Belle Meade, TN November 2025

Thankful Issue

APRIL LOCKHART: CREATING SPACE FOR DISABLED CREATORS

SHOP

ALO

NASHVILLE’S HOLIDAY SHOPPING DESTINATION

LOUIS VUITTON

small gift. A big difference. Give today! athletic shoes. Help them step Brand new shoes!

A $20 monthly gift gives a child experiencing homelessness in Middle TN a new pair of athletic shoes. Help them step into the holiday season with comfort and joy!

LIFESTYLE LETTER

NovemberThankful

As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, I’m reminded how this season gently nudges us to slow down and take stock of what matters most:  family, community, and the beautiful rhythm of giving.

Our Thankful Issue is one of my favorites each year because it captures the heart of who we are as a community — people who show up for one another. Inside, you’ll find stories that highlight local nonprofits making a difference, including April Lockhart, whose inspiring work reminds us that giving back isn’t just about donations — it’s about connection, compassion, and creating change right here at home.

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Kaufman | jennifer.kaufman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kit Garrott | kit.garrott@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Stephanie Krejci | stephanie.krejci@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Meagan Benson

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Kris Wiese

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Emma Manning Photography

As we move into the holidays, I hope these pages inspire you to embrace local shopping, support small businesses, and share your time or talents with causes that speak to your heart. Whether it’s volunteering, writing a note of gratitude, or simply gathering with loved ones around a full table, may we all find joy in the act of giving.

Wishing you a season filled with warmth, kindness, and community.

With gratitude,

JENNIFER KAUFMAN, PUBLISHER @BELLEMEADE_LIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

city scene

AVAILABLE NOW-Kroger & Twice Daily

AMERICAN ELEGANCE

A Q+A WITH AMY ALBRIGHT EVENT DIRECTOR, ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOW OF NASHVILLE

For 36 years, the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville has welcomed design enthusiasts, collectors, and garden lovers for a weekend steeped in heritage, hospitality, and timeless style. This year’s theme, American Elegance, sets the stage for three days of antiques, manicured gardens, inspiring lectures, and festive gatherings. Event Director Amy Albright shares how the 2026 Show captures the enduring beauty of classic design.

Q: THIS YEAR’S THEME IS AMERICAN ELEGANCE. HOW WILL VISITORS SEE THAT REFLECTED THROUGHOUT THE SHOW?

Amy Albright: We want guests to feel immersed in enduring beauty—craftsmanship, materials, and the spirit that define American design. From antiques to floral displays and lectures, every element reflects sophistication, warmth, and timeless style.

Q: THE KEYNOTE WITH DAVID LAUREN AND LAUREN BUSH LAUREN HIGHLIGHTS RALPH LAUREN INTERIORS. WHY WAS THIS THE PERFECT ANCHOR?

Amy: The Laurens embody heritage, authenticity, and respect for craftsmanship. Their perspective connects fashion, interiors, and lifestyle in a way that perfectly mirrors our theme.

Q: GUESTS ALWAYS LOOK FORWARD TO THE GARDENS. WHAT ROLE DO THEY PLAY?

Amy: The gardens are the heart of the Show. They create awe the moment guests walk in—an oasis that engages every sense. The Cheekwood garden’s florals greet you immediately, and each year the creativity amazes me.

Q: FLORAL DESIGNER PRESTON BAILEY AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT CHARLES STICK ARE AMONG THIS YEAR’S SPEAKERS. HOW DO THEIR VOICES SHAPE THE CONVERSATION?

Amy: They represent two complementary sides of design— one bold and theatrical, the other rooted in harmony. Their balance shows the full spectrum of creativity.

Q: THE SHOW IS ALSO KNOWN FOR ITS GATHERINGS, LIKE THE PREVIEW PARTY AND BOURBON PARTY. WHAT DO THESE ADD?

Amy: They bring Nashville’s spirit to life. Whether it’s elegance at the Preview Party or bluegrass and bourbon in the gardens, these traditions turn a weekend of design into a shared celebration.

We’ve stayed true to our roots, showcasing exceptional antiques and design, while continually evolving to reflect today’s ideas and tastes.

—AMY ALBRIGHT

Q: WHAT HAS MADE THE SHOW A FIXTURE FOR MORE THAN THREE DECADES?

Amy: Tradition, innovation, and heart. Our presenting sponsor Northern Trust and founding sponsor TVV Capital have been with us from the start, and the passion of our volunteers and guests keeps us thriving.

Q: THE SHOW HAS RAISED MILLIONS FOR CHEEKWOOD AND ECON CHARITIES. HOW DOES PHILANTHROPY FIT IN?

Amy: Giving back is central. It allows us to extend the beauty of the Show into education and community impact.

Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A FIRST-TIME ATTENDEE?

Amy: Come curious! Explore the booths, attend the lectures, savor the gardens, and join a signature event. You’ll meet wonderful people who love design and culture.

bridging classrooms and communities

How PENCIL is Powering Nashville’s Future

In a city that thrives on creativity and connection, few organizations embody the Nashville spirit quite like PENCIL. For more than four decades, this nonprofit has linked community resources to Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS), ensuring that every student has access to the tools, mentors and opportunities they need to thrive.

Founded in 1982, PENCIL—short for Public Education Needs Community Involvement and Leadership —has grown into one of the nation’s most dynamic education support networks. With more than 800 active partnerships and nearly 30,000 volunteer hours logged annually, its mission is simple yet powerful: to prepare young people for life by connecting them with the strength of their community.

“They’re open to ideas and motivated to make an impact,” says a PENCIL representative. “That allows us to understand what a school needs, understand what a partner can offer, and then make a match that brings joy and tangible results.”

Those results are visible across the city— from career pathways for high school students to free classroom supplies for teachers. Through the Academies of Nashville program, PENCIL connects students to professionals in some of the city’s top industries, including healthcare, automotive technology and hospitality. These partnerships provide students with unparalleled exposure to career possibilities, including earning certifications, learning from industry leaders and even securing internships before graduation.

For teachers and younger learners, the DG PENCIL Box is another lifeline. This free supply store, supported by community donors and volunteers, distributed nearly $3 million in school and classroom materials last year alone. “When I see one of our children in the hall with a ripped and stained backpack, it makes a difference when I can easily offer them a replacement,” shared one MNPS teacher. “The dignity of being able to have normal school supplies means a lot to our families and to us as teachers.”

As Nashville continues to grow, PENCIL is evolving right alongside it. The organization collaborates closely with MNPS to anticipate and address emerging educational needs. When recent state legislation introduced computer science requirements for K–12 students, PENCIL helped the district launch a STEAM Lending Library, ensuring that every student—no matter their zip code—has access to essential technology.

The results of these efforts are undeniable. MNPS recently achieved its fourth consecutive Level 5 growth score, the highest possible ranking from the Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System, and the district’s graduation rate is now the highest it has been since tracking began in 2002. These milestones, PENCIL leaders say, are a testament to what’s possible when a community invests in its schools.

“Our city needs a growing, skilled workforce,” PENCIL notes. “Student interest in fields like construction, architecture, and engineering keeps rising, and we’re recruiting partners to help provide hands-on experience and a strong entrance to these careers.”

And while Nashville’s business community plays a significant role in this progress, volunteers remain at

the heart of PENCIL’s success. Many are motivated by personal connections, such as teachers who once shaped their lives, family members in the education field, or a deep-seated belief in the power of giving back. Others join through corporate volunteer programs or word-of-mouth recommendations that spread quickly through the city’s tightly woven networks.

This holiday season, PENCIL offers a variety of ways to get involved. Locals can volunteer in the DG PENCIL Box, participate in school reading days, help students with holiday shopping, or host teacher appreciation events. For an easy way to explore opportunities, PENCIL Connect, an online platform, lists onetime and ongoing projects across the district.

To learn more or sign up to serve, visit pencilforschools.org. In a city known for collaboration and creativity, PENCIL reminds us that the greatest impact often begins right in our own backyard— with a single connection that can change a child’s future.

A winning Smile.

Introducing Aniston Barnette

Miss Tennessee Teen USA 2025

Nashville Aesthetic Dentistry, founded by Dr. Dennis Wells, is among the nation’s elite and pioneering practices for cosmetic dentistry. Our smiles are found on the faces of some of the most high-profile people in the world, including movie stars, music celebrities, professional athletes, and models. Our commitment to conservative, minimally-invasive dentistry and custom smile design is the reason patients from all walks of life choose our accomplished team of dentists.

• AACD distinguished member and accreditation candidate

• Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, International College of Dentistry, and Pierre Fauchard Academy

• Scientific Education Chair to the Tennessee Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

• Official dentist for Miss Tennessee USA and Miss Tennessee Teen USA

ARTICLE BY KIT GARROTT

BY

EMMA MANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

APRIL LOCKHART

Style, Confidence and Community—Disabled& Takes Root in Nashville

When April Lockhart packed her bags for Nashville four years ago, she thought it would be a temporary move. “It was a total COVID move—just looking for a change of pace,” she recalls. “I was working remotely in New York City in influencer marketing for a clean makeup brand. We were originally planning to move to the West Coast, but thought, maybe we should try Nashville instead. We got an Airbnb for a month—and we never left. It just felt like home right away.”

It didn’t take long for her to understand why. “It’s been so easy to find friends and community in Nashville. People are genuinely kind and willing to help,” she says. “And since there are so many transplants, everyone sort of shares that same newness—it’s easy to connect.”

Before becoming known for her confident, fashion-forward presence online, April worked behind the scenes in beauty marketing. “I went to school for marketing, and being a content creator was never part of the plan,” she says. “But I’ve always loved sharing on the internet—it’s just how I’ve expressed myself.”

CONTINUED >

In 2022, April decided to take a leap that would transform everything. After years of posting fashion content while keeping her limb difference off-camera, she began a 30-day outfit challenge called Normalizing Disabled Fashion Girlies. “I pressed post and didn’t look at it for a day,” she remembers. “The next morning, the video had around 30,000 views—and 50,000 the next day. That was the turning point for me.”April's style ranges from preppy with an edge to polished 70s flair. She loves leather, studs and color, and she has woven her love of music and a theme into her wardrobe.

The video opened a door she hadn’t realized was waiting for her. “People started messaging me saying they’d never seen

anyone with a limb difference embrace fashion that way,” she says. “That’s when I understood how powerful it could be just to show up as myself.”

Since that first viral moment, April’s influence has extended far beyond her feed. She’s modeled for major brands like Victoria’s Secret and Anthropologie, appeared in publications such as Vogue and The Cut, and in 2025, was recognized on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. Through it all, her mission has remained clear: to create spaces where people with disabilities feel celebrated, seen, and stylish.

That mission now lives through Disabled&, a community she founded this year to connect and empower disabled creatives.

“Walking the runway for Victoria’s Secret’s adaptive collection was the first time I’d been surrounded by so many people with disabilities. I walked into a room where everyone looked different, so no one looked at me differently. I left thinking, ‘Wow, this is so fulfilling, and I want more of this.’”

“It really came from a deep desire for community,” she explains. “For so long, I knew so many people with disabilities online, but I had never been around them in person. I wanted to change that.”

The idea crystallized after she walked in Victoria’s Secret’s adaptive runway show during New York Fashion Week. “You walk into a room where everyone looks different, and no one looks at you differently,” she says. “It was the most fulfilling experience— and I knew I wanted more of that feeling.”

Disabled& was built to capture that sense of belonging and creative energy. Through events, dinners and collaborations, April is redefining what representation looks like—bringing together artists, entrepreneurs and visionaries who share a lived experience.

“We’re hosting a Friendsgiving dinner in November, a kids’ event in December, and next spring, our first-ever retreat here in Nashville,” she says. “It’s all about creating moments where people can connect and dream together.”

Each Disabled& gathering centers around conversation, collaboration, and celebration.

“It’s a reminder that disability isn’t just an identity—it’s also a source of creativity, style and power,” April says. “The people I meet through Disabled& are some of the most driven and inspiring individuals I’ve ever known.”

Her journey—from sharing fashion posts online to building an international platform for inclusion—has not only reshaped her career but also her confidence. “I’m so much more comfortable in my own skin now, inside and out,” she reflects. “It’s taken time, but I really feel at peace with myself—and excited to keep building spaces where everyone belongs.”

APRIL'S NASHVILLE FAVORITES

When she's not hosting Disabled& events or working on a new video, April Lockhart enjoys exploring Nashville's creative side. "I walk to Osa every day for coffee—it's my little ritual," she says. April also loves Forevermore for coffee and their curated selection of sustainable gifts. For dinner, she loves the cozy charm of Margot Café & Bar and the reminder of her time in New York at the new Pastis location. While Black Shag, Thrift Smart and Southern Thrift are her go-tos for vintage finds.

mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 11/30/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER KAUFMAN

Fall in Bloom

For as long as she can remember, Lacey Moore, owner of Blooms & Moore, has had her hands full of flowers. “I feel like I’ve always been a florist,” she says. “Arranging and gifting flowers has always been my love language.”

After turning her lifelong passion into a business three years ago in Florida, she recently brought Blooms & Moore to Nashville just in time for fall. Her seasonal offerings include floral workshops, subscription services for homes and businesses, and custom porch and holiday décor that celebrate the art of everyday beauty.

Whether she’s designing a front-porch display bursting with autumn color or leading a class where guests craft their own arrangements, her goal remains simple: to bring joy. “I hope to brighten people’s lives not only through my art, but by teaching them how to create beauty themselves,” she says.

PENCIL connects the Nashville community to Metro Nashville Public Schools to help students achieve academic success and prepare for life.

With your help, PENCIL can ensure that no MNPS student goes without essential classroom supplies. Donate today, or learn more at pencilforschools.org:

ARTICLE BY MICHELE BOGLE

“It's important to know why you do what you do. I cook because I love it.”

Dining in Good Taste at the Peninsula

2025 James Beard Award Winner Chef Jake Howell’s Recipe for Success

Chef Jake Howell, co-owner of the Peninsula Restaurant Nashville, was this year's recipient of the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast.

He mentioned that he began cooking as a job in his teens. "For some reason, this job found me, and along the way, what it meant to me changed; now it's who I am. When I look back at other options, I don't think I should have been anything else. Development of ideas is the fun part," he shares, "When there is a grind to get something to work and you finally figure it out, it's the best feeling in the world. That's when you know, you're doing what you're meant to."

Chef reveals, "I look up to a lot of people close to me—my parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. I watched so many of them create something worthwhile in this world. I'm inspired to try and do the same."

With a rapid increase in dining at Peninsula since receiving the award, there has been less time to decompress. Jake has had to put a significant emphasis on recharging whenever opportunity allows.

A hike, walking the dog, dinner with his wife, or friends makes him the happiest and helps restore balance. He notes, "enjoying the simple moments in life is key,

and I've also found that long walks allow for new ideas to flow."

A flurry of media attention that followed the last James Beard award win in Nashville in 2016 was seemingly connected to the surging popularity of the restaurant scene by 2017.

It was then that Seattle-based friends Yuriko Say, Craig Schoen, and Jake Howell had the foresight to get in on the ground floor of an emerging market with the opening of Peninsula , a jointly designed, intentionally intimate 38-seat space with floor-to-ceiling windows, serving modern Spanish and French fusion cuisine in East Nashville.

Jake's self-made moniker, "what would Jake do," could have many connotations, but the intention is to understand that what Jake wants to do is to give diners the best possible experience.

One encounter reveals the limitless bounds of creativity expressed, whether through the story told in his extensive body ink, an explanation of a dish, or his branded image as a visual artist longing to raise a brush to a canvas. Jake exudes an aura of inventiveness, artistry, and inspiration that develops into transformative dishes for us to experience.

Standard sustainability practices include minimizing food waste, reducing wastewater, and using responsibly sourced proteins. Explaining why the menu is brief, but offers uniquely tantalizing flavor and ingredient combinations.

Octopus can be difficult for most to prepare, but Jake delivers a new and tasty concept each time with ease. Why not try the Hokkaido Scallop, adorned with edible Nasturtium, balanced with a golden berry that is both sweet and tart; each delicate taste provides a pleasant mouthfeel, for $23? Consider tasting the $12 Beet, Roasted Garlic, and Habanero appetizer, where flavors that aren't shy individually come together to play with your palate, leaving a lasting impact.

With the Michelin Guide's newly announced inclusion of Nashville for consideration, when asked if a Michelin Star was something that he'd consciously pursue, Jake candidly replied, "It's important to know why you do what you do. I cook because I love it."

Though his trophy still sits atop his bedroom bureau, as a reminder of a job exceptionally well done, Chef Jake is humble and unaffected by the new notoriety, sharing, "It's really such an honor when someone chooses to dine in your restaurant. I really hope we get the chance to cook for y'all."

Follow Peninsula's social media for upcoming information on their new bar, Charmers, in the Neuhoff development this fall.

I’m Dr. Allison Weiffenbach, Your Board Certified Dermatologist at Cortina

I’m committed to delivering expert care that makes dermatology approachable, effective, & personalized. I want you to love the skin you’re in & feel comfortable asking questions.

I’m Kelsie Powell, Your Licensed Aesthetician at Cortina

I’m all about helping you feel confident & cared for in your skin. I blend advanced treatments with a personal touch because caring for your skin should feel just as good as it looks!

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

ARTICLE BY KRIS WIESE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY HANDS ON

WHY VOLUNTEER? BECAUSE IT CHANGES EVERYTHING— Including You

UNITED WAY OF GREATER NASHVILLE UNITES THE COMMUNITY AND MOBILIZES RESOURCES SO THAT EVERY CHILD, INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY THRIVES.

Volunteering offers more than just lending a helping hand—it’s a path to personal growth, connection, and lasting community impact. Looking for a reason to get involved? Here are a few “whys.”

Volunteering is good for both your physical and mental health.

Studies show that volunteering can reduce stress, improve mood, and even lower the risk of disease. By dedicating time to others, you gain a deeper sense of appreciation and purpose. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Volunteers report better physical health than non-volunteers,” and experience lower rates of depression and anxiety—especially among adults 65 and older.

Whether you love working outdoors, mentoring youth, supporting families, or lending your tech talents, there’s a place for you to make a difference.

It’s a great opportunity to network and make new friends.

When you volunteer, you join a community of people who share your values and passion for helping others. You might find yourself spending time with seniors at Fifty Forward, mentoring students through Raise Your Hand, or delivering meals at St. Luke’s Community House. No matter where you serve, meaningful friendships often grow right alongside the work you’re doing.

Your community needs you.

Nonprofits rely on volunteers to keep their missions moving forward—often filling critical gaps that limited staff and funding can’t. According to Independent Sector’s latest report, in Tennessee, each hour of volunteer service saves a nonprofit $30.55. That means if 75 volunteers each give 16 hours of their time, they’ve effectively donated more than $36,000 worth of support to local organizations.

Find the right opportunity that speaks to you— and see your impact in real time.

The best volunteer experiences connect your skills and passions with community needs. Whether you love working outdoors, mentoring youth, supporting families, or lending your tech talents, there’s a place for you to make a difference. When you volunteer through Hands On, you can track your hours and see how your time and energy translate into measurable community impact.

Explore the types of volunteer opportunities. Volunteering comes in many forms:

• Virtual opportunities: Serve from anywhere by helping with administrative support, mentoring, or tutoring online.

• Group projects: Team up with coworkers, classmates, or friends to make a big impact together.

• Family-friendly activities: In a world of busy schedules and screen time, volunteering offers families a chance to connect through a shared purpose.

• Skill-based volunteering:  Use your professional expertise—whether in tech, finance, marketing to help nonprofits grow stronger.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Make a difference by exploring Hands On, powered by United Way of Greater Nashville, where you’ll find hundreds of ways to volunteer with more nonprofits and community organizations looking for help.

realty report

This data is a sampling of sold properties from September 2025 in and around Belle Meade.

Justin and the Nashville Health Pro team are here to help you feel healthy, confident, and at your best.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!

for Moments of Self-Care. Treat yourself this season with Davines products. Available at Eric Marshall Salon.

Make-ahead tip: This dip can be prepared up to two days in advance.

Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before serving.

SHARE SOMETHING SWEET

Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or casual nights by the fire, this crowd-pleasing dip is the ideal sweet treat after a big meal.

ingredients:

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• Pinch of kosher salt

• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

for dipping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, rinsed, hulled, and halved

• 1 cup mini pretzels

• 1 sleeve graham crackers

• Waffle cones, broken into pieces

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Dip with Graham Crackers, Pretzels and Crisp Cookies

directions:

Step 1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.

Step 2. Add the powdered sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Step 3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips using a spatula.

Step 4. Spoon the dip into a serving bowl and place it on a platter surrounded by your favorite dippers—strawberries, pretzels, graham crackers, and waffle cone pieces.

Step 5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate in a covered container until ready to enjoy.