Thompson's Station, TN February 2026

This Simple Test Saved My Life!

Williamson County resident

Mark Harless credits a simple heart scan with uncovering significant blockages before symptoms appeared. His wife had gifted him a coronary artery calcium score screening—a quick, convenient CT scan at Williamson Health that captures detailed images of the heart.

Though Mark felt healthy at the time, the results revealed a need for further testing, and ultimately led to open-heart surgery. Today, he is doing well and believes the screening ultimately saved his life.

¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ Gift Someone You Love with a Heart Scan!

With February being Heart Health Month, Williamson Health is pleased to again o er its limited-time $65 coronary artery calcium score screening. Call 615-435-5361 between Feb. 1-28 to schedule.

Locally Owned

There is something deeply satisfying about knowing your people, your places, and your shortcuts, the back roads, the coffee order no one has to ask about, the neighbor who actually knows the answer. That feeling is the heart of this issue, and it is why our theme is Love Local

Loving local is not about skipping what is new or exciting. It is about realizing that some of the best resources are already right outside your front door. The experts who know your neighborhood without checking a map. The creatives who tell stories that sound like home. The spaces you live in every day, shaped to fit real life, not a showroom.

This issue starts with home value, because nothing gets more opinions than what your house is “worth.” Bill Lurwick of Gray Fox Realty cuts through the noise with a refreshingly local approach, grounded in how buyers, lenders, and appraisers actually think. Translation, fewer guesses, more clarity, and better outcomes.

From there, we head straight to the kitchen, where trends get a lot more fun. Thompson's Station and Spring Hill Homeowners are warming things up, mixing materials, hiding clutter, and designing kitchens that actually work. These are spaces made for coffee, homework, late-night snacks, and real conversations, not just pretty photos.

And then there is the music. Tennessee Songwriters Week is proof that some of the best songs in the world start in small rooms with honest lyrics. This statewide celebration shines a spotlight on the storytellers behind the music, supporting thousands of songwriters across cafes, theaters, and listening rooms. Loving local sometimes means showing up before the rest of the world catches on.

That same spirit lives in Krystal King, whose music and humor remind us that authenticity still wins. No polish required.

Finally, Frankies Pizza & Grill has a story to tell you about a special place in their restaurant. In this case... the walls really do talk!

So, here’s to loving local, shopping it, listening to it, living in it, and occasionally bragging about it. Trust us, you’re in good company.

Warmly,

ATHENA WEST, PUBLISHER

Thompson’s Station Lifestyle is available for pickup at the following locations:

• Grecian Family Restaurant and Bakery

• Frankie’s Pizza & Grill

• Local Dr’s Offices and businesses around the area

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Athena West | athena.west@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Karen Creason | karen.creason@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bill Lurwick, Bryan Sebring, Krystal King, Karen Creason, Maria Dinoia, Justin Gilbert

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Appetizers

- Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

- Valentine’s Bruschetta

- Goat Cheese Tartlets

- Chilled Jumbo Shrimp Limoncello

Entrees

- Frutti Di Mare

- Homemade Cavatelli Pasta

- Veal Osso Bucco

- Seafood Stuffed Lobster Tails

- Beef Tenderloin Medallions

Desserts

- Homemade Traditional Tiramisu

- Chocolate Toffee Cake

THE TRUE MEASURE OF HOME VALUE

Inside Gray Fox Realty’s data driven approach to pricing homes in Thompson’s Station and Spring Hill

ARTICLE BY BILL LURWICK

Every spring, just as dogwoods bloom and moving trucks begin to appear on neighborhood streets, one question quietly takes center stage for homeowners across Middle Tennessee: What is my home really worth?

“Knowing a home’s realistic value before the season begins allows sellers to make strategic decisions about preparation, pricing and potential improvements.”

For Bill Lurwick of Gray Fox Realty, that question is not only familiar, but also foundational. February and March mark the moment when sellers shift from planning to action, preparing to list homes during what history shows is the most active selling season of the year. From March through October, the market moves quickly, and pricing decisions made early can shape the entire outcome of a sale.

Lurwick says the timing is no coincidence. “Research & history confirm this is the core question homeowners ask every February and March. Sellers like you have already been planning to list their home for sale since late fall, and with the hottest selling season of the year historically from March to October, this is THE most important question you can ask, and you want to get the correct answer too, not just a guess, but the answer to ‘what are banks willing to loan in a mortgage to buyers for the specific home they want to purchase based on its appraised value.’”

The emphasis on appraisal-based value sets Gray Fox Realty apart in a market saturated with automated estimates and instant answers. While online tools have become a starting point for many sellers, Lurwick believes understanding true value requires deeper analysis, especially in communities like Thompson’s Station and Spring Hill, where neighborhood nuances matter.

Late winter, he explains, is the ideal time to focus on that analysis. “Because it’s time to get your home ready to sell! Sellers AND Buyers typically plan to move over the summer months, if possible, to align with school and vacation schedules.” Knowing a home’s realistic value before the season begins allows sellers to make strategic decisions about preparation, pricing and potential improvements.

One of the most common missteps sellers make is relying too heavily on automated valuations. The Zestimate and similar tools offer convenience, but

CONTINUED >

Lurwick is quick to point out their limitations. “The Zestimate is without a doubt, the most used tool by sellers to guess what their home is worth. Key word, ‘Guess’! At Gray Fox Realty, we’ve compiled a database of actual appraisal reports of homes that have sold in the last 5 years here in Middle Tennessee, and we know through the study of these reports, what appraisers feel adds value to, and subtracts value from a home.”

That database forms the backbone of the firm’s professional comparative market analysis, or CMA. Rather than averaging broad area data, Gray Fox Realty evaluates homes neighborhood by neighborhood, factoring in condition, features and buyer behavior. It is an approach rooted in how lenders actually view value, since appraisals ultimately determine what buyers can borrow.

Understanding which features influence value the most is another area where assumptions often miss the mark. Lurwick says sellers are frequently surprised by what matters and what does not. “Want to know a secret? Through our study of appraisal reports, and the history of homes we’ve listed for sale at Gray Fox Realty, we KNOW what adds the most value to a home! It might not be what you think! But facts are facts!" Value ads/subtractors to home value according to appraisal reports and the Gray Fox List Price Model are:

Do you have a Fireplace, Garage, Carport, or Fence? What type of Flooring, Appliance Style, do you have? Are your Kitchen and Master Bath updated? What is your Deck, Porch, or Patio enhanced by? Do you have a unique Geographic Feature or Exterior Pool or Entertaining Area? If you are thinking of a project or remodel of your home, or a certain area of your home, if you want to add the most resale value, these are the areas to focus on to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to adding home value.

Location further complicates the picture, even when homes appear nearly identical. Thompson’s Station and Spring Hill share architectural styles and community appeal, yet pricing can vary significantly. According to Lurwick, the reasons are practical and deeply personal for buyers. “It’s all about schools, shopping, and travel times. Thompson's Station is strategically geographically positioned close to many travel conveniences and options, that cut down on time spent in the car between work, school, and play. Spring Hill has the shopping homeowners want the most. Thompson's Station is in Williamson County School Zone; Spring Hill is in the Williamson AND Maury County School Zone. These are all contributing factors when it comes to a home's value in either area.”

“No one wants to get left behind. It’s not the 2022 market in 2026. It's the 2018 market in 2026”

In today’s market, precision matters more than ever. The frenzied conditions of recent years have faded, replaced by buyers who move quickly past homes that feel overpriced or misaligned with their expectations. Lurwick cautions that there is little margin for error. “No one wants to get left behind. It’s not the 2022 market in 2026. It's the 2018 market in 2026. Homeowners' equity continues to rise in our area on average higher than the national average, but the days of buyers waiving appraisals, waiving home inspections, and sellers having multiple offer situations on a home, and buyers paying 20% over list price in some cases, are gone.”

The result, he says, is a market with clear consequences. Homes priced correctly attract attention and activity, while those that miss the mark risk being overlooked entirely. Getting the price right from the start is no longer optional.

For sellers comparing online estimates with professional guidance, Lurwick encourages perspective. Third party sites can inform curiosity, but they should not replace expertise grounded in daily transactions and local knowledge. Data, when interpreted correctly, tells a far more accurate story.

As spring approaches and homeowners prepare for the season ahead, the question of value remains the starting point. With careful analysis, local insight and an understanding of what truly drives buyer decisions, that question becomes less about guessing and more about confidence. In a market defined by details, knowing your home’s real worth is the first step toward a successful sale.

Bill.GrayFoxRealty.com

KITCHEN 7 DESIGN TRENDS HOMES SHAPING THE TOP

Thompson’s Station and Spring Hill, where timeless architecture meets modern living, homeowners are rethinking how their kitchens look, feel, and function. No longer just a place to cook, today’s kitchens are social hubs, design statements, and sometimes even offices (because emails apparently need answering while water boils).

As a design-build professional working closely with local homeowners, I see trends evolve not just from glossy magazines, but from how people actually live. Here are the Top 7 Kitchen Design Trends redefining kitchens in 2026—trends that balance beauty, practicality, and a little personality.

WARM, ORGANIC COLOR PALETTES

All-white kitchens had a good run. A very good run. But in 2026, warmth is firmly back.

Homeowners are gravitating toward earthy neutrals—think soft taupes, warm greiges, mushroom tones, muted greens, and creamy off-whites. These colors feel inviting rather than clinical and pair beautifully with Franklin’s mix of traditional and transitional homes.

Wood tones are also making a strong comeback, especially white oak, walnut, and riftsawn finishes. When combined with warm paint colors, the result is a kitchen that feels grounded, comfortable, and timeless—like it belongs in the home rather than being dropped in from a showroom.

Design takeaway: If your kitchen feels more “operating room” than “gathering place,” it may be time to warm things up.

ISLANDS THAT ACTUALLY WORK

Kitchen islands have officially become the center of attention—and they’re earning it.

In 2026, islands are larger, bolder, and more functional than ever. We’re seeing waterfall edges, furniture-style legs, integrated seating, hidden storage, and even secondary sinks or prep areas built right in.

Color-wise, islands are often designed to stand apart. A rich stain, a deep blue or green, or even a dramatic stone countertop can make the island feel like a statement piece rather than an afterthought.

And yes, islands still need to function. A beautiful island that blocks traffic flow or lacks seating is like a sports car with no engine— nice to look at, frustrating to live with. 02. STATEMENT

MIXED MATERIALS & TEXTURES (MATCHY-MATCHY IS OUT)

04.

Perfectly matching finishes are officially out, replaced by layered, curated combinations

In 2026, we’re seeing wood cabinets paired with painted uppers, matte finishes alongside polished stone, and metal accents that intentionally don’t match. Brushed brass, blackened steel, and softened nickel are all popular—and often used together.

The key is balance. When done well, mixed materials make a kitchen feel collected over time rather than designed all at once. When done poorly…well, let’s just say there’s a fine line between “curated” and “confused.”

SMART STORAGE (BECAUSE CLUTTER IS THE REAL ENEMY)

03.

One of the most impactful kitchen trends for 2026 isn’t flashy at all—it’s what you don’t see

Homeowners are prioritizing intelligent storage solutions that keep countertops clear and kitchens calm. That includes:

• Drawers instead of doors on base cabinets Appliance garages to hide small appliances

• Pull-out pantries and spice drawers

• Built-in trash, recycling, and compost systems

The goal is simple: everything has a place, and that place makes sense.

This trend reflects a bigger shift in how people want to function and feel in their homes. Less visual clutter equals less mental clutter—and that’s something we can all cook with.

QUARTZITE TAKES CENTER STAGE— AND IT’S WORTH THE INVESTMENT

05.

In 2026, quartzite has become the countertop of choice for homeowners who want natural beauty and a true luxury feel.

While quartz is still widely used, more Franklin homeowners are gravitating toward quartzite for its dramatic veining, depth, and one-of-a-kind character. Each slab is unique, which adds a level of authenticity that engineered materials simply can’t match.

Quartzite is also more expensive—but it offers exceptional durability. It provides the elegance of marble with greater resistance to heat and scratches, making it well-suited for kitchens that are both functional and beautiful.

Full-height quartzite backsplashes are gaining popularity as well, creating a seamless, high-end look that elevates the entire space without overwhelming it.

LIGHTING THAT DOES MORE THAN TURN ON

Lighting has officially stepped into the spotlight.

In 2026, layered lighting is essential: recessed lighting for general use, under-cabinet lighting for tasks, and decorative fixtures for style. Oversized pendants, sculptural chandeliers, and subtle LED accents inside cabinets are elevating kitchen design.

Good lighting doesn’t just help you see better—it enhances finishes, adds warmth, and makes late-night snack runs far more enjoyable.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bryan Sebring is the owner of Sebring Design Build, a luxury designbuild remodeling firm based in Franklin, Tennessee. With over 30 years of experience designing and renovating high-end homes, Bryan specializes in creating kitchens, bathrooms & whole homes that are as functional as they are beautiful.

SebringDesignBuild.com

KITCHENS DESIGNED FOR REAL LIFE AND WELLBEING

The biggest kitchen trend for 2026 isn’t a material or a color—it’s intentional design based on how homeowners actually live

That means kitchens tailored to cooking habits, entertainment styles, family size, and daily routines. It might include a coffee bar, a hidden homework station, wider walkways, or zones designed for multiple cooks.

In Franklin, where homes are meant to be lived in— not just admired—this trend matters more than ever. A beautiful kitchen that doesn’t support your lifestyle will always fall short.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Trends will always evolve, but good design endures. The best kitchens in 2026 don’t chase what’s popular—they reflect the people who live in them. When warmth, functionality, and personality come together, the result is a kitchen that feels both elevated and effortless.

And if your kitchen still feels stuck in a previous decade, don’t worry—every great transformation starts with a vision (and maybe a little demolition).

KRYSTAL KING’S HONEST PATH FORWARD.

FROM SPRING HILL TO THE OPRY CIRCLE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“IT WORKS BECAUSE PEOPLE RESPOND TO AUTHENTICITY.”

In an industry often polished to a fault, Krystal King stands out by leaning fully into who she is. Self-described as a “next-door redneck” with a gift for storytelling, King has built a career rooted in honesty, grit, and a sharp ear for the moments that feel real. From award-winning music videos to national radio and stages few artists ever reach, her journey reflects a careful balance of authenticity and intention, creativity and craft.

That balance, she admits, is not always easy to maintain. “That can definitely be difficult sometimes, as I can get caught up in the ‘business’ mind and feel distant from myself as an artist and creator,” King says. “Ultimately, I think I have realized that my personality is ‘the brand’ so I’m really just trying to figure out how to highlight my unique redneck self in my marketing, music, and interactions with others. It works because people respond to authenticity.” For King, the work is not about reinventing herself, but about allowing her natural voice to lead, both musically and professionally.

Her debut album, Pretty Poison, released in March of 2025, marked a turning point. The project and its accompanying music videos earned recognition from CountryLine TV and Heartland Network, along with two Josie Music Awards for Female Music Video of the Year and Best Actress in a Music Video. While the accolades were validating, the creative process itself offered a deeper lesson. “I think the biggest lesson for me, in making and releasing these projects, was to listen to my gut,” she says. “I tend to overthink and not trust my instincts or opinions during the creative process.” One piece of advice from her mixing engineer

Photo Credit: Cory Goble

“ULTIMATELY, I THINK I HAVE REALIZED THAT MY PERSONALITY IS ‘THE BRAND’ SO I’M REALLY JUST TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO HIGHLIGHT MY UNIQUE REDNECK SELF IN MY MARKETING, MUSIC, AND INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS.”

became a guiding principle. “My mixing engineer said something that stuck out to me ‘if it’s not a yes, then it’s a no’ (Daniel Ford).”

Learning to trust her instincts helped King reconnect with her inner artist and quiet the noise that can cloud creative decision-making.

That trust was tested and rewarded when King stepped onto the Grand Ole Opry stage to accept multiple Josie Music Awards. With more than 80,000 submissions in the competition, the moment carried significant weight. “This was HUGE!” she says. “I have worked my booty off the past few years and it was very reassuring to see that hard work pay off.” Standing on a stage steeped in music history offered affirmation that went beyond trophies. “Sometimes you can feel very stuck in this business, so standing in that circle, where so many greats have stood, was validation that I am on the right track.” True to her personality, the experience also included a moment of chaos. “In the moment, it didn’t feel real… especially since I lost my car keys right before winning my first award. In hindsight, that was the most ‘me’ thing that could have happened.”

While her career keeps her closely connected to Nashville, King’s home life in Spring Hill provides a grounding counterbalance. After moving from Franklin five years ago to buy their first home, she and her husband embraced a slower, more communal rhythm. “We live in a small neighborhood, no HOA, friendly neighbors, and kids running around,” she says. “I appreciate the slower pace and reminder that I don’t always have to be in the rat race.” That sense of place,

rooted in simplicity and connection, feeds directly into her songwriting and reinforces the values that shape her music.

In addition to writing and performing, King has spent the past two years as a DJ on SiriusXM Radio Margaritaville, a role that has expanded her relationship with both music and listeners. “This opportunity fell into my lap and has been one of the most rewarding experiences during my time in Tennessee,” she says. The Margaritaville audience, known as Parrotheads, reshaped her understanding of fandom. “They are more like family,” she explains, noting the personal connections and generosity that define the community. Immersed in Jimmy Buffett’s catalog and the folk artists he championed, King has also deepened her approach to listening. “Jimmy Buffett was a master writer and connoisseur of iconic folk artists,” she says, adding that the experience has inspired her to study music more intentionally.

As she approaches the one-year anniversary of Pretty Poison, King is already looking forward. She is writing, collaborating with new producers, and exploring what feels right for her next chapter. Her latest single, “Different Shade of the Same,” released January 23rd, offers a glimpse of a more soulful direction, while an extensive tour schedule beginning in April will take her across the country. With her instincts sharpened and her voice firmly her own, Krystal King continues to carve out a path that feels as genuine as the stories she tells.

KrystalKingMusic.com

ARTICLE BY JUSTIN GILBERT,

Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Wealthy

1. What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about estate planning?

A common myth is, “I’m too young to need an estate plan.” In reality, life is unpredictable and every adult benefits from having at least a basic plan. Parents need to ensure guardianship arrangements are in place for their children. Incapacity planning, such as powers of attorney and health care directives, is essential at any stage of adulthood. Additionally, digital assets, like online accounts and cryptocurrencies, require management.

Another widespread belief is, “My family will know what to do.” Unfortunately, verbal instructions carry no legal weight. When there’s no clear legal directive, families often face internal conflict. Assumptions based on “common sense” often lead to misunderstandings, emotional decisions, and disputes that could have been avoided with proper documentation.

Many people also think, “My estate is too small to matter.” But even modest estates benefit from a plan. Simple documents can help families avoid probate costs and legal hurdles. Insurance policies must have the correct beneficiary designations, and if someone owns a small business, the lack of a plan can complicate succession and distribution.

Some assume, “Joint ownership solves everything.” While joint accounts can ease access, they come with risks. Co-owners may be exposed to one another’s creditors, and joint ownership doesn’t cover incapacity or substitute for a comprehensive estate plan. It can also create tax complications and interfere with Medicaid eligibility.

2.  What happens if someone passes away without a will or estate plan in place? What does that process look like for their loved ones?

When someone dies without a will families are often left navigating complex bureaucracy during an already painful time. Assets are typically frozen, which may prevent loved ones from accessing funds they urgently need. Courts appoint an estate administrator, who might be a stranger, and even basic living expenses or funeral costs may require formal court approval.

Without a plan, assets are distributed according to the state’s intestacy laws, which may not reflect the deceased’s wishes. Unmarried partners often receive nothing, no matter how long they’ve been together. Stepchildren may be left out entirely. If no relatives can be located, the assets may eventually revert to the state. For parents, a lack of estate planning leaves the guardianship of minor children to the court’s discretion. Children may be temporarily placed in state care while guardianship is decided, and disputes among family members can cause long-lasting trauma. Without proper trust structures, children’s inheritances may be mismanaged, and special needs children risk losing government benefits.

The financial burden is also significant. Probate can take months or years, incurring legal fees that consume up to 8% of the estate’s value. The process makes personal details public and forfeits valuable tax planning opportunities. For business owners, the delay and uncertainty can jeopardize operations and force closures.

In today’s digital world, complications extend further. Social media accounts may remain active indefinitely, cryptocurrency can become permanently inaccessible, and online businesses or digital family heirlooms may be lost without access to passwords and account information.

3. Beyond finances, what are the emotional consequences of not having a plan for your family or beneficiaries?

Emotional consequences can be severe. Families often face conflict over sentimental belongings like jewelry, tools or heirlooms. When the court appoints an administrator, resentment can build among relatives, especially if decisions feel unfair or contrary to a loved one’s wishes. Even strong family ties may be permanently damaged under the stress of ambiguous guidance. Children are particularly vulnerable when there is no plan. Guardianship battles can cause emotional upheaval, and children may be temporarily placed in unfamiliar care. Without proper trust structures, inheritances might be poorly managed, and special needs children could lose essential public benefits.

Justin Gilbert, Esq.

4. Can you share an example of a situation where not having a plan created avoidable stress or conflict?

Tom and Sarah had been married for 30 years when Tom died suddenly of a heart attack. Although they’d casually discussed their wishes, nothing was formalized in writing. Tom managed the family finances and owned a construction business. When he passed, Sarah was unable to access the business account, as Tom was the sole owner. Payroll was due, but she couldn’t legally sign checks. Their house was still in Tom’s name alone, a common oversight from earlier in their marriage.

To complicate matters, Tom’s adult daughter from a previous marriage demanded a portion of the business. Critical account passwords were lost. Over the next 18 months, the court process consumed more than $45,000 in legal fees, the business lost contracts, and Sarah had to take out loans to pay bills. The most painful part? Tom had intended everything for Sarah, but his wishes had no enforceable power.

All of this could have been avoided with a simple estate plan including a will, business succession documents, updated property titles, durable powers of attorney, and password management.

5. On the flip side, what are some of the benefits families experience when everything is thoughtfully planned ahead of time?

When Maria passed away, her family didn’t have to worry about decisions or documents. Her health care directives and funeral arrangements were already established and funded. Important paperwork was easily accessible, and everyone knew their role. Instead of stress, the family could focus on honoring Maria’s life and legacy.

Financially, her estate transferred smoothly to beneficiaries. Business operations continued uninterrupted, and strategic tax planning saved the family money. Insurance payouts were quick and accurate, with no unwelcome surprises.

There were no disputes over heirlooms, no resentment, and no legal battles. Guardianship for minors was predetermined, and relationships remained intact.

Maria had also included personal touches including letters to loved ones, a record of family history, and instructions for honoring charitable wishes.

6. How do you guide clients through what can feel like a really emotional or overwhelming process?

I begin by asking clients to consider their “why.” Who do they want to protect? What legacy do they want to leave? What fears or family dynamics are weighing on them? Reflecting on these questions brings clarity and purpose to the planning process.

Then, I break things into manageable phases. First, we address essential protections like wills, powers of attorney, and guardianship nominations. Next, we organize assets, account information, and beneficiary designations. Finally, we explore advanced planning like trusts, tax strategies, charitable giving, and legacy writing.

Many clients feel emotional barriers like fear of favoritism, anxiety over family conflicts, or discomfort confronting mortality. I validate these feelings and help them find solutions, take breaks when needed, and celebrate progress.

7. What’s one small but powerful first step someone can take today to start getting their affairs in order?

A simple but meaningful first step is creating a list of your assets, accounts, and key documents. This includes financial accounts, property, valuables, digital assets, and important contacts like your attorney or insurance agent. Review beneficiary designations and gather essential paperwork like wills, deeds and powers of attorney.

This list provides clarity, helps spot gaps, and gives your loved ones a starting point in case something happens. Even without formal documents, this alone makes a major difference in reducing stress for your family.

Putting the Music in Music City

Crafting Stories Through Songs During Tennessee Songwriters Week

Tennessee Songwriters Week is a statewide celebration of the storytellers behind the music, spotlighting the voices, lyrics, and creativity that define Tennessee’s rich musical legacy. The event offers songwriters of all genres the opportunity to perform original work in live showcases across the state, from intimate listening rooms to iconic venues. It is a platform for discovery, artistic growth, and the shared experience of music at its most authentic.

This year, the program will celebrate more than 6,000 songwriters who have shared their original music on Tennessee stages since the program launched. Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development since 2019, TennesseeSongwriters Week, held annually each February, supports music venues, provides songwriters with live performance opportunities, drives visitation and inspires travelers to experience the state's musical stories, history, attractions and venues.

Qualifying rounds began in late January at more than 60 participating music venues from small towns to cities in every corner of the state. Venues include cafes, listening rooms, lounges, breweries, distilleries, museums, historic theatres and bookshops – spotlighting the songwriters that give the music its soul.

ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA | PHOTOGRAPHY

COURTESY OF THE TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT

The showcase events highlight seven distinct musical regions that have played a major role in the musical development of Tennessee across a diverse range of genres including blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll. One finalist from each showcase will be chosen to perform at Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Cafe during a private event in March. Each of the finalists will also receive additional prizes, including a one-year membership to Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI). Songs will be judged by quality of the song (original lyrics/melody and clear narrative) and performance (ability to understand lyrics and connection with the audience).

Former Tennessee Songwriters Week finalists include DEK of Hearts (famous for their breathtaking fourchair turn currently on NBC’s The Voice), Jon Wayne Hatfield (who recently signed with Big Machine Music and Red Creative Group), Maura Streppa (who just released her sophomore EP “The Skinnier Tapes”) and Memphis songwriter Rodrick Duran.

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development partners with The Bluebird Cafe, NSAI,music venues and local convention and visitors’ bureaus, chambers and partners across the state, all committed to ensuring songwriters can share their original work on stage with audiences and other writers.

Select songwriters advance to one of seven showcases:

• Monday, February 23 – Hard Rock Cafe in Pigeon Forge

• Monday, February 23 – The Reserve in Kingsport

• Wednesday, February 25 - Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis

• Wednesday, February 25 – Barrelhouse Ballroom in Chattanooga

• Thursday, February 26 - Franklin Theatre in Franklin

• Friday, February 27 - Temple Theatre in Portland

• Saturday, February 28 – The Bijou in Knoxville

Follow the journey of these songwriters and join the fun by following @tnvacation, #tnsongwritersweek and #tnsoundsperfect on social media.

BEFORE EMOJIS, THERE WERE ROSES

HOW FLORIOGRAPHY TURNED BOUQUETS INTO THE ORIGINAL LANGUAGE OF LOVE

ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Did you know that before emojis, GIFs, or text messages, roses were quietly doing the same job? For centuries, roses were cryptic messengers, sending messages without a single word. Their color, number, and arrangement could express everything from love to friendship, admiration to gratitude. Think of them as the original emojis before phones existed.

Floriography, the practice of assigning meaning to flowers, became popular during the Victorian era. At a time when public expressions of emotion were often restrained, flowers became a socially acceptable way to convey feelings.

A carefully selected bouquet could speak volumes, with each color and quantity carrying a specific message, much like sending an emoji in a text today.

Red roses, the most familiar of the bunch, symbolize deep love and devotion. They are the ultimate "heart" emoji in flower form. Pink roses express admiration, gratitude, or gentle affection, much like a "smile" emoji. White roses, associated with purity and new beginnings, communicate sincerity, unity, and lasting commitment. They are like a "white heart" emoji, representing unconditional love. Yellow roses evolved to signify friendship, joy, and warmth, similar to a "bright sun" emoji for relationships that celebrate love in their most supportive and cheerful form. Peach roses convey appreciation and heartfelt thanks, like “folded hands” expressing gratitude, while lavender roses, rare and romantic, suggest enchantment or love at first sight, like a little "sparkle" in flower form.

Even the number of roses carries meaning. A single rose could express love at first sight, like sending a "love letter" emoji. A dozen signifies complete devotion, comparable to the "100" emoji representing total or wholehearted commitment. Larger arrangements promise abundance, lifelong commitment, or love without limits, like the "repeat", "constant", or "infinity" emojis.

Every detail mattered, from color to quantity, just as choosing the right emoji can perfectly capture a feeling in a text.

What makes the "emoji language" of roses so timeless is how universally it still resonates. Even if we do not consciously think about it, we recognize the symbolism of a red rose or the gesture of giving a bouquet. While the strict rules of floriography have faded, the meaning of roses remains widely understood. Giving a bouquet today is more than a pretty gesture; it is intentional and meaningful.

This Valentine’s Day, or any day you want to show someone you care, take a closer look at a bouquet. Much like the perfect emoji in a message, the color, number, and type of roses can express intention, meaning, and emotion without a single word. Roses remind us that thoughtful expression matters, and sometimes the right symbol, whether in petals or pixels, can carry a message more powerfully than words alone. And that is pretty remarkable.

WHERE STORIES ARE POURED

Frankie's Barrel Room Bar

ARTICLE BY ATHENA WEST | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Tucked just beyond the lively rhythm of Frankie's Pizza and Grill is a place where craftsmanship, memory, and a little Nashville magic come together over a perfectly balanced cocktail. Known as the Barrel Room Bar, this warm, mural-lined retreat has quietly become one of the town’s most beloved gathering spots, and for owner Tanya Prifitera, it is deeply personal.

“I decided to open the bar about five years ago and add it onto the existing building,” Prifitera said. “We had a lot of customers ask us for a full bar over the years, and it just felt like the right time.”

The Barrel Room did not appear overnight. Its foundation was already woven into Frankie's identity. From the beginning, Prifitera envisioned the restaurant with a wine barrel motif that subtly guided the design. “When I first opened Frankie’s, I had a wine barrel theme for the decor,” she explained. “The host stand is made from wine barrels, the pendant lights are the metal on the outside of a barrel, and some of the wall art ties into that theme, too.”

So when the decision was made to create a dedicated bar, the aesthetic felt inevitable. “When we decided to do the bar room, it seemed only right to make it a barrel room look,” Prifitera said.

To bring that vision to life, she partnered with Murals and More, led by artist Michael Cooper, who transformed the space into something far more than decorative. “Michael did a wonderful job with it,” she said. “But while it was being created, he asked me to come up with something that really connected it with me and what I was passionate about.”

The answer came easily. “Well, that was easy for me,” Prifitera said with a laugh. “I’ve loved Dolly Parton since I was a little girl, and being in the Nashville area now, I thought, why not add Dolly into the mural somewhere?”

What emerged is now the soul of the Barrel Room. At the center of the mural, Dolly Parton stands on stage, joined by her longtime friend and fellow icon, Kenny Rogers. “Michael suggested a stage with her on it, and of course she couldn’t be alone,” Prifitera said. “So we added my second favorite, and Dolly’s longtime friend, Kenny Rogers. We’ve even talked about adding a couple more iconic artists one day soon.”

Yet the mural holds a deeper meaning that many guests discover only after lingering a little longer. At the base of the barrels are angel wings framing the Frankie's logo, a tribute to Prifitera’s brother. “The bottom barrels have angel wings on the side of our logo for my brother Frankie, who passed away that year from COVID,” she shared. “He was the one who created Frankie’s logo for me, so adding it to the mural with angel wings was for him.”

Today, the Barrel Room has evolved into exactly what Prifitera hoped it would be, and perhaps more. “The barrel room evolved as a very popular destination in town for craft cocktails and a real ‘cheers’ sort of environment where everybody knows your name,” she said. “No, seriously, it has a very warm and inviting vibe, and it seems to be a weekly stop for a lot of locals.”

Part of that draw is the ever-changing cocktail menu. “We like to change the cocktail list often so we can get creative seasonally,” Prifitera said, noting that guests are just as likely to stop in for a signature drink as they are for a full dinner.

Whether it is a date night, a quiet place to unwind after work, or an evening spent on the calmer side of Frankie's, the Barrel Room offers something rare, a space where design tells a story, music icons watch over the room, and every detail carries intention. As Prifitera puts it, “It’s been a great spot for relaxing, connecting, and enjoying something special, and that’s exactly what I wanted it to be.”

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