You don’t have to be an avid fan of home improvement shows to appreciate good interior design, though it probably doesn’t hurt to steal all of your ideas from Chip & Joanna. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, it can be easy to become indifferent to the look and style of your home decor. Sometimes, you just need to spruce things up a bit and bring a bit of freshness back into the space.
For many years mental illness and retardation were looked at as a hush-hush issue. No one wanted to talk about it and people just brushed it off as though it was no big deal.
When I was younger, I noticed that some of my family members were what people used to say—a little “off”. I had a cousin that dealt with not only a mental illness, but physical ailment as well. I also took notice as to how some of my family members acted—how short they were when it came to talking about certain subjects, how easily upset and discontent they became. I also took notice of how sometimes erratic their behaviors were at times, which led me to become even more curious. So I, as an inquisitive child, asked a lot of questions because I wanted to know the root of the problem. I wanted to know what caused mental illness. Was it something genetically inherited or passed down through generations? Of course, I was hushed because no one wanted to talk about it, and I became emotionally disconnected from my own family.
I would want to talk to someone, especially about the way that I was feeling. You would think that the people in your family would be the ones who you could truly turn to, that they would hear you out. But on many occasions, my feelings would be met with backlash, the same response: "Ain't nothing wrong with you."
I remember wanting to commit suicide at 15, unbeknownst to many people, because I made it a point to not talk about it. I felt alone and depressed. I was constantly in the midst of unnecessary drama at school, and I always wanted to run away. But what drove me to that point is the real question. How could that have
been prevented?
Think of the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. The main character, Hannah Baker, is exactly who I was. The series resonates with me so much because it highlights everything wrong with society, including the so-called adults that we were supposed to look up to for help. The moment we voice our opinions or our feelings we're scolded, much like Hannah in the series.
That's what led me to want to create a space for women - especially young women - to help prevent those things from happening and know that they CAN talk to someone about whatever it is that they're going through. I needed someone to be there for me and I decided to be that person to be there for someone else. My wish is for young women (and men, too!) to reach out to me through OTS by email or by calling us. The reality is everyone needs someone to talk to and be confident, whether they make it known or not.
As the store opens in June, I want Ode to Self to become a safe haven for people. Yes, we sell beauty and lifestyle products, but the purpose is to help you create a calm space so that you can properly care for yourself, get into a self-care routine, and remember to check in with yourself.
At OTS, we're promoting a positive, healthy lifestyle. We're combating mental illness through our "Mind Your Wellness" initiative, which helps people get in tune with themselves through their physical, emotional, and mental feelings. We're making it our mission to remind people to start checking in with themselves and
each other.
It all starts with a simple question: "How are you REALLY doing?"
With the opening of the store, I am offering the readers here on Nashville Guide 10% off their first purchase with us, using code: OTSNASH10 when we launch! I want you all to experience what we have to offer and get ready to treat yourself.
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Kimberley Alexandria-Day is a serial entrepreneur whose interests and ventures span beauty, skincare, art, photography, fitness, health, and wellness. Kimberley is the proud owner of Ode to Self, a skincare and wellness boutique dedicated to self-care for women. Kimberley also blogs on her personal website, Alex René Lifestyle, and does freelance photography under Alex René Creative.
Instagram: @odetoself | @kimberleyalexandriaday
Website: www.ode-toself.com (launch June 15th) | www.alexrenelifestyle.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/odetoself
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We opened our newest community in Nashville, LC Germantown, earlier this year, and when we first visited, I was blown away by the vibrant neighborhood. It’s absolutely full of amazing new restaurants, established local favorites, and some of the coolest specialty shops and boutiques in the city - and new things are popping up all the time.
Bordered by Rosa L. Parks Blvd. to the west, 2nd Avenue North to the east, and Hume and Jefferson Streets (north and south, respectively), Germantown is one of the more walkable areas of Nashville, and an ideal destination for a weekend spent exploring your own city. A few weeks ago, that’s exactly what we decided to do. Here are some of our favorites, all within walking distance. (Pro tip: you’re going to want to wear flats for this one.)
Peter Nappi
1308 Adams Street
If you’ve lived in Nashville for any amount of time, you likely already know of the meticulously crafted shoes by Peter Nappi. The brand launched in Nashville in 2011 on a foundation of craftsmanship, family tradition and timeless style, and man, do they deliver. Their studio showroom is right off Adams Street in a former industrial boiler room, and the airy and light-filled space is mesmerizing. Add to that the walls of handmade Italian leather boots, shoes, bags, and leather-goods and you have everything you need for an idyllic shopping trip. Honestly, it’s worth a visit just to experience the beauty (and the real leather smell) of the showroom. They’re really good at what they do.
Kuchnia + Keller
1300 3rd Avenue North
Kuchnia and Keller might be new to the scene, but don’t mistake their newness for inexperience. Since officially opening in Germantown in late 2017, the restaurant has been serving Eastern European-inspired dishes that have us wishing for seconds (or thirds). An impressive cocktail, wine and beer list certainly doesn’t hurt either, with the latter featuring local beers from Yazoo and Bearded Iris, and national players like Threes Brewing and 3 Floyds.
The interior has a great vibe, too, with large open seating areas that give it a community feel. Chef Aaron Clemins is a master at his craft, and a perfect representation of his talent lies in the beef goulash. Please, please order this when you visit. You will not be disappointed.
Alexis + Bolt
506 Monroe Street
You can easily spot this boutique thanks to the giant blue whale mural on the east side of the building, a stunning visual display by Ian Lawrence and Sterling Goller-Brown of Eastside Murals. The inside of the shop will impress you, too. Alexis + Bolt opened its doors in early 2017, offering a selection of men’s and women’s apparel, home goods and gifts in a charming home decorated with impeccable style. The adorable store pups roaming room-to-room certainly don’t hurt, either. It’s a great spot to stop in and grab a glass of wine or local beer and treat yourself to something new. You deserve it!
Bearded Iris
101 Van Buren Street
Speaking of beer, have you been to Bearded Iris, yet? This place is a must-visit. It has a really eclectic atmosphere with chandelier lighting, black and white checkered flooring, and lots of seating (bar stools and chairs). Plus, the taproom is kid-friendly and BYO food, and pets are allowed to hang outside with you on the patio. Bearded Iris, founded and operated by Kavon Togrye and Paul Vaughn, is perhaps best known for its Homestyle IPA, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a bad one on the list. If your taste buds can brave the Double IPAs, we highly recommend them.
Little’s Fish Company
1234 6th Avenue North
No neighborhood is complete without a local fresh market - this one just happens to specialize in fish and seafood. For over 60 years, Little’s Fish Company has been serving the Nashville area with fresh fish. It’s like one of those things you didn’t know was a necessity in your life until you had it, and now you can never go back. They have so many varieties (including wild game and specialty meats like alligator, frog legs, quail and rabbit), it’s hard to keep track, but you can always call ahead for special orders or to see what they have in stock.
Rolf and Daughters
700 Taylor Street
It’s fitting that the acronym for Krajeck’s restaurant is R.A.D., because that’s exactly how we would characterize his genius take on food. In all honesty, food isn’t even the right word to describe the American South-meets-Italy menu he presents. Krajeck spent the better part of his childhood in Belgium before attending a Swiss hotel-culinary school where he learned how to make pasta from the Italians working alongside him.
He opened Rolf and Daughters in a renovated loft building in late 2012, and the Nashville culinary scene hasn’t been the same since. His goal of serving dishes highlighting whole-animal butchery, seasonal produce, and rustic pastas is realized in a menu that you have to sample to believe. We recommend starting with the Cecamariti, cultured butter and black pepper pasta dish. You might just want to order two - for yourself. If you’re looking to try more from Krajeck, experience his new concept, Folk, in East Nashville.
Honorable Mentions:
While not technically located in Germantown, we just had to include the Farmers’ Market and Bicentennial Mall. You can reach both by foot from Germantown in a quick 15-minute walk, and they’re open nearly every day of the year. Gardens of Babylon is one of our favorite spots at the market, located at the south end of the Farm Sheds. So. Many. Plants. When you’re done spending all of your money on greenery, you can walk out to your right and down to the Bicentennial Mall. It’s so scenic and beautiful and arguably one of the best spots for people watching. Highly recommend.
So, what do you think are some other great spots in Germantown? Where should we go next? Feel free to share them with us by tagging @lifestylecommunities on Facebook or Instagram.
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Britt is a Content Marketing Manager for Lifestyle Communities (LC), who enjoys sharing the stories of cities and neighborhoods. With communities throughout Columbus, Ohio, Louisville, Kentucky and Nashville - Germantown, Mt. Juliet, Murfreesboro and SoBro (coming soon) - LC is committed to bringing people together to form meaningful connections. It’s not about building apartments, restaurants, pools and gyms - it’s about building places for people to engage, to connect, and to be themselves. It’s about building a place to call home. Learn more at LifestyleCommunities.com or on Instagram, @lifestylecommunities.
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Holly Williams, owner of White’s Merchantile has launched White’s Room and Board, offering beautiful vacation rental properties around middle Tennessee and expanding to Franklin, KY this summer. Let me show you around the dreamy Sweeney Cottage in Leiper’s Fork. You'll want to grab a glass of sweet tea and move right in!
Sweeney Cottage, built in 1892 by the Carl Sweeney family, is located in the charming village of Leiper’s Fork. Williams states that she “enjoyed working on the redemption of this home, renovating where needed, and always preserving where I can to let the history shine through.” Topped with a tiny roof, a front porch swing and fire pit, you truly can’t find more Southern Charm!
It is located within walking distance to Puckett’s, White’s Merchantile1892, 1892 and Leip
The front porch welcomes you with open arms! You’ll want to barbecue and sit on this porch for hours!
Sweeney Cottage allows you to bring your furry friends! They even have Harry Barker dog beds in the living room to pamper your pooch!
The living room offers a gas fireplace, flat screen tv, antique chest of drawers and plenty of sunshine.
Come ready to soak in the tub and feel refreshed!
The farm table is the perfect spot to gather around the table to eat, drink and share stories
The Writer’s Room equipped with two Gibson Guitars begs for local musicians and artisans to create music in this space.
The light-filled master bedroom with a queen bed will make getting up in the morning very difficult.
The backyard features a fire pit and the place you’ll want to barbecue.
If you’re looking for a vacation that’s close to home, you’ll definitely want to look into Sweeney Cottage. Love and beauty meet you at every corner!
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Dawn and her family love exploring all things Nashville and sharing their adventures! Dawn loves connecting with other moms and highlighting the best of Nashville! You can find her eating her way through Nashville with kids in tow, trying new things like Goat Yoga, and enjoying all that Music City has to offer! Learn more at www.thenashvillemom.com or on Insta @thenashvillemom.
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