Mount Juliet, TN February 2026

Local Love

LIFE + CULTURE

MISS TENNESSEE

AUTO + MARINE

44 YEARS OF ANDERSON

MARINE: THE GREATER NASHVILLE BOATSHOW

ARTS + CULTURE

EVERYONE’S WILSON: ST. PATRICK’S DAY GALA

Live Local

Living local and pouring into local is literally our brand. Across the country, we are celebrating in each of our 250 communities this month. City Lifestyle was founded on the idea of living local and pouring into your own "city." I am honored to share "local" stories every single month here in Mount Juliet, and I don't take that responsibility lightly.

This month, our cover story, Miss Tennessee (Zoe Scheiderich), is an incredible story of a determined young lady and her mother's endless support. We share more about an incredible foundation, Everyone's Wilson's St. Patrick's Gala coming up in March! Their impact on our community has been unparalleled. By this time, we are all ready and gearing up for spring. Lucky for you, Anderson Marine is ready all year long. Come visit the first annual Nashville Boat Show this month!

As we navigate the lingering chill of winter and the promise of spring’s arrival, let’s take a moment to come together with the people who matter most. Whether they’re in your home, down the street, or across the community, February is a wonderful time to connect and share love.

Speaking of Local love, this month Our team here at Mount Juliet City Lifestyle grew! We are so excited to welcome the Newkirks (a local family of Mount Juliet) to our team. Elise & Logan and their adorable family of 5 will become an integral part of our publication and team, and we cannot wait to share more with you!

Here’s to a February filled with love—both local and beyond!

KIM THOMAS, PUBLISHER @MOUNTJULIETLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Kim Thomas | kim.thomas@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kourtney McComb | kourtney.mccomb@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Logan NewKirk | logan.newkirk@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Elise Newkirk | elise.newkirk@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Summer Thomas

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Karly Thomas

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kourtney McComb, Paige Turner, Parthenon PR

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kristy Belcher, RFast Photography, Parthenon PR

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

4 FACTS ABOUT ORTHOPAEDIC ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY

WITH DR. SHAWN MOUNTAIN

An orthopaedic surgeon with Hughston Clinic Orthopaedics in Lebanon, TN, Dr. Mountain specializes in arthroscopic surgery and shares some facts about these procedures that you may not know!

ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY IS MINIMALLY INVASIVE

Ann Beadle, RN, ACNP

Jonathan P. Cornelius, MD

William N. Melton, MD

Kristina Moore, PA-C

Shawn P. Mountain, DO

Jennifer M. O’Donnell, MD

Lucas B, Richie, MD 100 Physicians Way, Suite 110 (615) 547-6700

tn.hughston.com

Dr. Mountain: Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which we use a camera about the size of a pen to fix many problems, from ligament tears to cartilage injuries.

PATIENTS EXPERIENCE A QUICKER RECOVERY

Dr. Mountain: Arthroscopic surgery is generally touted as less painful and has a shorter recovery time as compared to open procedures due to smaller incisions.

ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY RESULTS IN LOWER INFECTION RATES

Dr. Mountain: The smaller incisions can have a smaller risk of infection, as less skin is violated, so healing is faster and easier on the body.

THERE IS A WIDE POOL OF CANDIDATES FOR ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY

Dr. Mountain: Most people qualify for arthroscopic surgery provided they qualify for anesthesia, as we still need to put people to sleep for these procedures.

Find out if you qualify for arthroscopic surgery or make an appointment with Hughston Clinic Orthopaedics in Lebanon by calling 615-547-6700.

Pastor Willingham has chosen Anderson Architects to assist with his church's expansion plans. The congregation has been a

community in Mt. Juliet for many years and is now adding a new sanctuary with a capacity of 220 seats, along with three spacious classrooms.

business monthly

Loads of Clothes Named BusinessRate Best of 2025 Donelson

Rated #1 for Customer Satisfaction, Reputation & Service Excellence. To our customers: Thank you for trusting Loads of Clothes Laundry with your time, your clothes, and your feedback.  We're proud to be locally owned, community-focused, and committed to making laundry easier–every single visit.  Schedule your pickup and delivery today!

Anderson Architects Welcomes New Office Administrator

Anderson Architects is excited to welcome Kellie Morgan as their new Office Administrator. Kellie's expertise and energy are already making an impact; since joining us, Kellie has streamlined operations, strengthened communication, and elevated the day-to-day experience for both clients and staff. Anderson Architects is thrilled to have her on board and looks forward to the continued improvements she’ll help drive as their firm grows.

Award-Winning Excellence: White Stork & Co.

White Stork & Co., Nashville’s award-winning luxury ultrasound and portrait studio, has been voted Best Studio in Nashville for the third year running in 2025. Known for unforgettable 2D/3D/4D experiences and timeless maternity, newborn and family photography, this boutique gem transforms every visit into a cherished memory filled with joy, warmth, and heirloom-quality keepsakes.

From Home to Office: Organization Made Simple

Bee Organized Southeast Nashville is buzzing into the community with fresh energy! Owned by Kim Burge, this new local service brings expert home and business organizing services to the Southeast Nashville area, including Mount Juliet. From decluttering kitchens and closets to streamlining office spaces and workflows, Kim helps clients create calm, functional environments tailored to their lives. Schedule your free assessment and simplify your space with style and heart.

Rooted in Local Love

At Ferguson Home, community inspires everything we do. We’re proud to support the neighbors, builders, and families who make our hometowns shine. Through inspired design and trusted expertise, we help create spaces that reflect the heart, character, and pride of the place you call home.

THE WOMAN Behind the CROWN

a Mother’s Love

Zoe Scheiderich’s Journey, Guided by

ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS

At first glance, Zoe Scheiderich’s story reads like a highlight reel: a Chicago-born ballet prodigy who left home at 14, trained at the nation’s most elite academies, earned academic honors, claimed the Miss Tennessee crown, placed among the Top 11 at Miss America, and travels the world advocating for women and girls. But beneath the accolades and spotlights is a quieter, more powerful narrative—one shaped by a mother’s steady presence, unwavering belief, and intentional love.

Zoe, now 22, is a Middle Tennessee State University student studying entertainment journalism with dreams of becoming a sports broadcaster for ESPN. Her path has been anything but conventional. Classical ballet demanded sacrifice early on, requiring her to move away from home as a young teenager to pursue training at institutions like the School of American Ballet, Miami City Ballet, Boston Ballet, and others that represent the highest level of discipline and artistry. For a young girl navigating independence so early, support was not optional—it was essential. That support came from her entire family—especially her mother, Cortissa Scheiderich.

Cortissa is a woman deeply rooted in faith, family, and purpose. A speaker, Bible teacher, home educator, and nonprofit founder, she has spent decades pouring into others while fiercely protecting the growth of her own children. When Zoe stepped into demanding worlds—professional dance, competitive academics, and later the Miss America Organization—Cortissa wasn’t just a parent in the audience. She was a strategist, a sounding board, a coach, and, most importantly, a safe place to land.

“I always knew I could dream big because my mom never treated my dreams as unrealistic,” Zoe has shared. “She helped me see that preparation and character mattered just as much as talent.”

That philosophy became foundational as Zoe transitioned from ballet to pageantry. Beginning her Miss Tennessee journey in 2023, Zoe returned year after year, refining not only her walk and interview skills, but her understanding of service and leadership. Cortissa, who had entered the pageant world

alongside her daughter, guided her through the highs and lows—celebrating local titles like Miss Memphis, Miss Nashville, and Miss Music City, and encouraging resilience through disappointment. By the time Zoe captured the Miss Tennessee title in 2025, the victory felt communal: a testament to perseverance shaped within the walls of home.

On the Miss America stage in Orlando, Zoe’s self-choreographed ballet-contemporary performance to “16 Carriages” told its own story of strength and grace. She earned a Preliminary Fitness Award, a Top 11 finish, and $7,000 in scholarships—adding to more than $24,000 earned throughout her pageant journey. But perhaps her most meaningful work has happened offstage.

Zoe’s community initiative, Elevate: Empowering Girls, Equipping Women , reflects the values she was raised with. Through school visits, shelters, after-school programs, and partnerships with organizations like Girls Inc. and TenThirtyFive, she teaches young women to recognize their worth and thrive in their gifts. Last month, she traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, working with Wings of Hope to support girls rescued from underage tribal marriages—an experience that echoed her mother’s lifelong commitment to women’s ministry.

Cortissa’s own calling is now leading their family back to Nairobi, where they will serve as missionaries beginning in 2026. For Zoe, watching her mother step into this next chapter has only deepened her understanding of courage. “My mom lives what she taught us,” Zoe says. “Faith in action. Love with intention.”

Today, as Zoe prepares to speak on the Tennessee Senate floor about women’s health, safety, and rights, her voice carries generations of influence. It is confident, compassionate, and clear—shaped by a mother who believed that raising daughters meant equipping leaders.

In a world quick to celebrate individual success, Zoe and Cortissa Scheiderich remind us that behind many remarkable women is another woman who stood steady, whispered truth, and never stopped showing up. Their story is not just one of achievement, but of legacy—love passed down, purpose multiplied, and impact that reaches far beyond the spotlight.

Meet Zoe Scheiderich

Age: 22

Studying: Entertainment Journalism at MTSU Dream Career: Sports Broadcaster for ESPN

A classically trained ballet dancer turned pageant standout, Zoe placed Top 11 at Miss America and earned the Preliminary Fitness Award. Through the Miss America Organization, she has received more than $24,000 in scholarships

Her

Why

Founder of Elevate: Empowering Girls, Equipping Women, Zoe travels across Tennessee and internationally, helping girls build confidence, purpose, and identity.

Zoe’s Powerhouse Influence

Cortissa Scheiderich is a wife, mother of five, speaker, Bible teacher, and lifelong educator with a passion for women and families. A former corporate professional turned ministry leader, she has guided Zoe with faith and purpose—and will soon serve women and families in Nairobi, Kenya.

ELM NASHVILLE

WHERE HISTORY, HEART, AND CELEBRATION COME TOGETHER

ARTICLE BY PAIGE TURNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY PARTHENON PR

Some spaces hold stories the moment you step inside—and beginning March 2026, one of Nashville’s most storied buildings will once again become a place where memories are made. Tucked into downtown’s Rutledge Hill neighborhood, ELM Nashville is a beautifully restored 19th-century church reimagined as an event venue designed for modern gatherings with soul. Originally built in 1860 as Elm Street Methodist Church, the building has stood as a witness to generations of connection, music, and shared joy. Among its early congregation was Thomas Ryman, founder of the legendary

Ryman Auditorium, further weaving ELM into the fabric of Nashville’s cultural and musical heritage. Now, after over 160 years, the space is opening its doors to a new chapter—one filled with weddings, celebrations, and creative moments that linger long after the last toast.

The thoughtful revival of ELM was led by Nashville-based collaborators Genie Lee and Andrew Tuttle, entrusted by GBX Group, a national leader in historic preservation and redevelopment, to breathe new life into the historic landmark while preserving its soul. Their vision honors what the building has always been: a place where people come together to celebrate life’s most meaningful milestones.

“At the heart of ELM is a shared love of bringing people together,” says Tuttle. “As we brought the building’s next chapter to life, we were intentional about honoring its historic character and legacy as a gathering place. We’re proud to be able to open the doors to a new generation of celebrations and experiences in a space that has been part of Nashville’s story for more than 160 years.”

Nashville-based architecture and design firm Pfeffer Torode led the careful redesign of the iconic property. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ELM remains the only Italianate architectural-style church in Nashville, a distinction thoughtfully preserved throughout the transformation. Every design decision was made to preserve the building’s integrity while introducing modern, versatile spaces that are suited for unforgettable events.

Inside, ELM unfolds as a series of thoughtfully curated spaces. The expansive main sanctuary, with its soaring ceilings and refined details, creates a breathtaking

backdrop for ceremonies, receptions, and performances. An adjoining bar invites guests to linger and connect, while an elegant 80-seat dining room offers a more intimate setting for rehearsal dinners, private parties, or curated culinary experiences. A private bridal suite, dedicated green room, and full catering kitchen ensure every detail feels effortless from start to finish.

Designed to host up to 600 guests, ELM seamlessly accommodates celebrations of all sizes—from candlelit weddings and elegant galas to concerts and corporate gatherings. A private parking lot allows for tented or open-air events, offering rare flexibility just steps from downtown’s vibrant energy.

Located at 614 Rep. John Lewis Way S., ELM Nashville offers something truly special: a romantic blend of historic architecture, modern amenities, and heartfelt hospitality. It’s a place where past and present meet—where vows are exchanged, milestones celebrated, and moments become memories.

Booking inquiries are now open for events beginning March 1, 2026. To learn more or reserve your date, visit elmnashville.com and follow along on Instagram @elmnashville.

A NIGHT OF PURPOSE and Celebration

Every spring in Wilson County, there’s an event that sparks more than conversation — it inspires connection, generosity, and a renewed sense of community. It’s the annual St. Patrick’s Day Gala hosted by Everyone’s Wilson, a coalition of churches, businesses, and nonprofits united by a shared mission: to see every person in the community thrive.

What began as a spirited fundraiser and festive night out has grown into a meaningful local tradition. From elegant entrances and lively conversations to intentional moments of reflection, the gala blends celebration with purpose. Past attendees often describe the evening as one filled with joy, encouragement, and shared vision — a chance to gather and invest in something far bigger than themselves.

At its core, the gala reflects the spirit of Everyone’s Wilson. The organization believes meaningful work and joyful celebration can exist side by side, and that thriving communities are built through collaboration, not isolation. Each year, the gala brings people together around that belief, strengthening relationships and renewing commitment to the work happening throughout the county.

Out of that discovery came a movement dedicated to uniting the church to engage the community so everyone can thrive. Everyone’s Wilson lives out this mission by equipping churches, nonprofits, and businesses to pray together, share resources, serve intentionally, and collaborate strategically. Rather than duplicating efforts, the organization focuses on strengthening existing initiatives and aligning partners toward sustainable, long-term impact.

Under the leadership of Executive Director Daryl Crouch and Director of Operations Melanie Wilson, Everyone’s Wilson has continued to grow in reach and influence. Supported by a broad network of partners, the organization’s work touches nearly every corner of Wilson County — from supporting educators and students to addressing food insecurity and addiction recovery — with a focus on lasting transformation.

The St. Patrick’s Day Gala has become a signature moment in that journey. Held each March, the event gathers community members, local leaders, and supporters for an evening that is festive, welcoming, and deeply meaningful. Guests arrive ready to celebrate, but often leave with something more enduring — a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the mission unfolding in their community.

reflects a balance of joy and service, honoring progress while looking ahead to the work still to be done.

Over the years, the gala has helped strengthen relationships across sectors, bringing together churches, nonprofits, and marketplace leaders who may not otherwise find themselves in the same room. It has also raised vital support for Everyone’s Wilson’s ongoing efforts, allowing the organization to continue responding to the evolving needs of Wilson County with unity and purpose.

“We hope that every person who attends this year’s event will leave as a shareholder who sees themselves as capable of making a difference.”

The choice to host the gala around St. Patrick’s Day carries symbolic meaning. St. Patrick is remembered not only for celebration and tradition, but for bringing hope and transformation to communities in need. That legacy aligns naturally with Everyone’s Wilson’s work. Like the story of St. Patrick, the gala

As the community looks ahead to this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Gala, there is gratitude for how far the organization has come and excitement for what lies ahead. What began as a local conversation has evolved into a shared commitment, now embraced by hundreds of partners and volunteers.

More than a night of celebration, the St. Patrick’s Day Gala stands as an invitation to gather, to give, and to be part of something meaningful. This year’s event takes place on Tuesday, March 17, at 6 p.m. at The Mill in Lebanon. Those interested in attending may reach out to Melanie Wilson at melanie@everyoneswilson. org or visit everyoneswilson.org for details.

“As a family-owned dealership serving Middle Tennessee and beyond, Anderson Marine offers dependable products, easy financing, and a smooth buying experience.”

The Greater Nashville Boat Show

Spring boating season returns to Nashville in a big way as Anderson Marine, Inc. celebrates 44 years of sales and service excellence at the Greater Nashville Boat Show. Longtime boaters may remember the spring boat shows once held downtown in the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s—a tradition many have missed. That tradition is back, just in time for a new season on the water.

The Greater Nashville Boat Show runs Thursday, March 5 through Sunday, March 8, at the new Nashville Fairgrounds, offering easier access, improved parking, and more affordable admission. While scheduling changes moved the show from January, the early March timing couldn’t be better—boating season is only weeks away.

Anderson Marine will showcase boats for every lifestyle, including Yamaha Sport Boats, where unforgettable moments on the water begin. Discover the quality, innovation, and performance Yamaha is known for—perfect for family cruising, watersports, and weekend adventures. The lineup also includes Berkshire, Bentley, SouthBay, and Veranda Pontoons, Skeeter bass boats, Xpress and War Eagle aluminum fishing and hunting boats, and Yamaha Outboards. Already own a boat? Anderson Marine specializes in repowering with Yamaha four-stroke outboards, giving new life to your existing boat at a fraction of the cost of buying new.

As a family-owned dealership serving Middle Tennessee and beyond, Anderson Marine offers dependable products, easy financing, and a smooth buying experience. With manufacturer rebates, extended warranties, special show financing, and on-site approvals, the Greater Nashville Boat Show is the best place to buy.

CONTINUED >

Yamaha AR195

The Yamaha AR195 is a standout 19-foot watersports boat that blends performance, versatility, and value in a sleek, sporty package. Powered by Yamaha’s supercharged 1.8L SVHO marine engine, it delivers robust torque and exhilarating acceleration for wakeboarding, tubing, or cruising. A forward-swept aluminum watersports tower with Bimini top adds shade and style, while spacious bow seating with plush cushions and beverage mounts keeps passengers comfy. The intelligent helm features a Connext® touchscreen, and generous in-floor storage helps keep gear organized. With seating for up to eight and a 40-gallon fuel tank, it’s perfect for weekend fun on the water. yamahaboats.com

Yamaha AR220

At 22 feet, the Yamaha AR220 steps up to family-friendly versatility without sacrificing fun. With room for up to 10 passengers and a 70-gallon fuel capacity, it’s built for long days on the lake or river. Twin TR-1 marine engines deliver spirited performance with excellent fuel efficiency, while a thoughtfully designed helm puts a Connext® touchscreen at your fingertips for navigation and system info. Wireless charging and ample portside storage keep modern gear powered and organized. Comfortable bow seating with beverage mounts and plush cushions invites relaxation, and abundant wet storage accommodates all your accessories for wake sports or cruising.

Yamaha 195S

The Yamaha 195S elevates the classic 19-foot platform with refined comfort and modern tech. Built to deliver an upscale yet affordable experience, it seats eight and features a spacious interior with large bow and cockpit areas for relaxed cruising or watersports. Yamaha’s supercharged SVHO engine provides impressive power and responsiveness, while the 7″ Connext® touchscreen integrates control and entertainment seamlessly. A signature swim platform with optional swim-up seat and stern stereo remote enhances fun on the water, and clever portside storage helps keep essentials stowed. This model strikes a perfect balance between performance, comfort, and everyday usability. yamahaboats.com

BECAUSE.

CHOCOLATE.

Chocolate Fondue

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 pound premium semisweet chocolate (recommended: Lindt or Callebaut)

• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon brandy

• Strawberries, bananas, pineapple, brownies, waffles, marshmallows, Oreos, pound cake, pretzels or any other dipping item of your choice!

Put approximately four inches of water in a saucepan and bring to a slow boil. Place a mixing bowl on top and pour in the heavy cream. Let heat. Or, use a double boiler. Meanwhile, break up or chop the chocolate into small pieces. When the cream feels hot to the touch, add chocolate and whisk until smooth. Whisk in vanilla and brandy (optional).  Pour into the fondue pot and light the handy fuel underneath. Keep the flame low as not to burn the fondue. Arrange dippers on a platter and enjoy. For the grown-ups, a spiked chocolate drink from our friend, Martha Stewart.

The Spiked Jones

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup whole coffee beans

• 2 ounces semisweet chocolate (61% Valrhona), chopped

• 2 tablespoons Kahlua

• 1 teaspoon confectioners’ sugar

• 1 tablespoon dark chocolatecovered coffee beans, chopped

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, 1/2 cup cream, and whole coffee beans. Bring to a simmer, turn off heat, cover, and steep beans for 1 hour. Strain liquid and return to saucepan; discard beans. Bring the milk-and-cream mixture back to a simmer, add chocolate, and whisk until incorporated. Remove from heat; whisk in Kahlua. Whip remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners” sugar until soft peaks form. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 cups and garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans.

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

When my kids were little, we would address valentines to classmates, deliver flowers to neighbors and decorate the house with hearts and snowflakes (cut from white coffee filters). For dinner, I would make their favorite meal: dessert! Why not? I'd melt chocolate (the good stuff) and let them line up their dippers. They thought dessert for dinner was magical. Of course, I'd fed them a protein-packed after-school snack and served “dinner” early so they could get their sugar wiggles out before bed. Delightful! Happy Valentine's Day!

CHOCO OLATEC LATECH

Love Close to Home

The Best Valentine’s Day Dining Spots Around Mt. Juliet

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean long drives, packed highways, or fighting for reservations across town. This year, staying local in and around Mt. Juliet is not only easier—it’s smarter and more meaningful. From cozy date-night favorites to elevated dining spots

Memo’s Mexican Kitchen

For couples who love vibrant flavors and an inviting, celebratory atmosphere, Memo’s Mexican Kitchen sets the tone for a joyful Valentine’s dinner. Begin by sharing fresh guacamole, queso, and warm chips before savoring flavorful favorites like sizzling fajitas, shrimp or carnitas street tacos, or rich enchiladas. The quesabirria or birria nachos are perfect for sharing, encouraging conversation and connection. End with churros or fried ice cream for a sweet finale that feels playful, romantic, and full of Heart.

Barrel House Restaurant and Bar

Barrel House offers a cozy yet refined setting that feels made for lingering Valentine’s conversations. Warm lighting, attentive service, and an elevated menu create an effortlessly romantic evening close to home. Enjoy chefdriven entrées, gourmet flatbreads, and fresh salads, paired with handcrafted cocktails, local beers, or a thoughtfully curated wine selection. Whether you’re celebrating a first Valentine’s together or a lasting love, Barrel House invites couples to slow down, savor each bite, and enjoy an intimate night centered on connection and comfort.

perfect for celebrating love, our community offers plenty of ways to make the day special without going far.

Choosing to dine locally on Valentine’s Day comes with some big perks. Safety tops the list—less time on the road means fewer risks, especially on one of the busiest nights for dining and celebrating. Staying close also means more time together, not stuck in traffic or rushing to make a

reservation. And perhaps most importantly, eating local is a powerful way of giving back—supporting the restaurants, staff, and small business owners who help make Mt. Juliet such a vibrant place to live.

This Valentine’s Day, love local—and enjoy every moment close to home. Here is a curated list of our favorite Mount Juliet spots:

Tholos Mediterranean Restaurant Pokeworks

Tholos Mediterranean Restaurant brings a touch of Old World romance to Valentine’s dinner with its warm hospitality and bold Mediterranean flavors. Start by sharing hummus, hot appetizers, or lentil soup, then enjoy beautifully seasoned entrées like chicken shish, Adana kebabs, or mixed grill platters served with rice and fresh sides. Finish with classic baklava for a sweet, indulgent ending. The cozy atmosphere and shareable plates create a relaxed, intimate setting—perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape without leaving Mt. Juliet.

For couples who prefer a lighter, modern Valentine’s celebration, Pokeworks offers a fresh and thoughtful dining experience. Create custom poke bowls with sashimigrade ahi tuna or salmon, vibrant vegetables, flavorful sauces, and rice or greens. The interactive nature of building your meal together adds a fun, personal touch to the evening. Casual yet intentional, Pokeworks is ideal for health-conscious couples or low-key romantics who want a meaningful meal that still feels special, shared, and full of color and care.

A Handmade Date Night

A date night at home is the perfect occasion to shower your loved ones with affection and appreciation. While storebought gifts and cards have their charm, there’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gesture. By opting for a handmade date night, you’re not just expressing love but also showcasing your thoughtfulness and effort. These handmade creations convey a personal touch that can’t be replicated.

Make

From-Scratch

Pasta

what you need

Yield: 1 pound

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 4 large eggs

what you do

1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight.

2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent.

3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com .

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 3RD – 8TH

SIX

Tennessee Performing Arts Center — 505 Deaderick St., Nashville, TN | 7:30 PM

A high-energy Broadway musical that reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as pop-star queens, blending history with modern girl-power anthems and infectious choreography. It’s fun, fierce, and perfect for fans of contemporary musical theatre.

FEBRUARY 7TH

Yacht Rock Revue

Ryman Auditorium — 116 Rep. John Lewis Way N., Nashville, TN | 8:00 PM

A smooth, nostalgic live show celebrating the classic soft-rock hits of the ’70s and ’80s. Expect covers of Hall & Oates, Kenny Loggins, Steely Dan and more, delivered with flair and good vibes.

FEBRUARY 14TH

A Presidential Valentine: Love Story of Andrew & Rachel Jackson

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage — 4580 Rachel’s Ln., Hermitage, TN | 11:00 AM

A day of family-friendly historical fun celebrating the romantic story of Andrew and Rachel Jackson. Includes crafts, horse presentations, garden activities, film screenings, and a gallery talk about their lives.

FEBRUARY 16TH

Presidents’ Day with President Abraham Lincoln

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage — 4580 Rachel’s Ln., Hermitage, TN | 7:00 PM

A living-history event at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage featuring a portrayal of Abraham Lincoln. Engage with Civil War era stories and Lincoln’s legacy in a dynamic interpretation.

FEBRUARY 21ST

Bubbles & Bourbon – Nashville’s Speakeasy Soirée

Marathon Music Works — 1402 Clinton St., Nashville, TN | 6:00 PM

Step into a Roaring-20s themed tasting event with bourbons, cocktails, sparkling wines, and live jazz music. VIP tickets include early access and charcuterie; proceeds benefit local music education.

FEBRUARY 27TH – 28TH

Nashville Flea Market: Romance in the Air

The Fairgrounds Nashville — 401 Wingrove St., Nashville, TN | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

A seasonal edition of Nashville’s beloved flea market, this weekend highlights romantic gifts, handcrafted items, vintage treasures, and décor — perfect for Valentine’s shopping or browsing local makers.

mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 2/28/26. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.