Gallatin, TN May 2026

+ CULTURE

GALLATIN’S LEADING LADIES: ROOTED IN PURPOSE, RISING WITH PASSION

Rooted

There is something powerful about being rooted. Not stuck—but grounded. Anchored in who you are, what you believe, and the life you’re intentionally building. And from that place…comes the courage to rise.

This May, our Women’s Edition is a celebration of exactly that:  Rooted & Rising. A tribute to the women in our community who are deeply planted in purpose and boldly stepping into growth, leader ship, and impact.

Because rising doesn’t happen without roots. It happens after the quiet seasons. The stretching. The unseen work. The moments of doubt that somehow turn into determination. It happens when we choose to keep showing up, when we water what matters, pull the weeds, and trust that something beautiful is still growing beneath the surface.

Inside these pages, you’ll meet women who are doing just that. Women who are cultivating businesses, nurturing families, investing in their communities and leading with both strength and grace. Some are rising loudly, others quietly, but all are rising with intention.

And this edition feels deeply personal.

As a woman, a mother, a publisher and someone who has walked through seasons that required both breaking and rebuilding; I understand what it means to be rooted in faith while rising through challenge. To plant new seeds when life doesn’t go as planned. To believe that growth is still possible, even when it feels slow.

That’s the beauty of this season—and of the women we’re honoring within it.

At City Lifestyle, our mission has always been to tell meaningful stories that connect and uplift. And this month, more than ever, we’re reminded that when women are supported, seen and celebrated, we don’t just rise individually…we rise together.

So here’s to the women who are rooted in truth, grounded in purpose and rising into everything they were created to be. Keep growing. Keep becoming. Keep rising.

May 2026

PUBLISHER

January Alexander-Coffin

january.alexander@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Scott J Coffin | scott.coffin@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Alana Cheeves | lebanon@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Michelle DePass | michelle.depass@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Lindsey Howard

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsey Howard, Julie Brown Patton, Kali Kasorzyk

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kat Bradshaw Photography, Alyssa Selby

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.

city scene

business monthly

Mother's Day Afternoon Tea

Treat the mothers in your life to a charming Mother’s Day Tea Party at Historic Stonewall on Sunday, May 10. Choose from two seatings at 1 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. and enjoy an afternoon filled with live violin music, a thoughtfully prepared four-course lunch and decadent desserts. This elegant experience offers the perfect setting to celebrate. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit Historic Stonewall on Facebook.

LuLu's Sipery

Lulu’s Sipery is a four-generation, women-owned business bringing hip, vibrant energy and plenty of caffeine to Gallatin. Owned by mother-daughter duo Laura and Michael, this mobile coffee and soda shop has been serving the community since opening last August. Named after Michael’s daughter, Lucy, it features fun favorites like the Lucy Lu Latte and Dolly Parton Dirty Soda. Perfect for events, book them at LuLuSipery.com or catch them locally by following @lulusipery on social media.

19th Century Fashion Show & Tea

Step back in time at “As Do the Ladies in TN: 19th Century Fashion Show & Tea” on May 17, 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Cragfont State Historic Site. Historian Tonya Staggs leads a charming garden fashion show showcasing elegant 19th-century style. Sip tea and enjoy light bites with friends, then tour rare Winchester family artifacts and writings. A delightful afternoon with kindred spirits awaits. Visit HistoricCastalianSprings.org for details.

ARTICLE

ROOTED

And Rising WOMEN

“I’M INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL TO BE SURROUNDED BY SO MANY STRONG WOMEN WHO HAVE INFLUENCED MY LIFE (BOTH PAST AND PRESENT).”

~ HALEY MERIDIETH

>>> HALEY B. MERIDIETH, COMMUNITY PRESIDENT, EDMONTON STATE BANK

As someone born and raised in Gallatin, Haley started her banking career when she was 18 years old and worked her way up over the years. Before she started working at a bank, she operated the loader at her father’s saw mill. She’s been married to the love of her life, Chad, for 23 years; they have two children, Baylor, 19, and Emma, 17. She says she feels she has the best family and friends anyone could ask for.

GALLATIN CITY LIFESTYLE ASKED THESE LOCAL LADIES WHAT IT MEANS TO SERVE AND STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY

WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

“I hope to leave an impact of trust, integrity and genuine care within my community. Building strong relationships is my number one priority, whether it be with co-workers or customers. I don’t see them as transactions; they’re more like family to me. I truly believe that without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I never take that for granted. I strive to make sure they always feel valued, heard and supported.”

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:

“The best piece of advice I ever received came from my grandfather, Dewitt Boze. He always told his family if you believe in God, you are honest, and hardworking, you will succeed in life. I’ve tried to live by those words and have been very blessed. My dad continues to pass down the same advice to younger generations.”

WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST, AND WHY?

“I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by so many strong women who have influenced my life (both past and present). My mom and other maternal figures have been foundational, but one person that has truly inspired me is Trudy Harrison, who I have the honor of being featured on the cover of this magazine with. Her strength and resilience have taught me to push forward, no matter what challenges come my way. She has shown me what it looks like to balance ambition with compassion. Watching her navigate challenges while continuing to give back to others has taught me the importance of perseverance, discipline, and lifting others up along the way. She truly is the BEST of the BEST.”

IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

“It would be to believe in my own potential sooner. For a long time, I struggled with confidence and often underestimated what I was capable of. I hesitated to take risks or step into opportunities because I wasn’t sure I was ready or good enough. You don’t have to have all the answers; you just need to be willing to try, learn and keep going.”

DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?

“I like to start my day by getting to work early so I have a little quiet time to myself before things get busy. It gives me a chance to collect my thoughts and plan out what needs to be accomplished. I usually make a list of my tasks

“THE

BEST

ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED IS THAT IT’S NEVER TOO LATE.”

~ Nikki Lowder

for the day, and there’s something really satisfying about checking each one off as I go. It helps me stay focused and productive. Add in a Dr. Pepper and I am good to go for the day.”

>>>

TRUDY MILLIKEN HARRISON, PARTNER, SMITH.SHOLAR. MILLIKEN.MATTHEWS.PLLC

Trudy shares that she’s “just another mom trying to get through life just like other moms.” She thinks the common threads of motherhood are with most of mothers, although the exterior may look a little different. She acknowledges that all women go through the same

emotions of: ‘Are we doing or being enough for our families, our businesses, our mental health.’ Her advice is to be kind to oneself, as women are on similar journeys.

WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

“To leave it better than when I arrived. My parents moved our family to Gallatin, TN when I was in elementary school. So many things have changed here, but a sense of community remains a common thread. I hope to embody that. I want to leave my kids, Talan and Tripp with a sense of community that I participated in.”

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:

“This is a hard one. I feel like I have been given many great pieces of advice over the years. I would say that a couple are as follows: “Hard work will never leave you broke.” I grew up in a family of movers and shakers. Now, having said that, things didn’t always go right. Businesses were not always successful, but you didn’t let yourself stay down. Hard work will carry you far in the long run. Another is how you treat people. In the legal field, you deal with various walks of life, demographics and influence. Every person that steps in that front door deserves the same respect. Living that has carried me well.”

WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST, AND WHY?

“My mom dedicated her whole life to her family, even sometimes to her personal demise. While that is not my same mentality, I respect that. She gave it all, and in the end helped raise four kids that have all done well, personally and professionally. So, that speaks volumes. There are also women that have been very influential in my business life. Gwen Dowland has been a mentor to me in my practice area. Betty Brooks has been a second

mom to me since I was young. I worked for her in my early years and she taught me that an honest living was worth having. Jeannie Gregory Patterson is a fellow business owner and I have watched her grow her practice, while losing a spouse and raising kids. That has resonated with me. This town is full of women who I admire. Many women have paved the way for myself and my fellow female entrepreneurs. A big thank you to all of you!”

IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

“’Don’t take life so seriously.’ I’ve always been a bit of an introvert. Socializing has never come very easy and I gravitate to the familiar. I would tell myself to “lighten up” and “go out there and live life” and that everything would turn out okay. I think being mom along with a business owner brings a great deal of pressures to always “win.” That is not practical and not a feasible long-term game plan. Lighten up, Trudy. Everything will turn out okay. You are doing a good job.”

DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?

“I try and work out several mornings a week. That has been a game changer for me mentally and physically. Also, being a single mom, I am responsible for the morning school rituals. My daughter is now in college and I have a son in 8th grade. Helping to get him going to going over his day, his afterschool sports calendar and such gets my day organized and going. That gives me a bit of a compass for the day’s schedule and that helps me get organized.”

>>> MICHELLE PATTERSON, REALTOR, THE PATTERSON REAL ESTATE TEAM, SIMPLIHOM

Behind the business, Michelle is very much rooted in her family and her life outside of work. She and her husband will celebrate 30

MY BONUS MOM HAS SHOWN ME A DIFFERENT KIND OF STRENGTH. SHE IS ONE OF THE MOST SELFLESS PEOPLE YOU’LL EVER MEET. ALWAYS PUTTING

OTHERS FIRST, EVEN AT HER OWN EXPENSE, AND LEADING WITH LOVE. SHE TAUGHT ME HOW TO HAVE A SOFTER, MORE TENDER HEART AND EXEMPLIFIED A SIMPLER, FAMILY FIRST HOUSEHOLD.

— MICHELLE PATTERSON, REALTOR, THE PATTERSON REAL ESTATE TEAM, SIMPLIHOM

years of marriage this year. They met when she was 14 at Gallatin High School and this journey together means everything to her. They have two children, Austin and Taryn, and while she’s worked hard in her career, she’s always loved them even more and hoped to make them proud.

She says she’s a very simple person overall who loves being outdoors, whether on the lake, by the pool, or out hiking. She has a real heart for serving the community. “Getting involved has opened my eyes to needs that aren’t always obvious, and it’s something that continues to shape me,” she adds.

Michelle also has a fun, silly side that not everyone sees right away. “I love to laugh and not take life too seriously. We only get one life, and while I care deeply about the legacy I leave, I also want it to be one that’s real, joyful and fully lived,” she states.

WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

“I hope I’m known as someone who shows up with a genuine heart, with honesty, and with intention. As a mom, a wife, a business owner, and a Realtor, I wear a lot of hats, but at the core of it all are people. I want to leave a mark through the relationships I build, the way I treat others, and the example I set especially for other women who are balancing a lot and wondering if they can do it all. I want them to see that they can.”

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:

“The best advice I ever received was learning that success without structure comes at a cost. Early in my career, a woman I respected told me that if I didn’t put systems in place, I’d end up burned out and sacrificing the people I loved most. That was a turning point for me. With her guidance, I created structure in both my life and business, and it’s given me something I didn’t think I could have which was freedom and balance. To this day, I work hard to stay consistent with those

principles, because they are what protect my marriage, my family, and the life I’ve built.”

WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST, AND WHY?

“When I think about the women who have shaped me, I immediately think of my mom and my bonus mom. Two very different, but equally powerful influences in my life.

My mom is where I get my fun, light-hearted side. She has always had this incredible energy about her that is magnetic. She’s the life of the party and someone who truly embraces who she is without worrying about what others think. She taught me how to live in the moment and enjoy life, which is so important. And today, she’s also shown me something even deeper, the importance of serving others and living a life rooted in faith.

My bonus mom has shown me a different kind of strength. She is one of the most selfless people you’ll ever meet. Always putting others first, even at her own expense, and leading with love. She taught me how to have a softer, more tender heart and exemplified a simpler, family first household. Her example has stayed with me in the way I love the people around me.

I’m grateful to have been shaped by both of them.”

IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

“I would tell my younger self that the energy and drive I had, even the rebellious side, wasn’t wrong, it just needed direction. I worked hard from a young age in my family’s restaurant, and that work ethic stayed with me, even if I was not the best straight A student at the time, not to doubt myself. Learning doesn’t always look the same for everyone, and that it’s okay that you find your love for it later in life.

I’d also remind myself to appreciate where I am and trust the journey. Even the messy parts helped shape exactly who I needed to become.”

DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?

“My daily routine is very intentional because I believe how you start your day sets the tone for everything that follows. I get up early, but I make it a priority not to jump straight into emails or phone calls before 8 a.m. That boundary allows me to start my day with clarity instead of reacting to everyone else’s needs.

As I get ready, I listen to uplifting music, which helps center me and puts me in the right mindset. One of my long-standing rituals is recording my voicemail every single day. It may seem small, but for me, it’s a signal and it’s my way of saying, ‘We’re open for business.’ It creates consistency, accountability, and shows my clients that I’m present and engaged.”

>>> NIKKI LOWDER, VICE PRESIDENT AND COMMERCIAL LENDER, WILSON BANK & TRUST

Nikki has lived in Sumner County her entire life, and is proud of the strong sense of community here. “I love how people show up for one another, through local traditions, volunteerism and shared pride in where we live,” she chides. Professionally, she’s passionate about helping people feel confident about their financial decisions, whether that’s buying a home, growing a business or planning for the future. She believes access to education, guidance and encouragement can change lives, and she states she’s grateful to play a role in that every day.

WHAT

COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

“I hope to leave behind strong connections and meaningful relationships. Supporting local and small businesses is especially important to me, because they are the backbone of a thriving community. When local businesses succeed, it strengthens our local economy, supports our schools, and creates long-term sustainability for families and future generations.

As a lifelong resident and a mom, I’m proud of the role education plays in Sumner County. Seeing our schools continue to grow and thrive — from the time I was a student to now watching my daughter graduate — reinforces how powerful a strong, engaged community can be.”

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:

“The best advice I’ve ever received is that it’s never too late. That mindset has shaped my career, my education, and my personal growth. I didn’t take a traditional path after high school — I began my career early and later pursued college as an adult while raising a young child. Becoming a first-generation college graduate taught me that growth doesn’t follow one timeline.

That advice continues to guide me today, reminding me that no matter the season of life, there’s always room to learn, grow, and move forward.”

WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST, AND WHY?

“I began my banking career at 18 and was mentored by strong women who modeled professionalism, accountability, and confidence. They taught me to carry myself with pride and to prepare for the role I wanted, not just the one I had.

I’ve also been influenced by women leaders in our community, including Trudy Milliken, who has been supportive of me and my clients over the years. It’s an honor to stand alongside women like her — especially as a woman in commercial banking, knowing how much progress has been made and how important representation continues to be.”

IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

“I would tell my younger self not to grow up too fast and not to take everything so seriously. Ambition and responsibility matter, but so does enjoying life and giving yourself grace. I took on a lot early and sometimes forgot to slow down and enjoy the moment.

I’d also say: own your mistakes and face them head-on. People may forget the mistake itself, but they’ll remember how you handled it. Growth often comes from the moments that feel hardest.”

DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?

“I don’t have a picture-perfect morning routine, but I do believe in preparation and flexibility. Making a to-do list the night before helps me walk into the next day with clarity, while still being ready to adapt. In my role, no two days are the same, so I try to start each day with a mindset that’s ready to serve — no matter what comes my way.”

>>> EMILY RUNYAN, MA, LMFT, FOUNDER OF TENNESSEE MENTAL WELLNESS AND HORIZON COUNSELING / THERAPIST AT TENNESSEE MENTAL WELLNESS

One fun fact about the Tennessee Mental Wellness Gallatin office is that it’s located in the former “Rolling Stone” house on Nashville Pike. Emily and her husband bought it from the owner in 2021, and while she already had painted over the iconic Rolling Stone logo, she offered to put it back if we ever wanted. (Should we take a vote?)

WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

“I started Tennessee Mental Wellness to bring truly transformative mental health healing to Gallatin. I wanted people to be able to access exceptional therapy— for themselves, their relationship, or their child—without having to drive to Nashville. My hope is that people here

experience real healing: healing from trauma, and healing within their relationships.

As the need grew, I also founded Horizon Counseling to provide insurance-based therapy while still maintaining a high standard of clinical excellence. My goal across both practices is the same—to make meaningful, life-changing therapy accessible to our community.”

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:

“It wasn’t direct advice, but the example of my grandfather shaped me deeply. My grandpa Runyan was a builder in Denver. At one point, he noticed families in his church were being overcharged by mortuaries when their loved ones passed. He saw a need and chose to meet it—buying a mortuary and becoming a mortician so he could serve people with integrity.

He ran his business with a deep commitment to honesty and fairness, and that example has stayed with me. It influences how I make decisions today. I’m inspired by his kindness and his belief in treating everyone well—even competitors. I strive to lead the same way: collaboratively, ethically, and with a genuine desire to do good in my community.”

WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST, AND WHY?

“Aside from my incredible mom, the women who influence me most are the therapists and leaders within my practices. I get to work alongside smart, compassionate, and driven women every day, and they continually inspire me to grow. They model what it looks like to lead with both strength and collaboration. They are committed to learning and improving, they care deeply about the people in their lives, and they make space for meaningful lives outside of work. Being surrounded by women like that challenges me to be better, and I feel incredibly grateful for it.”

IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

“I would tell my younger self to trust herself more. I spent a lot of time doubting my abilities and minimizing my dreams because I wasn’t sure they were realistic for me. Now, I see those desires differently—I believe they were there for a reason. I would say: trust that the dreams placed on your heart matter, and that they’re guiding you toward who you’re meant to become. Don’t hold back— lean into them sooner.”

DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL THAT SETS YOU UP FOR SUCCESS?

“Meditation is a big part of how I create clarity and focus. Most mornings, I spend 10-15 minutes meditating, followed by a few minutes of journaling—just free-flowing thoughts about life or business. That time helps me feel grounded and intentional before the day begins.”

“I WOULD TELL MY YOUNGER SELF TO TRUST HERSELF MORE.”

~ EMILY RUNYAN

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

HISTORIC Cragfont GALA

45th Annual Gala Is Scheduled For August 22, 2026

Many partygoers and history enthusiasts proclaim the most widely anticipated event of the summer season is The Gala at Cragfont State Historic Site located in Castalian Springs, east of Gallatin off Tennessee State Route 25. In honor of the 250th Anniversary of America during 2026, this year’s Gala will feature an Americana theme, adding a festive patriotic touch to the evening as the group celebrates both the nation’s history and the local history preserved at Cragfont.

Mary Jane Garrott Fowler, Gala chair for the past three years, has served on the Gala planning committee for 10 years. Other current committee members include Carlene Fox, Betty Brooks, Jenny Goslin, Taylor Verble, Shelby Crane, Demi Preskitt and Jennifer Brown.

This annual fundraising event for Historic Cragfont at 200 Cragfont Road will offer a delicious meal by Gallatin-based BitO-Heaven Catering & Events, returning for the fifth consecutive year to the event.

“For entertainment, we’re excited to welcome back the Rock & Roll Pianos from Nashville, which always bring a fun and energetic atmosphere to the evening,” says Mary Jane.

This year’s event again includes a live auction of great experiences and items donated from friends of Cragfont. “We’re incredibly grateful for the generous donations from local businesses and community members. Some highlights from past years include items from Tennessee Hardware, select bourbons, women’s baskets, trips and a variety of men’s items,” says Mary Jane.

Volunteer committee members comprised of these dedicated women have been meeting since earlier this year to collaborate about new ways to bolster this popular event that helps safeguard local historic sites. Via these planning committee members, the event offers a range of sponsorship opportunities, from table sponsorships to the interactive photo booth.

Cragfont is listed with the National Register of Historic Places, and is open to the public during the year. Architecturally, it’s known as a Federal, Georgian-style mansion, with a special T-shaped design and seven iron stars. While most homes in Tennessee at the time were log cabins, this two-story, 19-room home is built of limestone cut from a nearby quarry, and poplar, walnut, cherry and ash wood from the surrounding forest.

During spring through fall, guided tours are typically available at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m., and tickets can be purchased on-site. The 26-acre property is owned by the State of Tennessee and administered in partnership with the Tennessee Historical Commission by the nonprofit group Historic Castalian Springs. Construction of the home was started in 1798 and completed in 1802. During that time, Cragfont was considered to be the finest mansion on the Tennessee frontier, showcased by notable grandeur.

With Cragfont being located on the original road from Knoxville and the East coast, the house stood as a grand and prominent landmark for those making their way West.

The first Cragfont Gala was held in August 1981, with the money raised being applied to preserve Historic Cragfont home and a few

other historic sites nearby. Self-professed history nerd and former Gala chair Carlene says the event has been important for the funding that has been raised to support Cragfont. She adds, “The party has been able to showcase the site to folks who might have never visited a historic site. The Castalian Springs community was one of the first settlements in middle Tennessee before Tennessee was a state. We’re preserving the sites and keeping the history alive for those who come behind us.”

Proceeds from this year’s gala will support several important projects, states Mary Jane, including restoration of the original rock wall in front of Cragfont, a Hidden History educational series and the ongoing care and preservation of the entity’s remarkable artifact collection.

“Funds raised also benefit our other two historic Castalian Springs sites: Historic Wynnewood and Historic Hawthorne Hill,” she adds.

Gala tickets will be available beginning June 1 through the committee’s Eventbrite page. The price for individual tickets will be $135 each. Additionally, a table can be sponsored for $1,850, which includes 10 seats per table.

“Guests can expect a lively evening filled with great food, music and community. The night will begin with a cocktail hour, giving guests time to mingle with fellow community members while enjoying the beautiful grounds of Cragfont,” assures Mary Jane.

“Guests will then enjoy dinner, followed by the auction, before the evening transitions into music and dancing. The Rock & Roll Pianos from Nashville will provide an interactive, high-energy show that always keeps the crowd entertained.”

Throughout the evening, attendees also can snap photos in the provided photo booth and enjoy time visiting with friends and neighbors.

“The Gala is always a memorable night of fun, fellowship and support for these treasured historic sites,” concludes Mary Jane.

HistoricCastalianSprings.org/Cragfont

Invisalign | Metal Braces | Clear Braces | WildSmiles

Invisalign | Metal Braces | Clear Braces | WildSmiles

629-247-5475 | shinepdo.com

629-247-5475 | shinepdo.com

1921 Nashville Pike, Ste. 200, Gallatin, TN 37066

1921 Nashville Pike, Ste. 200, Gallatin, TN 37066

GENTLE BODY ADJUSTMENTS, HEALTHIER KIDS

CONNECTED KIDS CHIROPRACTIC SPECIALIZES IN PREGNANT WOMEN, INFANTS, CHILDREN CARE

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA SELBY

Connected Kids Chiropractic co-owners and spouses, Caroline Paulson, DPT, and Garrett Paulson, D.C., say they wanted to help kids in the community be the healthiest versions of themselves, so with this in mind, they opened the practice during October 2025 to provide pediatric and perinatal chiropractic care.

Given that Dr. Paulson’s father also was a chiropractor, he recalls that the benefits of chiropractic adjustments have been a part of his life for as long as he can remember, especially as a tool that assists human bodies with healing themselves.

“Our office is built around individualized, nervous-system-focused care. We specialize in working with pregnant women, infants and children, always tailoring care to each patient’s unique circumstances,” he explains.

Dr. Paulson is passionate about educating and empowering families on the benefits of regular nervous system checks and chiropractic adjustments as part of a preventive approach to health. He notes that chiropractic care is especially helpful for children who experienced stressful deliveries, specifically those involving cesarean sections, forceps or vacuum extractions.

Industry wellness sources indicate pediatric chiropractic care often is used to help with infant colic, ear infections, sleep issues, digestive problems, posture-related concerns and to support healthy growth and development, in addition to evaluating and treating treating musculoskeletal matters or common childhood conditions. A part of this care includes assessing children’s muscle tone, joint mobility and overall alignment.

Caroline brings a unique perspective to the practice as both a pediatric physical therapist at The Therapy Center in Hendersonville and growing up as an identical triplet who dealt with persistent headaches for years. She says she discovered firsthand the difference chiropractic care can make after meeting Garrett in college. Now, as the practice’s patient care coordinator, she focuses on keeping the clinic running smoothly and creating a welcoming

environment so every patient and family feels right at home.

As a native Tennessean from Memphis, Gina Carpenter works as the office coordinator for Connected Kids Chiropractic. “I was immediately drawn to Dr. Paulson’s and Caroline’s passion for holistic preventive care for mothers and children,” she says.

Brittney Pearce, a Gallatin native, brings a genuine love for working with children and a deep appreciation for the impact chiropractic care can have on young lives. Dr. Paulson says Gina’s and Brittney’s firsthand experience witnessing those transformations has made them devoted advocates for families throughout Sumner County, and “their warmth and energy are felt by every family they serve.”

Most moms assume that sciatica, sharp round-ligament pain and terrible sleep is just what comes with being pregnant. But Dr. Paulson believes there’s a way to relief. He says he recently assisted a patient who was pregnant with her third child. “After adjustments, she couldn’t believe how good she feels. The pain shooting down her right leg (sciatica) was gone. And she was able to sleep comfortably,” he adds.

Dr. Paulson explains that the team’s goal is to help the bodies of pregnant women to adapt to the stresses of pregnancy. “Through the Webster Technique, we’re able to help moms experience more comfort and ease than they thought possible. It works by optimizing pelvic alignment and relieving stress on the nervous system,” he says.

“We get to watch moms thrive as they prepare for such an amazing feat. Although we specialize in pediatrics, we have a special place in our hearts for all the moms we see.”

The Webster Technique is a specific, gentle chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed for pregnant women that balances the pelvis, reducing soft tissue tension to allow for optimal fetal positioning, often aiding in relieving breech presentations and promoting easier, safer births.

At Connected Kids, one important milestone comes with a fun tradition: adding a handprint to the practice’s Lives Changed Wall. Each print represents families who have completed their care plans and are transitioning into wellness care, which is preventive care focused on maintaining progress, supporting nervous system health and helping kids continue to thrive.

“If you know someone who wants a more comfortable, stress-free pregnancy, or a child who could use a little extra support, our team at Connected Kids Chiropractic is ready to help them feel, function and live their best from the very beginning,” assures Dr. Paulson.

615.992.6378 ConnectedKidsChiropractic.com

THE EPIC EFFECT

What fascinates Jennifer Willingham most about operating a full-service PR/marketing agency sits at the intersection of message, timing, culture and human behavior.

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

As CEO of EPIC Agency, Jennifer says her team has many methods for positioning easily overlooked yet meaningful

concepts, brands and services so they connect to audiences in ways that feel timely and real.

“At its best, PR is not hype, it’s clarity. In our case, we only take on Gospel-centered work, so we take great pride in helping those clients raise awareness,” she explains.

“PR is not just for public figures or large companies; it’s a tool for anyone who wants to communicate more clearly and make a greater impact. Whether you’re building a business, leading a team, serving your community or growing something meaningful, the way you tell your story matters. I’m cheering you all on.”

Regarding first steps in strategic communications, Jennifer says she always starts with the message.

“Before I think about outlets, interviews or tactics, I want to know: What problem does this solve? Why should anyone care right now? And what’s the most compelling way to frame it? From there, I look at audience, timing, cultural relevance and what makes the story truly newsworthy. Too many people start with mechanics. I start with meaning. Once the message is sharp, the strategy gets much easier to build,” she asserts.

This Nashville native now Gallatin resident handled the promotions for Sound of Freedom , a film released to coincide with Fourth of July in 2023. And, she confirms that film marketing has a different kind of velocity. “It’s faster and much more emotionally charged. With a movie, you’re creating a shared cultural moment and inviting people into that experience. In the case of Sound of Freedom , there was also a sense the film was tapping into something much bigger than entertainment. It stirred conviction, conversation and action. That kind of campaign requires not only strong media instincts, but also the ability to read the emotional temperature of the culture and move with it quickly.”

When celebrities are involved, Jennifer says marketing communication strategies have to become even more disciplined. “The bigger the platform, the more important it is to be intentional. Visibility is not the same thing as effectiveness,” she adds.

EPIC operates offices from Nashville, Cleveland, Springfield, Atlanta, San Diego, Minneapolis and Charlotte.

To measure success of PR efforts, Jennifer says it’s bigger than clips. “Of course I care about media hits, audience reach and the quality of placements, but I also look at whether the campaign moved the needle where it mattered. Did awareness grow? Did the right people start paying attention? Did the message become clearer in the marketplace? Did it open doors, drive sales, increase credibility or create momentum that continues after the campaign ends? Good PR shouldn’t just create a spike, it should create lasting lift,” she explains.

Three top PR tips for today’s small- to medium-sized businesses from Jennifer include:

1. Get clear on your message. If people cannot quickly understand what you do, why it matters and who it helps, no amount of promotion will fix that. 2. Stop trying to talk to everyone. The more specific you are about who you serve, the more powerful your message becomes. 3. Think like a storyteller, not an advertiser. Media respond to relevance, timing, human interest and fresh angles. They’re looking for stories people care about, not commercials in disguise.Although Jennifer’s day-to-day mission may be reaching the world, what she says she loves about Gallatin is that it gives her family space to breathe while still being close to the energy of Nashville. She says, “From growing up in Nashville, I appreciate the mix of creativity, entrepreneurship, faith, media and culture-shaping ideas that originate from there. I’m continually reminded you don’t have to live in New York or Los Angeles to do nationally significant work.”

With a busy schedule, Jennifer says she’s not sure she’s ever had work-life balance per se, but she’s “still trying to achieve more of it in this next chapter of life. I’m definitely a work in progress.”

615.654.1970

EPIC.inc

ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HOWARD

Favorite Finds We Love

THE MOTHER'S DAY EDIT

This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating her with a collection of favorite finds we truly love. From local treasures to everyday luxuries, each piece was thoughtfully chosen to bring joy, beauty and intention. Because she deserves more than a gift; she deserves to feel seen, celebrated and deeply appreciated always.

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

When She Heals, Everything Around Her Grows.

When life feels heavy, tending to your mind is not a luxury—it’s essential. In the quiet moments of care, reflection, and support, something beautiful begins to take root. Clarity returns. Strength rebuilds. Joy finds its way back in.

Because when she heals, everything around her grows—and it all begins with choosing herself and her mental health.

Schedule your visit today. (615) 510-4551 | tnmentalwellness.com 1185 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066

Adventure

Adventures are meant to be shared with your newest canine family member! ACS provides rehabilitation and fostering for dogs in search of their forever home, and a sanctuary is offered for unadoptable dogs in need of a life full of enrichment and Adventure!

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! adventurecaninetraining.com | info@adventurecaninetraining.com

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

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

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

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

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

April Showers Bring May Flowers…

April showers may bring beautiful May flowers—but they can also bring unexpected damage. From heavy rain to spring storms, now’s the perfect time to make sure your home and property are protected. With the right coverage in place, you can enjoy the season’s blooms without worrying about what the weather might bring.

GIVE US A CALL

615-452-7037

402 Maple St Gallatin, TN 37066 @elizabethhobdyjonesagency agents.farmers.com/tn/gallatin/elizabeth-hobdy-jones

MAY 2ND

Gallatin’s Farmers Market

Gallatin Farmers Market | 9:00 AM

Stop by Gallatin’s Farmers Market on Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May through September. Stock up on fresh produce, eggs, honey, baked goods, meats, seafood, jams, herbs, pickles and pet treats. Browse unique artisan crafts, candles, jewelry, vegan soaps and home décor. With most vendors living within 30 miles, it’s a great way to support local farmers and makers!

MAY 8TH-9TH

Strawberry Festival

Downtown Portland | 5:00 PM

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

The Strawberry Festival brings two days of excitement to downtown Portland. Enjoy Friday’s music, food vendors and fireworks, then Saturday’s 250-plus vendors, KidTown USA, magic shows, live music and parade. Discover strawberry treats, local history and family fun throughout the festival. Full schedule and details at MiddleTennesseeStrawberry Festival.com.

MAY 9TH

Family Fun At Long Hollow Gardens

Long Hollow Gardens | 9:00 AM

Make plans to visit Long Hollow Gardens this month for unforgettable family fun. Experience Running of the Sheep with family-friendly fun and music, enjoy a five-star greenhouse Mother’s Day Brunch, and unwind at Thursday Night Lights with live music, food trucks, lawn games and laughter under the fireflies. Plan your visit at LongHollowGardens.com

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.

Locations Available

To schedule an appointment, visit HighpointHealthPartners.com or scan the QR code.