When Your Vision Turns Into a Reality...

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.

The Grandparent's Guide to Facebook

Anyone over the age of 50, this one's for you.  It's 2016, and Facebook isn't just for twenty-some year olds anymore.  It's for every age, and let's face it, EVERYONE and their mama has it (literally).  I think it's safe to say that not everyone knows how to use it.  Being a self proclaimed Facebook expert, I would like to share some tricks of the trade, some do's and don'ts, with whoever may find this info useful.  You'll be an old pro in no time, no pun intended.

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1)  This is important to know... there is a search bar and a what's on your mind section.  One is for your status, one is to search your grandkids names.  My grandmother was once trying to stalk me on Facebook and made my name her Facebook status.  BUSTED!! Love you Grandma!

2)  My dad's name is Dale.  Dale doesn't even text me on my phone anymore, he messages me on Facebook messenger.  I maybe check that messenger once a week.  Learn from his mistakes guys, Facebook messenger is not the answer, to anything ever.  Don't be a Dale.

3)  Did you know you can like something and not share it?  You don't have to share every single post you come across on Facebook.  There is a like button, there is even a love button.  Like and love everything always. 

4)  Set a profile picture.  Even if it's your Glamour Shot from 1984.  

5)  Chainletter types aren't real.  If you don't share something with 12 people, you aren't actually going to have bad luck for 10 years. 

6)  There is such a thing as too much information.  

7)  Feel free to comment on every single picture us grandchildren share.  We love it.

8)  If you see your sweet angel of a grandchild use a curse word on Facebook, make sure to call them out with a simple "watch your mouth". Let them know you're ashamed and disappointed.  That'll teach them a lesson.  I bet they will think twice before doing it again. 

9)  When you write a comment on something we post, you don't have to sign it "Grandma, Nanna, or Granddaddy" at the end.  We know who you are.  Though, I will have to admit it's the most adorable thing in the world.

10)   Remember when a # was actually called a pound sign?  Not so much anymore.  Nowadays it's called a hashtag.  A hashtag is used on social networking sites to create a tag or a link on a word.  Don't be surprised when you see someone using it in #every #single #word #like #this. #ANNOYING I know. 

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Thank you for reading!  I almost forgot number 11.

11)  Click this link and press the like button  https://www.facebook.com/NativeInNashville/

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Be sure to checkout my Facebook page or Instagram page @nativeinnashville to see how to win a Native in Nashville t-shirt!  More details coming soon on these ❤️ 

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Do Go Chasin' Waterfalls: Near Nashville

Not only is Tennessee home to a great music scene, amazing food, lots of Southern hospitality and friendly people,  it's also home to plenty of beautiful land, rolling hills, and GORGEOUS waterfalls within driving distance from Nashville.  Even as a native in Nashville of 29 years, it seems like I just can't get enough of exploring our beautiful state!  

Burgess Falls 

Drive time from Nashville:   1 hour & 30 mins

Address:  4000 Burgess Falls Drive, Sparta, TN

Burgess Falls - Pinterest

Burgess Falls - Pinterest

Activities at Burgess Falls include:

  • Hiking with 3 different trails
  1. River Trail  — 0.8 Miles — Natural Surface — Difficult/ strenuous
  2. Trail to base of main falls  — 0.3 Miles — Natural Surface — very strenuous
  3. Ridge Top Trail  — 0.5 Miles — Natural Surface — moderate

*the stairs down to the main falls are currently closed

  • Fishing.  Fishing is good for Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, and bream. The most popular fishing sites are below the dam and the main waterfall along the bank and at the fishing pier. There are no public boat ramps or canoe/kayak access areas on the park. (Source tnstateparks.com)
  • Birdwatching  

Rutledge Falls 

Drive time from Nashville:  1 hour & 15 mins 

Address:  Rutledge Falls Rd, Tullahoma, TN

Rutledge Falls- Pinterest

Rutledge Falls- Pinterest

Activities at Rutledge Falls include:

  • Hiking (easy)
  • Picnicking  
  • Swimming (water remains cold all year)

Rutledge Falls is 40 feet high. 

*please note it's a little difficult to find, but you can park near the church.  This is privately owned, open from dawn until dusk. 

Cummins Falls 

Drive time from Nashville:  1 hour & 45 mins

Address:  1081 Cummins Mill Road, Cookeville, TN

PC: @lostcreekrambler Instagram

PC: @lostcreekrambler Instagram

Activities at Cummins Falls include: 

  • Swimming (life jackets are advised)
  • Hiking.  The hike will be challenging and require you to walk through water. 
  • Rock jumping
  • Day-use park only.  Pets allowed on a leash.  No camping is allowed but available nearby at Standing Stone State Park and Edgar Evins State Park.

Cummins Falls is 75 feet high. 

Cane Creek Falls 

Drive time from Nashville:  2 hours

Address:  2009 Village Camp Road, Pikeville, TN

 PC: Matthew Winn

 PC: Matthew Winn

Activities at Cane Creek Falls include: 

  • Swimming.  The large swimming hole is great for jumping or diving into. 
  • Hiking.  You will want to head down the Cable Trail to get to the bottom of the waterfall. 

Cane Creek Falls is 85 feet high.

Ozone Falls 

Drive time from Nashville: 1 hour & 50 mins

Address: 24 Office Dr. S., Crossville, TN

PC: @jason_a_stanley Instagram

PC: @jason_a_stanley Instagram

My favorite part about Ozone Falls is that certain scenes of "The Jungle Book" were filmed there because of it's easy access and beauty.  Activities include: 

  • Hiking. It is 0.8 miles to get to the falls and described as moderate.  Trails open from April-October and dogs are allowed.  They must be kept on a leash.
  • Swimming.  There is an aqua blue swimming hole. 

Ozone Falls is 110 feet high.

Twin Falls 

Drive time from Nashville:  1 hour & 20 mins

Address:  82 Beach Road, Rock Island, TN

PC: Roadtrippers

PC: Roadtrippers

Activities at Twin Falls include: 

  • Kayaking
  • Hiking
  • Swimming
  • Camping.  Cabins and tent campground on site at Rock Island State Park
  • Picnicking

Both waterfalls are 80 feet tall. 

Foster Falls 

Drive time from Nashville:  1 hour & 30 mins

Address:  498 Foster Road, Sequatchie, TN

PC: @gjaggear Instagram

PC: @gjaggear Instagram

Activities at Foster Falls include

  • Camping -campsites available
  • Swimming
  • Rock climbing
  • Cliff jumping  
  • Grilling - grills on site

Foster Falls is 60 feet high. 

Fall Creek Falls 

Drive time from Nashville:  2 hours

Address:  10821 Park Road, Spencer, TN

PC: @bendannerphoto Instagram

PC: @bendannerphoto Instagram

Fall Creek Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the Eastern U.S. at 256 feet.  Activities include:

  • Hiking
  • No jumping!  
  • Campground on site with cabins
  • Eating.  There is a restaurant on site Gaul's Gallery
  • Picnicking with 5 pavilions available for rent  

Greeter Falls 

Drive time from Nashville: 1 hour & 40 mins

Address:  435 Greeter Falls Road, Lower Falls Trail, Altamont, TN

PC: Greeter Falls- Pinterest

PC: Greeter Falls- Pinterest

Activities at Greeter Falls include: 

  •  Swimming in the "Blue Hole" 
  • Hiking:  1/2 mile hike to get to Greeter Falls.  Dogs allowed and must be kept on a leash.

Greeter Falls is 50 feet high.

Contrary to the beliefs of TLC and all of us who have been singing along to "Waterfalls" since 1994, I say you should absolutely go chasin' those waterfalls!   I know, I know, the song has no relation to actual waterfalls, but I couldn't resist.  Have fun & most importantly BE SAFE!!

Be sure to follow Native in Nashville on Instagram at @NativeInNashville and on Facebook here:  https://www.facebook.com/NativeInNashville/

Thank you guys for reading! XOXO- Amber

 

EMBRACE THE SHAKE at Studio Novo

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.   

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What you need to know. 

  1.  Your first class is FREE!! You can sign up at:   http://www.novonashville.com/#welcome
  2. 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
  3. Wear yoga pants and a tank top (nothing too loose)
  4. Arrive 15 minutes early
  5. 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.

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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.

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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!  

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PC: Studio Novo Nashville

PC: Studio Novo Nashville

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

 

I'm NOT a Cook- Easy Fresh Blackberry Pie Recipe

I can't even believe I'm sharing a recipe with y'all because as you can see from the title of this, I am NOT a cook.  I am one of those people who eats out(or gets cooked for) just about every single meal.  I don't really understand what went wrong in my gene pool, because every single woman in my entire family are all basically the best cooks ever.  I can't pick a favorite, so we will leave it at that.  My great grandma, Mema Knight, was the greatest cook on the planet but she is 90 now and her cooking days are unfortunately over.  I will never forget the days at her house in Kentucky going out to her huge garden and helping her pick bucket after bucket of fresh blackberries, and ever since then they have always been my favorite!  

Blackberry cobbler is probably my all time favorite (non-chocolate) dessert, so when I saw my friend, Dr. Aimee Lyst, shared a picture of her homemade fresh blackberry pie, I commented about how amazing it looked and that she should share her recipe.  Thankfully she did. 

Aimee's Pie

Aimee's Pie

I tend to ask people for recipes because I swear I have really good intentions on actually cooking, but it's rare that I ever do.  To my surprise, this recipe didn't call for many ingredients and looked fairly easy, so I figured I'd give it a shot. 

You will need: 

Aluminum Foil  

9-inch pie plate or Round pan

4 cups of fresh blackberries

1 1/4 cups of sugar  

1/4 cup of all-purpose flour

1/8 teaspoon of salt

Pastry for double crust pie

Combine sugar, flour and salt.   Add sugar mixture to blackberries, after washing them, and toss to coat fruit. (The mixture will stick to the blackberries then and turn to a glaze while baking).  Fill a pastry-lined 9-inch pie plate with berry mixture.  Adjust top crust.  Seal and flute edge.  Cover the edge of pie with foil.  Bake in a 375° oven for 20 minutes.  Remove foil; bake for 25 to 30 minutes more or until golden.  Cool on a wire rack.  Makes 8 servings. I have included a step by step visual guide as well below.

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I decided to do a little design with the top of my pie crust and added a heart in the middle, something I've seen on Pinterest over the years, I'm sure.  I know I won't be winning any pie decorating contests with my creation, but I was pretty proud of the way it turned out.  Even more importantly, my sweetie pie was impressed.  If you are looking for an easy and delicious dessert to make, I highly recommend this one.  I felt so much more accomplished than when I make brownies from a box or use pre-made dough to make cookies.  Move over Martha Stewart ;). Thanks so much to Aimee for sharing this simple recipe! 

Thank you all, as always, for reading! XOXO- Amber

#BallSoHard: 13 Best Sports Bars in Nashville

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 

PC: Neighbors

PC: 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

PC: Eater Nashville

PC: Eater Nashville

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 

PC: M.L. Rose

PC: 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 

PC: Google images

PC: Google images

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 

PC: South-Nashville

PC: South-Nashville

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 

PC: @kevinb534 Instagram

PC: @kevinb534 Instagram

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 

Pc: @johnmclanton Instagram

Pc: @johnmclanton Instagram

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 

PC: Nashville Lifestyles

PC: Nashville Lifestyles

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 

PC: Google Images

PC: Google Images

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

PC: Twitter/Google Images

PC: Twitter/Google Images

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  

PC: Quinn Ballard

PC: Quinn Ballard

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 

PC: Nashville Lifestyles

PC: Nashville Lifestyles

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 

PC: Broadway Brewhouse

PC: 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

 

 

GET GLOWING: Kalahn Harmon at Glow Medspa

I'm always looking for ways to make myself look and feel a little better!  As a woman in the South,  there are literally gorgeous girls everywhere you look.  I don't think I can even  think of one who is not beautiful.  I guess you could say it's almost a little bad for my self-esteem at times how pretty you all are!  I think the most important thing a woman can have is her own self confidence and self-esteem.  If something makes you feel more beautiful, I say go for it!  At the end of the day, you are the only person whose opinion really and truly matters. If other people don't like you because of something that has to do with your appearance, you definitely don't need them in your life anyways and I can promise you your life will be much better without them in it!  I've been feeling a little blah lately which is why I'm so glad I found Glow Medspa for a little... ok maybe a big pick me up!!  

Glow Medspa, owned by Dr. Jeffery Marvel, Tonia Gibson and Gail Hayes, is located in historic downtown Franklin in the most charming and sweet old house.  I actually used to work about 50 steps from there and I honestly never took a second look at it.  From afar it simply looks like a home.   I just so happened to be at one of my favorite coffee shops right next door and luckily one of the lovely ladies who works there, Leigh, invited me to come over and see it.  I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in and realized that this is actually a spa, not just a house, and definitely my kind of place.  The decor is welcoming, comforting & simply beautiful!  It helps that the staff is so friendly too. 

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I was so excited to realize that this was the place that a lifelong friend and aesthetician,  Kalahn Harmon, is always raving about because she loves working there so much! I can tell you from experience if you work somewhere and still love it, it HAS to be a great place!  Kalahn set me up for an appointment and I left feeling more than fabulous.  I was honestly really impressed by everything, so I want to share with you all about my experience at Glow Medspa and talk about all the services I got done because trust me, you all need to know about this place.  It was like finding a hidden treasure! 

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I want to start by saying it can sometimes be  a little awkward getting services done by a friend, but Kalahn actually made me feel like a client, she took everything seriously and I really appreciate that.  For example, I know sometimes when I have gotten my hair done by someone I know in the past I don't always feel as if I'm getting the full treatment that I'm paying for and deserve, which can lead to stress.  When you're going somewhere to be pampered that should NOT be the case!! I left feeling a million times better than when I walked in and was highly impressed with her level of professionalism. 

HydraFacial MD  & Dermaplaning

When I first walked in Ginger offered me wine, water or coffee, which let's be honest... it's always nice to be offered wine any time or place!  I decided to be healthy and go with water though which also impressed me because it was VOSS water and it made me feel fancy ;).  Kalahn had me change into a spa towel and dipped my hands in paraffin wax.  That stuff is the best! My appointment was on Friday, it's now Monday and my hands still feel so soft.  She had me lay down on what is like a massage table which was very comfortable and the temperature in the room was perfect.  She cleansed my face herself and before she began the HydraFacial asked me if I had ever had dermaplaning done.  Dermaplaning is a method of exfoliation that consists of gently scraping off the top layer of dulling dead skin cells in order to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.  It also removes that annoying peach fuzz that you sometimes see when the sunlight is beaming down on you.  I was all in!  I was a little scared at first but definitely glad I added this service on!  You hear the word scraping and it sounds scary but I promise it's completely safe!  Next, she did the HydraFacial which was absolutely amazing and I wish I could get one every single day of my life!  

Great for all skin types, the HydraFacial MD® Treatment is not only highly effective at improving overall skin health, but also excellent for correcting fine lines and wrinkles, elasticity and firmness, the evenness of your skin tone and vibrancy, skin texture, enlarged pores, oily skin and the advanced signs of aging.  This multi-step treatment cleanses, evenly exfoliates and extracts to remove impurities and dead skin cells while at the same time replenishing vital nutrients including Antioxidants, Peptides and Hyaluronic Acid.  My favorite part was the  third step which was the extraction part!  Kalahn was able to remove something from my face that has been there for years and not even a dermotologist could remove.  Y'all have no idea how excited I was over this !! I don't get many breakouts, I have more of an issue with blackheads than anything and she was successfully able to remove them all!!  My second favorite part of this treatment was that I got immediate results and my face is still glowing 4 days later!  It was a pain free and super relaxing experience and I already want to go back!!  This service is $199 and you can add on Dermaplaning to a facial for just $50.  Dermaplaning alone is $85. 

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 Eyebrow Tint & Wax

After we were done with the HydraFacial me and my face were feeling amazing.  It was then time for her to work her magic on my eyebrows.  I never realized the importance of eyebrows until Kalahn first did my eyebrows a few years back and she actually gave me some shape and filled them in some.  When done properly they can really help frame your face and make your eyes pop.  She tinted them, sort of like a dye for your eyebrows, but it basically just picked up the little baby hairs that were there making my eyebrows look a little more full without drawing them on like crazy.  I swear some girls these days look like they draw them on with sharpies and that's just not my style.  I was shocked the difference that just the tinting made.  She also waxed them and really took her time doing it.  I love them !! The eyebrow tint is $20 and the eyebrow wax is $20.  

Makeup 

Then we got to the really fun part, makeup!! I have always admired Kalahn's makeup.  Every time she posts a picture I secretly wish I had her skills!  Her makeup always looks flawless without overdoing it, almost like a natural look.  She was nice enough to list all of the products she used on me too for y'all! 

Neocutis Bio-Cream moisturizer

Cover FX Mattifying Primer

MAC Studio Fix Foundation in NW 25

MAC Pro Longwear Concealer in NW 20 blended with a moist Beauty Blender

Cover FX Illuminating setting powder

Anastasia Beverly Hills powder contour palette

Sephora Collection Banana Powder

Anastasia Beverly Hills brow powder in soft brown

MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NC15 under brows

MAC Painterly Pro Longwear Paint Pot all over lid

MAC shadow in Amber Lights & Creative Copper

Morphe shadow and liner from 35N palette

MAC Fix + Spray

Sigma brushes F80, E15, F10, P84, F35, E65, F75, E30, P86, E55, E25, F05

MAC brushes 239, 184

BECCA champagne pop highlighter

Shadow on inner eye is from the Tarte Energy Noir palette

Ardelle Demi Whispies Lashes

They're Real Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics

NYX Dewy Finishing Spray

Urban Decay All Nighter setting spray

MAC Soar Lip liner  

MAC Honey Love Lipstick  

Makeup application with lashes is $95.  

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This is the look she created on me but please excuse my hair! I left there feeling beautiful, confident, refreshed and days later my skin is literally still glowing!! Everyone there was so warm and friendly.  They made sure to explain everything in detail, building my trust, and made me feel extremely comfortable.  I'm not the best at taking good care of my skin so I'm sure my skin probably loves me for finding Glow Medspa!  I will definitely be back!!  

They offer many more services such as Botox, Juveder, Restylane, Kybella, Micro Dermabrasion, chemical peels, many different kinds of facials, Microneedling, full body waxing and Coolsculpting !! They also sell various products such as Latisse, Glo Therapeutics and NeoCutis.  Visit their website at www.GlowFranklin.com and Kalahn's website is www.FacesByKalahn.com Check out their Spring specials below and tell them Native in Nashville sent you :)

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I hope you guys go see them & love them as much as I do !!  Thanks as always for reading! XOXO- Amber  

#PatioWeather: 18 of the Best Patios in Nashville

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

PC: @acmenashville

PC: @acmenashville

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 

PC: @ehall0202

PC: @ehall0202

PC: @chelsea_lung

PC: @chelsea_lung

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 

PC: Google

PC: Google

PC: @tacomamanash

PC: @tacomamanash

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 

PC: @olddog64

PC: @olddog64

PC: @m_a_fernando

PC: @m_a_fernando

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 

PC: @Viragonashville

PC: @Viragonashville

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 

PC: @Nestorandresstx

PC: @Nestorandresstx

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  

PC: @saintanejo

PC: @saintanejo

PC: Google

PC: Google

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  

PC: @nashvilleguru

PC: @nashvilleguru

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 

PC: Yelp

PC: Yelp

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 

PC: @ambi_bambi

PC: @ambi_bambi

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. 

PC: @sprsprty

PC: @sprsprty

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 

PC: @live_nashville

PC: @live_nashville

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 

PC: @danieljaes_ent

PC: @danieljaes_ent

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 

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PC: @tnbrewworks

PC: @tnbrewworks

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 

PC: @jacksonsnash

PC: @jacksonsnash

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 

pc: @thetreehousenashville

pc: @thetreehousenashville

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 

PC: @travelinsider

PC: @travelinsider

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 

PC: Google

PC: Google

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