
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 12/31/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.


![]()

mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 12/31/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.


HOLIDAY GIFTING MADE EASY with THE LOVELESS CAFE


The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions.

For my wife, son and me, one tradition we’ve held onto is…travel. Since moving to Nashville in 1998 we’ve spent practically every Christmas traveling to Louisville and Southern Indiana where our families reside, roughly 80 miles apart. In other words, we’re close enough to be there but it’s distant enough to make for an exhausting 72 hours or so.
With the exception of the year our son was born, and the occasional polar vortex or pandemic that render travel unwise, we really don’t know what it’s like to be home for the holidays. (Side note: Mary and Joseph were traveling some 2,000 years ago. So we're in good company.) However, we do know what it’s like to wake up in a hotel room on Christmas morning.
To be fair, we usually make a mini vacation out of it by patronizing upscale hotels and restaurants. Over the years we've found that many other families have similar traditions. And it’s not unusual for us to enjoy an impromptu celebration with fellow travelers back at the lobby lounge on Christmas evening.
One unexpected tradition has evolved from our holiday road trips. Several years ago on Christmas morning, in search for a moment of normalcy, my son and I went to Waffle House. We've been going there ever since and the place is always jam packed. Perhaps the most memorable visit came last year when Christmas coincided with the first night of Chanukah. To our delight, we saw Santa and the Cantor breaking bread together on that most uncommon holy day. And I’ve got the picture to prove it.
Happy Holidays and a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to the readers, advertising partners and contributors who make Bellevue City Lifestyle possible.
We’ll see you next year.

ED ATLAS, EDITOR @BELLEVUECITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Doug Waterman | doug.waterman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Ed Atlas | ed.atlas@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Lindsey Baydoun | hello@lindseybaydoun.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lindsey Hickman, Lisa Valentine, Kellie Walton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ed Atlas, Lindsey Baydoun
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray


QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn













1-7: Guests enjoyed gourmet fare and exquisite wine pairings at The Bellevue-Harpeth Chamber of Commerce’s Women of The Vue event in the Pavilion at Harpeth Hills. Attendees also made a spur-of-the-moment cash contribution of $2,625 to the Bellevue Community Food Bank. Photography by Bellevue-Harpeth Chamber of Commerce.





Dunkin’ recently opened across from Publix at 5745 Temple Road. That’s the location formerly occupied by Sonic. This is the second Dunkin’ location in Bellevue which, like the one at 7201 Highway 70 South, is owned and operated by longtime Dunkin’ franchisee Catalano Companies and Route 65 Management. Catalano has 23 Dunkin’ restaurants throughout Middle Tennessee. Both Bellevue locations are open daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Seventh Annual HALF Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon was contested in Percy Warner Park on November 2. The 13.1-mile race is designed to have a whimsical tone, over a challenging course amidst the parks’ autumn leaves. Brett Bergy of Nashville was the overall winner with a time of 1:21:37. Sarah Angus of Nashville was the fastest female, finishing in 1:40:40. Proceeds from the event benefit the Nashville Striders Scholarship Fund and Friends of Warner Parks.
Nashville International Airport (BNA) was recognized in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, earning top honors across five categories. Voted on by the traveling public, BNA was ranked No. 1 in Best Airport for Shopping and Best Airport Bar (The Titans Press Box), No. 2 in Best Large Airport and Best Airport Grab-And-Go Food (400 Degrees Hot Chicken) and No. 3 for Best Airport Art.












The Iroquois Steeplechase at Percy Warner Park combines world-class horse racing, Southern hospitality, fashion, and philanthropy. A crowd exceeding 30,000 is anticipated on May 9, 2026 for seven exhilarating races with total purses of $575,000. Tickets are available now with options ranging from general admission to premium experiences like Royal 615, Magnolia Garden and private tents. The 2026 event will also introduce a new centerfield Music Stage featuring live performances throughout the day. IroquoisSteeplechase.orgtickets


Journey across Tennessee, Missouri, and Kentucky to discover dazzling lights, holiday shows, and sweet treats.
Whether you’re looking for dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, or family traditions, here are three unforgettable holiday experiences perfect for your family’s seasonal adventures. Each destination offers a unique way to celebrate from the Smokies to the Ozarks to Kentucky, no matter which direction you head.
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED



As Dollywood celebrates its 40th anniversary season, the award-winning Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana continues its reign as one of the nation’s most beloved holiday festivals. With more than six million lights, Broadway-caliber shows, and immersive areas like Glacier Ridge and Wildwood Grove, the entire 160-acre park becomes a sparkling wonderland. Guests can enjoy culinary favorites like red velvet funnel cakes and the famous Grist Mill cinnamon bread, or watch artisans craft keepsakes. Add in nightly fireworks, festive rides, and the warmth of the Smoky Mountain setting, and Dollywood’s Christmas celebration offers something truly magical for families of all ages.
Dollywood.com
Branson’s Silver Dollar City transforms into a glowing Ozark wonderland with more than 6.5 million lights and over 1,000 decorated trees. At its heart, an 80-foot animated Christmas tree dazzles Town Square every evening. Guests can stroll through Christmas In Midtown®, enjoy the final year of Rudolph’s Holly Jolly™ Parade, and see Broadwaystyle productions like A Dickens’ Christmas Carol. Artisans showcase handcrafted gifts while holiday buffets serve prime rib and cinnamon bread. With coasters, a living nativity, and even a Frisco Sing-Along Steam Train, An Old Time Christmas offers families the perfect mix of timeless tradition and modern holiday magic.
SilverDollarCity.com
Louisville’s Kentucky Kingdom brings winter thrills to life with its immersive festival, Christmas at Kentucky Kingdom: Bright Lights, Wonder Nights!. The centerpiece is Blizzard Bluff, Kentucky’s largest real snow tubing hill, surrounded by over 1.5 million lights and 300 Christmas trees. Families can explore themed zones like Classic Christmas, Holly Jolly™ Junction featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer®, and Santa’s Village with its 60-foot light tunnel. Seasonal shows, festive foods, and snow play for kids round out the fun. With select rides open, nightly tree lightings, and New Year’s Eve fireworks, this growing holiday tradition delivers excitement and heartwarming experiences for all ages.
KentuckyKingdom.com

ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY BAYDOUN

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.
When brothers Houston and Dick Thomas opened a little steakhouse in Belle Meade back in 1974, they built something that would evolve from a local favorite to a multi-location brand. Named after their great-grandfather Burton W. Sperry, the restaurant has long been beloved for its cozy charm, incredible steaks, Nashville's very first salad bar, and, my personal favorite, an excellent happy hour (IYKYK).
Sperry’s something special from Day I.
Upon entry, the Belle Meade steakhouse transports diners to an elegant Old English pub. a precursor to the service and flavors they’re about to experience. From premium cuts of beef with all the best accompaniments to seafood and chops, it’s the type of place modern restaurants seek to emulate but rarely do. An impressively close-in-design replica opened in Cool Springs in 2006.
Today Houston's son, Al, carries on the family tradition, as the Sperry’s story continues to unfold. (Until her recent passing, Al's wife Trish was a supportive and steady presence, noted for her warmth and kindness.) The Belle Meade Mercantile, a community store offering customers a way to enjoy Sperry's quality at home with signature items and fresh, ready-made meals, opened in 2015. Prominent local caterer Anne Clayton helped craft many of the shop’s beloved dishes.
When the pandemic hit, community support helped the shop grow faster than expected, leading to a second location in Bellevue inside the long-vacated building at 7745 Highway 70 South that once housed a Shoney’s restaurant. After seeing how much the Belle Meade community embraced the shop, expanding felt like the logical next step. While Belle Meade will always be a Nashville sweet spot for the family, the Bellevue location has quickly become another place that feels like home. The expansion decision was met with much excitement.
“Over the years, Sperry’s has grown, but that same spirit of hospitality has never changed,” says a Sperry's representative.
The Bellevue Mercantile has an in-house butcher who is a chef by trade, a gourmet grocery, and an expanded selection of top-quality and exotic meats and seafood. The shelves are filled with local Pick TN products, freshly grown produce, and ingredients you’ll be proud to have in your pantry.
Across the hall sits Café Sperry's, the family's drive-thru coffee concept that serves as a perfect complement to the Mercantile. It has become a warm and familiar stop for the Bellevue community, offering a cozy cup of coffee for those in-between moments.
For weeknights and busy schedules, the Mercantile offers freshly prepared take-home meals that can be warmed in the oven for simple dinners. Plus, there are grab-and-go options that are ideal for after-school snacks, quick lunches, or on-the-go meals.
But if you’re looking to don your apron and whip up a meal to wow, you may be surprised to find a selection of exotic meat, including elk, bison, kangaroo, ostrich, emu, and rabbit. If you’re new to these, the butcher stands ready to help you explore new flavors by chatting through preferred tastes, sharing cooking tips, and guiding you toward the perfect cut and preparation.
“We see food as an adventure, and we’re here to make it approachable, exciting, and delicious,” says the Sperry's representative. “It's all about discovering great flavors, learning a little along the way, and enjoying every bite.”
During the holidays, Sperry's becomes a one-stop shop for festive entertaining. From specialty-cut meats to the beloved Sperry's Prime Seasoning, the Mercantile has everything needed for hosting like a pro. The signature seasoning blend creates that delicate, salty crust on rib roast but works just as well on chicken and vegetables.
There are a few ways to embrace the season with Sperry’s. Again this year, the Mercantile is offering an online presale of prepared foods packaged with Sperry's favorites and ready for pickup. Bring them home, warm them in your oven, and enjoy a stress-free, restaurant-quality meal. For easy gifting, Sperry’s is running its annual gift card promo, which pair nicely with a bottle of Sperry's Chardonnay or Cabernet.
And for a cup of cheer, Café Sperry's will release holiday drink specials that capture the spirit and warmth of the season.
Whether picking up something familiar or venturing into new culinary territory, the Sperry's team stands ready to help make your spirits brighter this season. Warm coffees, hearty steaks, gourmet feasts, delicious wines, and old-time charm, Sperry’s is the cozy season personified, whether you choose to dine in or grab and go.
“At Sperry's, the season is all about sharing joy, flavor, and time together,” says the Sperry's Mercantile team.
For more information on Sperry’s Restaurant, Mercantile, Café Sperry’s, or to place an order for prepared holiday meals, visit Sperrys.com and SperrysMercantile.com




“IT’S ALL ABOUT DISCOVERING GREAT FLAVORS, LEARNING A LITTLE ALONG THE WAY, AND ENJOYING EVERY BITE.”
























AN ORGANIZATION WHERE SENIORS LEND A HAND TO HELP EACH OTHER


With its unique business model, Seniors Helping Seniors has found a way to benefit both the caregiver and care recipient in communities across the country including Middle Tennessee.
There are many seniors and retirees who are looking for meaningful ways to stay engaged without the commitment and without the demands of full-time employment. There are also elderly community members who, as they age, discover they need help with tasks of daily living, or who just want someone to keep them company. Seniors Helping Seniors sets itself apart from other care services in that it pairs people from these groups together to the mutual benefit of both.
“We're a non-medical home care agency for seniors, and our service is provided by seniors,” says Nick Deitmen, a local Seniors Helping Seniors franchise owner. “We are trying to solve the loneliness epidemic on both sides. Pairing seniors with other seniors counters loneliness and helps establish a deeper sense of companionship. People who have been in that season of life understand what you're going through with a client. It feels more like having a friend come over to hang out with you versus having a young caregiver show up and treat you like a patient. You're really treated more like a friend.”
Before opening the Nashville franchise, Deitmen was working in healthcare tech but striving to find a way to work in the service side of the industry.
“I increasingly felt like I was getting further and further from understanding who actually used the work I was doing, who was benefiting from the work I was doing,” he says.
When his grandmother started receiving assistance from a similar program in his hometown, Deitmen witnessed firsthand how beneficial this system was. Its positive impact on her everyday quality of life inspired him to act.
Deitmen opened his Seniors Helping Seniors franchise earlier this year, providing service to Nashville, Bellevue, Antioch, Belle Meade, Green Hills, Brentwood, East Nashville, Donelson, and Madison. “It has been the best decision I've ever made,” he says. “We provide things like light housekeeping, meal prep, running errands, transportation to lunch or taking them to the senior center to participate in activities.”
cared for their own aging parents, so they have already experienced many of these later-in-life scenarios. Deitmen explained that all caregivers are carefully vetted, having undergone a background check, auto insurance verification, training through the company, and specialized training for memory care.
One local caretaker is Julia Boklage. After working as an accountant for 25 years, she retired last December before realizing she wasn’t quite ready to quit working altogether.
“I stayed at home for a month or so and decided this is just not for me,” Boklage says.
“We’re a non-medical home care agency for seniors, and our service is provided by seniors.”
While SHS caregivers do not administer medications, they do help with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing, and medication reminders. For those living in assisted living communities, they can help residents participate in activities at their center, accompany them to outings, and come over for lunch to keep them company.
By hiring seniors as helpers, SHS Caregivers are better able to relate to those for whom they serve. Many caregivers previously have
“I've worked all my life since I was 17, so I decided I would look for something that I could do that would be giving back and helping folks and also making a few dollars for myself. This is what I found, and I've really enjoyed every minute of it.”
Seniors Helping Seniors’ flexible schedule proved to be the perfect fit as Boklage has three clients she sees every week. “One of the great things about it is you get to design your schedule around your own commitments and things you want to do,” she says. “I'm so thankful that I found this; I’m not a nurse but I can certainly help people live,” she says.
Locations.SeniorsHelpingSeniors.com/tn/nashville






PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS


INGREDIENTS:
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge. Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 oz bourbon
Topping: 4 large marshmallows
Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon


In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED

Here’s the deal. The right insurance should help you feel confident and comfortable. I’m the right good neighbor for that. Call me today.
the
The
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®
insurance should help you feel confident and comfortable. I’m the right good neighbor for that. Call me today.
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INSTRUCTIONS:

For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:
Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.




www.leighedwards.co • 615-891-2216 IG: @leighedwardsandcompany • FB: @lecprofile












We’re thrilled to introduce Justin Perry, FNP-BC, the newest addition to our Nashville Health Pro family. Justin is passionate about helping patients thrive at every stage of life— whether you need a trusted partner for family care, guidance on your weight loss journey, or a skilled hand for aesthetic treatments.
Justin and the Nashville Health Pro team are here to help you feel healthy, confident, and at your best.






DECEMBER 1ST
Concerts Around Town
VENUES THROUGHOUT NASHVILLE
RYMAN AUDITORIUM: Monday 1-Thursday 4: Little Big Town; Friday 5-Saturday 6: The Mavericks; Tuesday 9: Sarah Brightman; December 10-11, 13-14, 16-17, 19-20: Amy Grant & Vince Gill; Friday 12: Lee Ann Rimes; Thursday 18: Kip Moore; Sunday 21-Tuesday 23: Lady A; BRIDGESTONE ARENA: Friday 12-Saturday 13: Nate Bargatze; THE PINNACLE: Thursday 11: Trey Kennedy; Sunday 21: Heart. MARATHON MUSIC WORKS: Thursday 4: Avatar; Tuesday 9: Whitechapel; Sunday 14: Highly Suspect;
DECEMBER 2ND
Professional Sports
Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena
Nashville Predators (Bridgestone Arena): Tuesday 2 vs. Calgary Flames, Tuesday 9 vs. Colorado Avalanche, Thursday 11 vs. St. Louis Blues, Wednesday 17 vs. Carolina Hurricanes, Saturday 20 vs. Toronto Maple Leafs, Sunday 21 vs. New York Rangers. (NHL.com/predators). Tennessee Titans (Nissan Stadium): Sunday 21 vs. Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday 28 vs. New Orleans Saints. (TitansOnline.com).
DECEMBER 2ND
Nashville Symphony
SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY CENTER, DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE
Join the Nashville Symphony for a month of Christmas concerts. Tuesday 2-Wednesday 3: Christmastime with Trisha Yearwood; Friday 5-Sunday 7: Home Alone in Concert; Wednesday 10-Thursday 11: Elf; Friday 12: Drew & Ellie Holcomb's Neighborly Christmas; Sunday 14: Holiday Brass Spectacular; Monday 15: Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Creole Christmas; Tuesday 16: Cody Fry Christmas; Friday 19-Sunday 21: Handel's Messiah Christmas. NashvilleSymphony.org
DECEMBER 6TH
BELLEVUE MIDDLE SCHOOL TO ONE BELLEVUE PLACE | 10:00 AM
Be there as Bellevue celebrates the holiday season with the Second Annual Holidays in the Vue Parade, presented by Allegiance Pressure Washing. The parade offers Bellevue an inclusive, family-oriented event that portrays the goodwill associated with the holiday season. The parade begins at Bellevue Middle School and continues westbound on Highway 70 South to One Bellevue Place. HolidaysInTheVue.com
DECEMBER 13TH
7311 HIGHWAY 100 | 10:00 AM
Team up with friends and neighbors to preserve and protect Warner Park at the Vol Call: Pullin' Party. Park leaders will provide weed wrenches as you go after some of the most noxious and invasive plants in the woods. Held each month, the Pullin' Party is a park beautification opportunity that allows participants to contribute directly to a healthier park ecosystem. Registration required.WarnerParks.org/upcoming-events/
DECEMBER 31ST
Jack Daniel's New Year's Eve Live
BICENTENNIAL CAPITOL MALL STATE PARK | 7:00 PM
Ring in 2026 at Jack Daniel’s New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash in unforgettable fashion. Friends from all over are invited to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park for a FREE night of music and celebration featuring headlining performances from Lainey Wilson, Jason Aldean, and Bailey Zimmerman. Also appearing will be CeCe Winans and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. VisitMusicCity.com/newyearseve



Schedule your private tour today and experience the view that makes this home truly unforgettable!




