects. "They’re where kids will learn, grow, and build their futures. Our job was to make sure they had a safe, inspiring place to do that—not just now, but for generations to come." And with each project they take on, KBJM continues to shape a stronger, more prepared Mount Juliet—one brick at a time.
“WE DON’T JUST DESIGN SCHOOLS AND MOVE ON,” MORRIS SAYS. “WE BUILD LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS.”
Real Estate Pulse Check
Michele with Onward Real Estate fills us in on the latest trends
The real estate markets in Mount Juliet and Nashville, Tennessee, are dynamic, vibrant, and filled with opportunities. Whether you’re buying, renting, or investing, there’s much to know about these growing areas. According to Michele Friedrichsen of Onward Real Estate, the market remains strong, supported by economic growth and an appealing lifestyle. Current mortgage interest rates are hovering around 7%, with stabilization or slight decreases expected in the coming months, depending on broader economic conditions. To offset these rates, many lenders are offering programs such as buydowns, which can temporarily lower interest rates by up to 3%, saving buyers hundreds of dollars each month in the early years of a mortgage.
Friedrichsen’s extensive experience managing properties and advising clients has revealed key trends, including a noticeable increase in people opting to rent rather than buy. This shift is driven by factors like affordability, flexibility, and economic uncertainty. Young professionals and families are particularly drawn to renting due to its lower upfront costs and convenience. Additionally, many renters are relocating from other states to “test the waters” before committing to a purchase—a strategy Friedrichsen herself used when moving to the area in 1999. Despite the appeal of renting, she emphasizes that for those ready to buy, both Mount Juliet and
Nashville are excellent markets. Nashville, she explains, has become one of the most vibrant cities in the country, offering a rich musical heritage, wonderful homes, and a booming job market. “It’s not just a great place to visit; it’s an incredible place to live.” For those looking to invest, Friedrichsen advises thorough research and partnering with a local expert.
In Mount Juliet neighborhoods like Providence, Old Lebanon Dirt Road, and the 109 corridor offer excellent opportunities, with a blend of affordability, amenities, and growth potential. In Nashville, hotspots like Whites Creek/Joelton, Weho/Midtown/Gulch and Cleveland Park/McFerrin stand out for their cultural appeal, strong communities, and promising appreciation rates. She also recommends keeping an eye on future developments and infrastructure projects, as these can significantly impact property values.
ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLEE BROOKE & CO.
When comparing costs, Friedrichsen highlights the differences between buying and renting in these areas. In Mt. Juliet, purchasing a home costs an average of $200 per square foot, while rental rates range from $1.50 to $2 per square foot monthly. In Nashville, prices are more variable due to its diverse neighborhoods, with homes averaging $300 per square foot and rental rates between $2 and $3.50 per square foot. These figures reflect the strong demand and desirability of each location, offering options for various budgets and goals.
Mount Juliet and Nashville both offer unique advantages for families and professionals alike. Mount Juliet and Wilson County, for example, are known for their strong school systems
and family-friendly communities. Meanwhile, Nashville attracts residents with its thriving music and entertainment industries, along with an expanding job market. Friedrichsen points out that upcoming transit systems and commercial developments in these areas are likely to further boost property values. Staying informed and flexible is essential for navigating these thriving markets. Onward Real Estate, launched in 2024, has quickly become a top independent brokerage in Middle Tennessee, with nearly 400 realtors joining the team by early 2025. The company focuses on helping families transition through life’s milestones, whether buying a first home, selling, or investing. Beyond real estate, Onward is deeply involved in the community, supporting organizations like Room in the Inn, Habitat for Humanity, and Christmas for the Children. As Friedrichsen puts it, “We’re proud to be part of the evolution of this region and to help families make it home.” Whether renting, buying, or investing, the Mount Juliet and Nashville real estate markets present incredible opportunities. With trusted advisors like Michele Friedrichsen and the Onward Real Estate team, navigating these dynamic markets becomes a rewarding journey. As she says, “This is more than a place to live. It’s a place to thrive.”
realty report
Handmade Soap
Add a spa-like feel to your home with this refreshing soap recipe that's simple to make at home.
ARTICLE BY ANGI HOCKETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ingredients
• 2 lb. goat’s milk melt-and-pour soap
• 1 lemon rind, zested
• 3 tablespoons of dried lavender buds
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 15 drops of lavender essential oil
• 6 drops of lemon essential oil
• jar or bowl for melting soap base
• Silicone mold
directions
Chop soap into smaller pieces. It will melt faster this way. Place in bowl and microwave (or double boil). Be careful to watch soap and not let it burn. If you are using microwave, heat in 30 second increments, stirring frequently. Once soap is melted add your essential oils first. Once essential oils have been added and mixed thoroughly, add the lavender buds, lemon zest and honey. Have your mold ready to go, on a flat, even surface. You’ll want to move quickly before the soap cools too much. Mix everything thoroughly again, and pour mixture into mold. Let the soap cool for 2-3 hours until bars are completely solid. Wrap or package however you like.
Recipe from Sisoo.com
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 3/31/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
Photography