Life+Style Brand by Amber Ford- Voted "Best Fashion Designer" in Nashville 2019 + 2020 + 2021 - "Best Men's Clothing" 2023
Raybin & Weissman’s texting & driving scholarship competition offers high school and college students the chance to win $1,000 by creating YouTube videos that highlight the dangers of texting & driving.
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.
PC: Kerry Woo
PC: Kerry Woo
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.
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 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 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.
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!
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!
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.
@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.
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!!
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.
If you have a story you would like to share with Courtney please email her at : Cortney@edmonco.co
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!
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!
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.
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 !
PC: National Food Truck Association
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
PC: National Food Truck Association
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
PC: 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
PC: Nashville Food Truck Association
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
PC: @Jessle18 Instagram
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
PC: Nashville Food Truck Association
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
PC: Nashville Food Truck Association
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
PC: @hangrypharmacists Instagram
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
PC: Nashville Food Truck Association
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
PC: @degthaitruck Instagram
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
PC: Nashville Food Truck Association
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
PC: 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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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: 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
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
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 :)
photo: Jennifer Cody
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.
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
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!!
Photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
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.
Photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
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.
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
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!
Photo: Jennifer Cody
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.
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
photo: Jennifer Cody
This last one is also by Adrien of DCXV Industries and names "Stay Tuned". This is at the Center 615 Building.
iPhone photo: Amber Ford
photo: Jennifer Cody
Photo: Jennifer Cody
Photo: Jennifer Cody
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 !
Can we talk about what a gorgeous day we are having here in Nashville. Last time I checked it was 71 degrees, which is crazy considering just yesterday I had to wait 10 minutes for my icy windows on my car to melt. I think it's safe to say that we have the most bipolar weather in the history of anywhere. There is nothing better in the South than a good sunshiny day that feels like Spring or Fall and being able to ride around with your music blasting and windows down. I am off work today and luckily my roommate asked me what the weather was supposed to be like and at the time it was sixty degrees so I knew I had to get out of the house. Last time we had a day like this, the only thing I walked outside for was to get something out of my car, and I'm still mad at myself about it. I just spend about 70 percent of my life (aka the only time I'm not at work) in sweatpants or Yoga pants these days and I guess I just didn't want to leave them. PS I have never done yoga in my life but Lululemon yoga pants are still my BFF.
Today I decided to do something where I could wear my sweatpants and no one could judge me because I look sporty. I think the key to life is wearing workout clothes all the time in public, that way you can be comfortable and if you look like crap people won't judge you because they will think "she just worked out" and they can't hate on that. See what I mean?
There is this magical place that unfortunately I never knew about until about 6 months ago that makes me genuinely happy anytime I have ever been, Radnor Lake State Park. Radnor Lake is a 1,332-acre park and is protected as a Class II Natural Area. It is unique due to the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities, environmental education programs, hiking opportunities and its location in an urban area. The park is day-use only and the more than six miles of trail are strictly used for hiking, photography and wildlife observation. Pets, jogging and bicycles are only allowed on the Otter Creek Road trail. The Lake Trail is accessible to people with all-terrain wheelchairs.
Radnor Lake is located at 1114 Otter Creek Road in Nashville and pretty close to Brentwood. The trail I go on is the Lake Trail, I start in the parking lot and head into the woods (there are signs up to show you where to go.) The route I take is about 2.5 miles long and it's mainly flat but there are a few inclines and it will get your heart rate up and fresh air in your lungs, your legs a little more toned, as well as seeing some beautiful scenery. You seriously never know what you are going to see while walking through the trail. You are in the woods walking the trail surrounding the beautiful lake, so naturally you will see lots of different animals. I have seen deer, owls, turtles, ducks, geese, and turkeys so far. These deer will literally be walking 3 feet away from you. It's pretty awesome actually. I remember the first time I ever went, feeling like Snow White in a forest. I even tried talking to the deer to get them to look my way for pictures. Don't worry they didn't talk back, lol. I chose this trail because it's not as difficult as some of the others. Have I ever mentioned I'm not very athletic? Blogging is now my cardio.
I actually love going by myself. Although thinking about being in the middle of the woods with nothing but a bunch of animals and strangers who pass by, mostly in groups of 2, is a little bit creepy, I thoroughly enjoy it. It gives me time to reflect on my life and get some fresh air. I literally am not worried about anything else while I am there. The only reason I take my phone is incase I want to Snapchat the deer I pass by or take pictures. Today I took my camera and I will be sharing photos below. If you aren't familiar with it, it's such a beautiful and wonderful hidden treasure that I think just about anyone would enjoy. It's a perfect place to take your kids also. I was walking by a little pack of turkeys today and I had a little boy who was carrying a walking stick he had picked up from a broken tree, tell me to "shhhh" because he didn't want to scare them off. It was really cute. It's the perfect place for all ages and best of all it's FREE! So get up, get out and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!! XOXO- Amber
You can read more about Radnor Lake State Park here www.RadnorLake.org
I think I told you all this before, but my life is a constant struggle of trying to lose weight and eating dessert. I have been eating a little too much dessert lately & the proof is in my clothes not fitting anymore. I've been feeling kind of blah lately and that my body is screaming "feed me something healthy". That's why I decided to go to the Juice Bar the past 2 days for lunch. I am normally more of a meat and 3 type girl but I knew this would make me at least feel better about my life.
Juice Bar is overwhelmingly vegetarian, gluten-free, organic when possible, and always uses 100% whole fruits and vegetables. They are definitely a “I want to eat healthy and feel great” type place. They offer juices, smoothies, juice cleanses, superfood salads, soups and more. Please see my pictures below to see more of what they have to offer.
On Tuesday for lunch (day about 27 of me feeling blah- I told you guys I am a procrastinator) I walked into the Juice Bar, took about 10 minutes to make a choice on which smoothie to get, which you would have thought I was making a major life decision, I decided on the "Green Smoothie." I went with a smoothie because I like a little more substance. To me it feels a little more like actual food , which y'all know I love. It's made with spinach, kale, pineapple, banana, lemon, apple juice and coconut milk. It is the perfect blend of healthy and sweet tasting and absolutely DELICIOUS. The best part was that it actually filled me up, and smoothies never fill me up. They are always more like a drink to me. I also enjoyed watching them actually placing all of the vegetables and fruits in and mixing it up in front of me, where I can see all of the fresh ingredients. While I was there waiting on my made to order smoothie, I noticed a sign with a large bowl of soup. Their featured soup of the day was black bean. The nice man working asked me if I would like to try a sample. I am not a big fan of black beans in general, so I politely declined. He told me they have a different soup everyday and they had just finished making tomorrow's soup, which was his favorite, the garden veggie; so he gave me a sample of that. It was so delicious I couldn't wait to get back there today on my lunch break. I posted a photo of it below so you can see how absolutely packed with healthiness it is, but it has broccoli, carrots, celery, onions, kale, red beans, zucchini, quinoa, cilantro and maybe a little bit of a tomato base. I seriously have never felt so healthy in my life after eating that many vegetables together at one time. It was so filling and packed with enjoyable flavor. I am very excited about Wednesdays now, thanks to this soup! I also got to try their four most popular juices, the "Orange You Glad" and the "Sweet Greens" were my two favorites!!
Juice Bar has a different soup each day; Monday-tomato basil, Tuesday-black bean Wednesday-garden Veggie, Thursday- red lentil and Friday through Sunday butternut squash. I went to the Franklin location located at 232 Fifth Avenue North Franklin, Tn, but they have locations all over the Middle Tennessee area. Locations include Green Hills, Berry Hill, Hillsboro Village, The Gulch, Germantown, Belle Meade, Murfreesboro, Brentwood and of course Franklin.
Moral of this story if you pass by a Juice Bar, GO! It will make you feel good on the inside as well as out. I Just hope my clothes start to fit better. I'm one of those people who feels like you can eat salad once and you should automatically lose 5 lbs. I'm almost 30 and I have never known this to be more untrue. Baby steps though, baby steps. XOXO- Amber
For Juice Bar's full menu click here www.ilovejuicebar.com
Hello again, it's me. It Is time to discuss my most favorite subject: food. I told you guys I am an avid taker of food pictures and to know me is to know I have an opinion, about any and let's just admit it, everything. I hope I can even write this while the Grammy awards are on in the background and all these opinions are going through my head, but I'm gonna give it my best shot.
Tonight I want to discuss my dining experience at Cork & Cow, located at 408 Main Street, in Downtown Franklin, Tn. Franklin is a 25 minute drive from Nashville headed South. If you have never been Downtown Franklin, you are missing out and my advice to you, go check it out. You will not be sorry you did. I can assure you will have a good time, even if you are just walking around. There are several really great paces to eat, but I especially loved Cork & Cow.
First let's talk about this presentation and the ambiance in there. It's almost dreamy, especially in the evening. With chandeliers, elegant white table cloths, dim lighting and my most favorite Edison lights hanging over the very well put together bar.
We started by ordering a Moscow Mule and a "Sugarbear". The Sugarbear was delicious an made of Picker's Vodka, blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, rubar, bitters and soda. My favorite part about it was that it was not too sweet, and definitely not as sweet as it sounds. I'm not a Moscow Mule person, but apparently they have one of the best around. Next we got an order of fluffy bread, served in a small cast iron skillet that was very buttery and delicious as well as an order of one of my most favorite things I ate, the grilled lamb chops. The grilled lamb chops were served with Mint Pepper Jelly, Chimichurri, Fried Onion and let me tell you that mint pepper jelly sounded strange to me at first but when I tasted it, it made complete sense. Make sure you dip your lamb chops in it. SO perfect together. The next item that came out was the entrée, dry rub New York Strip. This steak was 14 ounces and topped with lemon butter & sea salt, served with complimentary house potatoes. I didn't realize when I ordered, that the potatoes came with it, and they were a very nice addition to the meal. Another one of my favorite parts of dinner. The steak was excellent and if you order appetizers and sides, you have more than enough steak to share. I am normally a filet person when I go to nice restaurants, but this was a nice change. For the sides, we chose the "Mac n Cheese" with applewood bacon and chilies mixed within as well as the sautéed spinach with grated parmesan. And let me tell you, it may have been the best macaroni and cheese I've ever had at a restaurant in my whole life. I am not sure I would order the spinach again, I would probably order an extra order of the mac n cheese again, ha. The spinach was good but I like calories and carbs a whole lot more. The sides are a la carte and the perfect size for sharing. They had a great dessert selection, but by the time I was finished with all of this I couldn't even dream of eating dessert, and I NEVER turn down dessert. SO FULL.
The food was very filling and I give it 5 stars!! I will definitely be back. If you go, I recommend sitting upstairs if they have it available. It's nice being able to enjoy seeing the beautiful décor from up there. Thank you all for reading. I hope if you go you enjoy it as much as I did. It's perfect for a date night or a special occasion. Be sure to check out my photos below. You can see their entire menu by clicking this link: http://corkandcow.com/menus . XOXO-Amber
My name is Amber Ford, a lifelong Nashville "native". I would love to say I am a genius computer geek or a biochemist or something, but the truth is I am a scatterbrained almost 30 year old (let's not talk about that, I don't have enough Kleenex) childless, husband-less regular girl. Ok, so maybe I'm not so regular. I work full time and spend most of my free time making the most out of experiencing all of the beauty and greatness Nashville has to offer, trying to lose weight and eating dessert. Makes sense, right?
I feel almost as if it takes me back to the good ole' days aka the Myspace and Xanga days ( man, I feel ancient). Plus hey, what's one more form of social media?
Like I said in my introduction, I am very scatterbrained. To answer this question is like someone asking me to speak in a foreign language, going to be tough. I will be posting lots of food, I forgot to mention earlier but I am a self proclaimed food critic and an avid taker of food pictures. Yes, I am the annoying girl taking pictures of all my food with the flash on at fancy restaurants. I will be posting about things to do around town, photos ( I just got a new pretty nice camera so I guess you could say I am an amateur photographer, but just for fun and hobby, not trying to make a career out of it) giving credit to other talented people who deserve for their talent to be showcased, probably Nashville related fashion, probably a little makeup and hair products.... you know...stuff. :)
I know I won’t win any prizes for this post, but for me it’s good enough for letting people know about this blog.
I’ve finally done it. I’ve set up my own blog, bought my own website, thought of a blog name, which I must say was THE hardest part of this whole thing, created my own logo and published my first post.. I hope you all will find it interesting and useful, and I look forward to your comments. XOXO- Amber
