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Naturally, Ottaway is very focused on both looking and feeling good. She mixes up her cardio routine each day, getting in at least an hour of running, boxing, or biking. As for her flawless skin, she’s a fan of coconut oil, saying she uses it anywhere and everywhere. Plus, she’s got another simple tactic: “I try to keep my face clean and moisturized all the time. Also, I am always drinking water! x93
Estela “Ellie x93 Ottaway — Model
As a full-time model, Ellie Ottaway reaches frequently for activities and people who will keep her grounded—most importantly, that’s family. “They are the only ones who understand me completely and who remind me who I am when I sometimes forget, x93 she says, adding that she’s always been a writer and songwriter on the side. “I think it’s important for every person to have a passion set aside from work to stay somewhat sane in the crazy world, x93 she adds.Naturally, Ottaway is very focused on both looking and feeling good. She mixes up her cardio routine each day, getting in at least an hour of running, boxing, or biking. As for her flawless skin, she’s a fan of coconut oil, saying she uses it anywhere and everywhere. Plus, she’s got another simple tactic: “I try to keep my face clean and moisturized all the time. Also, I am always drinking water! x93
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Eventually he hopes to expand the family talent pool by picking up a guitar. “I have [one] I’ve been practicing on but still need more lessons, x93 he laughs.
Originally from Minnesota, Decker was a rock-star athlete in high school, playing baseball, basketball, and football; he was selected twice in the Major League Baseball draft before going pro in football with the Denver Broncos. Decker came to the Titans after five years playing for the New York Jets.
Here in Nashville, you can sometimes spot the Deckers unwinding at Virago or bartaco. As for his clean shave, he says, “My daughter keeps me in check with the beard. She tells me, when it gets too long, to ‘take it off, Daddy.’ x93
In his downtime, Decker likes to give back—he and Jessie have started their own nonprofit, Deckers Dogs. “We rescue dogs from shelters and train them to be service dogs for vets returning home with disabilities, x93 he says.
Eric Decker — Football Player
New to the Tennessee Titans’ lineup, Eric Decker, is a welcome face—and a familiar one. Married to country artist Jessie James Decker, the wide receiver has already spent plenty of time in Nashville, now calling it home with Jessie, their daughter Vivianne, and son, Eric.Eventually he hopes to expand the family talent pool by picking up a guitar. “I have [one] I’ve been practicing on but still need more lessons, x93 he laughs.
Originally from Minnesota, Decker was a rock-star athlete in high school, playing baseball, basketball, and football; he was selected twice in the Major League Baseball draft before going pro in football with the Denver Broncos. Decker came to the Titans after five years playing for the New York Jets.
Here in Nashville, you can sometimes spot the Deckers unwinding at Virago or bartaco. As for his clean shave, he says, “My daughter keeps me in check with the beard. She tells me, when it gets too long, to ‘take it off, Daddy.’ x93
In his downtime, Decker likes to give back—he and Jessie have started their own nonprofit, Deckers Dogs. “We rescue dogs from shelters and train them to be service dogs for vets returning home with disabilities, x93 he says.
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Still, there are some things that don’t make it onto the blog, such as the fact that she doesn’t like peas—and she’s never seen any of the original Star Wars movies. “Am I even American? x93 she laughs.
Hutchinson keeps herself feeling great, she says, “by getting my butt kicked four days a week at Shed Fitness [and] sitting in Oxana Meade’s chair at Parlour 3, where she works her magic on making my hair look naturally sun kissed. x93 She also lists Poppy + Monroe and LASH Nashville as go-to spots for looking her best.
Landyn Hutchinson — Lifestyle Blogger
“Beauty is being real, not perfect, x93 Landyn Hutchinson says. And, while her lifestyle blog, Living With Landyn, chronicles many beautiful things in her life, it’s also a realistic look at how she lives.Still, there are some things that don’t make it onto the blog, such as the fact that she doesn’t like peas—and she’s never seen any of the original Star Wars movies. “Am I even American? x93 she laughs.
Hutchinson keeps herself feeling great, she says, “by getting my butt kicked four days a week at Shed Fitness [and] sitting in Oxana Meade’s chair at Parlour 3, where she works her magic on making my hair look naturally sun kissed. x93 She also lists Poppy + Monroe and LASH Nashville as go-to spots for looking her best.
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On a wide open day, Mason likes to work in the yard, get the car washed, and play golf, though he admits there’s not a lot of time for that these days. He also stays busy mentoring kids. “Growing up, I was fortunate to go through the Boys & Girls Club in Phoenix, Arizona, so I’m passionate about kids’ organizations. Whenever the opportunity arises (and NCAA regulations allow), I try to be involved, x93 he says, noting that he also enjoys working with Who U With? Ministries, which does fellowship and outreach with college student-athletes. “My belief is that a foundation of spiritual-based leadership and decision-making can help young people do the right thing, x93 he adds.
Derek Mason — College Football Coach
Whenever Derek Mason and his family have visitors in town, they can expect to a tour of the football facilities at Vanderbilt—a rare glimpse behind the scenes with the head coach of the Commodores . Throughout his career-long journey as a football coach, Mason has been supported by his wife, but he also credits his mother, who, he says, “instilled a work ethic to do the job until the job gets done, x93 he says. Both were the inspiration behind his team’s mantra: “Relentless. Tough. Intelligent. x93On a wide open day, Mason likes to work in the yard, get the car washed, and play golf, though he admits there’s not a lot of time for that these days. He also stays busy mentoring kids. “Growing up, I was fortunate to go through the Boys & Girls Club in Phoenix, Arizona, so I’m passionate about kids’ organizations. Whenever the opportunity arises (and NCAA regulations allow), I try to be involved, x93 he says, noting that he also enjoys working with Who U With? Ministries, which does fellowship and outreach with college student-athletes. “My belief is that a foundation of spiritual-based leadership and decision-making can help young people do the right thing, x93 he adds.
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“There’s something about the country, about the South, x93 she says. “I get off that airplane after coming back from New York, and I just—I’m here, I’m home. Everyone’s demeanor, everything changes when you step off the plane in Nashville. x93
Niki Taylor — Supermodel and Television Presenter
Taylor began modeling at 14 and made her first million before most teenagers learn geometry. She became the first spokes-model under 18 to sign a contract with Cover Girl Cosmetics and has been on more than 300 major magazine covers. Yet, her charm is one that’s quintessentially humble and soft, one that declares none of these things are her biggest accomplishments in life. No, that would be her children—twins Jake and Hunter (22), Ciel (8), and Rex (5). Along with her husband, former NASCAR driver Burney Lamar, and their two youngest, Taylor calls Franklin home.“There’s something about the country, about the South, x93 she says. “I get off that airplane after coming back from New York, and I just—I’m here, I’m home. Everyone’s demeanor, everything changes when you step off the plane in Nashville. x93
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Harrowing moments may have led Hysong on his current path—but they haven’t stopped him from seeking adventure. Whether he’s flying helicopters or competing in a 40-plus mile Goruck Heavy challenge, he admits, “I don’t relax very well. Anything that requires my full attention is preferred. x93
For a break, Hysong works on his 1875 farmhouse where he entertains often—and for anyone. “I’ve invited shop clerks, my UPS guy, you name it. Black-tie, skeet competitions from the dining-room table with mint juleps in hand—we do it all, x93 he says.
David Hysong — CEO
David Hysong comes by his occupation honestly—the creation of SHEPHERD Therapeutics, a biotech company whose sole endeavor is to develop novel therapeutic treatments for people diagnosed with rare cancers, came after he was diagnosed with a deadly form of cancer affecting his head and neck. He got the news while training for Special Operations in the U.S. Military—and was also suffering with pulmonary edema at the same time. (This was after surviving a few car accidents. “I tend to attract near-death experiences, x93 he says.)Harrowing moments may have led Hysong on his current path—but they haven’t stopped him from seeking adventure. Whether he’s flying helicopters or competing in a 40-plus mile Goruck Heavy challenge, he admits, “I don’t relax very well. Anything that requires my full attention is preferred. x93
For a break, Hysong works on his 1875 farmhouse where he entertains often—and for anyone. “I’ve invited shop clerks, my UPS guy, you name it. Black-tie, skeet competitions from the dining-room table with mint juleps in hand—we do it all, x93 he says.
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A lover of the city’s signature industry (she is married to singer-songwriter Steven Padilla ), she’s also a big advocate for soccer—she’s currently working as a consultant for Major League Soccer and sits on the MLS2Nashville committee, which is working to bring a team to town. “This game has given me so much, x93 she says. “It would be such an amazing addition to this city. x93
Amanda Martin — Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon
Surgeon is just one of many roles Amanda Martin takes on in her daily life. Mom and wife top the priority list, too. “My daughters light up my life in ways I could never describe, x93 she says. Teacher is another of her roles. “Doctor originates from the Latin word Docere, ‘to teach,’ x93 she says. To that end, she’s learning new languages (she’s mastered French and is working on Spanish and Chinese) so that she can speak to all of her patients. “To really teach my patients, I have to first communicate with them effectively, x93 she adds.A lover of the city’s signature industry (she is married to singer-songwriter Steven Padilla ), she’s also a big advocate for soccer—she’s currently working as a consultant for Major League Soccer and sits on the MLS2Nashville committee, which is working to bring a team to town. “This game has given me so much, x93 she says. “It would be such an amazing addition to this city. x93
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The interior designer says that, while he thoroughly enjoys being around people and immersing himself in experiences, he is secretly an introverted extrovert. “I need and relish time to recharge and meditate, x93 he says.
As for those who have greatly influenced him, he counts his parents who, while technically two people, he says, “have always been a seamless unit for my family. My father, who ascended rank in the military to Sergeant Major, taught me the art of leadership and the importance of integrity. My mother, a German immigrant who has never met a stranger, shaped how I have embraced the world, teaching me resilience and empathy. I cannot imagine a better pair to have molded me over these decades. x93
Matt Donahoe — Interior Designer
It was an undergraduate professor of Matt Donahoe’s that zeroed in on one of his defining personality traits. In a review, she described him as “unwaveringly optimistic. x93 “She was right, x93 he says. “I have always found ‘silver linings’ and cannot imagine doing otherwise. Optimism strengthens resilience and resolve. x93The interior designer says that, while he thoroughly enjoys being around people and immersing himself in experiences, he is secretly an introverted extrovert. “I need and relish time to recharge and meditate, x93 he says.
As for those who have greatly influenced him, he counts his parents who, while technically two people, he says, “have always been a seamless unit for my family. My father, who ascended rank in the military to Sergeant Major, taught me the art of leadership and the importance of integrity. My mother, a German immigrant who has never met a stranger, shaped how I have embraced the world, teaching me resilience and empathy. I cannot imagine a better pair to have molded me over these decades. x93
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“We have been supporting an orphanage—that currently consists of 16 children—for the past few years, x93 she says. They also offer assistance to 12 primary schools on the island, some of which were damaged beyond operability by a hurricane in 2016. “This organization is so close to my heart—I have seen with my very own eyes the impact we have made for these children and schools, x93 she says. “We have made every single penny count. x93
Helen Ponchillia — Nonprofit Co-Founder
Helen Ponchillia’s dream was to travel the world and become a professional food critic—but life put her on a different path, one that has clearly offered deeper rewards. She and her husband are the founders of Nashville Gives Hope, a nonprofit that raises funds for orphaned and underprivileged children in rural Haiti.“We have been supporting an orphanage—that currently consists of 16 children—for the past few years, x93 she says. They also offer assistance to 12 primary schools on the island, some of which were damaged beyond operability by a hurricane in 2016. “This organization is so close to my heart—I have seen with my very own eyes the impact we have made for these children and schools, x93 she says. “We have made every single penny count. x93
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Being outdoors offers balance. Raised in a small fishing village in England, Perry took to the waves early in life—in his 20s, he was the national chairman for an environmental organization, called Surfers Against Sewage. “It gave me my appetite for fighting for what’s right, x93 he says.
Without many surf-able waves nearby, he now cycles, instead, doing a 25-mile route a few times a week. When he’s not spending time with his two actual sons, Coyde and Oliver, he says, “there’s nothing quite like riding a motorcycle that I’ve built myself, on a sunny day, with friends. x93
David Perry — Fashion Entrepreneur
“A well-balanced person has a glow about them that is almost palpable, x93 David Perry says—it’s a feat he strives for daily, balancing his fashion business, Two Son, which he co-owns with his wife, Leigh Watson of The Watson Twins, and another couple, with his seat on the board for the Nashville Fashion Alliance.Being outdoors offers balance. Raised in a small fishing village in England, Perry took to the waves early in life—in his 20s, he was the national chairman for an environmental organization, called Surfers Against Sewage. “It gave me my appetite for fighting for what’s right, x93 he says.
Without many surf-able waves nearby, he now cycles, instead, doing a 25-mile route a few times a week. When he’s not spending time with his two actual sons, Coyde and Oliver, he says, “there’s nothing quite like riding a motorcycle that I’ve built myself, on a sunny day, with friends. x93
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As for the up-and-coming artist’s own accomplishments, chalk up a performance at the Grand Ole Opry on Guyton’s list. She is also a proud dog lover (her own pup, Charlie, loves watching The Real Housewives alongside her) and supports The Humane Society. “I am a strong believer of ‘adopt, don’t shop,’ x93 she says.
Mickey Guyton — Singer-Songwriter
Mickey Guyton’s ultimate girl crush is also one of her greatest influences. “Dolly Parton is the originator of all originals, x93 she says. “She came up in a time where women were not considered business savvy, and, now, she has a theme park, movies being made about her life, and she continues to write incredible songs. x93 She also embodies everything Guyton considers beautiful in a person: “kind, self-aware, empathetic, and is willing to stand up for others who can’t always stand up for themselves. x93As for the up-and-coming artist’s own accomplishments, chalk up a performance at the Grand Ole Opry on Guyton’s list. She is also a proud dog lover (her own pup, Charlie, loves watching The Real Housewives alongside her) and supports The Humane Society. “I am a strong believer of ‘adopt, don’t shop,’ x93 she says.
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Splitting his time between making music, which he says gives him a great amount of joy, and modeling gigs, O’Leary keeps things together with at least 40 minutes of meditation each day, along with an hour or two at the gym. He also strives to get five to six healthy meals in each day, too. “I have mastered cooking the perfect salmon, x93 he admits.
Ryan James O’Leary — Musician, Model, Actor
He has always been intrigued by things with engines, which is the main driver behind Ryan O’Leary’s interest in learning how to fly a plane. “Flying would be the ultimate experience, x93 he says. It all goes back to his days working at Hendricks Motors during high school. “I’m a big NASCAR fan, x93 he says—Dale Earnhardt, Sr., was always his favorite driver.Splitting his time between making music, which he says gives him a great amount of joy, and modeling gigs, O’Leary keeps things together with at least 40 minutes of meditation each day, along with an hour or two at the gym. He also strives to get five to six healthy meals in each day, too. “I have mastered cooking the perfect salmon, x93 he admits.
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Outside of work, she appreciates active time with her family, including her “intelligent, independent, strong daughters, x93 and her husband, Rolando, who “inspires, supports, and promotes me in every way. x93
Melissa Toyos — Eye and Cosmetic Facial Surgeon
In her daily business, Melissa Toyos strives to help others find their most beautiful selves—and it’s the procedures that she has taken an entire career to perfect that help them get there. “I have mastered the art of MIXTOLaserLift, non-surgically rejuvenating skin. I continue to seek out other non-surgical methods to help people look and feel their best, x93 she says. “And, x93 she adds, “I’m currently working on learning Italian. x93Outside of work, she appreciates active time with her family, including her “intelligent, independent, strong daughters, x93 and her husband, Rolando, who “inspires, supports, and promotes me in every way. x93
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A frequent shopper at many of the local farmers’ markets, Kigweba also hits up stores, like White’s Mercantile, Woodland Wine Merchant, and Olive and Sinclair, to satisfy his other whims, because, he says, “who doesn’t love chocolate? x93
When he’s not behind the stove, you’ll likely spot Kigweba out for a morning run, driving up the Natchez Trace, or frequenting Husk Nashville for a plate of fried chicken.
Simoni Kigweba — Chef
Through his services as an in-home caterer and cooking class teacher, Simoni Kigweba shares his knowledge of cooking with those looking to learn—whether he or she is a novice in need of basic tips or wanting to up their culinary game. But, while cooking is second nature and his greatest joy, Kigweba says what he’d really like to do is learn how to make pottery. “It’s a skill that takes so much time, talent, and knowledge, x93 he says.A frequent shopper at many of the local farmers’ markets, Kigweba also hits up stores, like White’s Mercantile, Woodland Wine Merchant, and Olive and Sinclair, to satisfy his other whims, because, he says, “who doesn’t love chocolate? x93
When he’s not behind the stove, you’ll likely spot Kigweba out for a morning run, driving up the Natchez Trace, or frequenting Husk Nashville for a plate of fried chicken.
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Besides her own philanthropic work, she is keen on supporting the Nashville Zoo. “Our planet is changing, and we need to educate people on our environment and the animals that live in it, x93 she says. “Our zoo does wonderful conservation work in our city and internationally. x93
Jennifer Frist — Philanthropist, Community Volunteer
You’ll recognize her surname as one of the most influential and philanthropic in the city—and, like most of those she shares it with, Jennifer Frist is driven to use it for good. She and her husband, Billy, recently helped launch a local initiative that will help employ adults with autism—their own son has been diagnosed with the disorder. A mother of three, Frist says that she gets the most joy in life when “experiencing new places and adventures with my kids, x93 whether that’s hiking in Percy Warner or taking to the skies (she has her pilot’s license—as well as a handgun carry permit).Besides her own philanthropic work, she is keen on supporting the Nashville Zoo. “Our planet is changing, and we need to educate people on our environment and the animals that live in it, x93 she says. “Our zoo does wonderful conservation work in our city and internationally. x93
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In the off-season, he usually heads back to his home country, where he’ll spend time outdoors, fishing or playing golf. But, here in Nashville, when he’s looking to unwind, Ekholm and his girlfriend will hit up Mokara Spa at the Omni Nashville Hotel. Otherwise, his regimen is all about working out. “To be well and feel good in life, I think you have to work out and be active, x93 he says.
Mattias Ekholm — Hockey Player
You’ll recognize this handsome mug as it belongs to one of the key players for the Nashville Predators. Mattias Ekholm, who is originally from Sweden, has more to offer than just hockey. When he’s out of his skates, Ekholm says he loves horse racing. “I don’t own a horse, but I’m a part owner [with my childhood friend]. It’s something that’s similar to playing hockey—plus, over the summers, when you don’t play at all and you just work out, it’s fun to have that kind of competition, those nerves going, x93 he says.In the off-season, he usually heads back to his home country, where he’ll spend time outdoors, fishing or playing golf. But, here in Nashville, when he’s looking to unwind, Ekholm and his girlfriend will hit up Mokara Spa at the Omni Nashville Hotel. Otherwise, his regimen is all about working out. “To be well and feel good in life, I think you have to work out and be active, x93 he says.
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Beyond her work with the NFA, Thomas and her husband, Tom Thomas, are both supporters of Operation Smile, an international medical mission that repairs facial deformities on children in more than 65 countries—in fact, their entire family has volunteered for the organization over the years, with her husband working in the operating room, her boys as student volunteers, and herself in medical records.
Nina Thomas — Model, Actress, Volunteer
Nina Thomas re-invented herself as a commercial model and actress—when she turned 60. The self-proclaimed law school dropout calls herself an outgoing introvert. “[I] love to connect people and then stand back, x93 she says. With her career in modeling, Thomas has become a partner and advocate of the Nashville Fashion Alliance and prefers to support local designers whenever she can—in this photo, she’s wearing a dress by Cavanagh Baker and Alizah Greenberg Jewelry, two designers she calls her go-to gals.Beyond her work with the NFA, Thomas and her husband, Tom Thomas, are both supporters of Operation Smile, an international medical mission that repairs facial deformities on children in more than 65 countries—in fact, their entire family has volunteered for the organization over the years, with her husband working in the operating room, her boys as student volunteers, and herself in medical records.
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Although she teaches others through her fitness classes at Shed Group Fitness, she gets her own energy with an intense workout in the morning. “I’m talking pink cheeks and sweaty. It helps set the right mood for the day and motivates me to eat healthy, x93 she explains.
As the mom of a baby boy, Jax, she’s recently become more focused on children’s fitness, too, noting that she and her son have become regulars at Blooma Yoga in Sylvan Park. Clean living aside, Luebke also knows when and how to enjoy the good things in life. “We love Arrington Vineyards, x93 she says. “You can’t beat the picnic-style wine flights, live music, and food trucks. x93
Hayley Luebke — Fitness Instructor
Though fitness is top of mind for Hayley Luebke, so, too, is healthy eating. “One skill I’m beginning to master is cooking healthy, x93 she says, adding that she’s a regular at Whole Foods. “You can basically make a healthy version of anything, as long as you get creative. x93Although she teaches others through her fitness classes at Shed Group Fitness, she gets her own energy with an intense workout in the morning. “I’m talking pink cheeks and sweaty. It helps set the right mood for the day and motivates me to eat healthy, x93 she explains.
As the mom of a baby boy, Jax, she’s recently become more focused on children’s fitness, too, noting that she and her son have become regulars at Blooma Yoga in Sylvan Park. Clean living aside, Luebke also knows when and how to enjoy the good things in life. “We love Arrington Vineyards, x93 she says. “You can’t beat the picnic-style wine flights, live music, and food trucks. x93
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As for his own career, he says that he measures success not in accolades or record sales: “It’s being able to do music as my job for the last 10 years. It still blows me away, x93 he says. Even on a day off, with nothing else to do, he would spend his time “with my dogs, working on music. No brainer. x93
On a rare break from writing, Follese looks to perfect his other talents, too. He’s a black belt in martial arts—and he’s determined to work on his penmanship. “I think cursive is kind of lost as far as writing goes, x93 he says. “I’d like mine not to look like squirrels fought over a Uni-Ball. x93
Ryan Follese — Songwriter and Artist
As the son of songwriters Keith and Adrienne Follese, Ryan Follese has talent in his genes—and he gives complete credit to both his parents for inspiring him in his field, as well as his skills. “My best traits are not mine; they are my folks’. I was lucky enough to inherit them, x93 he says.As for his own career, he says that he measures success not in accolades or record sales: “It’s being able to do music as my job for the last 10 years. It still blows me away, x93 he says. Even on a day off, with nothing else to do, he would spend his time “with my dogs, working on music. No brainer. x93
On a rare break from writing, Follese looks to perfect his other talents, too. He’s a black belt in martial arts—and he’s determined to work on his penmanship. “I think cursive is kind of lost as far as writing goes, x93 he says. “I’d like mine not to look like squirrels fought over a Uni-Ball. x93
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Hastings, who once worked as a professional “faerie x93 at the Tennessee Renaissance Festival, still holds on to a love of fantasy literature, as well as a desire to be able to drape and draft her own clothing patterns. She credits her grandmother, Sue, for inspiring her to take up sewing and her other grandmother, Libby, who, she says, “sparked my lifelong interest in historical clothing by sharing her well-kept dresses from the 1960s. x93
Mary Garvin Hastings — Student
Although Mary Hastings is currently studying theater at Syracuse University in Upstate New York, she frequently makes trips back home and visits the places that keep her grounded. “Part of my heart will always be at High Garden, a tea shop in East Nashville, x93 she says. You may also find her exploring the gardens of Cheekwood or the hidden trails along the Harpeth River.Hastings, who once worked as a professional “faerie x93 at the Tennessee Renaissance Festival, still holds on to a love of fantasy literature, as well as a desire to be able to drape and draft her own clothing patterns. She credits her grandmother, Sue, for inspiring her to take up sewing and her other grandmother, Libby, who, she says, “sparked my lifelong interest in historical clothing by sharing her well-kept dresses from the 1960s. x93
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Having played drums with Leon Bridges, Johnnyswim, and many others, Allen is an avid traveler. “Exploring a new city and experiencing its best restaurants, bars, shops, and culture is always fun for me, x93 he says. He’s learning to be a better cook and looking to learn more about whiskey and wine, he says. Also, “I’m a cookie and ice cream connoisseur, x93 he adds. “I rarely waste an opportunity to sample quality goods. x93
As for his fitness routine, he says, “I think feeling great and looking great go hand-in-hand, so working out, running, and eating well are all big for me. x93
Rico Allen — Drummer, Artist Development Consultant
“I think that music, and art in general, is a beautiful part of our culture that we all enjoy every day. I know first-hand how expensive pursuing music can be, x93 Rico Allen says. That’s why he has made a point of supporting the W.O. Smith School of Music. “It’s a privilege to be able to lighten that burden for others by donating music lessons and equipment. It would be a shame to lose the next big star because they couldn’t afford to pursue their talents and dreams. x93Having played drums with Leon Bridges, Johnnyswim, and many others, Allen is an avid traveler. “Exploring a new city and experiencing its best restaurants, bars, shops, and culture is always fun for me, x93 he says. He’s learning to be a better cook and looking to learn more about whiskey and wine, he says. Also, “I’m a cookie and ice cream connoisseur, x93 he adds. “I rarely waste an opportunity to sample quality goods. x93
As for his fitness routine, he says, “I think feeling great and looking great go hand-in-hand, so working out, running, and eating well are all big for me. x93
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The experience as Miss Maryland was an honor, Staniszewski adds. “It gave me a platform to use my talents to give back to my community and inspire young women, x93 she says. She also has spent a lot of her free time volunteering with the Children’s Miracle Network, she says, “performing for and bringing smiles to children who are in hospitals suffering with a variety of terminal illnesses. It’s the most rewarding volunteer work I’ve ever participated in. x93
Lindsay Staniszewski — Marketing Director
Perhaps, it was the year-long stint Lindsay Staniszewski served as Miss Maryland or competing in the 90th Anniversary of the Miss America Pageant that sparked one of her greatest joys: “I love dressing up, x93 she laughs. “If I could, I’d buy a Zac Posen gown every week—I’m obsessed. x93The experience as Miss Maryland was an honor, Staniszewski adds. “It gave me a platform to use my talents to give back to my community and inspire young women, x93 she says. She also has spent a lot of her free time volunteering with the Children’s Miracle Network, she says, “performing for and bringing smiles to children who are in hospitals suffering with a variety of terminal illnesses. It’s the most rewarding volunteer work I’ve ever participated in. x93
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Protecting all kids is a theme for Hemphill, who, along with her husband, Joey, has raised her own two accomplished daughters. She also serves as the current board chair for Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee. “I feel like we give families the opportunity to hit the ‘pause’ button for a brief moment in time and have a fun and magical experience when life feels scary and uncertain, x93 she says.
Sue Ann Hemphill — Event Manager
What’s one of Sue Ann Hemphill’s essential tricks to maintaining her effortless beauty? “Well, I am a sunscreen queen, x93 she says, and she recommends Lancome Bienfait Multi-Vital moisturizer with SPF 30. The protection is key, since one of her favorite ways to stay fit is walking regularly. “I was always that annoying mom putting sunscreen on other people’s kids, x93 she laughs.Protecting all kids is a theme for Hemphill, who, along with her husband, Joey, has raised her own two accomplished daughters. She also serves as the current board chair for Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee. “I feel like we give families the opportunity to hit the ‘pause’ button for a brief moment in time and have a fun and magical experience when life feels scary and uncertain, x93 she says.
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To stay fit, Smith loves a tough workout on the heavy bags, “to keep me straight and narrow, x93 he says. And, even though his current occupation involves coaching professionals, he says, “I regularly like to coach youth and amateur players, whether just a single session or clinic based. Coaching is my passion, and I’m always keen to pass on my experience and knowledge to the younger generations in the sport. x93
Gary Smith — Soccer Coach
Originally from Hertfordshire, England, this father of three is a recent transplant, thanks to his new gig as the coach and technical director for the Nashville Soccer Club. A lifelong athlete, Gary Smith’s blood runs with the sport—his father is an ex-professional soccer player who, he says, “has been able to guide and advise me throughout my career. x93To stay fit, Smith loves a tough workout on the heavy bags, “to keep me straight and narrow, x93 he says. And, even though his current occupation involves coaching professionals, he says, “I regularly like to coach youth and amateur players, whether just a single session or clinic based. Coaching is my passion, and I’m always keen to pass on my experience and knowledge to the younger generations in the sport. x93
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Mason says her parents have naturally been strong guides and friends throughout the years—“we have so many laughs when we’re all together, x93 she says—but it’s her older sister, Shaun, who comes to mind as being one of her greatest influences. “She’s the first person to help make someone else’s light shine brighter, x93 she says. “If I end up being half the person she is, I will feel I did something right. x93
Casie Mason — Journalist, Television Personality
It seems like NewsChannel 5 host Casie Mason was made for the TV screen. “No one is ever a stranger in my world, x93 she says. “Whether it’s in line at the grocery store or interviewing an artist on the red carpet, I love hearing people’s stories. I think that’s why I was drawn to being a journalist, x93 she says. It’s that ability to gather and retell stories that has propelled her forward in her industry—but it’s also about putting in the work while staying true to herself, she says.Mason says her parents have naturally been strong guides and friends throughout the years—“we have so many laughs when we’re all together, x93 she says—but it’s her older sister, Shaun, who comes to mind as being one of her greatest influences. “She’s the first person to help make someone else’s light shine brighter, x93 she says. “If I end up being half the person she is, I will feel I did something right. x93
