Music City, TN May 2026

Design Matters

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Man! I Feel Like A Woman!

As a little girl, watching romantic comedies made womanhood look like something straight out of a dream—a high-rise New York City apartment, perfectly curated outfits, flawless blown-out hair, sweatpants and late-night Chinese takeout somehow looking effortlessly chic, and a life that always seemed to wrap itself up so neatly by the final scene. I remember dreaming of the day I’d finally be old enough to slip into high heels and pearls… and then one day, you blink, and you realize you’re there. It may not look quite as cinematic as you once imagined, but there’s a quiet kind of magic in realizing your younger self would be absolutely in awe, giggling and wide-eyed to see who you’ve become and all you have accomplished. There is something so powerful about being a woman and the way we are always becoming. And in that becoming, I find myself especially grateful for the women who shape us along the way.

My mom, Melissa, who is truly my best friend and taught me that being a woman means evolving while staying rooted in who you are... and never passing up a great pair of shoes! Our fabulous publisher, Kat, who is as cool as they come and an incredible mom to her two little girls. And all the women in our community, quietly and boldly shaping Music City into what it is today. As we step into May, may we take a moment to celebrate the women in our lives who deserve it all. In the wise words of Shania Twain, "Man! I feel like a woman!" Cheers!

MORGAN RAUM,

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR @MUSICCITY.CITYLIFESTYLE

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Kat Seaton Giarratano | kat.seaton@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Morgan Raum | morgan.raum@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Matt Giarratano | matt.giarratano@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Morgan Raum

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

city scene

1-7: The grand opening of Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott in 12 South, Nashville, was a night to remember! Guests celebrated in style with cocktails, shopping, and live performances by Marcus King, Briley King, and Zac Brown, creating a vibrant, music-filled atmosphere. The flagship blends Western charm with modern flair, offering a space where fashion, craftsmanship, and Southern soul meet. From heartfelt duets to sparkling energy throughout the store, the event captured the essence of community and creativity. Now officially open in 12 South, Yellow Rose is bringing bold style and unforgettable experiences to the heart of Nashville.

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8-12: Nashville Yards celebrated St. Patrick’s Day weekend in style with the grand opening of Alligator Bar, a new open-air bar under the Broadway Bridge at The Union Station Nashville Yards. Guests enjoyed festive food and drinks, a live DJ, an on-site photo booth, and an interactive opportunity to vote on the official name of the Alligator Bar mascot. The winning name? Chompy! The bar is dog-friendly, has four TVs, and is located just steps from the pickleball courts, mini golf course, and new dog park at Nashville Yards.

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Explore Designer Eyewear at Novel Eye Care Summer Event

Join Novel Eye Care at their vibrant summer celebration at 1800 State Street on Thursday, May 14th from 3:00–6:00 PM. The event will feature an exclusive sunglass trunk show showcasing designer collections from Prada, Tom Ford, Miu Miu, Dita, and Krewe. Attendees can enjoy music by Moriah Domby, along with food and drinks, while exploring new office murals in a lively, community-focused atmosphere.

Frist Art Museum | The Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse

The Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse explores the birth and transformative impact of Impressionism from 1874 through the early twentieth century. On view at the Frist Art Museum, this exhibition features nearly fifty paintings and sculptures that reveal how artists like Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Berthe Morisot broke traditional conventions and reshaped modern art. It traces their influence on later innovators such as Vincent van Gogh and Henri Matisse, inviting visitors to rethink these once-radical creators and their enduring legacy.

AESTHETICS

CLUB

INTRODUCING

THE

Allie Kirchhoff, Advanced Injector

AESTHETICS

Born from the success of Nash Injections by Hannah, sisters and co-founders Hannah Morse and Amy Morse unveil their newest concept: The Aesthetics Club Nashville. Rooted in years of building trusted relationships within Nashville’s wellness community, the brand marks a thoughtful evolution of their original vision. What began as a single-provider practice has

WHERE ELEVATED AESTHETICS AND INTENTIONAL CARE DEFINE A NEW KIND OF MED SPA EXPERIENCE

ARTICLE BY MORGAN RAUM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MORGAN RAUM, MEG MUNOZ, LINDSAY MCALISTER

NASHVILLE

expanded into a curated collective of specialists, each selected for their expertise and aligned approach to care. Inside The Aesthetics Club Nashville, the experience goes beyond a traditional med spa. Defined by intention, personalization, and elevated aesthetics, the space brings together specialized treatments under one cohesive, client-centered philosophy.

Since launching Nash Injections by Hannah in 2022, Hannah has built a reputation for delivering natural-looking results rooted in education and trust. Her approach centers on helping clients feel confident, informed, and supported throughout their aesthetic journey. When Amy joined the business, bringing her background in marketing and brand strategy, the vision expanded beyond treatments alone. Together, the sisters focused on creating something more intentional—an experience that feels both elevated and approachable, while building lasting relationships with their clients.

As their client base grew, so did their vision. The idea for The Aesthetics Club was not born from rapid expansion, but from alignment. Each provider joined organically, bringing a level of expertise that integrates seamlessly within the practice. Permanent Makeup Artist McKenzi Hayes is known for her meticulous precision and advanced technique, delivering soft, natural-looking results while also specializing in corrective work to refine and restore previous treatments. Advanced Injector Natalie Ackley combines clinical expertise with a refined artistic eye to deliver natural-looking injectable results. Her approach focuses on facial balancing, structural support, and long-term aesthetic planning, with specialized expertise in PRP treatments and biostimulators to support collagen production and overall skin quality. Advanced Esthetician Allie Kirchhoff brings over a decade of experience, combining clinical skincare treatments with a restorative, spa-like approach that supports long-term skin health.

While each provider offers a distinct specialty, the foundation of The Aesthetics Club remains consistent. Every treatment is rooted in a shared philosophy of refined, natural-looking results, personalized plans, and education-first care. Whether a client is seeking injectables, laser treatments, microneedling, skincare, brows, or permanent makeup, the experience is designed to feel thoughtful, cohesive, and tailored to the individual. It’s this balance between specialization and unity that defines the space.

“[This] is about building a legacy, not just a business… Something that lasts, creates opportunity for other female entrepreneurs, and reflects what we believe in.”

Located in Germantown, the med spa has grown alongside Nashville itself. The sisters credit much of their success to the community around them, noting that the neighborhood’s creative energy has allowed them to build something that feels authentic. Their approach has always been intentional, never rushed, and deeply connected to the people they serve.

The launch of The Aesthetics Club represents a defining moment for the Morse sisters. Entirely self-funded, the new concept reflects both independence and long-term vision. It is not simply an expansion, but a refinement of everything they have built so far. Looking ahead, they plan to continue growing in ways that extend beyond services, including educational workshops, expanded client resources, and a podcast focused on highlighting women in health, wellness, and entrepreneurship.

For Amy, the meaning behind the expansion is clear. “Being able to say we built this is incredibly meaningful,” she shares. For Hannah, the vision goes even deeper. “It’s about building a legacy, not just a business. Something that lasts, creates opportunity for other female entrepreneurs, and reflects what we believe in.”

For more information on The Aesthetics Club and their services, visit theaestheticsclubnashville.com and follow them on socials @theaestheticsclubnashville.

Grooming

A LEGACY IN LACE

Meet The Mother-Daughter Duo Behind Bloom Bridal Shop, Located In East Nashville.

ARTICLE BY MORGAN RAUM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA STEDDOM

Mother-daughter duo Christy and MaryKate McCarroll are the heart and vision behind Bloom Bridal. Their shared love of bridal fashion began long before Bloom ever existed— when MaryKate and her sister were little, Christy would

bring home wedding magazines and the three of them would dream together imagining the dresses they would one day choose. Little did they know, they were quietly shaping a story that would unfold for years to come.

With nearly a decade of experience in the bridal world, MaryKate brings a thoughtful, grounded perspective shaped by her background as a trauma nurse. Paired with Christy—a former English teacher—the two move in effortless rhythm, serving their clients while crafting an experience that feels both personal and intentional. Looking to bridge the gap between Nashville and the country’s major bridal markets, they created Bloom Bridal in 2022 to offer thoughtfully curated gowns and an elevated experience, so brides would no longer feel the need to travel to cities like New York or Los Angeles to find something truly special. Valuing hand-made and sustainable dresses, they are especially intentional with the designers they choose, featuring mostly female founded and independently-run designers.

"We always listen to the little details our brides mention they like and try to tie them into the final look. Whether it be a pop of lace through a scarf or sleeve, a custom neckline change, or a fabric swap, this is truly the fun part—when we find a base of the look and make it even more her from there,” the ladies explain.

When it comes to balancing trends with timeless pieces, MaryKate and Christy like to keep an array of options in their shop, blending trendy elements and classic silhouettes. Even when something is trenddriven, they want to ensure it feels simple enough that their brides won’t look back one day and feel like it’s dated. Every appointment at Bloom is designed to feel personal and unrushed—a space where you can explore gowns that meet modern romance and timeless style. The mother and daughter’s close bond also reflects in the relationships they share with their brides, striving to create an experience that is warm and personal, not transactional.

CONTINUED >

“I’ve been dreaming of this store for as long as I can remember… I can’t imagine doing anything else. Working with my mom everyday is so special… sometimes we have to remind ourselves that this is a job and a business, not just a passion project we’re so lucky to get to call work,” MaryKate explains. “It’s incredibly meaningful to build something like this together… Being part of her vision and watching it grow—while also contributing my own perspective—has been really special,” Christy adds.

For more information on Bloom Bridal or to book an appointment, visit bloombridalnashville.com or follow them on socials @bloombridalnashville

“[That] is truly the fun part—when we find a base of the look and make it even more her from there.”

With An Emphasis On Accessibility And Connection, The Brokerage Pilates Is Changing How Nashville Thinks About Fitness.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF INVESTMENT

ARTICLE BY EMILY ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY MCALISTER

What if we didn’t look at exercise as a chore or a stepping stone to getting a summer-ready body (whatever that means) but instead as an investment in ourselves, our health, and our well-being?

Marchella Leone-Laskin treats Pilates as exactly that at her newly opened Pilates studio, The Brokerage Pilates.

Just like a financial brokerage helps you invest your money in the stock market, Marchella started Brokerage Pilates to help people invest in themselves.

Whether coming to class gives you time to rest, boosts your energy, or brings you a break from the monotony of working from home, Marchella wants her studio to be a place clients can give themselves what they need during the 50 minutes they spend in class.

“I’m going to be honest, one of the first things I liked about Pilates when I first started was that I could lie down for most of it,” she said, laughing. “If you want to come to class and just lay down for 50 minutes, that’s cool with me,” she joked. “It’s all about what’s best for you and what you need.”

That being said, Marchella has stuck with Pilates over the years because she sees the returns on her investment in the workout.

“It gives you skills that carry over into other parts of your life. It sounds dumb, but pilates makes carrying your groceries easier,” Marchella said. Her focus is not on how the workout can make you look, but on what it can do for your health in the long haul. “You might not get the most ripped, but I know that when I have children, my core will be so strong. When I’m older and need to keep mobility and flexibility, I know this will carry me through that.”

She also sees it as an investment that anyone can make: “I love that you do it whether you are young or old, and you can do it if you’re postpartum or prenatal or recovering from an injury. I just love that you can use it in all the different seasons of your life,” she said. “I love that you can come to class with your mom and your grandma… what other workout lets you do that?”

It’s also that accessibility and communal nature of the workout that prompted Marchella to move from just participating in Pilates to opening her own studio.When she moved to Nashville in August 2024, the first place Marchella looked to build community in her new city was pilates classes—and she wasn’t finding it.

“I didn’t see a lot of diversity in the people attending the classes I was in, from race to age to gender to body type,” Marchella said.

Over the past two years, she realized what she needed to do to create that community she longed for. And thus, the idea for The Brokerage Pilates was born. “I wanted to break down the barriers so people can come into the studio and enjoy group fitness,” she said.

Located in a historical building in the heart of Nashville’s Marathon Village, clients can feel the warmth and connection Marchella has created with from the second they walk through the doors. Brokerage is a small

“I love that you can use [pilates] in all the different seasons of your life.”

studio, hosting only about 8 clients per class, and the walls and ceiling are made of exposed brick and natural wood beams. When you step off the reformers, your feet land on plush vintage rugs, and you can check your form in stunning antique-inspired mirrors.

Beyond the beautiful, homey aesthetics in the studio, Marchella and her five other instructors make an effort to have a moment of connection with every client that joins their classes. Whether it’s the warm smiles and friendly conversation that greet clients as they walk in or the handwritten thank-you notes they receive just for attending class, she is obsessed with the little details that help build community from the inside out with her business.

Marchella said, “We try to chit-chat with every single person. Have you done Pilates before? Do you have any injuries? What are you looking to get out of class today? What do you need? We want to know!”

With every class at The Brokerage, Marchella and her instructors aim to give clients a true contemporary pilates workout with moves that are proven to work–and that clients will feel the next day.

Experience The Brokerage Pilates for yourself. With just 8 spots per class, sessions fill quickly — and once you’re in, you’ll understand why.

Join The Brokerage for their Grand Opening on May 3 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and get a first look at the space, meet the team, and experience the community firsthand.

Can’t make it? Start with your first class for $10 and discover what it feels like to invest in your strength, your energy, and yourself. Available for a limited time.

Book your class at thebrokeragepilates.com & follow along for more @thebrokeragepilates!

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

WHERE NASHVILLE COMES TO SMILE