Bring on the Fun: Topgolf Nashville Ready to Rock Sept 22

September 18, 2017 by Amber Ford in Sports, Nashville, Nashville, TN, Nashville Blog, Things to do Nashville, The Nashville Guide, Native in Nashville, Things to do

Music City’s hottest sports entertainment destination also features new concert space to create authentic Nashville experience for golfers and non-golfers alike

NASHVILLE – Sept. 18, 2017 – Global sports entertainment leader Topgolf® will open the doors to its new location in Nashville this Friday at 9 a.m. The venue, located near Nissan Stadium at 500 Cowan St., features 102 climate-controlled hitting bays, a 600-person concert venue, flexible private event spaces, a locally inspired menu of chef-driven dishes, top-shelf drinks, big screen TVs and more. It is the company’s 34th location worldwide.

The three-level, 65,000-square-foot venue is the first Topgolf location to include a dedicated music venue. Featuring modern finishes and state-of-the-art sound quality, the two-story, 7,900-square-foot concert hall is attached to Topgolf Nashville and features an open floor space and a full-service bar. The second-level VIP deck offers a balcony view, premium seating, cocktail service and a private bar. The intimate design of the 600-person space makes it an ideal underplay venue for local artists and nationally recognized acts looking to do something unique in Music City.

“From music to sports, Nashville is a city known for its incredible entertainment, and we could not be more excited to become a part of its growing community,” said Topgolf Nashville Director of Operations Travis Miller. “Topgolf Nashville blends sports, music and entertainment, offering Tennessee residents and visitors to Music City an interactive experience where they can come together and have fun.”

Through the premium experience of play, food and music, Topgolf is inspiring people of all ages and skill levels – even non-golfers – to come together for playful competition. Guests can enjoy point-scoring golf games using microchipped balls that instantly score themselves, showing players the accuracy and distance of their shots instantly on a TV screen in their hitting bay. Year-round programming includes events for kids and families, social leagues, golf tournaments, golf instruction and more.

Topgolf Nashville will commemorate its opening on Sept. 23 by launching an honorary Red Bull Flugtag craft into the Cumberland River, sponsoring the event at Riverfront Park. Open to the public at 11 a.m. CST, Red Bull Flugtag pits competitors in homemade human-powered flying machines as they attempt to break the 258-foot distance record. Spectators are encouraged to stop by the Topgolf Nashville viewing tent for entertainment and a chance to win Topgolf-themed prizes.

Topgolf Nashville is expected to serve upward of 450,000 visitors in its first year of operation and has already created more than 500 full- and part-time positions. The venue will operate Sunday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m., and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Hitting bays are rented by the hour, and pricing varies based on time of day. General admittance is free of charge.

For more information, visit Topgolf.com and facebook.com/topgolfnashville, or follow @Topgolf on Twitter and Instagram.

About Topgolf

What started with twin brothers developing a technology to make golf scoring fun, has turned into a global brand focused on connecting people in meaningful ways. Today, Topgolf continues to blend technology and entertainment, golfers and non-golfers, children and adults – to create an experience that makes socializing a sport for everyone. No matter the occasion or who you share it with, we believe every great time starts with play, is fueled by food and beverage, moved by music and made possible through community. Every Topgolf venue features dozens of high-tech, climate-controlled hitting bays for year-round comfort, a chef-inspired menu for year-round deliciousness and hundreds of Associates eager to help create the moments that matter. With 33 venues entertaining more than 10.5 million Guests annually, original content shows, next-gen simulator lounges, competitive tours, pop-up social experiences and the world's largest digital golf audience, Topgolf is truly everyone’s game. To learn more and view exclusive digital content, follow @Topgolf or visit www.topgolf.com.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas...in July! A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Hotel

July 21, 2017 by Amber Ford in Nashville, Christmas in Nashville, Holidays Nashville, Things to do Nashville, Nashville lifestyle blog, Holidays in Nashville, Nashville Christmas

In case you're wondering why I'm hanging Christmas lights at Opryland Hotel in July, when it's 98 degrees out & I'm 9.5 months pregnant , my soon to be born son Denver & I did something pretty cool yesterday on my lunch break. You guys can check out a couple videos on my Instagram @nativeinnashville . We went all the way up above the Magnolia trees, nearly 80 feet in the air.

When the sweet people who work for Gaylord Opryland reached out and invited me to attend the announcement and kick off of their Country Christmas festivities IN JULY...I may have thought they were a little crazy. It wasn't until yesterday, that I fully understand why they start up their Christmas decorating this far in advance of the holidays and I know that the actual planning starts LONG before this.

Opryland has been a part of my life for as far back as I can remember, in some way, shape or form, I think it's probably been a part of almost any Nashville native familys' lives. I can't remember a single year going by that I didn't go to Opryland Hotel around Christmas time. When they invited me to come hang some of the lights, there was no way I was turning down the opportunity to be a part of something so big! It was a pretty cool experience & it showed me a glimpse of just how much hard work and time these people put in every year to create such a spectacular atmosphere for people near and far to come enjoy. This year they are adding an additional 500K lights for a total of 3 MILLION! I can't think of anything that makes me in a better mood than Christmas lights so I'm pretty excited about the extra !! Go big or go home right ?? If it were up to me & not frowned upon I would leave my tree up all year round too. Crews will work several hours each day to make sure the holiday lights are up in time for "A Country Christmas", presented by FIJIFILM INSTAX®, taking place November 10-Jan 1.

Gaylord Opryland/FUJIFILM North America Corporation

“The holiday magic this resort creates every year is astounding, and we cannot wait for visitors to enjoy the newest holiday decorations and entertainment at our 2,888-room resort and its nine acres of indoor gardens,” said Gaylord Opryland General Manager John Adams. “The many months of preparation are well worth it when we see families making holiday memories with us.”

This year, the Country Christmas attractions include:

The resort’s signature holiday attraction—ICE!, presented by Pepsi—returns with A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles Schulz. The beloved holiday story will come to life in 2 million pounds of colorful, larger-than-life ice sculptures. Kept at nine degrees Fahrenheit, the exhibit is hand-carved by 40 master artisans from Harbin, China, who use their artistry to create favorite scenes with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy and friends, plus multi-story ice slides. If you can’t get enough of the Peanuts gang, enjoy an interactive breakfast you and your family won’t soon forget at Breakfast with Charlie Brown & Friends.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up Nashville for the first time, November 18 through December 27, 2017, at the Grand Ole Opry House featuring never-before-seen performances, over 300 costumes, 20 of the world’s best acts, original music and seasonal favorites in a multi-million-dollar stage wonderland. Hailed by The New York Daily News as “A delicious confection of charm, sparkle and talent by the sleighload,” don’t miss this must-see Broadway musical, new cirque adventure and family show wrapped in one BroadwayWorld declares “the perfect holiday gift.”

Also new, Diamond Rio’s Holidays & Hits Dinner Show will bring lighter-than-air harmonies to Gaylord Opryland, November 17 through December 25. The Grammy Award-winning six-man group has sold more than 10 million albums, earning three platinum and five gold records. With their hit, “Meet in the Middle,” they became the first group in the history of country music to have a debut single reach No. 1. The band was awarded Opry membership in 1998 and has received Top Vocal Group honors six times from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.

The Build-A-Bear Workshop experience lets guests make their very own furry winter friend—a cuddly, cute polar bear plush, designed exclusively for Gaylord Hotels that can be personalized with cozy winter clothing and accessories. For even more fun, families can work together to solve the Build-A-Bear Workshop Scavenger Hunt to gain a “beary” special prize.

Santa’s favorite lady will make an appearance again this year in Cookies with Mrs. Claus. Cozy up by the fire and delight in some milk and cookies while Mrs. Claus reads an enchanting Christmas tale.

No need to endure the cold for a lovely yuletide glide! Gaylord Opryland takes it up a notch this year with a 6,000-square-foot indoor ice rink in the spectacular Holiday Hall. While there, guests can also hop aboard the Opryland Express kids’ train, stop by the Gingerbread Decorating Corner, presented by Hallmark Channel’s Countdown to Christmas, or take a whirl on the Santa’s Spinners tea cup ride!

For heart-pounding thrills, guests can head outdoors and brave the hills of the resort’s extreme snow tubing hill covered in 1.5 million pounds of real snow—or enjoy a carnival-style game to test guests’ aim at Santa’s Snow Throw.

Of course, A Country Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a visit from Santa, who will be stopping by to give guests a chance to have a treasured Christmas photograph taken—whether they have been naughty or nice.

Holiday festivities also include carriage rides and holiday cruise experiences on the General Jackson Showboat along with free activities the Brightest Star Fountain Show and the Outdoor Nativity with an audio rendition of the biblical story.

A Country Christmas has been hailed as one of the “Ten Great Places to Catch up with Santa” by USA Today; “The Most Christmassy Hotel in the Nation” by the Travel Channel’s “Extreme Christmas;” one of the top 10 places to spend Christmas in the world by Travel + Leisure; and a “Nashville treasure” by Southern Living.

Tickets and vacation packages are now available at ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com or by calling
1-888-677-9872.

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, located at 2800 Opryland Drive in Nashville, Tenn., is the flagship property of Gaylord Hotels, part of the Marriott portfolio of brands. The 2,888-room hotel offers “everything in one place”— diverse dining options, a full-service spa, top-notch entertainment, on-site shopping, an award-winning golf course and more. For more information, visit www.gaylordopryland.com.

BY THE NUMBERS

• 3 million holiday lights

• 1 million visitors to the resort during the holidays each year

• 15,000 poinsettias

• 15 miles of green garland

• 10 miles of hand-tied, red ribbon

• 48-foot-tall Christmas tree

• 1.5 million pounds of real snow on snow tubing hill

• 2+ million pounds of ice for signature ICE! attraction

• Nearly 7,000 giant blocks of colored ice

• 40 ice artisans from Harbin, China

I can't wait to make some of these memories with my sweet boy, year after year! I encourage you all to visit Opryland Hotel during the holidays & make some memories of your own with your family & friends! I promise you won't be sorry ! You can also find a baby update in the "Life" category of my blog. :)

Thank you, as always, for reading!

XO,

Amber

Nashville Does Halloween: Favorite Looks & Costumes 2016

November 02, 2016 by Amber Ford in Best Halloween Costumes, Nashville, Native in Nashville

I have to admit I'm super impressed with the amount of originality and the amount of clothes I actually saw people wear this Halloween! (Lol) It is definitely one of my favorite holidays and normally I blow it out of the water with my costumes. They are always homemade and about a week is spent making each and every one, but this year, the way my schedule is set up these days between working full time and then making and packaging my Native in Nashville shirts and hats, it doesn't leave much time for making myself dinner, let alone a Halloween costume. This year I took a simple, funny approach, and I was a " Dunkin' Donut", pun intended.

Seriously the easiest and most comfortable thing I've ever worn on Halloween, not to mention classiest. The best part of it all was the fact that I still got to wear my Lululemon yoga pants. (Yessss) Was it the best? Heck no, but it did the trick. I also dressed up as a penguin for Boo at the Zoo with my friends and their kids and made it to the news. Yes, only me would make it on the news dressed as a penguin. Lord help me.

Do it for the kids, ya know?! You guys should have seen some of the crazy looks I got dressed in both. Anyways, enough about me... the point of this post was to share some of my favorite Halloween costumes and looks from Nashvillians with you guys! I know how much time and effort went into some of these, and they deserve the spotlight for sure. These are in NO particular order by the way!!

1. Alyson Parker as Chris Stapleton

2. Abbey Rogers as Miss Frizzle from "The Magic School Bus"

3. Angel Cole as Audrey Hepburn

4. Jason Aldean and Brittany Layne as the Joker and a Skeleton

5. Melia Wood as an Ooompa Loompa

6. Christian Glennon and friend Shaley Sanders as " Roller Coaster Ridin' Tourists"

7. Cody Mackie as Tinder

8. Sunday Rufin as a cowboy

9. Nikita Fox as Toucan Sam

10. Craig Smith and Aleah Heinlein as Squints and Wendy from the Sandlot

11. Kaitlyn O' Connor as Cruella De Vil

12. The Milkman Tees Group as the Golden Girls

13. Lindsey Byrnes as Aaliyah

Lindsey is an honorary Nashvillian, living in Texas now, but it was too good to resist. IG is @eyeiswhoiis

14. Cooper Premo as a Beanie Baby

This baby belongs to Hunter Schleicher and Cameron Premo.

15. Misty Helms and husband as the Simpsons

16. Jenna Feci as a Skeleton

17. Tyrone Stroble as David Ruffin of the Tempations

18. Nick Welch as Tony Montana

19. Shea Whitson and Dylan Williams as the elderly

20. Nicole Davis, Dana Eisenhauer and Jen Ferguson as Cher, Deon and Amber from Clueless

21. Ken Fleet as Billy Mays

22. Drake Bell as a scarecrow

23. Chaz Cummings as the Hulk

24. Kayla Hindman and partner as Bob Ross and his "Happy Accident"

25. Laura Vong and Josh Wilson as the mailman and his mail order bride

26. Rhiannon and Nick Hiter as Richard Simmons and his student

27. Katie Whelley as a construction worker

28. Living With Landyn as the butterfly snapchat filter

29. Scott Haley, Jenna and David Gardner as Slater, Kelly and Zack Morris from Saved by the Bell

30. Rachel and Daniel Risen as The Most Interesting Man in the World and his Dos Equis bottle

31. Matt Lynn as Kim Kardashian

Tere you have it folks. I love the originality, time, effort and thought process that went into each of these!! I saw so many more that I wanted to include, but I had to put a limit on it at some point. Hope you guys loved these costumes as much as I did. I am hoping it gives someone ideas or inspiration for years to come. Thank you guys so much for reading!! XOXO- Amber

I Like Big CUPS & I Cannot Lie: CUPS App

October 12, 2016 by Amber Ford in CUPS app, Nashville, Coffee, Drink local

What is CUPS, the app?

CUPS is a network for independent coffee shops that exists to help them compete with the big chains. Their mobile app helps member cafes connect with local coffee drinkers, and they offer a number of other business services, too. App users enjoy discount prices and discover new local hangouts, while the cafes gain access to a low-cost, low-maintenance marketing platform they can use to draw new business.

For users, the app is very intuitive, with streamlined in-app purchasing (including tips and food) and a map function to find new cafes nearby. All first-time users will receive a free $5 credit to test us out, after which they can make individual coffee purchases with a 15% discount off the menu price, or buy a pre-paid coffee plan.

LAUNCHING IN NASHVILLE

CUPS is now live in 10 Nashville locations!! They'll also be giving away a ton of free coffee to anyone who downloads the app, in conjunction with the launch. Some of their Nashville coffee shop partners include Revelator, Tin Cup Coffee, Honest Coffee, Atmology & more. See photos below to find out where you can get free coffee today !!

Unlike the pedal bars that appeal to bachelorette parties wearing cowboy boots, they want to target real Nashville natives who love coffee and supporting local businesses.

Head over to the App Store & download CUPS - Your Local Coffee Fix by Urban Cups Ltd. https://appsto.re/us/JkVkH.i Enter Coupon Code: NATIVEINNASH for $5 to use towards coffee. You will also receive an additional $5 just for downloading the app, as mentioned above, giving you a total of $10 to spend for FREE !! As long as you have enough space on your phone to download an app, like to support local and save money and most importantly, love coffee, what are you waiting for?

Thank y'all for reading!! It's time to enjoy a cup of coffee & DRINK LOCAL!!

6 Things We Take For Granted Living in Nashville

September 01, 2016 by Amber Ford in Nashville, Native in Nashville, Nashville, TN

Hi guys ! Remember me? I bet you thought I forgot about you---but I would NEVER! I have been so crazy wrapped up with work that I haven't even had the chance to post anything at all! I really feel terrible about it and I promise I'll do better. After all, I did just get a VERY EXCITING email from The Toast of Music City Awards by the Tennessean that I have been selected in the top 3 for best blog in Nashville! I could hardly contain myself with such great news! I appreciate everyone who voted! I will find out later in the month which place I got, but I honestly am just honored to have A) been on the list as a nomination and B) to know that anyone even reads this! Ha ! I love you guys!

In other news, I was flying out to California about a month ago for work, deep in thought, as I watched all the scenery we passed from above. To be completely honest the boring, non colorful scenery pretty much sucked. I thought to myself how strange it was to me that there was NO grass for as far as my eye could see.. I had never thought about something as simple as caring about grass, but it was the lack of that made me realize that I loved having it. Then, I began to think of all the things I would really miss, if I ever moved away from the amazing city of Nashville! I have been spending a lot of time lately with several of my friends who have moved away from here and they all definitely agree with this list that will remind you just how amazing Nashville and surrounding areas are!

Where the Green Grass Grows

I'm allergic to it, it makes me itch, but I gotta say I would be sad without it. I can't imagine living in a place that didn't have grass, trees and plants everywhere. I love walking through the grass on a hot summer day. I even love the smell of freshly cut grass. I would take green earth over the dirt and a desert, any old day. I love gardens and fresh produce, and seeing cows and horses graze. When my sweet little niece comes to visit from New York I always take her to see the horses at the end of my parents street. She is amazed by it because she doesn't get to see that back home in Manhattan.

Southern Hospitality

The majority of time when I go out of town, the number one thing I despise is having to deal with rude people. For the most part, us Nashvillians always bring our A-Game in the manners department. People thank you when you hold the door for them, we are gracious for things people do for us and it shows, warm and welcoming. I am not hating on any other state or city in particular, but I will say when I'm not home, I wish the people would take some lessons from our city!

Mmm...Southern Cookin'

Where do I even begin with this topic? This one sure has its pros and cons, but the only con would be the fact that if I didn't live here, I would probably weigh about thirty pounds less than I do. Most of you know this already but my most favorite hobby is to eat! In just about every city, I'm sure you can find somewhere good to eat, but here, every single place I go has great food. There is nothing quite like hot fried chicken, homemade cornbread, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, cucumber and onion salad, biscuits and gravy, homemade jelly....are you hungry yet....made in the south! I could go on forever. People can try to imitate it all day long, but they definitely aren't going to duplicate it! Can you guys imagine not living within 20 minutes of a Cracker Barrel or within driving distance of those amazing biscuits from Loveless Cafe or the food at Arnold's? I can't either. I would definitely miss that! What is life without a meat & 3?

The Ability to Get Up & Go

As I mentioned above, my sister lives in Manhattan. I absolutely love it there, everything about it, other than the fact everywhere you go is literally a production. It took her an hour and a half by car yesterday to travel .7 miles , POINT SEVEN MILES!! You've gotta be kidding me! I know the Nashville traffic is bad, but at least we all mostly have cars that we can drive to get around, and hey, if not, there's always Uber!

I had to get to the airport one time while visiting her and was forced to ride the Subway alone. I'm gonna let you guys know right off the bat, that didn't end so well. It ended in tears. If you have never ridden on a subway before, I feel like it's something everyone needs to experience at least once in your lifetime. Just make sure when you do you have about 2 extra hours to spare. Maybe it's just my horrible sense of direction that got me in the position of being terrified of them, but either way there's no turning back. I would spend 20x the price to never have to ride one again. We are so lucky that if we need to run to the store to get something, we can get in out cars & do that! We don't have to pay $1000 a month for a parking spot. I'm so thankful I don't live somewhere where getting around is that much of an ordeal.

The Best Live Music Everywhere, Everyday

Nashville has got to be the only place in this world that you can literally walk in ANY bar and hear AMAZING live music! When I go out while I'm out of town, I spend many nights dying of third person embarrassment for the singers. It's just not the same. It's like hitting the jackpot if you find a really good one. We definitely hit the jackpot in the talent department around here ! It doesn't even have to be night time for the good times to start rolling!! The Honky Tonks on Broadway start very early in the day.

All The Seasons

Some might say that California's weather would be a dream... NOT ME! When I go somewhere and it feels good out and the residents tell me that's the coldest it ever gets...yeah that's great and all but have you ever worn flannels with boots while sitting by a fireplace making smore's? I'd rather have that ANY day!! I'm not a big fan of snow, but have you ever just sat and watched it come down while drinking a cup of hot chocolate and built a snowman with your family. Lake water isn't the cleanest thing there is, but have you ever been cruising in a boat on a hot summer day and jumped in, or went fishing off a boat dock? Nothing more refreshing or relaxing. I'm obsessed with having "different seasons"!! I wouldn't trade it for the world! SPEAKING OF SEASONS--- who is ready for Fall, y'all? Football, the leaves changing colors, sweaters, football & pumpkin spice everything coming real soon!!

DO YALL REALIZE HOW LUCKY WE ARE !? h a s h t a g•b l e s s e d

Thank you as always for reading!!

17 Nashvillians You Need to Follow on Instagram Right Now

July 13, 2016 by Amber Ford in Nashville lifestyle blog, People and Places, Lifestyle blog, Nashville style, Native in Nashville, Nashville, Nashville Fashion Scene, Nashville Food Scene, Nashville Designers, The Nashville Guide, Nashville Blog, Nashville, Tennessee, Made in Nashville

When I first started my blog, my intention was to feature people and places that deserved the spotlight. I feel like I have done a pretty good job of that so far, but we have so many amazing people and places in this town, the opportunities are really endless. I have decided to put together a list for you guys of 17 Nashvillians you need to follow on Instagram right now. These are a group of people who are some, not all, of my very favorite accounts to follow of people right here in our city. I have reached out to them and gotten to learn a little more about each one, than I would have just known from glancing through their social media feeds. Have any of you ever been curious to see who the people are behind the @NashvilleTn and @TheNashvilleGuide pages? I know I have. I encourage you to follow each of them (not literally, of course) I feel as if I have to say that these days. (insert winky emoji here)

JAKE MATTHEWS

@jakesvisuals

Jake is a Nashvillian who recently graduated college in May and is currently living in Nairobi, Kenya working as a photojournalist for a non-profit that works with street kids. After Kenya, he will have another month of adventures to a few countries and back in Nashville by December. He has been doing photography for about 4 years now and it wasn't until this past year that he really felt he found his niche. He had really gotten into capturing the urban side of Nashville, which he feels isn't common for photographers in the area. That eventually that led Jake into shooting portraits with his own "urban-ish" type of style. Once he started doing that, everything just kind of clicked and he ran with it. His goal is to keep doing photography for a living in Nashville once he gets back and to continue traveling every once in a while whenever he get the chance. He absolutely loves being a photographer in Nashville with it being a city full of creatives.

Jake's page is one of my absolute favorite Instagrams to follow. He captures the incredible beauty our city has to offer, along with amazing photos of people. I absolutely love his style and his eye for photography. I originally saw his work on the new "Nashville Billboard" which led me straight to the follow button!

BROOKE WEBB

@kbstyled

Brooke is a wife, a mom of two children, and the Editor and Creator of a very successful style blog, KBStyled. She has lived in Nashville for 4 years and resides in Franklin, TN with her family. She loves finding a great piece at a bargain price and styling it in a way that looks like a million bucks. Brooke also enjoys experimenting with new beauty products and eating cupcakes :) Be sure to follow her Instagram page to keep up with all the latest trends and follow her blog to find out where to get each adorable outfit she puts together.

KBstyled.com

KB Styled on Facebook

CASSIE KELLEY

@womanista @cassiemkelly

Cassie, started WOMANISTA when she was on the road touring with her husband (his name is Charles Kelley and he’s in this little country band you may have heard of, Lady Antebellum). OK little was an exaggeration. She was logging a lot of hours hanging in a backstage dressing room and wanted a way to connect with other women and share the things in life that we all love (like fashion, makeup tips, romantic date night spots, and great friendships!) As the site grew, she realized that Womanista could offer so much more than simply her singular perspective – women from all over the world could connect there and share their own thoughts, ideas, fashion finds, beauty tricks, and messages of empowerment. Womanista is now a place where people can all come together and explore what it is that makes us all unique, beautiful, strong, and special. Womanista is also home to an incredible group of bloggers and contributors who share Cassie's passion and vision for the site.

I encourage you to follow both of Cassie's Instagram pages and checkout her Womanista site. It is amazing!

Visit WOMANISTA

Womanista on Facebook

MARY SENG

@happilygrey

Mary started "Happily Grey" simply as a hobby. She says she knew nothing regarding blogging, but the idea intrigued her as she found herself investing countless hours mulling through other fashion blogs. The idea of having a creative outlet fueled by a passion seemed exciting, appealing, and challenging. Happily Grey has given her….joy, visibility, wonder, vulnerability, creativity, and eagerness.

Mary's style is unplanned, and is generally a reflection of her mood. She is unsure she actually has a concrete approach to her blog other than just following her intuition day to day. She thinks style encompasses more than just the clothes you see. The way one walks, talks, stands, and most importantly, the confidence all create style. She says she is no fashion expert and she's learning and evolving more everyday as Happily Grey grows in its own way. Creating unique,original content in an untainted light has never felt more essential.

I am going to have to disagree with Mary that she is no fashion expert! If you have never seen her Instagram page, I think you will agree. She is the epitome of style and grace. @JohnHillin and @KelseyCherry capture a lot of Mary's photos who you also should be following. Seriously beautiful photography!

Visit Happily Grey

Happily Grey on Facebook

ASHLEY HOUSTON

@nashvillewifestyles

Ashley is originally from East Tennessee where she studied journalism and advertising at ETSU. She's always been in love with writing, and she's been writing stories since she was a child. One of her bucket list goals is to publish a book. Ashley decided to turn her love for writing, fashion, and beauty into a lifestyle blog, "Nashville Wifestyles". She also recently started a YouTube channel where she give weekly reviews and makeup tutorials.

Outside of blogging, Ashley is a mother to a 4 year old little girl with another girl on the way. Her husband, Matt, just started a start up company called "Beachy" within the year so he's traveling often leaving her to run the household. As you can tell, she keeps herself very busy.

Visit Nashville Wifestyles

Nashville Wifestyles on Facebook

DEVIN WILLIAMS

@photographybyDW

Devin Williams is a pro when it comes to capturing photos of our beautiful city. I don't think I have ever seen one of his Nashville photos that I didn't absolutely love. I see the Nashville skyline nearly every day of my life, but for some reason, every time I see the peak of the AT&T building, better known to most as the "Batman building", I still get excited. It symbolizes something to me. It symbolizes home. I think when you see the photos on his Instagram page, you will agree Devin's photography symbolizes home, as well.

For more info on Devin, I also featured him on my "Local Artist Spotlight" section.

Visit Devin Online

Devin on Facebook

ABBY DEMMER

@thenashvilleguide

Abby Demmer grew up in Waupaca, Wisconsin – a true Midwestern at heart. Shortly after college she made the big move to Nashville, Tennessee for a job in corporate America working as a graphic designer. With not knowing a single person in Nashville you would think the transition would be hard in a new city but it was surprisingly easy because of how nice and welcoming everyone was in Nashville. She quickly was proud to call Nashville home.

With Nashville becoming one of the top cities to visit, Abby constantly had out-of-town friends asking for her top Nashville recommendations when they were visiting. She found that they didn’t want the typical over-advertised places flooded with tourists – they wanted to hang where the locals did. After repeating her list over-and-over to visiting friends she decided to create a simple and easy resource via Instagram and that’s where the The Nashville Guide (@TheNashvilleGuide) was born. Early on as she searched for photos of local restaurants and businesses to feature, she was blown away by all the amazingly talented small local businesses Nashville had to offer. From local artisans and makers to little ‘Ma and Pa’ restaurants to small businesses owners. She wanted to help shine some light on all their hard work and amazing talents…and most importantly bring them business.

Abby and I are a lot alike in the reasoning behind creating our pages, but hers is extraordinary. The Nashville Guide has some exciting news being announced in the next couple weeks so be sure to follow her on Instagram so you don't miss it!! I am SO excited for her!!

CORTNEY EDMONDSON

@edmon_co @Thursday_Thrive

Raised in Mt. Juliet, TN, this Nashville Native, Cortney, has a huge heart for helping others. In April 2015, Cortney launched #365DaysofCortney on Instagram, a #positivevibesonly campaign. For 365 days, she posted only positive and inspirational posts in order to be a steady light of positivity for everyone who follows her. In the fall of 2015, she left her career as a CPA at a major accounting firm to pursue her dream of public speaking. Cortney is passionate about story telling because sharing her story has liberated her from her past of shame and inspired thousands of others to do the same.

On April 30, 2016, she launched edmonco.co, her blog and public speaking business. On the same day, her birthday, she launched Thursday Thrive, a platform for other people to share their stories of overcoming adversity. ThursdayThrive.com is a web video series that features a new person's story bi-weekly on Thursdays. Each individual's story and topic is different but identifies the blessings, lessons and transformations that only adversity can provide. Her mission is to share stories of hope and to connect communities of people who are facing similar life challenges.

Visit Thursday Thrive

Visit Edmon.co

Cortney on Facebook

If you have a story you would like to share with Courtney please email her at : Cortney@edmonco.co

ALEXIS TEICHMILLER

@alexisteichmiller

Alexis Teichmiller is passionate about creativity, inspiring others, and digital marketing. She has a lifestyle blog (alexisteichmiller.com) and is also the co-founder of Creative Souls (www.creativesoulstribe.com), a community for female creatives with a mission of encouraging and equipping women to go after their dreams. Alexis is launching a podcast called The Laptop Lifestyle on August 9th, which is a podcast for the virtual entrepreneur to find inspiration and community. She spends her days helping bloggers grow their email lists at ConvertKit (convertkit.com). Traveling, bargain shopping, and eating delicious Nashville food keeps Alexis energized and ready to face each goal that lies before her!

Visit Alexis's Blog

Alexis on Facebook

HELENE SULA

@heleneinbetween

Helene is a 28 year old BLOG BOSS, married to her high school sweetheart. Together, they have two dog children — Hugo, a Doberman, and Millie, an English Springer Spaniel. Music and travel are two of her biggest passions. She says she simply can't sit still. If you’ve read her blog, you know she loves a nice glass of wine, musicals, a little celebrity gossip and reality TV. She believes dancing is quite possibly the greatest thing you can do for yourself . She is originally from Dallas but currently living in Nashville, but not for long! She just recently announced she is about to move overseas! So technically she will only be a Nashvillian until the end of July, but I still think you should follow her page. It's beautiful.

If any of you are thinking of starting a blog, I recommend you reaching out to her. She has turned blogging into her full time job and now offers courses. They teach you how you too can do the same, easily, without the stress or hassle she went through. I clearly should have found her page sooner, because I will be the first to tell you, blogging is HARD WORK!

Visit Helene in Between

Helen on Facebook

LAURA LEA GOLDBERG

@lauraleabalanced

Laura is a Certified Holistic Chef, recipe developer and writer and currently in contract with Spring House Press, writing a cookbook which should come out next Spring. She teaches cooking classes out of her home as her primary business, and has a bimonthly cooking segment on Nashville's Channel 4. Her goal is to offer healthier versions of Southern classics and introduce new ideas about food, so that we can have our caramel cake and eat it too. On her website, you will find affordable, comforting, often make-ahead meals that are packed with nutrients and flavor. Her hope is that my recipes will impact every aspect of your health, from weight goals to managing allergies to improving your relationships. Better yet if they inspire you to get out there and start creating some delicious, satisfying real-food dishes of your own!

Laura's family goes back in Nashville for generations, and her ancestors founded several institutions that still exist today. "This city is in my blood, and I knew I needed to start with this community in sharing my food." says Laura.

Her Instagram page is filled with the most beautiful food and is guaranteed to make you hungry and want to put a little more time into the presentation of your own food.

Visit LLBalanced.com

LL Balanced on Facebook

CHAD VANCE

@nashvilletn @franklintn

Chad Vance was born and raised in Nashville Tennessee and is the face behind what I find to be one of the best "Nashville" Instagram pages . He started the NashvilleTN Instagram account about 4 years ago because he is so proud to be a Nashville native :) The Instagram account is used to promote our beautiful city as well as our local community. Chad believes Nashville is unlike any other city in America. Due to our cities uniqueness, he was inspired to create the website (www.Shop615.com) in order to help support local artisans and makers. Shop615.com is Nashville's own 'Etsy' like website that now supports more than 110 local shops. Nashville's close niche community is one of the many reasons he is PROUD to call Nashville his home!

Visit Shop615

PHILLIP FRYMAN

@southernfatty

Professionally, Phillip is a Research Biologist working in cancer research at a local University. Personally, he enjoys piano/music, photography, traveling, ice hockey (GO PREDS!), coffee.. coffee.. coffee. He can vividly remember growing up wanting to be a Chef when he was ‘older'. Having then thought that would certainly be an eternity away, he would have tons of time to plan it out perfectly. Phillip would create a restaurant. He spent countless hours creating blueprints, menus, franchisee agreements (seriously). His featured item began as the World’s Most Amazing Hotdog. A hotdog with shattered Lay’s potato chips on top. As his palate changed, and his business sense slightly improved, that idea warped into some interesting crêpe-based confections that he was certain would change people’s lives instantly. He was learning French in school so naturally, he felt it was the perfect plan. He would open a lovely restaurant that served the most amazing crêpes and hot dogs with potato chips ON them instead of beside like some sort of boring page-turner for the featured pianist. That’ll do it!…

The reality of this plan slowly started to emerge. Phillip made a plan B of Medicine/Science and ended up sticking with that. In the end, though, he has always held onto the love of food and how it brings people together. The sincereness that a chef puts into preparing a meal or confection, those whom join together to share it, the moments of failure and success. It all ends up being worth it in the end. Seeing those around you as happy as a Peep on Easter, laughing and enjoying the company that the food and the Chef (that’s you!) have facilitated. There just isn’t anything better!, says Phillip.

Philip is a chef and food photographer. He recently started a food photography business and his work and or recipes has been featured everywhere your heart can imagine. Seriously, you should check out the long list here . I am very envious of his cooking skills, but secondly the lovely ways in which he captures the beauty of the food. Can you guys tell I REALLY love food? Wait until you guys see his Instagram page and his website features many amazing recipes.

Visit Southern Fatty

Southern Fatty on Facebook

BETSY APPLETON

@goldwilldigger

Betsy is a 20 some year old navigating the waters of adulthood with champagne taste on a beer budget. She began Shopping at thrift stores before she could walk. As a child, she headed straight to book section grabbed a “chapter” book (Babysitter’s Club or Goosebumps), hid between the racks of clothes, and read for hours. As Betsy got older and tall enough to reach the racks, she started digging…for hours. Living in a small town without a mall, she didn’t have access to the “cool” brands like Gap, American Eagle, and Abercrombie & Fitch. When she found a shirt from one of these mall stores (at a fraction of the retail cost), she was THRILLED. Fast forward a few years (or fifteen), recently rediscovered her love for thrift stores, specifically Goodwill, in large part thanks to her Mom. She kept finding designer brands at her local Goodwill store, and it inspired Betsy to start digging for herself. Fashion blogs have always been her vice, but often found her bank account didn’t agree with her fashion blog taste . She decided to start Goldwill Digger to show others all of the treasures found at your local Goodwill and how to incorporate these pieces into your everyday wardrobe. One of Betsy's favorite quotes is “style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn.” – Orson Wells

Visit Goodwill Digger

Goldwill Digger on Facebook

1767 DESIGNS

@1767designs

Ok, so this is one person, but it is one AMAZING group. There is no way I could leave them off my list. When you see their page and what they can do, you will see why. 1767 is a group of creatives based in Nashville, TN, made up of Patrick Hayes, Trenton Wheeler, Robby Day, Jenny Hayes, and John Watson. They are passionate about designing and creating quality handmade goods rich with history for modern homes. While their roots lie in reclaiming wood from Nashville’s urban decay, their sights are firmly set on a hopeful future.

With Southwestern-inspired patterns and art deco influence throughout, 1767 aims to bring their favorite parts of American design to classic tables, sturdy wall art and custom accents that fit seamlessly into the home. All of the wood that they use for these pieces is sourced from homes that were recently torn down in the Nashville area. Their pieces not only help to save centuries-old wood from an undeserved and wasted fate, they each come with their own stories to tell.

Visit 1767 Designs

1767 Designs

KATIE WHELLEY

@rarebirdrevival

Katie is a Baltimore transplant living in Nashville, TN; pretending to be a rock star on and off stage. When she's not managing a dozen or so hectic construction sites in the city, or singing in her band at Tootsies, you’ll find her on a quest to help people find their inner renegade! She is a young professional and health and fitness advocate. Katie also says she's a DIYer with a 75 percent success rate, she's an adventurous cook and an even more adventurous drinker. She takes care of her one-eyed rescue dog (aptly named Leroy Jethro Gibbs), sees her friends regularly, and drinks wine perhaps more regularly than she sees her friends.

From her "about me" you can tell this girl has quite the personality, but what you will be able to tell when you look at her Instagram page, she has a lot of heart. She will motivate and encourage you for sure.

Visit Rarebird Revival

KALAHN HARMON

@facesbykalahn

Kalahn has over 10 years of experience in Makeup Artistry. When she obtained her Aesthetics license and began her career as an Aesthetician, she quickly became an Eyebrow Arching Expert. Her passion for skin care and makeup makes her job an enjoyable experience each day. She believes that investing in our skin is an investment that lasts a lifetime. From all types of Facials, Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion, Laser Treatments to Waxing services, she takes pride in each treatment she performs. If you are looking for any of these services, I also encourage you to go see her.

On her Instagram page you will find many skincare tips, product recommendations and encouraging, empowering quotes. She truly makes me want to have better skin! For more info on Kalahn I also featured her on my "Local Artist Spotlight" section.

Visit Faces by Kalahn on Facebook

AMBER FORD

@nativeinnashville

Oh hey, that's me! Technically I am not one of the seventeen people I mentioned in the title, but I think you should give me a chance. I am Amber Ford, and like Abby from the Nashville Guide, started blogging for the same reasons. I wanted to shine light on all things amazing about Nashville. I was born and raised here, and I don't think I could ever call anywhere else home. NO matter what, this is the place that my soul loves. As you all know, I don't blog about just one thing, I blog about whatever my mood is feeling like, which is the beauty of it. I tried out fashion blogging for about two weeks, and I honestly don't know how people do it, so major props to them! You all have no idea how much work each of these people I spoke of above put in, just to share things with you all. I spend countless hours, outside of my full-time job, and packaging up my shirts, trying to maintain a relationship, and spending time with my family on this. I actually set my alarm for two hours earlier than I had to wake up this morning just to finish this one. I reached 50K views on my page as of yesterday, and I truly appreciate each and every one of you for reading my blog! If just one person takes something from it, my work here is done. Thank you all for your support of Native in Nashville so far! I love you guys!

Native in Nashville on Facebook

When Your Vision Turns Into a Reality...

May 05, 2016 by Amber Ford in Nashville, Nashville t-shirt, Native in Nashville T-shirts, Native in Nashville

About two and a half months ago, when I created this whole "Native in Nashville" thing, I had NO idea what I was getting myself into. I had no idea how hard bloggers work on getting these informative things done. I had no idea how many hours I would spend researching places making sure I didn't dare to write incorrect information for the whole world to see. I had no idea how many connections I would make through this or about any of the events I have had the opportunity to attend, solely because of my blog. I especially had NO idea how many people I would reach by it. It has been the most rewarding thing I have ever done for myself. No, I don't get paid for this, and that's ok. That is not at all what I mean by rewarding. I have never been the type to really have any hobbies. When people have asked me in the past, I almost feel stupid because nothing has ever really interested me enough to give a straight answer. However, if you ask me now, I will definitely tell you blogging is it. I love connecting with people and this gives me multiple ways to do that. It gives me a platform to literally talk about anything I want to talk about and the beauty of it is that no one is being forced to read it. Gotta love being an adult. I genuinely want to thank everyone who, in fact, does read it. It means the world to me when I start to tell someone something, and their first reply is "I read about that in your blog" I literally LOVE you guys!! When I say it's rewarding for me, I mean that I take pride my posts. I've never had a lot that I have been super proud of. This is definitely it.

Speaking of proud, that brings me to my next subject. Since the first day I created Native in Nashville as my blog name, after about six hours of trying to come up with a name that wasn't already taken, I had a vision for all of this. When I created my logo I envisioned seeing it on tee-shirts, hats, etc. I know that I personally have always loved anything that has "Nashville" written anywhere on it, so I thought to myself, this would look really cool on a shirt. I never dreamed that when I thought those thoughts that I would actually have enough people that supported me to even think twice about it. Fast forward about two months later and I started getting requests from people, a lot of people, saying "you should make shirts with your logo on them". I had another friend, Erica, reach out around the same time period asking if I cared if she made me a shirt with my logo on it. She made me one and I loved it. I wore it to the Nashville Sounds game and posted about it. When I posted a picture in it I had twelve people order a shirt from me, when they knew the shirts weren't even made yet. I even had two people order from out of state. I am humbled beyond belief. That day when I went to the Sounds game, I thought to myself how amazing it would be if I was at a game one day in the future, or anywhere for that matter, and looked around to see even one other person wearing something I created on a shirt....five people... ten. I would be over the moon ecstatic.

Today I picked up thirty shirts with my logo on them. It was a surreal feeling. Ever since I was young I have always been a big fan of t-shirts. Wearing them, buying them, or thinking of ideas for them. I think my favorite part of high school was making shirts for pep rallies (those were the days). Anyways, I never really had a reason to make them, and now I do. I think they are the perfect way to show your love for Nashville and pride in living in such an amazing city. Don't be surprised when you see me wearing one everyday. Nothing wrong with a little shameless self promotion, plus they are SUPER comfy! I'm so proud to call Nashville HOME. I'm also proud of myself, that is a rare thing. I genuinely appreciate everyone who supports me and my blog!

If you are interested in purchasing a "Native in Nashville" shirt you can click here http://www.nativeinnashville.com/represent-nashville/ or choose the "Represent Nashville" tab from the dropdown above. I have put in a lot of time and dedication on these shirts to make sure to provide a good quality and comfortable shirt for everyone. I have definitely experienced a lot of trial and error through the process, but I couldn't be happier with the result. If you have any questions, please email me at nativeinnashville@gmail.com. As always, thank you for reading.

11 Margaritas in Nashville You Have to Try

April 30, 2016 by Amber Ford in Tequila, AVO, Mexican Restaurants Nashville, Cinco De Mayo, Saint Anejo, cantina Laredo, margarita Monday, Dining, Nashville, Best margaritas Nashville, ROSEPEPPER CANTINA, Foodie, Eat Nashville

If you are looking to have the perfect Margarita Monday in Nashville any week or the best Cinco de Mayo Margs, here are some the best!! Please enjoy some for this pregnant girl while you're at it!!

AVO

3001 Charlotte Avenue #200

MIDTOWN

Most popular margarita: The Avacado

ROSEPEPPER CANTINA

1907 Eastland Avenue

EAST NASHVILLE

Most popular margarita: Presidente Margarita

SAINT ANEJO

1120 McGavock Street

THE GULCH

Most popular margarita: House margarita & the Jalapeño pineapple cilantro

BAKERSFIELD

201 3rd Avenue South

DOWNTOWN

Most popular margarita: Bakersfield Margarita

LITTLE DONKEY

1120 4th Avenue North Unit 103

GERMANTOWN

Most popular margarita: Tequila Mockingbird

BAR TACO

2526 12th AVENUE SOUTH

TWELVE SOUTH

Most popular margarita: The Classic Bar Taco Margarita

TACO MAMACITA

1200 Villa Place

EDGEHILL

Most popular margarita: The "Elvez" Classic Margarita

CANTINA LAREDO

592 12th Avenue South

THE GULCH

Most popular margarita: The Cabo Flip

CHUY'S

1901 Broadway

MIDTOWN

Most Popular Margarita : Chuy's Brew

*other Middle Tennessee locations include Murfreesboro, Franklin, and Opry Mills

LOCAL TACO

4501 Murphy Road

SYLVAN PARK

Most popular margarita: Sauva Gold House Margarita

*They also have a Brentwood location

THE SUTLER

2600 Franklin Pike Unit 109

MELROSE/BERRY HILL

Most popular margarita: Amarillo By Morning

Lady in Red...& Leather & Denim

April 17, 2016 by Amber Ford in Nashville Fashion Scene, Fashion Blog, Clothing, Leather, Rock n Roll style, Grunge, Favorite outfits, Local, Fashion, Lifestyle Blog, Nashville, Shop Nashville, Nashville style, Hillsboro Village, shop Revv, Outfit idea, Revv, shop local

There is nothing I love more than having a staple in my wardrobe that goes with just about anything or pull any outfit together. A leather jacket has always been my go to clothing item, and when I go out, I'm almost always wearing one. I don't have a particular "style" of clothing. I wear whatever makes me feel good. This outfit in particular makes me not only feel good, but also like a badass!

This outfit is from Revv in Hillsboro Village. Revv is a trendy boutique where women's grunge fashion and classic style collide. Step inside or checkout their Instagram @shopRevv or website www.shoprevv.com and you will see what I mean! I also posted some of my favorite items they have below!!

First thing's first, let's talk about this studded leather jacket, "The Rambler". It's AMAZING! It has become quite a hot commodity since country superstar, Kelsea Ballerini, has been pictured wearing it on more than one occasion.

Kelsea Ballerini moments before the ACM awards

This Rambler jacket is a rock-n-roll dream, if you ask me! It's the perfect vegan leather motorcycle jacket which features zip closures at the front opening and pockets, with a belted waist. Did I mention, it's dripping in studs? Checkout the detail on it.

I would rock just about anything with this jacket, but this time I went with a sleeveless shirt, the "Ellie Top", in the most vibrant and pretty shade of red. It would be perfect to wear with a long necklace without the jacket as well. It's flowy and the sides have slits that show just the right amount of skin. The back of it has small section of it cut out with a gold zipper. Love!!

The jeans Im wearing are the "Mya-Delray" made by Articles of Society. They are very comfortable and a jean you would get a lot of wear out of, not to mention very affordable-only $69! I love the wash of them too! So cute!

I paired this outfit with one of my favorite pairs of black fringe booties & they have a great shoe collection at Revv! I seriously hope fringe never goes out of style, I'll be in trouble.

Favorite Items at Revv Currently

Now do y'all see why I love this boutique? Revv is located at 1815 21st Avenue South. They also have a sister store "The Rage" and you can check them out at www.shoptherage.com or on IG at @therageboutique. You can follow me on Instagram at @nativeinnashville. Thanks so much for reading!!

Styled// Ally Barrett (Revv) @a.barrettstyling on Instagram

Makeup// Jessica Vaughn (Primp This) @primpthis on Instagram

Photos of myself// Jennifer Cody @jennifercodyweddings on Instagram

12 Best Food Trucks: NASHVILLE

April 02, 2016 by Amber Ford in Native in Nashville, Nashville, Where to eat, Nashville Food Scene, Favorites, Food trucks, Local, Lifestyle Blog, Foodie, Tips from a native, Nashville Blog

It all started with the ice cream man when I was a kid, and I've been hooked on food on wheels ever since! Luckily, I live in Nashville, where food trucks are taking over, and man oh man, are they delicious! I have teamed up with Virago's Executive Chef , Andrew Whitney, to bring you all a list of the 12 best food trucks in Nashville and his recommendations of what to get when you go!

Yayo's OMG !

Yayo's OMG! is mobile food truck run by Chef Yayo Jiménez, serving original Mexican gourmet food ! Their mission is to provide customers with the highest quality local ingredients & authentic Mexican flavor in every dish for a truly delicious experience!

What to order: Shrimp meximelt or Legend Tacos

Website: http://www.yayosomg.com/

Four and Twenty Blackbirds

Four & Twenty Blackbirds offers globally inspired comfort foods. From grilled cheese to Poutine, hand cut fries, delicious seasonal salads and classic sandwiches with a gourmet twist.

What to order: Poutine

Website not available. Follow them on Instagram @blackbirdfoodtruck

Hoss' Loaded Burgers

Hoss' Loaded Burgers is a gourmet burger food truck serving 100% grass-fed, local beef burgers stuffed with cheeses and topped with vegetables and homemade sauces. They also offer a vegan variation of every single burger on the menu.

What to order: The Jaw Dropper

Website: http://www.hossburgers.com/Welcome.html

Smoke Et Al

Smoke Et Al was voted one of the "15 Best Food Trucks in America". Chefs Shane Autrey and Steve Ford specialize in all things smoked, even the vegetables. They also have homemade dressings to serve with their salads.

What to order: Hot ribs. Wings.
Fried pickled okra with Alabama white sauce.

Website: http://www.smokeetal.com/

The Grilled Cheeserie

The Grilled Cheeserie Food Trucks, and soon to be Gourmet Melt Shop provides all different variations of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches made with seasonally-inspired and local ingredients.

What to order: The B&B of Tennessee. Pimento mac and chee melt. The melt of the moment is always spot on and any of the desserts.

Website: http://www.thegrilledcheeserietruck.com/about/

Crepe A Diem

Crepe A Diem is a unique food truck serving French street food. Everything is made to order, from scratch, using quality local ingredients. Featuring both sweet and savory traditional crépes, sandwiches, and more! Be on the lookout for their bright red truck!

What to order: Hash browns. Lemon sugar crepe. The roast beef Baguette.

Website: http://www.crepeadiem.com/

Bao Down

Bao Down offers handcrafted local Chinese street food. They serve grass-fed, all natural meat and free range poultry, provided by Walnut Hills Farm in Bethpage, TN. Bao is a steamed bun that can have many fillings, savory or sweet.

What to order: Char siu Bao or Shu Mai

Website: http://www.baodownnashville.com/

Retro Sno

Nashville’s original shaved ice food truck. Retro Sno has brought back the snow cone with creativity. They mix all of their syrups by hand, using premium pure cane sugar. Their handcrafted syrups are poured over the fluffiest shaved ice and finished with fresh toppings or stuffed with all-natural ice cream!

What to order: Orange dreamsicle, raspberry wedding cake, and Rainbow.

Website: http://www.retrosnotruck.com/

Bare Naked Bagel

Bare Naked Bagel offers fresh New York Style bagels and bagel sandwiches made from local unprocessed ingredients.

What to order: The everything bagel turkey sandwich

Website: http://www.barenakedbagel.com/

Deg Thai

Deg Thai strives to provide the highest quality Thai-fusion meals in Nashville. It's Thai food with a twist!

What to order: Massaman curry, Thai tea, and
Spring rolls.

Website: http://m.degthai.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.degthai.com%2F&dm_redirected=true#2888

Bradley's Curbside Creamery

Look for Bradley's Curbside Creamery's pretty blue truck for some simple and delicious, slow-churned ice cream, a shake, or a float!

What to order: The White Trash Float

Website: http://bradleyscreamery.com/

Rolling Feast

Rolling Feast offers Southwestern-American food by Chef Tom Mead. They use all fresh, local ingredients and even bake their own sandwich buns from scratch, right on the truck. Be on the lookout for their bright red truck!

What to order: Sonoran Dog

Website: http://therollingfeast.com/

Executive Chef, Andrew Whitney PC:@ViragoNashville Instagram

If anyone around here knows about flavor and taste, it's Andrew Whitney. He has been named one of Nashville's top chefs. Andrew has accomplished his career goals by receiving his Chef’s training at the Le Cordon Bleu in Atlanta, Georgia. He, previously, was the Executive Chef for another local Nashville food truck turned Brick and Mortar, Riff’s Fine Street Food. He is now the Executive Chef of the award winning Asian fusion restaurant, Virago. His newest menu contributions are heavily influenced by the season, created with respect for regional traditions, as well as the Asian culture.

You can't go wrong ordering any of these items Andrew suggested from any of the food trucks on the list. I can assure you, all of these are worth hunting down. Most of them cater, as well. To find out where each of these food trucks may be each day, I recommend that you follow them on Instagram or check out their websites. You can also checkout Roaming Hunger's website for an interactive map or Nashville Food Truck Association.

http://roaminghunger.com/bna/

http://foodtrucksnash.org/

I really appreciate Andrew teaming up with me on this one, and your taste buds will too! I hope you all enjoy, and thanks, as always, for reading about my most favorite topic- FOOD!

XOXO- Amber

Instagram: @NativeInNashville

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NativeInNashville/

Twitter: @NativeInNash

EMBRACE THE SHAKE at Studio Novo

March 29, 2016 by Amber Ford in Nashville, Native in Nashville, Fitness, Lagree Method, Megaformer, Lifestyle Blog, Studio Novo, Strength, Body, Workout

I think I've told you all before, my life is a constant struggle of eating and trying to lose weight. My body loves me I'm sure (completely sarcastic). I'm the kind of person who does 100 crunches, and feels like I should have a six-pack. In other words, I'm not very athletic. One of my best friends, Brianna, had been telling me, not to mention raving, about a fitness class at Studio Novo. By the way she talked about it, I was honestly intimidated to try this class. I'm out of shape and get out of breath just from walking up my steps (embarrassing I know). I have seen the transformation her body has made since she started taking and teaching this class, so naturally I became more interested. Studio Novo was hosting an event at Lululemon and had one of their machines, the Megaformer, there to try. She invited me to come and I'm so happy I did. I tried about five of the exercises and realized it's not as scary as I thought. Even the name "Megaformer" was scary to me before I actually tried it. I've now taken 2 classes at the studio and it's definitely rewarding, not to mention a lot of fun! I know fear of the unknown is a good excuse not to try something, so I want to tell you about my experience as a first timer taking this class. These pictures were taken after we completed both classes, and as you can see, there is still a smile on my face.

What you need to know.

Your first class is FREE!! You can sign up at: http://www.novonashville.com/#welcome
Bring a bottle of water, your ID & socks with grip on the bottom or you could always go barefoot. Socks can be purchased there for $12
Wear yoga pants and a tank top (nothing too loose)
Arrive 15 minutes early
Your body will SHAKE with just about every move

About Studio Novo

Studio Novo is owned by Anna and Santi Tefel and they have two convenient locations, Cool Springs and West Meade. They are the only two locations in Tennessee that even teach the Lagree Method. Classes are small, so the instructors can really focus on making sure each person understands as well as making sure their form is correct during each move. They offer classes as early as 6AM and as late as 6:45PM.

What is the Lagree Method?

The Lagree Fitness training method is taught on an exclusive technology developed by fitness visionary, Sebastien Lagree. Physical fitness is more than being able to run a long distance or lift heavy weights at the gym; or how long you worked out or at what intensity… While these are important measures of fitness, they only address single areas. Physical fitness is made up of five basic elements: Cardio, Strength, Endurance, Body Composition, and Flexibility. It also focuses on core strength and balance, as well as mental health. Where many workouts and exercise regimens work to integrate as many of these elements as possible, Lagree Fitness meets all the elements to physical fitness; not just in one session but in every single move.

Some celebrities who take the Lagree Method are Jennifer Aniston, Kim Kardashian, Sofia Vergara, Michelle Obama, Elizabeth Hurley, Rebecca Romijn, Nicole Kidman, Ali Larter, and Hayden Panettiere. Can we say BODY GOALS!? Sofia Vergara believes so highly in the method, she has the Megaformer in her house.

What is the "Megaformer" ?

The Megaformer uses springs and cables to create resistance and counter-resistance for a workout that keeps your heart rate up, while toning and stretching muscles. At first glance it looks similar to a torture device, because it has straps, springs, and pulleys, but I promise it's not scary at all! The best part about this machine to me, is that in just 50 minutes on it, you get a high-intensity full-body workout with no impact on your joints or spine. I'm not going to tell you it's easy, it's a hard workout, but you will see results quickly and the 50 minutes will fly by!

This class is great for both men and women! I actually took my big strong man, who takes crossfit classes everyday, and he absolutely loved it. Beforehand, knowing how much he lifts, I wasn't sure it would be a struggle for him, but it definitely worked muscles I don't even think he knew he had. He was sweating and shaking throughout the entire class. He actually just told me he is ready to go back. It's fun, it's free to try, it will make you feel great, and bathing suit weather is right around the corner!! What are you waiting for? Thanks, as always, for reading! XOXO- Amber

For more information on Studio Novo or to book your first class---> http://www.novonashville.com/#welcome you can also visit my Instagram page @NativeInNashville to watch me trying some moves for my first time on the Megaformer !!

Locations

West Meade
99 White Bridge Rd.
Nashville, TN 37205

(615) 679-9962

Cool Springs
9040 Carothers Pkwy #103
Franklin, TN 37067

(615) 236-9167

#BallSoHard: 13 Best Sports Bars in Nashville

March 22, 2016 by Amber Ford in Downtown, Food blog, Made in Nashville, Food, Bushwackers, Favorites, Where to eat, Midtown, Happy hour, Nashville lifestyle blog, Drink specials, Bars, Football, Where to go, Nashville, Nashville Blog, Sports, Nachos, Wings, West end, Native in Nashville, Sports bars, March madness, NCAA, Local

Welcome back FOOTBALL SEASON!! I put together a list of the best sports bars in Nashville for y'all !! I have included their happy hour information, as well as what menu items they are known for (helpful if you are indecisive like me). Nashville has an incredible selection of places to get your friends together and grab a cold one, a wide variety of mouth-watering food, and an abundance of tv's to watch your favorite team play!

Neighbors

Neighbors, located in Sylvan Park, was the 2015 winner of "Best Neighborhood Bar" in Nashville by the Nashville Scene.

Specialty: Smoked Wings

Happy Hour: Daily 11-7pm

$1 off all draft beers and well drinks

Tuesdays: all day 2-for-1 drafts

Sam's Sports Bar/Sam's Place

Sam's Sports Grill has four great locations in Temnessee to choose from, including Belle Meade, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, and Blue Turtle Bay Marina.

Specialty: Pizza and wings. They offer a very diverse menu and you will be happy to know it's all made from scratch!

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 3-7pm

$3 off wine by the glass & $1 off all beer

Happy Hours vary by location.

M.L. Rose

M.L. Rose has two locations, one on Franklin Pike & one on Charlotte Pike. Both offer spacious patios. Even the patios have tv's so you won't miss the game!

Specialty: Their wide selection of craft beers & the "Nashvegas" Burger. Their sweet potato waffle fries are a big hit too.

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 3-6pm

$1 off appetizers, liquor, wine and beer(high gravity excluded)

Thursdays: 3-close 2-4-1 beer and from 3-10 double tall well drinks

Saturday-Sunday: $3 Gerst by Yazoo

Corner Pub

Corner Pub offers 5 locations: Midtown, Brentwood, Bellvue, Mount Juliet, and Franklin. There is also a seperate location in Green Hills !! :)

Specialty: Burgers & Hot Chicken Chunks

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 3-7pm

$1 off drafts, half price well drinks and wine, and $5 Bushwackers

Saturday-Sunday: $5 Bloody Mary's

Sunday: Happy Hour all day until 10pm.

** happy hour specials are for the Midtown location

South

South is located on Demonbreun and their extra big screen TV makes for a fun game watching experience.

Specialty: "The Nashville" chicken wrap, wings & the South Burger.

Happy Hour: Monday-Thursday 4-9pm

$3 domestic bottles & $4 wine

Sundays: Bottomless mimosas and Bloody Mary's for $15

Harp & Fiddle

Harp & Fiddle is also located on Demonbreun. They have a large tv on display outside the building, which can make for a very fun patio experience during a big game.

Specialty: Fish & Chips and Shepard's Pie

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 4-7pm

$4 drafts & well drinks + $1 off all bottled beer and $5 select house wine

Crows Nest

Crows Nest is located in Green Hills. With 38 tv's, 2 floors, 2 bars, and 3 patios I would say they are up on their sports bar game.

Specialty: Cali Club Sandwich and Parmasan Spinach Risotto

Happy Hour: Monday open-close & Tuesday-Friday 2-6pm

1/2 off domestic draft & bottles, 1/2 off house liquor, $2 off all glasses of wine, $2 off all premium liquor, and $2 off all appetizers

Double Dogs

Double Dogs is located in Hillsboro Village and their 35 tv's will ensure you have a great view to see your favorite team play.

Specialty: Buffalo Mac n Cheese, Bo's Dog Bowl Nachos, Wings with homemade sauce, and the Bo Burger with their specialty sauce

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 3-7pm

Well liquor $3.25 and domestic bottles $2.50 with additional weekly specials below

Wednesday: $3 house wine from 3-7m

Saturday-Sunday: $3 Bloody Mary's and Mimosas from 11-3pm

Jonathan's

Jonathan's Grill has five locations: Green Hills, Cool Springs, Mt. Juliet, Spring Hill, and Bellvue. It was named by CNN as one of the "Top 101 Sports Bars in America".

Specialty: Pizza and wings

Happy Hour: Monday-Saturday 3-7 2-for-1 on all bottled and draft beer, double pour on house wine, and single liquor drinks. Some appetizers are 1/2 price. 2-for-1 beer again after 10pm as well as pizza specials

Saturday-Sunday: $4 Mimosas and Bloody Mary's

Sunday: 1/2 off select bottles of wine and 2-for-1 beer all day

Dawg House Saloon

Dawg House Saloon is located on Demonbreun and you can always expect a good crowd.

Specialty: Wings, hot dogs, and sliders

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 11-6pm

2-for-1 drafts and Jack Fire

Thursday- an additional happy hour from 7-midnight

Saturday-Sunday- bucket specials 6 domestic bottles for $15

Smokin' Thighs

Smokin' Thighs is a food truck turned restaurant, located on Wedgewood Avenue, and is known for having Nashville's largest moonshine selection.

Specialty: Thighs in a Pile and the Bacon Mac & Cheese

Happy Hour: Monday-Sunday 10-10pm

2-for-1 tall boy cans and 2-4-1 drafts from 2-8pm

Jed's

Jed's is Nashville's biggest sports bar, located on West End within walking distance to Centennial Park, and they show every major sporting event.

Specialty: The Sonoma Burger, Homerun Nachos, & the wings. Everything is made in house fresh from scratch, even the tortilla chips.

Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 2-6pm

$1 off bottles and drafts and $4 well drinks with additional weekly specials below.

Monday: $5 well drinks

Tuesday: 2-for-1 drafts and bottles all day

Wednesday: $5 Bushwackers

Thursday: $5 Car Bombs

Friday: $5 Fireball Shots

Broadway Brewhouse

Broadway Brewhouse offers five locations: Midtown, Charlotte Pike, Cool Springs, Highway 100, and Downtown.

Specialty: They created the Bushwacker so that is definitely a must and their wings are a local favorite.

Happy Hour: Happy hour times and specials vary by location. (Happy hour specials exclude high gravity)

Grab your friends, and an Uber or Lyft, and take advantage of some of these great happy hour specials. Enjoy some delicious food and enjoy the amazing sports bar atmospheres that any of these places have to offer! Thank y'all for reading as always and please share with your friends. XOXO- Amber

** If you have never used Uber before you can use my code for a free ride up to $15. amberf340

#PatioWeather: 18 of the Best Patios in Nashville

March 11, 2016 by Amber Ford in Native in Nashville, Broadway, Nashville lifestyle blog, Where to eat, Best patios Nashville, Best Patios and Rooftops, Downtown, Local, Nashville, Favorites, The Gulch, East Nashville, 12 South, Where to hang, Things to do, Lifestyle blog

With daylight savings time & warmer, sunnier days ahead, I figured putting together a list of some of the best patios & rooftops in Nashville might be a good idea !! Grab some friends & go enjoy some live music, great food & ice cold drinks in the best city there is to do it in!!

ACME Feed & Seed Rooftop Patio

ACME has some of the best views there are in Nashville!! Located downtown, you are overlooking the Cumberland River, Nissan Stadium and the Pedestrian & Korean Veteran's Blvd bridges and also can see all the way down Broadway. It's the perfect place to pre-game before Titans games or just plain awesome for any sunny day! They also have a live DJ which makes for a fun time!

BarTaco

Bar Taco, located in 12 South, is the newest stylish Mexican spot serving serving classic & creative tacos. Casual atmosphere and great place to go with a group !! Their food is amazing !!

Taco Mamacita

Taco Mamacita's is located in Edgehill Village. Another great Mexican restaurant with inventive tacos and enchiladas! This is also a great place to go with a group! I spent my last birthday there with 25 of my closest friends! Great atmosphere !!

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Rooftop

Tootsie's is one of the oldest and most famous Honky Tonks downtown Nashville has to offer. Located on Broadway, the newest addition to Tootsie's is their rooftop bar with up close views of the "Batman building", Bridgestone Arena and birds eye view of Broadway. It's the perfect place to people watch and listen to some great live music!

Virago Rooftop Patio

Virago has one of my most favorite ambiance's Nashville has to offer. Located in the Gulch you can enjoy some sake,delicious sushi and Nashville's beautiful skyline. The music, atmosphere and view is amazing. What more can you ask for.

Rippy's Rooftop Patio

Another one of Nashville's most popular Honky Tonks on Broadway is Rippy's. You are sure to find a big crowd, live music and amazing BBQ! It's directly across the street from Bridgestone Arena and is a great place to go to pre-game before a Pred's game!

Saint Añejo

Located in the Gulch, Saint Anejo is an upscale Mexican restaurant with a "cantina chic" atmosphere. The outdoor patio is the perfect place to enjoy one of their signature margaritas or some of their delicious queso or freshly made guacamole.

Tavern

Tavern is located in Midtown. It's a sleek gastropub serving retro cocktails, small plates and tacos. I also HIGHLY recommend their s'mores !! Seriously to die for. I actually want some right now!

Rebar

Located in Midtown, Rebar has always been one of my favorite places to go out to in Nashville. It's a very chill atmosphere and always a good time. Make sure to grab a bushwacker, theirs are the best I've had in town.

Blue Moon Waterfront Grille

Blue Moon Waterfront Grille is one of my most favorite places to go in Nashville. It's located on the Cumberland River at Rock Harbor Marina. It's the perfect little escape and they have delicious seafood. Makes you want to listen to some Otis Redding. They will be re-opening in mid-March and I hear may be bringing out some live music right being played right on the water. If you have never been, do yourself a favor & check it out.

San Antonio Taco Co.

San Antonio Taco Co. is located near Vanderbilt. This Tex-Mex style restaurant is known for their homemade tortillas, award winning Chili Con Queso and awesome patio!!

Bar Louie

You can find Bar Louie in the Gulch! They also have a great patio at their Murfreesboro location but the Nashville location is my favorite! It's a great place to "eat, drink and be happy." I love their relaxed atmosphere and location! Parking is easy so that's always a plus!

5th & Taylor

5th and Taylor in historic Germantown has a rustic-industrial modern feel. Their patio is beautiful, especially at night & has more of a neighborhood feel. It's very spacious which is good for anyone who doesn't like to be crowded. I love the Germantown area and this restaurant is amazing !!

M.L. Rose Craft Beer & Burgers

M.L. Rose has two locations one on Franklin Road and the other is off of Charlotte Pike ! They are known for their wide selection of craft beers and have the best burgers! Both offer awesome patios but I think my favorite is going to be the one on Franklin rd. They just expanded it and upgraded it like crazy !! It is going to be such a pretty, fun and chill place to hang out !!

Jackson's

Located in Hillsboro Village, Jackson's patio is another one of my favorite patios to hang out on. It's also great for people watching and don't be surprised if you see Taylor Swift or the entire cast of "Nashville" walking by.

The Treehouse

The Treehouse is a very unique & creative restaurant located in East Nashville. It's a very charming place and somewhat romantic! If you are in the area be sure to check it out.

Pinewood Social

Pinewood Social is located downtown and down by the river. They offer bowling , food, cocktails and their outdoor patio even has a pool and bocce ball! It's a social gathering place that can accommodate just about anyone's needs!

Tennessee Brew Works Taproom

TN Brew Works is a brewery but they also have the Tennessee Taproom which has live music, food and pints, samplers and even growlers of their brews !! Awesome patio and great set up!

I hope you all enjoy and as always thank you for reading !! XOXO- Amber

6 New Ways to Look & Feel Gorgeous at The Hot Spa by Hot Spot Tanning

March 04, 2016 by Amber Ford in Wellness, Things to do, The Hot Spa, Lifestyle blog, Beauty, Nashville, Hot Spot Tanning, health, Personal Experience, Skincare, Relaxation

I bet when you all think of having a "spa day" you would never think having one at a tanning bed, right ? Yeah I wouldn't either, until now. Hot Spot Tanning has always been my go to place if I ever need a last minute spray tan and where I have gone in the past years, when I tanned regularly. Their locations are convenient because just about anywhere I've ever lived (yes, I'm a gypsy) there always seems to be a location nearby. There are several in Murfreesboro(Memorial, Rutherford Blvd, Church Street, Rucker Lane) some in Smyrna (Almaville & Sam Ridley), even a Brentwood( Nolensville Road) and a Nashville( West End) location. With my busy schedule, convenience is key! I was lucky enough to get to try each of the new spa services yesterday & let me tell you, when I left, I felt ahhhh-mazing!

Before I begin telling y'all about my experience with each of the spa services, I want to talk a little about the atmosphere of their location on Memorial Blvd. beside the Murfreesboro Athletic Club or the MAC. This is their Hot Spa location but some of these services are offered at other locations too. When you walk in, other than there being tanning lotion for sale behind the front desk, it doesn't have a tanning bed feeling at all. Most tanning beds I've ever been to have been very bright and almost tropical feeling but this was very soothing. Calming colors and the smell of essential oils were in the air. I felt more relaxed as soon as I walked in the door.

Here comes the fun stuff:

Blue Light Therapy:Acu-Clear

This blue light therapy is Dermatologist recommended for people of any age with current acne breakouts or red spots. It uses medical grade blue LED lights to kill bacteria that causes spots and helps to prevent new breakouts, regulates oil production , calms and relaxes you as well as minimizing any scarring you may have on your face. I don't usually get breakouts too often but I tried this one so I could tell you all what it's like. When you see the mask and put it on it looks like something out of a Black Eyed Peas video. It was really futuristic and almost astronaut helmet feeling, but very lightweight. They place it over your head and you sit in a massaging chair the entire time (20 minutes) , you even get to put your legs up and they get massaged too. Very relaxing to say the least. The room was also very comfortable, smells great and they even offered me a spa robe and shoes. When I think about light therapy of any kind I would almost expect that it would hurt but it was completely painless and when I took the mask off it only made my face feel a little tingley and good. My favorite part was sending my friends snapchats, looking crazy. None of them probably even realize it wasn't one of those crazy snapchat filters until now. This service is $20 a visit.

Lumiere Excel

Anyone who is looking to slow down the aging process, correcting current aging effects such as minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes , evening out pigmentation or someone who wants a painless, non-invasive anti-aging regimen; this is for you. The Lumiere is a twenty minute treatment and again completely painless. You sit in the same massaging chair as in the blue light therapy. You wear goggles and when they initially turn on the red light it's very bright, even with your eyes closed, but don't worry it goes away after about ten seconds so don't let it freak you out. This treatment uses red light LED therapy to restore radiance back into the skin, detoxifies, stimulates collagen synthesis and can even smooth out dry or rough skin. The red light therapy is able to penetrate deeper than just the surface. I really loved this treatment! I somehow have the wrinkles of a 90 year old so I will be back. This service is $20 per visit and they can discuss with you how many you may need.

Kwik Fit

The first thing I will say about this machine is that you stand on it for just 10 minutes and it's the equivalent of doing 30 minutes of cardio. How can you can really beat that? I personally hate doing cardio so I was sold !! It's perfect for anyone who has a very limited amount of time to work out or someone who has physical limitations to workouts at the gym. It has vibrating plates that help with arthritis relief, restoration of balance, strengthening bone, weight management, blood sugar balance, sleep improvement and a healthier heart. You will most likely feel silly on this machine, but you will definitely feel the effects when you get off! This is $10 a visit.

Believe Bed: Red Light Therapy Rejuvination 

The Believe bed is perfect for anyone wanting to add hydration back into the skin, relax muscles or improve scarring and uneven skin tones. This one looks like a tanning bed but it's actually your whole body getting the benefits of the red light therapy. This is more of an over all skin ehancing machine! I have some scars I want to get rid of so that was the most exciting part of this to me. It can fade scars or stretch marks and can reduce spider veins or broken capillaries. This also provides several benefits for people with injuries or pain by reducing inflammation and pain, increasing circulation, restoring range of motion and can speed up the healing of wounds. Only takes 15 minutes and $10 a session.

Cocoon Wellness Pod "The Pod"

I don't know if there are enough good words to say about this one ! I've never experienced anything like it or felt so good as I did when I got out. This would be great for anyone who wants a quick way to relax, relieve pain or muscle tension. This detoxifies the body, alleviates stress, helps with water retention , bloating and even cramps !! It combines heat, massage and magnetic fields to create a SUPER relaxing, healing environment. You put on a sweat suit (this will make you feel like you're in a Missy Elliot music video from the 90's), which is extremely comfortable, then lay in a bed which your body will absolutely melt into. It is almost like being in sauna, without the almost suffocating feel that comes with it because your head remains outside of the heat. Your neck and down will only be inside the cocoon and you are able to adjust the intensity of the massage speed and intensity on both your upper and lower body. There are even little holes that your hands come through if you need to make any adjustments. Being in "the Pod" you will burn up to 300 calories in just 30 minutes. The temperature inside by the time you will be done with your session gets up to 170 degrees, which sounds crazy but it's abslutely refreshing. If you ever get too hot you are able to get I don't think I have ever sweated that much in my entire life. I normally don't like to sweat at all but I guess there's a first time for everything. I think I fell asleep a couple times, which I think most people do in there, and when I left there I felt better than I do after getting an hour massage that I pay between seventy to one hundred dollars for! When you get out you will want to drink plenty of water(room temperature so that your body doesn't go into shock) which The Hot Spa provides you. There will be a towel to dry off your body, a cool wet towel for your face, spray deodorant and body spray so that you can freshen up. This was actually heavenly and really helped out with my super sore muscles from working out. I've had a pretty crazy week and it was just what I needed. I highly recommend this! A session is just $35.

Vevazz

This system is good for anyone with trouble fatty areas, anyone who would like to get a jump start on weight loss, has cellulite, needs skin tightening or diminishing stretch marks. This LED system is designed to contour the body by losing inches off specific body areas such as the waist, hips, thighs, arms and neck. You go to a series of visits to see a change but typically people will lose 2-4 pant or dress sizes in just 42 days. The LED alters the fat in the cells and allows it to seep out from the cell into space where it can be processed by the lymphatic system. The fat is either used by the body as energy or the body will process it out. They place 8 pads on your choice of troubled fatty area ( I chose my stomach to try) for 7 minute treatments, so this is very quick. I felt absolutely no pain at all, only little tiny pulsing. When I heard about this originally I was also expecting it to hurt but nothing at all me feel the least bit uncomfortable.

The salon manager Mitzi as well as Jami both thoroughly explained every single thing I was having done and made sure I understood it as well as felt comfortable the whole step of the way! They were extremely professional and I appreciated the fact that they believe in the services they provide. Any of these services can be available at a lesser rate and you can even take a tour of them all, everything I mentioned except for the Vevazz , for just $49.99. That is huge savings!! They also have an all access pass of those same services for $149 a month. There are other ways to save money on the services by becoming a member there. You can visit Hot Spot Tanning at http://hotspottanning.com/ or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Hot-Spot-Tanning-208396012535145/

Everyone there is awesome ! I highly recommend going to check them out for yourself, especially these new spa services. Thank you as always for reading ! XOXO -Amber

Murals You Don't Want to Miss: NASHVILLE

February 28, 2016 by Amber Ford in Wall art, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville Blog, Murals, Nashville, east Nashville, Mural locations, Art

I never have a free day, where I don't have any plans or something I absolutely have to do. I finally had one so my best friend Jennifer Cody (who also happens to be a fabulous photographer) and I decided to go exploring around Nashville to find the best murals we could find. Some of these you have probably seen before (if not in person, definitely on social media.) I'm almost embarrassed to say that I waited in line to take a picture in front of one in particular but it's seriously a "thing" here. You can't live in Nashville & not have your picture made with the "I believe in Nashville" mural at least once. You can't come here as a visitor and not take a picture with it either. I am not ashamed to say I have at least 10 pictures with said mural. You can never have enough! I want to share with y'all some of the great places I found today! They definitely make for some great pictures. I will probably end up with another post some day in the near future because we were mural hunting, literally until the sun went down. There definitely are never enough hours in the day but this is a great list of must see and must experience beautiful artwork around town. Luckily my best friend is a photographer so we decided to turn the hunt into a photo shoot ! I decided to actually do my makeup on a Sunday, which is not a normal thing & just so happened to have the perfect shirt for it from The Nashville Shirt Co. It says "Native" how convenient, right ?

I will start with one of my most favorite new walls. This is on the side of Draper James which is Reese Witherspoon's new boutique located in 12 South. It is a lovely Southern boutique. To the left of these stripes it reads "Pretty as a picture." Looking at it just makes you feel good. Thanks Reese :)

The wall directly across from Draper James is one of the many "I Believe in Nashville" murals around town. If you go, be prepared for a complete stranger to hand you their phone so you can take their picture for them too. This is a Nashville favorite by Adrien Saporiti of DCVX Industries.

The next place I want to take you guys is right down the street, still in 12 South, the wall on the right side of Green Pea Salon. This wall is covered in beautiful flowers and makes for some beautiful colorful photographs!!

Directly across from this beautiful flower painting is not necessarily a mural but to me its a really cool wall, especially for photos. As you can see below we really had fun taking them here. We must have taken a hundred.

Yall my be sick of my face by the time this is over, whoops. The next place I want to tell you guys about was my absolute most FAVORITE place we went to. It was like finding a hidden treasure and I have NO idea how the heck I have never seen this amazing place before today. I am about to share probably 20 pictures from there. Sorry in advance. There wasn't just one piece of wall art, there were several. Even the fences were painted. I'm SO excited to share. This is in Berry Hill at the House of Blues Studios. I had no idea we even had that here, but I guess you learn something new every day. Some of these are iPhone photos, so don't judge me.

Y'all know I had to take a picture with Snoop !

If you pull out of the street this is on and head towards Wedgewood you will see this ! I loved this one because it's painted as a cassette tape, gotta love anything old school. Kids these days will never know the struggle.

I couldn't resist heading downtown off of Korean Veterans Bridge on Almond Street to see the Willie Nelson wall!

The last 2 murals I want to show you all are both in East Nashville and about 45 seconds apart (driving) We got a little lost so it took us more like 15 minutes but that's ok, they were both awesome! The first one actually says "East Nashville" and is by : @ColorTheoryStudios.

This last one is also by Adrien of DCXV Industries and names "Stay Tuned". This is at the Center 615 Building.

I have lived here my entire life and it's crazy the things you can see if you actually just open your eyes. Pay attention to something other than your phone for a change ( don't worry I'm guilty too) and really take the time to go enjoy the beauty that is all around you. If you know of any other great wall art in Nashville please share with me so I can share with others !! I never knew how much I would enjoy blogging or how much work it would be but I really do love it! I sincerely appreciate everyone who has reached out to me about my new blog and it means a lot to me to know people actually enjoy reading it. Be sure to follow me on Instagram at @NativeInNashville and Jennifer Cody at @JenniferCodyWeddings. I hope you enjoy this one, we had lots of fun with it & thank you for reading ! XOXO - Amber

If you would like to book Jennifer Cody for photographs you can contact her by visiting her website at http://www.jennifercody.space/ she specializes in weddings, engagements & boudoir and adventure photography :) (shameless plug) you'll love her !

Made in Nashville: #TwoRoast

February 25, 2016 by Amber Ford in Nashville, Taste tester, Shop local, Made in Nashville, Two Roast, Nashville lifestyle blog, Coffee

I don't know about y'all, but the only thing that gets me out of the bed in the morning is the thought of freshly brewed coffee or the smell of bacon!! The smell of both together is even better. But I absolutely love it! It's weird because I remember being little and swearing to my mom I would never in my entire life drink coffee because back then I thought it was the nastiest thing I had ever tasted, I actually used to feel the same way about wine (can you believe that?). What was I thinking? Growing up is mind blowing to me. Anyways I want to tell y'all a little about this fabulous coffee + cacao mix by Two Roast!! Incase you're like me and wondering what the heck is cacao exactly, the cacao bean is the most elemental ingredient in chocolate-making and who doesn't love chocolate? If you don't, I almost question your character, ha. The absolute BEST part of this product, other than the taste, is the fact that it was made right here in Nashville! I am a firm believer in supporting local businesses and especially obsessed with anything made in Nashville! Two Roast is made by a couple, Dan and Jenny Oliver. There are only 2 ingredients, coffee and Cacao and it's completely organic, all natural, contains no sugar, dairy, gluten or chemicals.

I love the aroma of coffee and the smell is delightful! I almost think the smell alone wakes me up. I am normally a Keurig coffee user, because to be quite honest, I'm a little lazy and usually in a rush, but I love the fact that this is actually ground up to where I can see what I am putting in my coffee machine. Now let's talk taste. When you hear the description you would think it may taste like chocolate but it does not, it's a perfect blend of coffee and cacao. Doesnt lean more either way. The other thing I love about this product is the resealable bag. Most coffee brands you just fold them over and clasp them, Two Roast actually seals up completely. I'm also big on catchy logos and theirs is great!! If you would like to try some for yourself, you can order online at http://www.tworoast.com/ I don't know about you, but I love to shop & support local. Hope you all enjoy. XOXO- Amber

In the Name of Beauty: Cali Jeffries at Parlour 3

February 21, 2016 by Amber Ford in Hair, Makeup, Beauty blog, Nashville, Brentwood

Meet Cali Jeffries. She is a very talented hair and makeup artist at Parlour 3 salon located at 144B Franklin Road in Brentwood, TN. Cali specializes in hair styles, Blowouts, braids, updos and makeup. I was fortunate enough to have Cali work her hair and makeup magic on me yesterday, to help get me ready for a special night. She truly made me feel beautiful.

I hardly ever wear eye shadow anymore and couldn't tell you the last time I even wore eyeliner. I knew if I wanted to feel really pretty I needed some serious beauty help. I honestly don't remember how to properly apply makeup. I feel like I use to be fairly decent at doing my own makeup, but like anything else that you don't practice for awhile, you forget how. I have known I wanted Cali to do my makeup for awhile. I met her while she was doing my best friends hair and her mom's makeup on her wedding day. Both looked perfect. It also happens to be a plus that she just so happens to work at the most stunning and beautiful salon I have ever stepped foot in. If you are getting your hair or makeup done there, you will be sitting in front of Hollywood style lights. It almost makes you feel as if you are a famous actress and you are in your dressing room getting ready. There are tufted couches, plush chairs, marquee lights and chandeliers hanging everywhere. It is the epitome of glamour. I posted some photos below but you need to see this place for yourself, my pictures don't even do it justice. The owner, Melissa, not only has an eye for making people beautiful, she decorated this entire two story salon, herself. I seriously wish she would come decorate my house. Parlour 3 is a full service salon and offer a wide variety of services from facials and waxing to hair cuts and color, makeup, airbrush tanning and extensions.

Tips and products from Cali for the look she created on me

Always start with a nice clean face and a good moisturizer/primer that's correct for your skin type (if you're dry you would want a hydration, and if you're oily you'd want a matte)

EYES: I used the self made *Anastasia Beverly Hills* eyeshadow palette / *Anastasia Beverly Hills* gel liner/ *Anastasia Beverly Hills* brow pomade in medium brown / *too faced* mascara and *red cherry lashes* in DW.

FACE: *Frankie Rose* foundation and *Amazing Cosmetics* concealer (those two products are MUST HAVES of mine. Best concealer and foundation combination) set the concealer with *amazing cosmetics* setting pressed powder/ contour with *Anastasia Beverly Hills* powder contour palette/ *Frankie Rose* 3 blush in 1 set and highlight in *Anastasia Beverly Hills* So Hollywood highlighter

LIPS: I chose to use my normal lipstick/ lipliner combination so that I could have it with me for touch ups all night. I use "Nightmoth" liner which is a very dark liner and mixed with a nude shade "Honey Love" both from MAC. It sounds like an odd combination, but when blended together, it makes a nice color and people frequently ask me what color I wear.

HAIR: Cali curled my hair with a wand and teased it up at the crown. I wanted to incorporate braids of some kind into it so she did two small braids back around the sides and pinned them in the back almost if my hair was pinned up. (photo in slideshow below)

This is the look Cali created on me and I absolutely loved it. I have naturally really dark circles under my eyes and she was able to cover those up, which was my main concern. Secondly I have green eyes and I wanted them to pop. Any coppery or pink to purple shades look great on green eyes bringing out the color. I showed her a picture of the eye I was going for and she nailed it. I always love trying new makeup products and will be purchasing several of the products she used on me.