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There is something powerful happening in Nashville, and if you look closely, you’ll see that so much of it is being driven by women.
Not just in boardrooms or on stages, but in the quiet, consistent moments that don’t always get recognized. The early mornings. The risks taken before anyone is watching. The decision to keep going when it would be easier to stop.
This issue is a celebration of that kind of woman.
The one building a business from the ground up.
The one reinventing herself in a new season.

The one balancing ambition with motherhood, relationships, and everything in between.
The one who shows up not perfectly, but fully.
Being a woman today is layered. We are strong, but we are also soft. We are driven, but we crave connection. We are independent, yet we are at our best when we are surrounded by other women who understand us.
And that is what I keep coming back to. The power of women who choose to lift each other up.
There is room for all of us here.
The most successful women I know are not the ones competing in quiet comparison. They are the ones opening doors, making introductions, sharing opportunities, and reminding the women around them of who they are when they forget.
This issue is filled with women doing exactly that. Women who are building businesses, shaping this community, and doing it with intention, style, and heart.
And on a personal note, I would be remiss not to acknowledge my own circle.
To the women who have shown up for me in ways both big and small. Friends who have listened, encouraged, challenged, and reminded me of my own strength when I needed it most. Thank you. You know who you are.
This season of life has reminded me that success is not just what we build, but who we have beside us while we build it.
So here’s to the women of Nashville.
The builders. The risk-takers. The dreamers. The ones who keep going.
And most importantly, the ones who reach back and bring others with them.
JENNIFER KAUFMAN, PUBLISHER @BELLEMEADE_LIFESTYLE
May 2026
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Kaufman
jennifer.kaufman@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Sophie Brock
sophie.brock@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Stephanie Krejci
stephanie.krejci@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sophie Brock, Jennifer Kaufman, Kali Kasorzyk, Caroline Shirley
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Leslie Parrot
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick















ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”
She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s , she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?
A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.



Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?
A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.
Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?
A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.
Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?
A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?
A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.
This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”
— Becky Hillyard















Highlighting some of the amazing women we get to work with
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
LIZ + CO
What is the most rewarding part of getting to work with so many incredible women?
The unbelievably strong sense of community! I personally feel that the emotional component women provide creates a more intentional business environment where all perspectives are valued. So much of what we do in the real estate sector surrounds immense anxieties of new life chapters. We as women have an innate sense of springing into action in order to facilitate a seamless life transition for you. I was raised by an incredible woman and am grateful to have so many incredible women in my life in several different capacities.
What does it mean to you to be involved with the YWCA Junior Board?
I have been extremely blessed by my YWCA volunteer work, working for many years as a RE/ New Angel. When women and children graduate from the Weaver Domestic Violence Center, a group of us provides a beautiful, fully furnished home for their new safe haven. Furniture, decor, appliances, kitchenware – you name it. An entirely new life chapter beginning with a true act of unconditional love – that is what makes it all so deeply meaningful. All items we provide are donated, so please keep us in mind during your next redecorating project. I now have an even broader view of the YWCA’s life-changing work, with a two-year term as a Junior Board Committee member. With a mission statement “dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all,” it is extremely easy to be a cheerleader for the YWCA. If you would like to learn how you can help, please contact me or visit their website.
HOWINGTON CONSTRUCTION

What’s a misconception people have about being a woman in your industry?
A common misconception is that being a woman in residential construction is a disadvantage. In reality, it’s often been a strength. I’ve found that we bring a different perspective, especially around communication, relationships, and problem-solving—our female team members have helped build trust with both clients and subcontractor partners. At the end of the day, the residential construction industry respects results, where consistency and execution matter most.
BENNETT GALLERIES
Who are the women who have influenced you in your journey?
Bess Bennett, who opened and ran Bennett Galleries for many years, was a dearly loved mentor. Working for her taught me so much, not only about business but about how to live life well.
She was tenacious and tough as nails, yet she also had a tender side, and how she carried both at the same time was a great example of true leadership. She also conducted herself and the business with a commitment to excellence, while remaining down-to-earth and avoiding the pretentiousness that is so common in the fine art world, a core value I’ve carried forward in my own life and leadership.
I was also inspired by how she built the business up to leave an inheritance for her sons, and since I took ownership in 2018, it has been my vision to steward it and then pass on the legacy to my own son. Bess’s influence in my life was so much more than I can fit in this answer, and I will always be grateful to her.








ERIC MARSHALL SALON
What does it mean to you to run a salon that uplifts women while also reflecting your own journey and community?
Running a salon that uplifts women means creating more than just a workplace—it’s about building a community. It reflects my own journey and the belief that when women are supported, valued, and given opportunities to grow, they don’t just succeed individually, they elevate everyone around them.
BOUQUET BAR FLOWER BOX
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses - and if you can’t stop, at least surround yourself with them (while always wearing sunscreen).will always be grateful to her.
LE STUDIO
What advice would you give to other women who are passionate about design and dreaming of pursuing a job in design?
If you love interior design, follow that path—it is extremely rewarding. It’s about telling a client’s story and working through a gazillion problems, while staying true to your creative vision. No two days are the same, which makes for a fully packed schedule. It requires incredibly hard work to build a network of talented team members and tradesmen you can trust. The key is to understand that it’s not as glamorous as people think. Half the time, we’re in an architectural meeting, and the next, we’re trudging through the mud in 45-degree weather for a site visit. (Tip: Keep an extra pair of shoes in your car!)
If you’re on the fence about the route you want to take, there is always the option of becoming a decorator. If you prefer something less technical and more focused on choosing wallpaper, selecting textiles, and adding finishing touches, it’s something to consider.
Stay curious, trust your instincts, and find inspiration everywhere!

PURE GLOW
What does it mean to you to lead and grow a woman-owned business?
Leading and growing a woman-owned business, to me, is a little bit power, a little bit play—and a whole lot of intention.
It’s building something beautiful that also means something. Creating a space where women feel confident, taken care of, and a little more elevated when they walk out than when they walked in. It’s business, yes—but it’s also energy, experience, and impact.
It’s knowing you can be polished and powerful, but still warm, fun, and human. You can run numbers, make bold decisions, and still care deeply about the details—the vibe, the team, the way people feel in your space. And growth? It’s evolving without losing your edge. It’s trusting your gut, refining your vision, and continuing to raise the standard—not just for yourself, but for everyone around you.
At the end of the day, it’s about building something that feels as good as it looks—something that reflects you, supports others, and leaves a little glow everywhere it goes.
CHORD REAL ESTATE
What is one obstacle you faced in your journey, and how did you overcome it?
One obstacle that comes to mind is when I transitioned professionally from education to real estate as a single mother “way back when,” and while there were many obstacles in my way, I took a look around me, started with what I knew, and served people just like me. I dug in deep as a student of this industry and came alongside other people in a similar stage of life, offering seminars to firsttime buyers and educating them on wealth building through real estate. By the end of my first full year, I was awarded “Rookie of the Year” from my brokerage. Looking back, that became a foundational cornerstone of my career, whether now I’m representing a $10M estate or an executive corporate rental, I help people where they’re at to make wise financial decisions through real estate that impact their lives.

HERMITAGE KITCHEN GALLERY
What does it mean to you to run this company alongside your sister?
Running this company alongside my sister means building something that is both deeply personal and highly professional. There’s a level of trust, shared values, and accountability between us that you simply can’t replicate in a typical business partnership.
We’ve grown up understanding how each other thinks, where our strengths lie, and how to push one another to be better. That allows us to move quickly, stay aligned, and make decisions with confidence. At the same time, we’re very intentional about maintaining clear roles and open communication so that the business operates with structure and respect.
What matters most to me is that we’re not just building a successful company—we’re building something we’re proud of together. It’s about creating a legacy, supporting each other through challenges, and holding a shared standard for the work we put into the world.
How has your confidence evolved from when you first launched the business to now?
Early on, I led with logistics and destination knowledge — the perfect hotel, the punctual private driver, the detailed itinerary. Then I started planning a trip to Japan for a family. I set up a private kimono fitting at a temple in Kyoto that was closed to the public, just for their visit. Nothing about that moment had anything to do with the car that got them there or the complimentary breakfast they had that morning. That’s when I stopped thinking about what I could arrange and started thinking about what I could create. Now I know my clients don’t hire me for the logistics. They hire me for the experiences I design.
Your brand sits at the intersection of beauty, efficiency, and modern self-care—how do you define ‘investing in yourself’ for today’s woman?”
Investing in yourself is not about vanity; it is about mental health + intentionally choosing peace over noise. Investing in yourself becomes less about self-optimization and more about alignment—becoming who you were divinely designed to be; with grace, balance, and purpose.
FACE FOUNDRIÉ
“Investing in yourself is not about vanity; it is about mental health + intentionally choosing peace over noise.” “
One of the most meaningful compliments we receive is when clients tell us we’ve handled their tasks more thoughtfully and effectively than they could themselves. While bits & bobs nashville is, admittedly, a luxury service, we stand firmly behind the level of care, attention to detail, and discretion we provide. That level of finesse and personalization cannot be replicated by an online platform or automated solution— it’s rooted in relationships, trust, and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs.

As a woman building something meaningful, what has been the most defining moment in your journey?
For me, it hasn’t been one defining moment— it’s been a collection of them. For years, I’ve been the first call when people I love were scared, overwhelmed, and didn’t know what to do. Each time, I stepped in to translate the healthcare system and make sure they didn’t fall through the cracks. I felt the same mix of relief and frustration they did, but in a different way: relief that I could help, and frustration that so many others—people I don’t know—were struggling alone.
At some point, it clicked: I wasn’t just helping the people closest to me. I was seeing a problem that affects countless others who don’t know how to advocate for themselves in a system that is overwhelming. That realization became the anchor of Velaris Health. As a woman building something meaningful, it’s the moment I understood this work is a responsibility.
CORTINA
Many people associate clear or healthy skin with confidence. How do you help patients redefine selflove beyond just appearance?
I always tell patients that healthy skin can support confidence, but it shouldn’t define it. My goal is to shift the focus from chasing “perfect” skin to feeling comfortable and confident in your own. I also try to understand what’s really driving their goals, so any treatment feels empowering rather than rooted in comparison or pressure. At the end of the day, I want patients to feel good not just because of how they look, but because they feel informed, respected, and in control of their choices.
VELARIS HEALTH



















Farm-to-Table British Cuisine With The Yorkshire Deli
Tucked away in Kingston Springs, nestled within a cozy, whimsical setting, the Yorkshire Deli offers guests a one-of-a-kind, farm-to-table British experience, right here in Tennessee. Set on a charming property known as “The Land,” the deli’s surroundings enhance the experience, creating an idyllic backdrop for traditional British High Tea alongside a menu rooted in classic, time-honored dishes.
Lesley Mortimer-Wallace built both her team and the Yorkshire Deli experience from the ground up. An expatriate from Britain, she has lived and worked in the United States since 2006. Today, she works alongside business partner and longtime friend Genevieve Neace, and a diverse group – primarily women aged 15 to 65 – as well as one male team member, all of whom have helped cultivate the vibrant community that fills the deli each weekend.
With a thoughtfully curated menu of fewer than 20 items, each dish is crafted to be authentic, intentional, and perfected to the highest standard. In its early days, the menu rotated seasonally to introduce guests to British cuisine in an approachable way, but the traditional British staples quickly became favorites. Today, the focus is on these beloved dishes, while weekly Friday specials allow the team to stay creative and give regulars something new to anticipate. Some of the most popular items include Genevieve’s family
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
recipe bacon and cheddar quiche, as well as Lesley’s personal favorites, like the jacket spud with cheese and beans or the classic cream cheese and cucumber sandwich.
“It has evolved beyond my wildest imagination,” Lesley explains. “We are so proud of what we built.” That pride stems from a personal understanding of what it means to be far from home.
“The most common thing that expatriates miss from their home, other than friends and family, is the food they grew up on,” Lesley explains.
Now, Lesley finds immense joy in sharing a piece of home with others, creating a space where both expatriates and locals can gather, connect, and experience the comfort and nostalgia of traditional British food.
Having called Kingston Springs home for nearly two decades, opening Yorkshire Deli there felt natural. Located just off Highway

70-S, the space invites patrons into a world of eclectic whimsy, where dining becomes an immersive experience, and the surroundings are as memorable as the menu. What started as a modest plan for a small, cozy sandwich shop for locals and tourists alike has transformed into a full-time destination. The deli and surrounding structures at The Land were thoughtfully built by Lesley’s husband, Steve Orchard, using primarily recycled and reclaimed materials, adding to the property’s distinctive charm and character.
“Kingston Springs is a beautiful, magical town filled with artists, a great community, and breathtaking nature and activities, she says. “So, when our place inspires someone to drive out here for lunch or afternoon tea, they also discover a new small town that is charming and authentic.”


Spring marks the deli’s busiest season, so guests are encouraged to arrive early for regular service, while those hoping to attend Tea Time should plan to book at least a few weeks in advance. Tea service is offered exclusively at 3 p.m., Friday through Sunday, by reservation only, while brunch and lunch are served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the same days. Among all Tea Time experiences, Mother’s Day remains the most sought-after of the year.
For more information or to book Tea Time, follow along on social media or reach out via email.
@theyorkshirefarmdeli theyorkshirefarmdeli@gmail.com
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Receive a complimentary Davines Tailoring treatment when you book any color service with Leslie Shores. New clients only.







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Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards a more confident and healthy you!
























HOW THREE STRANGERS BECAME THE KIND OF FRIENDS YOU CHANGE A FLIGHT FOR.

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE SHIRLEY


“WE RECREATED NASHVILLE INSTINCTIVELY — WE JUST HAPPENED TO BE IN PARIS.”
Some friendships take decades to become the kind you’d change a flight for — and some, it turns out, take ten months. My friends and I spend our time planning extraordinary travel for other people — and yet somehow our best trip yet had almost no plan at all.
The Champ de Mars in August is everything you’ve ever imagined Paris to be, and somehow still better, with the Eiffel Tower above us and the best charcuterie spread in front of us. We had shopped local. French cheeses, baguettes, a block of butter, fig jam, and the obligatory fruit to make ourselves feel healthy. And of course a bottle of Champagne de Venoge I had carried from Épernay the day before. An hour into catching up, a man walked through the grass selling chilled champagne. We looked at each other, and, well…obviously we bought it. I have no idea how long we were on the lawn, but we still remember it as our first adventure together abroad.
What makes it even better is that ten months earlier, we were strangers. Three travel advisors who met at an industry event in Nashville — and not even a year later, we’re on a trip to Paris together. One of us was


“SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED A LOOSE PLAN, A GOOD BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE, AND THE WILLINGNESS TO SAY YES.”
planning a trip to France…and I of course had to tag along. Our third friend was in Scandinavia and changed her trip mid-adventure, rerouting her flight home through Paris. Because…of course.
The truth is, we recreated Nashville instinctively, but we just happened to be in Paris. At home, we’re always chasing the best rooms, the latest wine bars, the restaurant soft openings worth attending. In Paris, we simply arrived and did what we always do. We visited Bar Hemingway at the Ritz, ordered a €39 cocktail with a single white rose resting on the rim — how much is a Euro, anyway? — and were met with a tower of bar snacks, a Parisian ritual we quickly learned to anticipate and photograph.
We ate crêpes in Montmartre, found the Greek-turned-French restaurant in Saint-Germain with the best Beef Bourguignon anyone had ever tasted. We ate escargot, had breakfasts of baguettes and pain au chocolat with zero protein. We saw the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower from an evening cruise down the Seine.
We were greeted by a personal shopper (and champagne of course) at Louis Vuitton in the Triangle d’Or. La Galerie Dior alone was worth the trip. It was all perfectly us, and perfectly French.
They say you learn who someone is when you travel with them. What nobody tells you is how quickly that can happen — how three days in the right city with the right people can feel like years of knowing someone. The best friendships, like the best trips, don’t always need a long runway. Sometimes you just need a loose plan, a good bottle of champagne, and the willingness to say yes to wherever the plane takes you.
For the three of us, Morocco is already on the calendar. Because…of course it is.
Caroline Shirley Founder | Vogue Voyage voguevoyage.co
















STEP INSIDE H. AUDREY, WHERE LUXURY DESIGNERS MEET A PERSONALIZED SHOPPING EXPERIENCE ROOTED IN STYLE AND SERVICE.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER KAUFMAN


Since opening its doors in 2007, H. Audrey has established itself as a cornerstone of Nashville style, known for its thoughtful curation of luxury and contemporary designers and a highly personalized approach to shopping. Located in Green Hills, the boutique offers a refined yet approachable experience, where clients can work one-on-one with seasoned stylists who understand how to build wardrobes that feel both current and enduring.
At the heart of H. Audrey is a distinct point of view. The assortment is carefully edited to reflect effortless sophistication, blending everyday essentials with statement pieces that elevate any wardrobe. Designers such as Zimmermann, Staud, ALÉMAIS, Forte Forte, Rachel Gilbert, Nili Lotan, CLEA, and Anine Bing bring a global perspective to the racks, offering everything from tailored staples to bold, fashion-forward silhouettes. Each collection is chosen with intention, ensuring that every piece feels relevant, wearable, and uniquely special.



What continues to set H. Audrey apart is its evolution into a destination for occasion dressing. In addition to its strong readyto-wear offering, the boutique has expanded its selection of formal designer dresses, making it a go-to for cocktail attire, blacktie events, and everything in between. Whether dressing for a wedding, gala, or a standout evening in Nashville, clients can find pieces that feel modern, polished, and anything but expected.
This balance of versatility and elevated style is what keeps women returning season after season. A structured Nili Lotan jacket can anchor a daytime look, while a romantic Ulla Johnson dress or a sleek Simkhai gown delivers impact for an evening out. The result is a wardrobe that moves seamlessly through every part of a woman’s life.
More than just a boutique, H. Audrey represents a way of dressing that is confident, intentional, and distinctly Nashville. It is a place where style feels personal, and where every visit offers something new to discover.

















Spring: the days grow longer, weather turns warmer, and the earth’s greenery starts to make its reappearance. During this time, flowers shoot up from the ground in a ballet of colors and movement. Walking outside becomes a cherished moment to breathe the fresh air and immerse yourself in lush surroundings. Being inside your home turns dreary and dull, everything that thrives is now outside, but this can easily be remedied. Why not bring some life inside? Make a spring floral bouquet to lighten up your space. Flowers add color and character to any room that needs a little lift, and our step-by-step guide will inspire you to create something grand.


• Flowers of your choice
• Scissors
• Twine or floral tape
• Ribbon (optional)
• Decorative paper (optional)
• Bouquet sleeve (optional)




Step 1: When creating a beautiful floral arrangement, the first thing to do is decide on a color scheme and prepare the flowers. Have fun deciding what colors you want to play with. Perhaps go pastel for spring or match the hues to other decor items in your house. Once you have picked your flowers, you need to do a little prep work. First, remove extra leaves and damaged petals from the stems. Then make a fresh diagonal cut to the bottom of all the flowers. This allows each bloom to soak up as much water as they need.
Step 2: Now it’s arranging time — think focal and filler. The best way to start the arranging process is by choosing your most interesting or favorite flowers — this will be your focal point. Hold the focal flower(s) upright and add your supporting blooms around it. Make sure to turn the bouquet as you build so that the design is as desired. Once this is complete, add your filler flowers to finalize the look. Filler options include baby’s breath, ivy, fern, eucalyptus and more.
Step 3: Let’s get ready to tie. Once you’ve arranged your bouquet, tie all the stems together using twine or floral tape. If using twine, we recommend securing it in a small bow in case you would like to rearrange at any given time. Floral tape is easy to move on and off for this purpose as well.
Step 4: Add the finishing touches. At this point, you are almost done with your bouquet and all that’s left is embellishments. There are so many ways to further adorn your creation: one way we love is to wrap it in fun decorative paper or put it in a special sleeve made just for flowers. If this idea isn’t for you, we recommend going to Pinterest for inspiration. Just remember, whatever way you choose to decorate your bouquet, you will end with a personalized piece made with love and care.




This data is a sampling of sold properties from March 2026 in and around Belle Meade.



