My Hometown
There is something extra special about this month’s edition for me. I am so excited to call Gallatin my hometown—a place where I grew up, where my roots run deep, and where so many meaningful chapters of my life began. To now come back and serve this community again as publisher of Gallatin City Lifestyle is truly an honor I don’t take lightly.
Our March Home Edition is a celebration of just that—home. Inside these pages, we are shining a spotlight on a local designer and home furnishings expert right here in our own backyard, proving you don’t have to drive to Nashville to find high-end beauty, craftsmanship, and style. Gallatin is full of talent, and our magazines are all about showcasing the incredible resources available locally.
You’ll also meet hometown farmers you absolutely need to know, explore stories from our real estate community, and discover a true local gem of an Airbnb— one that reminds us how special it is when hospitality meets heart. After the hard winter we’ve all just weathered, we’re also sharing practical insight on how to care for your roof and protect one of your biggest investments as we head into spring.
And because home is also about memories made together, I’ve included a sweet little road trip suggestion to the Smokies—sharing a few of my family’s favorite recent stops that brought us fresh air, laughter, and time well spent. I hope it inspires your next family adventure.
This edition is a love letter to Gallatin—to the homes we build, the businesses we support, and the community we continue to grow together. Thank you for welcoming me back home and for allowing Gallatin City Lifestyle to tell the stories that make this place so special.
March 2026
PUBLISHER
January Alexander-Coffin january.alexander@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Scott J Coffin | scott.coffin@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lindsey Hickman | lindsey.hickman@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Alana Cheeves | lebanon@citylifestyle.com
MARKET AREA COORDINATOR
Michelle DePass | michelle.depass@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Lindsey Howard
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Cedar & Light Photography, Morris Holleman, Angela Anderson
Corporate Team
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.
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 3/31/26. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
MEDICARE MADE SIMPLE—RIGHT HERE IN GALLATIN
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
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Sweet memories filled the air at the 2nd Annual Snowball at the Station—giggles, sparkles and daddy-daughter moments supporting the Chamber Foundation and innovative teacher grants. Photography by Angela Anderson
NON-SURGICAL SOLUTIONS
Certified in Non Surgical Decompression yearly
Treating with #1 Rated True Decompression Table
Using the only FDA Cleared Equipment
Treatment using the Harvard Protocols Unmatched experience in our area
Vice President of International Disc Education Association
Contributing Author to Spinal Decompression Textbook
Recognized as Top 10 Decompression Doctor in America
Non-Surgical Solutions | Bulging Disc Treatment
Herniated Disc Treatment | Sciatic Treatment
Neck Pain Treatment | Back Pain Treatment
Pinched Nerve Treatment | Knee Treatment
business monthly
Gallatin Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 105 Years
The Gallatin Chamber of Commerce celebrates 105 years of service, marking a legacy that began in 1921. For more than a century, the Chamber has walked alongside residents and local businesses, championing growth through initiatives and community leadership. Recently named the 2025 Chamber of the Year, the organization continues to go above and beyond. As they honor their past, leaders are focused on stronger storytelling, deeper connections and embracing new opportunities for the future.
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Remodel with White Buffalo Restoration
White Buffalo Restoration delivers expert craftsmanship for homeowners seeking upgrades and lasting quality. Services include remodeling, concrete, flooring, custom cabinetry, storm and water repair, outdoor spaces and full kitchen and bathroom renovations. Every project begins with listening closely to your vision and shaping a personalized plan that reflects your lifestyle. A carefully developed design blends beauty and function as their experienced team transforms each space with precision and care. Schedule your next project at WhiteBuffaloRestoration.com
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Feel At Home with Broadway Mortgage Group
At Broadway Mortgage Group, home financing is about more than numbers; it’s about relationships. Clients are welcomed like family and supported with solutions tailored to their goals and lifestyles. Whether purchasing, refinancing or planning ahead, homeowners receive customized options designed to fit their unique needs. From the first conversation through closing day, Broadway Mortgage focuses on creating a smooth, stress-free journey that feels positive, memorable and truly centered on helping families feel right at home.
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Hometown girl Ashley Cline Cook weaves family, land and hospitality into places people return to
CREATING HOME
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY CEDAR & LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
In Gallatin, home is not a single structure or address. It is a living, breathing ecosystem of history, land, family and hospitality. For Ashley Cline Cook, home is both deeply personal and deliberately shared. It is found in the creak of original hardwood floors at Historic Stonewall, in the laughter of families gathered for milestone weekends in her short-term rentals, and in the soft bleating of goats under the moonlight on her hillside farm.
Ashley Cline Cook is a hometown girl through and through, though her name itself tells a story of evolution and return. In a world full of Ashleys, her individuality
took shape as Cline, the maiden name that followed her from childhood onward. It carried her through sports, friendships, and the formative years of early adulthood, becoming the name people used and remembered. When she married her high school sweetheart, Matt Cook, she made a conscious decision to drop her middle name and restore Cline to her identity, ensuring that those from every chapter of her life could still find her. That instinct to create connection, continuity and belonging has shaped every chapter of her life.
MANY HATS, ONE CENTER
Today, Ashley wears many hats: real estate broker and co-owner of LOCAL 615, Airbnb host and founder of Gallatin Stays, farm owner, preservation steward, MBA graduate, certified Master Small Ruminant Producer, mother of three, and former elite collegiate athlete. Yet despite the pace and pressure of these roles, she remains grounded by a singular truth.
“Home grounds me from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in town,” she says.
That grounding began early. Growing up in a country subdivision, Ashley dreamed of space. Room to move, land to work, animals to love and freedom from close neighbors. It was never about escape, it was about intention. That dream eventually led her and Matt to their current farm property, where underbrush once overtook logged land and possibility waited patiently underneath.
But before the goats, before the farm was named, before Gallatin Stays hosted more than 527 stays since 2022, Ashley’s path home wound far beyond Sumner County before it came back home.
COMPETITION, COMMUNITY AND COMING HOME
Ashley was born competitive. It carried her all the way to the University of Tennessee, where she became a Lady Vol softball player and made history as part of the team, scoring the first run ever in program history at the Women’s College World Series in 2005.
The discipline, resilience and team first mindset forged in that environment never left her. The pressure of balancing academics, athletics and performance at the highest level shaped how she approaches everything today: with commitment, urgency, and an all or nothing mentality. CONTINUED >
“Home is not just a place, it is the feeling you create when people walk through the door together inside.”
“Whether hosting families or raising animals, creating home means offering care, continuity, and belonging during life’s meaningful moments for everyone.”
It also shaped how she sees community.
“When I was in college, not many people knew Gallatin,” she reflects, “Now, after traveling many roads, I love sharing Gallatin and representing it well.”
That pride is the throughline in her work, especially in the way she welcomes others into the town she knows so intimately.
GALLATIN STAYS: HOSPITALITY ROOTED IN PURPOSE
Ashley’s entry into short-term rentals was not trend driven. It was personal and strategic. As a real estate agent and now broker and co-owner of LOCAL 615 alongside partner Josie Parsons, she and Matt understood early that, as business owners rather than traditional W-2 employees, they needed to invest intentionally in their family’s future.
That first investment opportunity came shortly after the pandemic through a long standing friendship. The timing was right, the vision was clear and Gallatin Stays was born.
“I wouldn’t necessarily call our properties unique,” Ashley explains, “I’d call them affordable and economically focused.”
That focus proved prescient. Gallatin does not attract tourists looking for nightlife, it attracts people coming home. Families visiting for weddings, births, funerals, graduations, and reunions. Professionals working long-term local contracts with TVA, Servpro, or META, people house hunting and people needing a place that feels steady during moments that matter.
Two of Ashley’s earliest short-term rentals held particular meaning, properties her grandmother had rented for decades but never owned. Naming them Soles on Factory, a nod to the historic Genesco shoe factory, and Soles at Mema’s, Ashley quietly reclaimed a piece of family legacy.
“Ownership matters,” she says, “It became a personal mission.”
That same reverence for place would soon extend to one of Gallatin’s most significant historic homes.
HISTORIC STONEWALL: PRESERVING THE PAST, HOSTING THE PRESENT
Managing Historic Stonewall is unlike any other hosting experience. At 5,600 square feet, the home sleeps 15 or more and stands as a preserved reflection of Sumner County’s past. Owned by the Sumner County Museum under Ryan Baker’s stewardship, nearly all proceeds from overnight stays are reinvested into its ongoing upkeep and preservation.
“This initiative is entirely about preservation,” Ashley explains.
While modern necessities occasionally require updates, the home remains as close as possible to its original state when acquired from the Garrett family. Grants and fundraising have fueled year over year improvements, allowing guests to experience history not as a museum exhibit, but as a livable space.
One of the first families to stay at Historic Stonewall arrived for Christmas. They have returned every year since.
That, Ashley believes, is the magic of hospitality done right.
“It’s quite a transition going from co-hosting an 800 square foot rental to managing a 5,600 square foot home,” she laughs, “But it’s worth it.”
MOONLIGHT, GOATS AND THE RHYTHM OF FARM LIFE
At home, however, Ashley’s world quiets into a different rhythm.
Technically named Rock Bridge Farm, the property sits where an original rock bridge once defined the land. But Ashley’s Instagram handle, @moonlightfarmHER, tells the truer story. Farm chores completed after dark, in the moonlight, while balancing three kids and full-time careers.
Her goats came first as a practical solution. After experimenting with a mini LaMancha, Ashley landed on Nigerian Dwarf dairy goats, ideal for the farm’s steep hillside terrain and manageable enough to handle solo in emergencies. Their high butterfat
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milk, structural soundness, and undeniable charm sealed the deal.
During kidding season, Ashley occasionally sells milk for pet consumption and looks ahead to exploring cheese and soap making. The farm is also home to mature laying hens and two steadfast Great Pyrenees livestock guardians, Cotton and Opal.
Farm life offers balance, not rest, but purpose.
“My quiet moments come during chores and feeding animals,” she says, “And nothing beats hot coffee on the front porch any time of year.”
FAMILY AT THE CENTER
Home, ultimately, is defined by family.
Ashley and Matt, both Gallatin originals and Gallatin High School graduates, met young, reconnected after 10 years, and married in 2012. Together, they are raising Tucker, 12, Vidye, 11, and Mack, 4, surrounded by extended family and shared responsibility.
“I couldn’t imagine living away from our family,” Ashley says, “I wouldn’t be able to manage everything I do without my husband.”
Matt, now owner of ABC Septic Services, purchased the business from Ashley’s father a few years ago. A full circle moment that mirrors much of their life together. This year, they plan to build their forever home on his family farm just down the road, with hopes that their current property will pass to future homesteaders.
Ashley jokes that home is her happy place, even with spotty cell and WiFi service. She proudly chauffeurs life in her big black taxi cab Yukon, cheering on sports, welcoming goat kids, and watching her children choose outdoor creativity over screens. These are the moments that matter.
ROOTED REAL ESTATE, REAL BELONGING
In real estate, Ashley’s lifelong heart for Gallatin gives her an edge no algorithm can replicate.
“When clients describe what they want, I already know where to look,” she says, “Not from a dropdown menu, but from living here my entire life.”
That instinct fuels her passion for helping visitors become residents, and residents become neighbors. It also fuels the next chapter – the launch of LOCAL 615 Brokerage in December 2025, expanding into short and long term rental management and a distinctive staging offering for fellow agents.
Through it all, Gallatin remains the constant.
“We invest here because we know here,” Ashley says, “We build here because it’s home. And we raise our family here because we believe it’s the best place in the world.”
In a town defined by history, land and loyalty, Ashley Cline Cook has quietly mastered the art of belonging and inviting others into it. Whether through a preserved historic home, a thoughtfully hosted stay, or a moonlit farm chore, she reminds us that home is not just where you live. It is where you are known.
INSIDE THE HEART AND HOME OF BINKLEY NASH FURNITURE & DESIGN + BONUS SPRING REFRESH PRO TIPS
WHERE LEGACY MEETS LIVING
In Gallatin, there are certain places that feel stitched into the fabric of the town itself. They’re more than businesses, they’re landmarks of memory, relationship and trust. For more than five decades, Binkley Nash Furniture & Design has been one of those places, quietly shaping the way Sumner County lives, gathers and calls a house home
What began in 1968 as Binkley’s Furniture House has evolved into a full-service design firm and retail showroom, but its soul has never changed. Today, under the ownership of Ashlee Dozier Nash, Binkley Nash stands as the oldest furniture showroom in Sumner County—and a living example of how legacy businesses can grow while staying rooted.
“Binkley Nash has always been more than just a furniture store,” Ashlee says, “Its soul is made up of over 50 years of relationships.”
That philosophy is evident the moment you walk through the doors. Rather than
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
promoting a single, signature look, Binkley Nash curates spaces that reflect how clients live, what they love and the stories they carry with them. Homes aren’t styled to impress, they’re designed to belong.
Gallatin isn’t just where Ashlee works; it’s where she was raised, where her family still lives and where her roots run deep. When she purchased the business from Mike Binkley in 2015 and rebranded it as Binkley Nash Furniture & Design, she did so with respect for the foundation that had already been laid.
“Over the last decade, I’ve tried to stick to the original motto of good service, good product and good price,” she says, “While maintaining our strong legacy, we also began to evolve.”
That evolution has been thoughtful and intentional. Today, Binkley Nash operates as both a retail interiors showroom and a full-service design firm, remaining approachable while offering passionate expertise. It’s the kind of place where firsttime homeowners, growing families and longtime locals all feel equally at ease.
As the seasons change, Ashlee and her team often guide clients through the desire to refresh their homes without starting from scratch. Her approach is calm and reassuring, grounded in the belief that meaningful change doesn’t have to be disruptive.
“It’s very easy to awaken a space,” she says, “You don’t need a full renovation.”
From a designer’s perspective, spring cleaning isn’t about scrubbing floors or clearing shelves, it’s about editing with intention. Ashlee approaches this process with care, ensuring clients never feel pressured to part with pieces that matter.
“Communication is key,” she explains, “I never want a client to feel forced to no longer use meaningful pieces just to make a design work.”
From the initial design consultation, she asks clients to identify their non-negotiables—the heirlooms, keepsakes or wellloved pieces that tell their story. Rather than eliminating them, the team looks for creative ways to weave those items throughout the home.
“Those items are part of our clients’ story,” Ashlee says, “They should always be incorporated into the vision.”
That respect for personal history carries through to the trends shaping 2026, which Ashlee describes as warmer, richer and more expressive than years past. Cooler whites and grays have taken a back seat, making room for earthy tones like brown, terra cotta, deep blues and lush greens. For those who still love light interiors, warm whites such as Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams and Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore offer softness without sterility.
Warm white oak flooring remains popular, especially when paired with marble accents for contrast. In furnishings, bold sofa colors are having a moment, layered with patterned chairs and deep leather accents — spaces designed for gathering, not just looking.
One reason Binkley Nash guides clients so seamlessly through these decisions is its unique blend of design services and retail offerings. As a true one-stop shop, the team often begins working
Owner & Designer, Ashlee Nash
with clients while a home is still on paper, collaborating closely with local custom builders on everything from exterior selections to furniture, rugs and art.
“We carry over forty lines of interiors,” Ashlee says, “We’re a full retail furniture store, just like any large furniture store, but with extremely competitive pricing, free delivery and install.”
Whether refreshing a single room or furnishing a full custom build, clients benefit from continuity, one trusted team from start to finish, five days a week, without wandering through showrooms hoping to make the right decision.
When asked to name one piece that captures the feeling of a fresh start this season, Ashlee smiles. Her current favorite is the Prague sofa from Bernhardt, with sleek lines, generous arms and beautiful fabric options. She’s equally drawn to the Modern Mood dining collection from Hooker Furniture, a light finish accented with refined metal details and soft linen upholstery.
But ultimately, it isn’t about any single piece.
“At Binkley Nash, we truly value our relationships with our clients,” Ashlee says, “Your home isn’t just a house — it’s where you make memories and live life. We’re honored to be invited into your space and to have a small part in curating your vision.”
In a town that treasures its history and its people, Binkley Nash Furniture & Design continues to do what it has always done best, helping Gallatin feel at home.
How to Awaken Your Home for Spring — Without a Full Renovation
Design guidance from Ashlee Dozier Nash
As winter fades, many homes feel a little heavy or stagnant. According to Ashlee, refreshing your space for spring doesn’t require construction or a major investment. Instead, it’s about lightening, editing and reimagining what you already have.
Start with soft goods. Swapping decorative pillows for lighter fabrics—linens and soft florals in particular—instantly shifts the mood of a room.
Ground the space with a lighter rug. Area rugs in woven textures or lighter tones help reset the room and make it feel more open and breathable.
Edit accessories and art. Spring is an ideal time to simplify. Rotate seasonal pieces and reintroduce a few intentional accents to create a curated feel.
Let the light in. Light linen draperies brighten rooms and allow natural light to filter through, creating a softer, airier aesthetic. Rearrange the furniture. One of the most effective—and free—updates is rethinking your layout. A new arrangement can improve flow and bring a fresh perspective.
Edit with intention. Identify meaningful, non-negotiable pieces and find thoughtful ways to incorporate them, even if that means giving them a new home within the house.
The takeaway: Spring design isn’t about starting over. With a few intentional changes—and respect for what already matters—you can awaken your home for the season ahead.
Visit BinkleyNash.com
Sanctuary
HOMEtown Beef
Rooted and Raised in Gallatin – The Holleman Family's Love for Land, Livestock, and Community
At Holleman Farms, local isn’t a trend—it’s a way of life passed down through generations. For Morris and Rachel Holleman, farming is woven into their family history, shaped by time spent learning from grandfathers and influential mentors who believed in stewardship, integrity, and doing things the right way. Today, that legacy lives on in the pastures of Gallatin and inside the doors of their farm store at 670 S. Water Ave.
The decision to farm direct and open a brick-andmortar store grew organically from the Hollemans’ own
table. After years of raising their own beef, Morris and Rachel knew the quality they were producing was something worth sharing. “We take pride in how our cattle are raised, cared for, and finished for processing,” they explain—a commitment that shows up in every cut.
Holleman Farms produces farm-raised beef and honey, while also partnering with another local farmer to provide pork and chicken, reinforcing their belief that strong food systems start close to home. “We don’t need to feed the world as much as we need to feed our local
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CEDAR & LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY AND MORRIS HOLLEMAN
Photo by Farmer Morris Holleman
communities,” Rachel says, “That means more small producers providing higher-quality, more nutrient-dense food.” It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with customers who want to know where their food comes from—and who it comes from.
That sense of connection is at the heart of what makes Holleman Farms special. The farm store has become a gathering place where relationships grow alongside trust. “People love the local feel, and they love supporting local,” the Hollemans share, “We love creating relationships with customers who keep coming back for our product.”
True to their hyperlocal mission, Holleman Farms keeps processing close to home as well, working with a trusted butcher and processing facility just up the road in Springfield. The result is beef that reflects careful handling at every step, from pasture to plate. And if you ask Morris his favorite cut? He’ll tell you it’s a tough call—but a ribeye or New York strip always rises to the top.
In addition to their meats, the farm store offers a thoughtfully curated selection of A2A2 raw milk from Taylor Family Farms, along with raw yogurt, fresh butter, block and shredded cheeses, and cheese curds—items chosen with the same care and transparency that define the rest of their offerings.
Holleman Farms’ impact is felt daily through the simple, powerful act of feeding their community well. In a world that often feels far removed from its food sources, Morris and Rachel Holleman are proving that local still matters—and that Gallatin is stronger because of it.
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Functional Elegance
Throughout Your Home
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY
PROVIDED BY
CLOSETS
BY
DESIGN OF NASHVILLE
The Art of Concept to Creation: Closets by Design
Positioned in the heart of Middle Tennessee, the Closets by Design of Nashville dynamic duo, Sandra and Mark Sokol, have been sharing their expertise since 2005, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to every project they undertake. Their entrepreneurial spirits combined with Sandra’s background in sales and design complementing Mark’s expertise in manufacturing and installation perfectly, makes them a formidable team in the closet design industry.
At Closets by Design, no two projects are alike. From sleek, minimalist designs to opulent, glamorous spaces, Sandra and Mark cater to every client’s needs.
“We start with functionality,” Sandra explains, “then customize based on our clients’ preferences and budget,” offering a palette of 17 melamine colors and a plethora of accessories from drawers, hampers, and specialized racks—their designs are as diverse as the homes they enhance.
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Contrary to popular belief, Closets by Design isn’t just about lavish makeovers. “We serve all types of clients,” Sandra emphasizes, “from those seeking basic functionality to others craving luxury.” Each project begins with a foundational design, ensuring affordability without compromising quality. This approach allows clients to personalize their spaces with tailored upgrades that suit their style and budget.
“We’ve been part of this community for 20 years,” Sandra proudly states, “longer than any other closet seller in the region.” What sets them apart? Their commitment to a seamless customer experience, from initial consultation to final installation, all
managed from their local factory in Franklin. Unlike competitors who rely on pre-fabricated parts, Sandra and Mark oversee every detail, ensuring superior craftsmanship and satisfaction.
Closets by Design isn’t just about closets; it’s about transforming spaces into personalized sanctuaries. With Sandra and Mark at the helm, each project becomes a journey in craftsmanship, where functionality meets elegance seamlessly. Whether you’re seeking a modest upgrade or a lavish retreat, their dedication shines through, making them a cornerstone in Middle Tennessee’s home improvement landscape. Call 615.261.8700 or visit online Nashville.ClosetByDesign.com .
Every project begins with functionality, then personalization, creating beautiful, tailored spaces where craftsmanship, elegance, and client satisfaction come together seamlessly.
Lindsey Ralston
Josh Phillips
THE SPRING THAW
Expert advice from Shrum’s Roofing Company | ShrumsRoofing.com / 615.675.4489
In Gallatin, March isn’t just a welcome warm-up; it’s a critical transition period for your home. While the ice and snow fade away, your roof may still be carrying damage from winter’s freeze-thaw cycle, just as spring storms, straightline winds, and heavy rain arrive. According to the experts at Shrum’s Roofing, this seasonal handoff is when small, hidden problems can quickly escalate into costly emergencies.
Here’s how homeowners can perform a smart post-winter check and prepare their roof for storm season before April weather puts it to the test.
Step 1: Look for the Damage You CAN’T See
After winter, most homeowners scan for missing shingles, but that’s rarely the first warning sign in Middle Tennessee.
On a sunny March afternoon, stand back in your yard with binoculars and look along the shingle rows. Instead of obvious damage, you’re looking for shadows.
A red flag is a tiny, straight horizontal shadow beneath the edge of a shingle that doesn’t match the rest of the row. This often indicates a lifted nail caused by repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Even slight movement can break the shingle’s sealant strip.
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
Once that seal is compromised, spring winds can grab the loose shingle like a sail, tearing it off or allowing winddriven rain to reach the wood decking below. If caught early, this is often a minor repair. Left unaddressed, it can become a major storm-season failure.
Step
2: Inspect the Gutter Line, Not Just the Shingles
One of the most overlooked post-ice warning signs is gutter pull.
Stand at the corner of your house and look down the length of the gutters. If you see a gap between the gutter and the fascia board, or metal flashing peeking out, winter ice weight may have pulled the system loose.
Ice buildup, especially in gutters clogged with debris, can weigh hundreds of pounds. When gutters pull away, spring rain runs behind them instead of into them, soaking fascia boards and rotting the starter edge of the roof deck. In March, this is usually a straightforward fix. By May, it can mean replacing the fascia and installing new gutters.
Step
3: Know What to Do the Moment a Leak Appears
If a spring storm reveals a leak, your priority isn’t fixing the roof; it’s stopping interior damage.
First, contain the water. Place a bucket under the drip and reduce splash damage by placing a towel inside. For high ceilings, tape a string near the leak and let it hang into the bucket so water travels down it cleanly.
Second, relieve trapped ceiling water. If you see a bulge or bubble forming, carefully poke a small hole in the center.
This controlled release prevents soaked drywall from collapsing and causing widespread damage.
Third, check for gutter backups. Spring pollen and seed pods can quickly clog gutters. If you see water spilling over the gutter edge, safely clearing a downspout from the ground may stop the leak immediately.
Never climb on a roof during a storm. Wet shingles are extremely dangerous.
Step 4: Understand Why Wind Ratings Aren’t the Whole Story
Many shingles are rated for 110-130 mph winds, but those ratings depend on proper installation.
Improper nail placement, too few nails per shingle, or nails driven too high can significantly weaken wind resistance. Shingles installed during cold weather are also vulnerable because their thermal seal requires warm sunshine to activate. Until that happens, even moderate March winds can cause damage.
Pay close attention to roof edges, ridges, and rake lines. These are the first areas wind attacks. Proper starter strips and metal drip edges create a locked perimeter that helps the roof hold strong during Middle Tennessee’s unpredictable spring storms.
The Bottom Line
March is your opportunity to catch winter’s hidden damage before spring weather exploits it. A careful ground-level inspection and timely professional attention can prevent costly repairs and protect your home when storm season arrives.
Shrum’s Roofing puts it simply: if it looks small now, fix it now.
ESCAPE TO HOME IN THE SMOKIES
A Gallatin-to-Sevierville Adventure
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY KATHLEEN TING AND SEVIERVILLE CVB
Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Gallatin, the Smoky Mountains await with a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and the comforts of home. Nestled among the rolling foothills of Sevierville, Misty Bliss isn’t just a vacation rental—it’s a retreat designed to make guests feel
immediately at ease, as if they’ve stepped into a home crafted just for them.
Owner Kathleen Ting’s inspiration came from years of family travels. “After staying at many vacation rentals and hotels, I wanted to go beyond just the space,” she explains. The result is a modern mountain cabin that fuses natural Appalachian textures with sleek, mountain-modern lines. Expansive windows frame the surrounding wilderness, inviting sunlight to spill into open gathering spaces, while carefully curated natural tones echo the forests and skies outside.
Inside, guests are met with a thoughtful balance of play and relaxation. A theater, pool, and game room keep younger visitors entertained, while an infrared sauna, hot tub, and quiet nooks offer adults a chance to rejuvenate. High-end linens, artisanal soaps, and spa-like touches extend the sense of home into every corner. Kathleen notes, “A true home away from home generates the same feelings you get at your own home— safe, relaxed, and comfortable.”
The journey begins with family or friends in tow, winding east from Lebanon through the scenic hills of Middle Tennessee into the foothills of the Smokies. First stops can include the American Eagle Foundation, where guests of all ages can explore the nation’s largest educational campus for bald eagles and other raptors. Tours reveal a stunning collection of 40-plus resident birds, including hawks, owls, falcons, and vultures, all set against 57 acres of forested sanctuary. The New Talons & Tidbits Bird Feeding Adventure adds a hands-on touch, while the online eagle cams allow guests to continue the experience from the comfort of Misty Bliss.
For thrills and mountain fun, SkyLand Ranch offers Sevierville’s only mountaintop attraction. Families can ride the Southeast’s longest mountain coaster, soar from the WagonWheeler swing tower, or enjoy live entertainment in a Wild West-themed setting. On-site dining, miniature farm animals, and the Horizon Skyride chairlift provide moments CONTINUED >
A true home away from home is safe, relaxed, and comfortable— where guests feel welcome and want to return again.
of wonder against panoramic Smoky Mountain backdrops.
No Smoky Mountains adventure is complete without a taste of local flavor. The Apple Barn Cider Mill & General Store spans 65 acres of historic orchards cultivated since 1910. Visitors can sample fresh-baked cinnamon bread, sip hard cider, and browse the general store for gifts and treats, all while connecting with the legacy of the Kilpatrick family who still tend the land.
After a day exploring, there’s no better place to return than Misty Bliss. Guests can sip coffee on the wraparound porch as mist rises from the valleys, gather around the stone fireplace for evening stories, or unwind in the vibrant infrared sauna. With
spaces designed for both connection and solitude, the cabin embodies the spirit of the Smokies while offering the restorative comforts of home.
Whether hosting multigenerational family trips, bachelorette weekends, hiking groups, or corporate retreats, Misty Bliss stands out as a space where memories are made. Kathleen reflects, “Becoming a host has transformed my life and brought so many wonderful people into it. I feel very lucky to have this experience.”
From the rolling hills of Lebanon to the breathtaking peaks of Sevierville, this journey offers more than just a getaway— it’s a chance to reconnect with nature, with loved ones, and most importantly, with the feeling of being at home.
MARCH 7TH
Sumner County Irish Fest 2026
Bledsoe’s Fort Historical Park, 2895 Hartsville Pike, Castalian Springs | 10:00 AM
The Sumner County Irish Festival 2026 is a wonderful family-friendly event at Bledsoe’s Fort Historical Park, home to an authentic Irish Cottage built in the late 1790s. With live Irish music and dancing, delicious food, guided hikes, craft beer, historic house tours, and more, this event is sure to get you in the joyous spirit.
MARCH 14TH
Gallatin Shamrock Run 5K & 10K
Gallatin City Hall, 132 West Main Street, Gallatin | 7:30 AM
The 13th Annual Gallatin Shamrock Run takes place in Historic Downtown Gallatin, starting at Gallatin City Hall and winding through beautiful Downtown Gallatin. This primarily flat course is perfect for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Dress in your most creative St. Patrick’s Day attire and enjoy the festivities! To register, visit GallatinTN.org
MARCH 14TH
Gallatin Daycare Spring Fest
Triple Creek Park, 1300 Touchdown Drive, Gallatin | 10:00 AM
Sponsored by Gallatin Parks Department, the Gallatin Daycare Spring Fest will be a fun-filled day at Triple Creek Park. Packed with live music, tasty food trucks, shopping, family fun, a kids zone, and more, this spring event is perfect for all ages. All proceeds benefit Gallatin Day Care Center, a nonprofit serving local families since 1969.
MARCH 21ST
Winter Farmers Market at The Station
The Station, 117 West Main Street, Gallatin | 9:00 AM
Join us for the Gallatin Farmers Market at The Station, where you can shop for locally made and produced goods from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Browse and shop seasonal produce, artisan goods, and so much more at this cozy, local event.
MARCH 21ST
Spirits of Sumner Historic Haunts Bus Tour
Sumner County Visitor Center, 2310 Nashville Pike, Gallatin | 3:00 PM
Step aboard Sumner County’s Historic Haunts Bus Tour after dark and uncover the haunted history of our area. Introducing two new locations this year, the luxury All Access coach bus will venture around Sumner County, sharing spooky and haunting stories. For ticket information, visit SumnerCountyMuseum.org
MARCH 27TH-28TH
Where The Flowers Bloom Marketplace
The Chapel at Three Oaks, 502 Douglas Bend Road, Gallatin | 4:00 PM
Come along for the 13th Annual Where The Flowers Bloom Marketplace by Boutique Bazaar—a vibrant celebration of spring! Featuring 65 local makers, boutiques, and food trucks, this event is a charming kickoff to the blooming season. Stroll through the beautiful courtyard, enjoy dinner under warm lights, and listen to music as you shop vintage, boutique, apothecary, and more.
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ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN JENKINS, AMANDA PROUDFIT
MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED
There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.
Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.
“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”
That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.
THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED
The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.
“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”
A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.
ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME
The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.
Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.
POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT
If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.
LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH
Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.
Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.
At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.
PROJECT CREDITS
Builder - Buildwell
Architect and Interior Architect - Flower Architecture
Designer - Kate Manz
You need care that keeps up with your life. That’s why having a primary care provider matters. From checkups and screenings to vaccinations and diagnosis, we offer primary care that focuses on your needs and your health. Whether that means managing chronic health conditions like arthritis or diabetes or being there for sick visits and guidance to give you peace of mind, we’re here with care that’s delivered by the neighbors you know in the community you love.
Care. Comfort. Close to home. There’s a reason that we all call it a doctor’s visit. It’s because we listen. We get to know you. We treat you like family. It’s how we specialize in you.
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