
LIFE + CULTURE
NICOLE’S FAREWELL: PASSING THE GL TORCH
LOCAL SERVICES
LIGHTING UP CHRISTMAS FOR AREA FOSTER KIDS
ENTERTAINMENT
FESTIVE ROADS AHEAD: WHERE TO GO THIS WINTER








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NICOLE’S FAREWELL: PASSING THE GL TORCH
LOCAL SERVICES
LIGHTING UP CHRISTMAS FOR AREA FOSTER KIDS
FESTIVE ROADS AHEAD: WHERE TO GO THIS WINTER








The magic of December is undeniable! It’s a time when twinkling lights glow a little brighter, kindness flows a little deeper and our hearts turn toward what truly matters most—family, generosity and meaningful connections.

In our 2025 Holiday Issue, we’re embracing all the warmth and wonder of the season with stories designed to inspire the spirit and remind us what makes this time of year so beloved. Among those is Fostering Hope, a powerful local initiative born in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. As uncertainty gripped our area, one thing became crystal clear—countless children in Middle Tennessee’s foster care system needed extra support, love and reassurance.
That’s where Fostering Hope stepped in, with a simple and profound mission: to ensure that every foster child in our region experiences the joy of Christmas, regardless of their circumstances. Through donated gifts, personalized outreach and heartfelt care, they are lighting up young lives with the kind of hope that lasts far beyond the holidays. It’s a moving reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with compassion and purpose.
We're also sharing some festive road trip ideas to spark your sense of adventure and celebration. There’s just something magical about bundling up, grabbing a hot cocoa and setting off to explore nearby towns adorned in lights, with charming cafés, holiday markets and winter wonderlands waiting just down the road. These are the little joys and traditions that create lifelong memories.
We're also giving a sneak peek at the future of Gallatin Lifestyle here in Gallatin, as well as some of the exciting things ahead in 2026 and beyond!
As we wrap up another year, we also want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for reading, sharing, supporting and being part of our amazing community. Having readers and followers like you—our biggest fans and cheerleaders—makes this season all the more meaningful!
From all of us, may your holiday be filled with peace, joy and blessings in every way that matters most. Merry Christmas, Gallatin!

NICOLE BELL, PUBLISHER @GALLATINLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Nicole Bell | nicole.bell@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Scott Bell | scott.bell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Renee Donnell | renee.donnell@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Stacey Norman | stacey@plumpoppyphotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nicole Bell, Scott Bell, Erica Bibb, Renee Donnell, Lindsey Hickman, Sydney Kate Lewis, Julie Brown Patton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Nicole Bell, Scott Bell, Brandon Clark, Jordyn Clark, Janie Jones
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle


Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN







1: EXIT Realty Refined team at the Gallatin State of the City Luncheon 2: Sumner County CASA joined community leaders at Gallatin’s State of the City Luncheon 3: You Can Fly Travels celebrates being a Disney Earmarked Owner 4: Miracle League’s fall season wrapped with joy, new friendships and heartfelt moments shared by buddies 5: Gallatin sparkled at the Tennessee Bridal Expo as Jenna debuted Gallatin’s new wedding guide 6: Debra and Audrey from Ikaria Infusions with Nicole Bell at B3’s vibrant networking event 7: Fowler Dental celebrates its grand opening, bringing compassionate, judgment-free dental care to Gallatin
Want to be seen in the magazine?
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The Goddard School in Gallatin has successfully passed its Goddard Quality Assurance Health and Safety Review. This achievement highlights the school’s ongoing commitment to providing a safe, nurturing and high-quality learning environment. Congratulations to the dedicated teachers and staff whose hard work and excellence continue to meet and exceed the highest Goddard standards.
Scan to read more
Meet Kimfetti + Co., Gallatin’s cheerful destination for all things party, paper and play. This charming shop blends festive supplies with a hands-on creative space—perfect for crafting, celebrating and making everyday moments feel special. Whether you're planning a party or picking up a thoughtful gift, Kimfetti + Co. is here to add joy to every occasion.


Highpoint Health – Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas proudly served as the Title Sponsor of Vol State’s Giving Day. This impactful initiative raises funds for student scholarships, academic programs and partner campaigns that shape the next generation of healthcare professionals, educators and leaders. By supporting education, Highpoint continues its commitment to building a healthier, more empowered Middle Tennessee community.


EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.

SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.
The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.

HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING ENTERTAINMENT.
I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.
03
Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.

THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.
04 FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.
While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!
• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson
• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber
• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes
• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks (From the Polar Express soundtrack)
• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen
• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie
• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy
• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood
• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell
• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler
Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!








Navigating Medicare doesn’t have to be confusing. As a local advisor who grew up right here in Gallatin, I’m proud to help our community review their coverage options, compare plans, and make confident choices—whether it’s your first time signing up or you’re reviewing your current plan. Get personal, hometown guidance you can trust—because your health and peace of mind matter most. www.tnmedicareconcierge.com | 402 Maple St, Gallatin, TN







Lighting Up Christmas For Middle Tennessee’s Foster Children With Love And Compassion
Every child deserves to experience the wonder and warmth of Christmas and that’s exactly what Fostering Hope, a local ministry in Middle Tennessee, is determined to make possible. Founded in 2020 by Jordyn Clark, founder and owner of local salon Studio 1:9, Fostering Hope is dedicated to ensuring that

“It’s amazing seeing the way our community shows up—from sewing machines to Nike shoes, the generosity is overwhelming.”
every foster child feels seen, loved and remembered during the holiday season. Fostering Hope provides gifts tailored to each child’s wants and needs, while surrounding them with ongoing prayer and encouragement. Through this heartfelt initiative, the ministry shines a light of compassion and community, reminding foster children that they are cherished and never forgotten especially during Christmas.
“What started as a simple idea has become something much bigger than we imagined,” Jordyn shares. “It all began with a desire to make sure every child feels seen and loved. When Fostering Hope began, we had just over 80 children on our list. I remember sitting at the kitchen table the following year, unsure of how we were going to be able to fulfill 100+ kids’
lists, and that year we fulfilled over 200 kids’ lists.” Fostering Hope began as a small desire to help, but it has quickly evolved into a far-reaching ministry.
Jordyn’s heart is set on ensuring that no child in our local foster care system ever has to feel the way she did growing up. “I know what it feels like to wake up on Christmas morning and not have a single person thinking of me,” says Jordyn. “This is why I desire to give hope to foster children. There’s an entire community of people, many of whom they’ve never even met, who are praying for them, believing in them and cheering them on.” As Fostering Hope has evolved, an increasing number of generous people in the community have stepped in to help. “One of the most beautiful parts of this journey has been realizing that


people truly want to help—they just don’t always know how,” Jordyn says. Fostering Hope has become a bridge between awareness and action. By offering resources for those who want to help, the ministry has opened so many doors for giving hearts.
Fostering Hope has the opportunity to work alongside Sumner County CASA and DCS, as well as local businesses in the community. “Partnering with these businesses has played a huge role in turning these children’s wish lists into reality,” shares Jordyn. “The inspiration and ability to extend our reach beyond Sumner County comes from the community giving selflessly every year. We are blown away by the generosity and hearts of people who want to make a difference in these kids’ lives.” As a business owner herself, Jordyn understands the stress and demands that come with the title, giving her a firsthand appreciation for the hardworking people who go above and beyond—giving their time, effort and resources to make this mission a success. “This wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community and local businesses.”
So how does it work? Each ornament on the Fostering Hope Christmas tree represents a specific child in need—their story and wish—while keeping them anonymous. Participants don’t choose based on age or gender, which makes the experience even more meaningful. “By picking an ornament, you’re committing to shop for that child. You can take it to the front desk of any
“These kids go to school with your kids. They work at the stores where you shop. They’re just like you and me—only they didn’t get to choose their story.”

participating location, and they’ll provide you with the child’s wish list,” Jordyn says. “Each list includes something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read. This year, we’ll have four designated dropoff days where you can bring the gifts you’ve purchased. We are super excited that this year, our local first responders at the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office will assist DCS by helping deliver gifts before Christmas.”
For those unable to shop in person or select an ornament, they can still be part of the mission. “Fostering Hope is part of a bigger initiative through our Non-Profit called I Got Your 6 Ministry, where we love on local First Responders, their families and foster children
year-round. To help Fostering Hope specifically, please pray that every child we serve is fully taken care of,” Jordyn expresses. “Spread the word to your friends and family, share our posts on social media and if you’re able, volunteer or donate through our website, igy6ministry.com. Every bit of support truly makes a difference!”
Fostering Hope is not just about buying gifts for kids who need love—it’s about seeing them for who they truly are every single day. “Just imagine what the world could look like,” Jordyn shares, “if kids everywhere knew they were seen, valued and deeply loved. Fostering Hope is just getting started—and that’s what makes this so exciting!”
For more information, visit: igy6ministry.com

















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
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Wellwrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-It-Yourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together,


tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper. Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out
shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).













When we brought Gallatin Lifestyle to Gallatin in 2022, we saw it as more than just another local magazine—we saw it as a real mission for good. A mission to spotlight the heart of our community, to connect neighbors through storytelling and to champion the small businesses, creative minds and the leaders who make Gallatin such a special place to live, work and grow.
Each issue has been a love letter to the people and places that give this town its soul. From local grand openings to school celebrations, nonprofit milestones to creative endeavors, we’ve had the joy of highlighting the moments that matter most. We’ve walked alongside businesses and business owners through launches and anniversaries, shared stories that moved us to tears and celebrated the simple joys of community connection. Every photoshoot, profile and page created has carried a definite intention—and a whole lot of heart.
Personally, serving as the publisher of Gallatin Lifestyle has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional career. As someone who lives and works right here in Gallatin, I’ve never taken for granted the trust you’ve placed in me to share your stories. Thank you for welcoming this publication into your homes and hearts, for supporting our mission and for showing up for
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT BELL
your neighbors in countless ways. You’ve made this journey more meaningful than words can express and more fulfilling than I ever could have imagined!
Now, on to a personal note. With my family preparing for an upcoming move and life leading us into a new chapter outside of Tennessee, I share this update with a full heart, grateful yet a bit bittersweet. While our personal zip code may be changing, my heart remains firmly rooted here. Gallatin will always be home for my family and for the legacy we’ve built together.
That being said, I’m thrilled to announce that Gallatin Lifestyle will continue to move forward stronger than ever with a new local publisher who shares the same commitment to excellence, authenticity and community impact. Our new publisher is from Gallatin and has the same heart for our area that we have always had. This transition marks a beautiful evolution—not an ending, but a step forward. With fresh energy and a shared vision, we’re positioning

Gallatin Lifestyle to grow even stronger and serve Gallatin in more meaningful and impactful ways.
This change also reflects what Gallatin Lifestyle has always been about: collaboration and connection. As Gallatin Lifestyle continues to expand its reach and impact, a passionate new leader will carry the torch, further elevating the voices, events and businesses that make this town shine brighter than ever before!
To our advertising partners, thank you for trusting us with your brands. You are the lifeblood of this publication and your success is our success Let me say without hesitation: if it weren’t for you, Gallatin Lifestyle would not be here. Supporting our


community publication is always noticed and recognized and we continually thank you for doing just that—allowing us to exist as a beautiful tool and resource to our community. We remain deeply committed to delivering value through strategic exposure, meaningful storytelling and consistent top-of-mind awareness across all of our platforms.
To our readers, you are the heart of this magazine. Your support has meant everything. Every comment, message, like and share fuels our mission. We don’t take it lightly that we get to sit on your coffee tables, accompany you while shopping or inspire your next weekend outing.
And to Gallatin—we see you. We love you. And we’re so excited to continue showing up for you in new, exciting ways.
This next season is going to be incredible and we can’t wait to bring you along for the ride!
With Love for Gallatin,
Nicole Bell, Founder Gallatin Lifestyle












ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!












DECEMBER 4TH
Slay Bells Ring
The Emerald Union, 112 Public Square, Gallatin | 6:00 PM
Come along to The Emerald Union for an evening of mystery and intrigue. Dress in your Christmas best for a delectable dinner, put on your detective hat and get ready to solve a thrilling murder mystery surrounded by festive decorations and holiday cheer! Celebrate the holiday season with a twist. Tickets required.
DECEMBER 5TH
City of Gallatin Christmas Tree Lighting
Downtown Gallatin Square | 5:00 PM
Join us as we kickoff the holiday season with the City of Gallatin’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting event in the historic Downtown Square! Enjoy an evening filled with holiday cheer, festive decorations and a magnificent Christmas tree. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.
DECEMBER 5TH
VITA Aesthetics Annual Christmas Party
VITA Aesthetics, 1501 Hunt Club Blvd., Gallatin | 1:00 PM
Mark your calendars for VITA Aesthetics’ Holiday Glow Event on Friday, December 5, from 1:00 – 7:00 PM. Enjoy festive cocktails, sweet treats, live demos, and exclusive one-night-only pricing on services, products and memberships. Don’t miss your chance to enter the $4,000+ Holiday Makeover giveaway—perfect for a seasonal refresh or gifting glow to someone you love.
DECEMBER 6TH
A Merry Little Christmas Market on the Square
Downtown Gallatin Square | 10:00 AM
Experience small-town charm and high-end holiday shopping at Downtown Gallatin’s 2nd Annual Christmas Market. Stroll the square, savor hot chocolate and enjoy live carolers while discovering festive gifts from curated vendors. Don’t miss photos with Santa from 10:00 –11:00 AM! After shopping, explore local retailers and dine at one of Gallatin’s beloved downtown restaurants for the full holiday experience.
DECEMBER 13TH
Gallatin Christmas Parade
Downtown Gallatin | 12:00 PM
The Gallatin Christmas Parade, presented by Primrose School of Gallatin and powered by the Gallatin Area Chamber of Commerce, is an event you won’t want to miss! This year’s theme is “Christmas Is…”—what does Christmas mean to you? Come enjoy this fantastic holiday tradition with your entire family!
DECEMBER 20TH
HWY 52 Cruise-In
The Ole Milliken Store, 1196 Harve Brown Road, Bethpage | 5:00 PM
Join us at The Ole Milliken Store for HWY 52 Cruise-In’s Third Thursdays event from 5:00 - 8:00 PM. Enjoy amazing live music, delicious eats and classic and antique cars! All makes and models welcome.
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.




We know every patient is unique. That’s why our care starts with you. Whether it’s a routine check-up or a critical procedure, we deliver treatment that’s centered on your health, your goals and your recovery. The doctors, nurses and clinical staff at Highpoint Health – Sumner bring together personalized expertise and advanced medical technology to help you get back to the things you care about most.
You aren’t just a diagnosis. And we’re not just cardiology, orthopedics or emergency medicine. We specialize in first steps and walks down the aisle. We specialize in what matters most. We specialize in you. See how we care for you at
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