CityScope Magazine Spring 2023

Springtime is just around the corner, and for many, this season is a time of anticipation and promise, of celebration and new beginnings. In this spring issue of CityScope® magazine, we aim to celebrate the men and women who are making a difference in our community, whether through their business endeavors, acts of service, or positive leadership.

For example, in “8 Companies to Watch,” we highlight local entrepreneurs who are supporting and challenging one another to greater heights. Our heartwarming feature “Following in Their Footsteps” includes six area professionals inspired by their parents’ careers. “Mastering Martial Arts” provides an in-depth look at various martial arts available right here in the Scenic City, from kung-fu and karate to krav maga. Our fourth and final feature, “Animal Foster Families,” tells the story of locals who have opened their homes – and their hearts – to animals in need.

With a new season comes the reminder that love is always in bloom, and we take the time to celebrate that with our special wedding section. This one-of-a-kind section is filled with talented vendors, happy couples, and stunning photography that captures everything from local bridal parties to exquisite wedding day attire. Inside, you’ll also find area venues, wedding day specialists, spectacular bridal jewelry and gifts, and delicious options for spring dining and catering.

Always a pleasure to include in our publications are gorgeous local homes. In this issue, you will be treated to four distinct residences that exemplify Chattanooga’s rich architecture and design. When it comes to making a difference in the lives of others, perhaps none have a greater impact than the men and women who educate and encourage our youth. In our annual schools and camps section, we honor the institutions they serve by featuring over 80 different independent schools and summer camps.

It is our hope that on a pleasant spring evening, you’ll be able to enjoy this spring issue of CityScope® magazine. May the inspiring stories and beautiful photography you find here encourage and excite you about the possibilities that lie ahead.

George Mullinix, Publisher

“When spring came, even the false spring, there were no problems except where to be happiest.”

– Ernest Hemingway

Publisher George Mullinix

Sales & New Business Development Cailey Mullinix Easterly

Sales & Business Development Amanda Worley

Creative & Art Director Emily Pérez Long

Sr. Graphic DesignMultimedia Lauren Robinson

Managing Editor Christina Davenport

Editors Chelsea Risley

Catherine Smith

Rachel Studebaker

Mary Beth Wallace

Director of Digital Marketing Ruth Kaiser De Backer

Marketing & Events Operations Laci Lanier

Digital Marketing Associate Allyson Oakley-Dobbins

Photographers Beacon Imagery Emily Pérez Long

Flint Chaney Kris Hacker/Hacker Medias

Michael Hampton Philip Slowiak

Rich Smith Ross Kimbrell

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CityScope ® and HealthScope ® magazines and Choose Chattanooga ® – Chatt anooga Resource & Relocation Guide ® (the magazines) are published by CMC Publications, LLC, a Chattanooga, Tennessee company. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Views expressed herein are those of the authors or those interviewed and not necessarily those of the publisher, editors, or advertisers. The publisher, editors, and advertisers disclaim any responsibility or liability for such material. All content associated with and included in advertisements (ads, advertorial, and special promotional sections) placed in the magazines are the responsibility of the respective advertiser. CMC Publications, LLC, cannot and does not assume responsibility for any material contained within or associated with any advertisement.

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Introducing Hospice Care Center!

Seeing a need in the market, Hospice of Chattanooga and Hearth Hospice have teamed up to provide the highest quality care for those who need pain and symptom management, as well as for those whose full-time caregiver is temporarily unavailable. “With our collaborative efforts, Hospice of Chattanooga patients and families, as well as the Hearth Hospice patients and families, can benefit from the Care Center for pain and symptom management, as well as respite care for the families,” says Regional Vice President Tiffany Hobbs. It’s also a place where families can find emotional and spiritual support, as well as the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is in good hands.

The heart behind the unit is what makes this new venture truly special. Two leading, local hospice companies, although operated individually, are coming together to ensure more eligible patients and families can take advantage of the 14 private bed hospice unit. “With over 40 years of community hospice service, Hospice of Chattanooga looks forward to bringing the gift of hospice and

palliative care to more eligible families as we learn and work with the excellent clinicians and team members at Hearth Hospice,” says Vice President of Community Development Tim Heath. The Hospice Care Center provides a home-like environment with comfortable patient rooms, dedicated gathering areas for families, around-the-clock on-site nurses, and a welcoming environment for guests 24/7. In addition to the comforting atmosphere, patients receive the highest level of care including coordination between the patient’s personal physician and the hospice medical director, social workers, and spiritual care coordinators to care for the emotional and spiritual needs of both patient and family, provision of medications, medical supplies, and equipment related to the patient’s hospice diagnosis, and much more.

Sharing best practices, these groups have set out to ensure quality care and resources are readily available and accessible throughout the 21 counties covered in Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and Alabama.

While they remain separate companies, they share a common goal: bettering the communities they serve. Working together and sharing ideas, these two top-notch teams will utilize the brand-new Hospice Care Center to enhance patient, family, and community experiences. “We definitely agree community comes first, and we are honored to serve and provide the high-quality, accessible care as a team,” say Tiffany and Tim.

COMFORT | QUALITY | PEACE OF MIND

Tim Heath, VP of Community Development

Tiffany Hobbs, Regional VP

Photography by Jess Harris/Creative Revolver

Chattanooga City Lights

LOCAL EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

March

4 AmuseUm

Creative Discovery Museum’s annual fundraiser is going “Full STEAM Ahead” in 2023. With a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math in the 19th century, the evening event boasts a decadent meal, themed cocktail, DJ and dancing, live entertainment, and plenty of activities. A 50/50 raffle ticket can be purchased in advance or the night of the event. cdmfun.org/amuseum

8 Odyssey Awards Luncheon

Celebrating Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy (CGLA), now in its 14th academic year, the 2023 Odyssey Awards Luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chattanooga Convention Center. Dr. Lucille O’Neal – author, humanitarian, and accomplished speaker – will serve as the keynote speaker, while world-renowned vocal artist Wintley Phipps will be the guest performer. cglaonline.com/donate-to-cgla/odyssey

9 RISE 2023

The Partnership for Families, Children and Adults’ RISE 2023 will be “A Night to Empower.” The evening event at The Westin will feature guest speaker Kevin McNeil, a former special victims detective, author, and advocate for victims and survivors of abuse. To purchase tickets,

reserve a table, or become a sponsor, visit the website or call 423.697.3827. partnershipfca.com/RISE

21 Possibilities Luncheon

In its 20th year, Siskin Hospital’s Possibilities Luncheon will feature keynote speaker Victoria Arlen, an ESPN on-air personality and Paralympic medalist. This communitywide fundraiser benefits Siskin Hospital’s charity care patients as they discover life beyond disability. The event will be in-person and livestreamed beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Chattanooga Convention Center. siskinrehab.org

31 Tell It on the Mountain

The Walden’s Ridge Civic League will host Tall Tales and Storytelling from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 2501 Fairmount Pike on Signal Mountain. This free event features live performances by renowned storytellers, with family-friendly legends, jokes, fairy tales, and more on the docket. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. waldensridgecivicleague.org

April

3 Monday Before the Masters Golf enthusiasts are in luck! The Austin Hatcher Foundation is bringing back the Monday Before the Masters golf tournament for its second year, this time

at Sweetens Cove on April 3. There will be lunch, an auction, and prizes for contest winners, including longest drive and closest to the pin, as well as any holein-one shooters. The event supports the foundation’s mission to erase the effects of pediatric cancer.

hatcherfoundation.org/golf

8 The Great Adult Egg Hunt & Hoppy Hour

Combining the arts, community collaboration, and education into one great event, The Chattery is hosting another Great Adult Egg Hunt & Hoppy Hour. Beginning at Sculpture Fields at Montague Park, adult participants can search for eggs, while a restaurant “hop” along Main Street will conclude the festivities.

thechattery.org/egghunt

14 The 2023 MAC Gala

With the theme Caturday Night Fever, McKamey Animal Center (MAC) is looking forward to getting groovy with Chattanooga at its annual gala, to be held at The Westin. The evening will include a silent and live auction, Snuggle Lounge (with adoptable pets!), VIP experience, and after party as guests celebrate the lifesaving work of the MAC.

mckameyanimalcenter.org/the-mac-gala

22-23 4 Bridges Arts Festival

The Association for Visual Arts’ 4 Bridges Arts Festival is returning to the First Horizon Pavilion this April. The juried art show attracts more than 140 visual artists from around the country and offers $20,000+ in cash awards. Entry is $5 at the gate, and students and children under 18 enter free. avarts.org

22 Battle Below the Clouds

Battle Below the Clouds is Ruby Falls’ ultimate barbecue cook-off. Prizes will be awarded for Best Pulled Pork, Ribs, Wings, and Grand Champion. The all-day event includes live bluegrass bands, kids’ activities, barbecue for purchase, prize drawings, and more. Team registration fees benefit children with pediatric cancer and their families through the Lana’s Love Foundation. Spectator admission is free. rubyfalls.com/special-events/battlebelow-the-clouds

Wine Women & Shoes

27 The Moth Ball® by CityScope®

The Moth Ball® by CityScope® is the ultimate girls’ night out! Find hors d’oeuvres, drinks, dancing, fashions from the past, giveaways, and more at The Signal from 7 until 9 p.m. With a mission to support local women, The Moth Ball® will benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer in 2023. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. themothball.org

29 Believe Bash

Save the date for Erlanger Health System Foundation’s signature event, the Believe Bash. The seventh annual black-tie gala will showcase the theme “Hollywood: The Golden Age” at the Chattanooga Convention Center. Guests will enjoy dinner, dancing, a live auction, and more while raising essential funds to support the Children’s Hospital at Erlanger. erlangerfoundation.org/believe-bash

May 11 Wine Women & Shoes

Benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Chattanooga, this fabulous fundraising event invites women to sip, savor, shop, and support a great cause. From 6 to 10 p.m. at the Chattanooga Convention Center, attendees can enjoy endless wine tastings, designer pop-ups, glamorous fashion, exciting dance performances, a seated dinner, and silent and live auctions. winewomenandshoes.com/event/chattanooga

19 Chattanooga Go Red for Women

The Go Red for Women experience continues to be the cornerstone of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in the Chattanooga community. Taking place at the Chattanooga Convention Center, this empowering gathering focuses on saving lives and raising critical funds for the AHA. chattanoogagored.heart.org

21 IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga

The 2023 IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga is the perfect opportunity to train for the September IRONMAN or compete at one of the sport’s most welcoming race sites. It begins with a point-to-point swim, transitions into a bike course, and then ends with a two-loop run. The race offers qualifying slots for the 2023 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Lahti, Finland. ironman.com

Don’t miss your favorite events! Go to ChooseChatt.com for up-to-date event postings and so much more!

29 Memorial Day Celebration

A true Memorial Day commemoration, this free celebration, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., includes a salute to the flag and veterans, the national anthem, picnic food for purchase, a children’s play area, local musical entertainment, and more at McCoy Farm & Gardens. mccoywalden.org

Celebrate Spring at Area Attractions!

March 11-12, 18-19

Shamrock City at Rock City Gardens

Find the luck of the Irish at Rock City, where the High Falls flows green every March in celebration of Shamrock City. This premier St. Patrick’s Day event, in its 15th year, features Irish food, specialty beer, and more. This event has been consistently selected as a Top 20 Event by Southeast Tourism Society. Tickets at seerockcity.com

April 7-8

Hug-A-Bunny Days at the Chattanooga Zoo

A springtime favorite at the Chattanooga Zoo, Hug-A-Bunny Days is a fun event for all ages. Guests can enjoy games, crafts, themed animal enrichment, and visits with the Easter Bunny. For more information, visit the website. chattzoo.org

April 15-16, 22-23

EarthDayz at Rock City Gardens

A naturally fun outdoor premier event, Rock City’s EarthDayz is celebrating its 14th year of going green. Musical entertainment, nature characters, eco-friendly demonstrations, and more are in store. Tickets at seerockcity.com.

April 22-23, 29-30

Day Out With Thomas at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Featuring Thomas the Tank Engine, this popular annual event at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is fun for the whole family. Expect plenty of train-themed activities as well as lawn games, live entertainment, a pop-up gift shop, and more. Train rides behind Thomas depart every hour, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. through 6:30 p.m. tvrail.com

ERNEST HOLMES: PIONEER OF THE TOWING INDUSTRY Ask Hamilton

I recently moved to Chattanooga and have been learning about the Scenic City’s history by visiting its many museums – there’s so much to discover! Next up on my itinerary is the International Towing Museum. With it being international, I’m curious as to why, out of all the places in the world, Chattanooga has the honor of representing the towing industry?

Sincerely,

Musing Museumgoer

Dear Musing Museumgoer, That would be because Chattanooga is the birthplace of the tow truck!

Chattanooga local and automotive expert Ernest Holmes Sr. brought this useful invention to life in 1916. One story alleges that Holmes was inspired to invent a towing device after struggling with a group of men to remove a wrecked car from South Chickamauga Creek.

Before becoming an integral part of the towing industry, Holmes owned an independent auto-repair garage on Market Street. He created his first rudimentary model of a towing device by affixing an iron chain and pull to the back of a Cadillac. After realizing his invention could successfully tow vehicles, Holmes knew he had struck gold. He pat-

ented the device in 1918, and with that, the towing industry began!

Holmes invented and built many models of tow trucks from his garage. A year later, he founded Ernest Holmes Co. and began to produce and market these vehicles. One of these models was the twin-boom wrecker, which utilized two cables –one to hook the disabled car and the other to anchor the tow truck.

Praised for his innovation and business acumen, Holmes grew his company, even throughout the Great Depression. During World War II, Holmes supplied the Allied forces with thousands of the first militarygrade wrecker. After his death in

1945, Holmes was succeeded by his son, Ernest Holmes Jr., who took over the company and continued growing what his father had started. Holmes wreckers began aiding NASCAR, removing damaged cars from the track, and by the mid-1960s, the majority of wreckers in the industry were Holmes units.

Holmes’ grandsons, Gerald Holmes and Bill Holmes, founded Century Wrecker Corp. in 1974, which produced hydraulic towing equipment that’s now used universally in the industry. Miller Industries acquired both Holmes and Century in 1990 and has achieved large-scale success selling these product lines, along with

other brands. Today, Miller operates a plant outside of Chattanooga in Ooltewah and stands as a world leader in the towing and recovery industry, with manufacturing plants in three countries.

The International Towing Museum was founded in 1995, honoring the history of the towing industry and the man who was instrumental in starting it over a century ago. An organized group of towing professionals, the Friends of Towing, opened the museum to recognize outstanding individuals in the industry and provide information about its history. It contains a Hall of Fame that now includes over 300 individuals.

In 2006, the museum created The Wall of the Fallen, a memorial in honor of towing professionals who lost their lives on the job. Its mission statement reads, “To honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, to generate public awareness of the dangers involved in the towing and recovery industry, and to permanently record and commemorate those involved in fatalities in the towing and recovery industry.”

Next time you visit Market Street, look for a historic marker commemorating Ernest Holmes and praising his contributions to the towing and recovery industry. From the nearby Miller Industries plant to the International Towing Museum, Holmes’ legacy lives on in Chattanooga and contributes to the city’s longstanding culture of innovation.

Hope this helps!

Hamilton Bush Resident History Hound Chattanooga, TN

Previous page: (Top) Ernest Holmes Co. staff picture, 1947; (Bottom left) First wrecker model, created by Ernest Holmes Sr.; (Bottom right) Ernest Holmes Sr.

This page: (Left) Ad for a Holmes wrecker; (Below) Memorial statue at The Wall of the Fallen

COMPANIES TO WATCH eight

BY CHELSEA RISLEY

Chattanooga is known for its thriving ecosystem of entrepreneurs who support and challenge each other to greater heights. From beverage industry artisans to natural stone industry disruptors, there’s a place for everyone. Follow these eight companies as they grow and flourish in 2023.

United in a pursuit to make a positive impact on the environment, Gary Nihart and Joseph McMillin came together to create a service to regenerate their local soil in South Carolina. Nihart brought experience operating compost facilities and McMillin brought his experience collecting and hauling recyclables from his company, Junk Matters, and created Atlas Organics. The company collects both commercial and residential organic waste, processes it, and then delivers high-quality finished compost to help build and support a sustainable, healthy environment for everyone.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:  Nihart and McMillin have personally worked in every aspect of the company, from collecting organic waste to operating the machinery at the composting site. They built their commercial client base to include the corporate, education, healthcare, hospitality, and industrial sectors while empowering local residents to make a difference through diverting food waste. Atlas Organics’ commitment to reversing climate change by regenerating the soil and supporting healthy ecosystems has led them to provide high-quality compost to clients in more than a dozen states across the United States, including Tennessee.

2022 IN REVIEW: Last year, Atlas Organics expanded into the West and Florida and continued deepening its relationships in Tennessee in many ways, including joining the Tennessee Composting Council as well as strengthening its relationship with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. The company also continued supporting their work with Compost House at Crabtree Farms in Chattanooga, where they partner to collect waste from local residential and commercial clients, including the Chattanooga

Composting to Reverse Climate Change

Lookouts, and offer monthly subscriptions for residential compost deliveries.

OUTLOOK FOR 2023: Atlas Organics was first introduced to Chattanooga through a request for compost, and once they dug deeper, they realized that Chattanooga is a city interested in increasing its sustainable business practices. This makes it a great home for their newest facility, which will empower Chattanoogans to make a greater environmental impact with easy composting. Toward the end of 2022, Atlas Organics leased a three-acre tract for a new food and yard waste composting facility near downtown Chattanooga, so 2023 will be focused on building that site. In addition to this growth, Atlas Organics will be integrating with their parent company, Generate Upcycle, to offer an even more diverse range of technologies for circular waste solutions.

ATLAS ORGANICS

Photos Courtesy of Atlas Organics

Gary Nihart and Joseph McMillin

Concentrating on Bold Flavors

Antonio and Onteaya Tate love exploring new places and fell in love with the bold flavors of chai while traveling. When they returned home and began planning the menu for their new coffee shop, The Green Bean Coffee Co., they realized there was an opportunity to create a product unlike anything used in other coffee shops around town – a chai concentrate with unique flavors.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:

The husband and wife team developed their perfectly balanced chai concentrate recipe and secured a spot in Proof Incubator’s Consumer Packaged Goods Accelerator Program. From there, they started serving Cha Cha Masala Chai in their

own coffee shop and have now expanded availability to other local shops. Due to the super concentrated nature of the product, the bold chai flavors can be added to more than just lattes. The Tates recommend adding it to cocktails, sauces for wings and meatballs, and sweet breakfast treats like waffles and oatmeal.

2022 IN REVIEW: The duo launched their second coffee shop in Chattanooga, which will serve as the flagship location for Cha Cha Masala Chai. The product is being served in several other local coffee shops and cafes, including The Daily Ration, Allgood’s Used Books and Coffee, and both Plant Candy Collective locations. In addition to being available for wholesale, in 2022, Cha Cha Masala Chai expanded to two retail bottle sizes, a 16 oz. and a half gallon option, available in their online store.

OUTLOOK FOR 2023: With the momentum gained from winning CO.LAB’s 2022 “Will This Float?” competition, Cha Cha Masala Chai intends to expand the e-commerce aspect of the business to offer easier access for consumers and streamline the wholesale process for local businesses. They hope to soon offer their products on the shelves of larger stores like Whole Foods, Pruett’s Market, and Target. In addition to appreciating Chattanooga for its entrepreneurial ecosystem, the Tates say it’s also perfectly situated for growing their network to nearby markets such as Knoxville, Nashville, and Atlanta.

CHA CHA MASALA CHAI

Photos Courtesy of Cha Cha Masala Chai

Antonio Tate

Onteaya Tate

Individualizing Counsel for Complex Issues

When Courtney Bullard, founder and CEO of Institutional Compliance Solutions, served as in-house counsel for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, she witnessed firsthand the complex issues facing schools and institutions when it comes to responding to and addressing sexual misconduct. She found a gap in practical and legal advice for these situations and was inspired to found ICS in order to provide unique services, including investigations, training, and legal advice.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:  Though ICS is a local company, it has national impact with clients in 47 states. Despite impressive growth since the company’s start, it remains committed to its mission of integrity and respect in providing practical and transparent advice to clients. ICS “measures success on impact, not on rev enue,” Bullard explains. ICS also boasts individu alized services to each client. Since they work with the private sector, large school districts, state institutions, churches, and everything in between on matters involving sexual misconduct, each organization requires different approaches to creating safer environments.

2022 IN REVIEW: According to Bullard, ICS has grown revenue by 600% in three years. Among the main accomplishments of the last year is an official certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). Last year also marked the continued success of Title IX University, an online training platform that allows school administrators to take legally mandated Title IX training. Through Title IX U, schools also have access to virtual events, compliance aids, and other resources.

OUTLOOK FOR 2023: ICS aims to continue growing services for Chattanooga-area private and public schools as well as for the private sector, specifically in the areas of discrimination and workplace misconduct. This year will also see the creation of a new training center to host education on consent and preventing sexual harassment, primarily for high school seniors and college freshmen, though the center will be available to Title IX and human resource teams as well.

INSTITUTIONAL COMPLIANCE SOLUTIONS

Courtney Bullard

Revolutionizing a Stone-Age System

STONELOADS

StoneLoads was born out of need – Patrick Wells, co-founder and CEO of StoneLoads, is also the CEO of Majestic Stone, a natural stone quarry and fabrication company. In the course of growing Majestic Stone, Wells realized he needed a better way to navigate the industry. With the help of his team – John Bryant, Natalie Roy Martin, and David Martin – he built StoneLoads, an online marketplace of natural stone products where buyers can easily make purchases and sellers can easily update their inventories.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:  As the only platform of its kind, StoneLoads definitely disrupts the status quo in the natural stone industry. It can be difficult to convince folks that the old-school processes are outdated and there are more convenient ways to do business, but Stone-

Loads is having great success, with transactions taking place as soon as the site launched. The aim for this platform isn’t to eliminate the need for interpersonal relationships, but rather to streamline the process and make it easier for industry professionals to connect.

2022 IN REVIEW: After the official launch, the focus shifted to growing the marketplace with more products and suppliers. In December, StoneLoads introduced a feature that makes the process even easier with instant freight quotes and the ability to book a delivery when ordering truckloads of stone. StoneLoads services are utilized by both national landscape companies and local small businesses. “It’s wonderful to see my peer quarry owners selling, in a single transaction, more product than they sometimes would in a day,” Wells says. “It’s clear to see that what we’ve built is a game-changer.”

OUTLOOK FOR 2023: This year will be spent incorporating the feedback StoneLoads has received so far to continue making the platform more intuitive and an easy, everyday tool for professionals industry-wide. The original StoneLoads launch was just after the typical busy landscape and hardscape season, so Wells is confident that 2023 will exceed expectations now that they have the platform running at full capacity in time for their first true busy season.

Patrick Wells, Natalie Roy Martin, David Martin, and John Bryant

Trust matters.

Welding Jewelry and Changing Culture

Permanent jewelry isn’t new, but it has risen in popularity in recent years. Katie Wood, a corporate attorney, and Jill Wolfe, a certified welder, noticed permanent jewelry offerings popping up in larger cities and saw their window to start a business closer to home. Wood + Wolfe was born out of a perfect professional match –Wolfe handles the technical welding skills and Wood handles the legal and financial end of the business. The company focuses on events, popups, and parties, where they offer bracelets and necklaces welded together on-site – no clasp needed.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:

After opening in the summer of last year, Wood + Wolfe brought in over $100,000 in sales in their first four months of business alone. In addition to the aim of providing affordable permanent jewelry and a fun, out-of-the-ordinary experience, Wood + Wolfe champions inclusivity – as Wood says, “It’s just a silly little jewelry company, but sometimes it can be a lot more.” They strive to be a part of changing culture for the better by creating spaces that are welcoming for everyone and represent people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

2022 IN REVIEW: A highlight of the last year was the team’s first professional branding shoot for which they hand-selected photographers, videographers, and models in order to portray their message of inclusivity. Wood + Wolfe boasts multiple viral social media posts and had the opportunity to work with some of the founders’ favorite influencers. They also were vendors at several major festivals and began hiring independent contractors and service providers to extend their reach.

OUTLOOK FOR 2023: This year the startup will be focusing on sustainable growth, which means finding both advisors and investors while maintaining the quality of goods and services they already provide. Wood + Wolfe anticipates doubling their annual sales in 2023 and aims to further grow their local business to events like Riverbend and Moon River Festival, as well as expand into other cities beyond their current bases of Chattanooga, Nashville, and Charlotte, North Carolina.

WOOD + WOLFE

Jill Wolfe and Katie Wood

EVOLVE HERE.

ANTHROPOLOGIE

EMBELLISH

GOODMAN COFFEE

HEMLINE

J. CREW

LULULEMON ATHLETICA

MADEWELL

ONWARD RESERVE

PUBLIC HOUSE

REVIVAL

THAT GLASSES GUY

THE COSMETIC MARKET

THE SOCIAL

TUPELO HONEY CAFE

TWO TEN JACK

WILD HONEY HAIR STUDIO

YVES DELORME

Mixing It Up With Balsamic and Bitters

The founders of Maven Table had a desire for highquality, healthy cocktail mixers, and as one founder, Rachel Wanamaker, put it, they were inspired to make the products they wanted to see on shelves. They began by purchasing and rebranding Olive Chattanooga and created their signature balsamic vinegar cocktail (and mocktail) mixers. Each mixer is designed to be added to a particular liquor and plain seltzer water for an approachable cocktail that doesn’t require many ingredients, with the intention of making it easy to entertain at a moment’s notice.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:  Although the company is relatively new, they’ve tapped into a unique area of the ever-growing drink industry. Maven Table’s products can be found locally at Sophie’s, nationally at Bloomingdale’s, and at partnered boutiques throughout the country. What really sets them apart from other cocktail mixers are their clean, all-natural ingredients – they exclusively use infused balsamic vinegars, and the bitters are made using modern herbalist techniques.

2022 IN REVIEW: Last year, Maven Table streamlined its product line by eliminating olive oil and focusing on mixers. They also began a new partnership with The Bitter Bottle, a local small-batch bitters company owned by Kaleena

Goldsworthy-Warnock, with bitters uniquely created for the discerning palates of food and beverage industry professionals. The partners’ goal is to expand their product offering and strengthen their overall brand as a quality cocktail ingredient company that makes crafting cocktails at home affordable and accessible.

OUTLOOK FOR 2023: Wanamaker and Goldsworthy-Warnock are excited to begin offering new canned ready-to-drink options for health-conscious consumers in 2023. They also plan to spend this year expanding their product lines and continue growing into new markets, regionally and nationally. They’re in a good position to do this since Chattanooga is a strategic place to grow a business – both Wanamaker and Goldsworthy-Warnock love the city for all its offerings, not the least of which is the community of innovative and inspirational entrepreneurs.

Rachel Wanamaker and Kaleena Goldsworthy-Warnock

Cheryl Saucier, owner of Mountain View Low Vision Services (MVLVS), has been in the vision rehabilitation field for over 30 years. As a low vision therapist, she has recognized that there is “little awareness about the spectrum of vision loss and its impacts on daily life,” Saucier explains. In a nutshell, her mission for MVLVS is access and awareness – connecting people with vision loss with resources, services, and high-quality curated products to lessen the impact of low vision on their lives.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:  Though MVLVS launched just before the pandemic halted normal opera tions, Saucier was able to pivot and even doubled the company’s gross sales in 2020. Part of this success is due to Saucier’s unique approach to assistive technology sales that comes from her clinical background and emphasis on rehabilitative outcomes. To this end, MVLVS partners with the occupational therapy program at UTC as well as Comprehensive In-Home Therapy to train occupational therapists in helping someone with vision loss test out and use the devices that work best for them.

2022 IN REVIEW: After solid growth throughout the pandemic, MVLVS

Increasing Access to Practical Tools for Vision Loss

MOUNTAIN VIEW LOW VISION SERVICES

opened a brick-and-mortar store and spent last year focusing on the best ways to use the space, including holding training sessions for occupational therapists and other industry professionals in addition to the clients who will be using the devices. One of the biggest highlights of the year was becoming a top five finalist in Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union’s Idea Leap Grant competition.

OUTLOOK FOR 2023 : Saucier’s goal for this year is to increase sales by growing the company’s network. She plans to use the Idea Leap funds to create a library of video content for training occupational therapists. If there are more highly trained occupational therapists in the area, there will be more access to rehabilitative care for those with vision loss and then more exposure to the products MVLVS offers. Saucier is also aiming to expand the company’s presence in the surrounding Southern states.

Cheryl Saucier

SAVE SOME GREEN

ON A NEW FORD!

Tackling the Biggest Installations in Sports

BUMGARNER CONSTRUCTION

When the housing market crashed in 2008, home builder Gary Bumgarner, owner of Bumgarner Construction, found himself in a difficult situation. According to Bumgarner, his next endeavor sort of fell into his lap: “Someone asked me if I could build a jumbotron, and since I didn’t have a lot of other work going on, I said yes.” Building skills transferred well to this new undertaking, so his crew retooled and re-educated themselves and got to work. Their first large-scale project, a jumbotron at Louisiana State University, remains Bumgarner’s favorite because of the satisfaction of seeing how far his company has come since its start.

WHY IT’S A COMPANY TO WATCH:  What sets Bumgarner Construction apart from its competitors is its attention to detail. The crew – and the foreman in particular – is very detail-oriented and ensures that the company stays focused on fulfilling clients’ wishes from start to finish. Bumgarner prefers to consider his relationship with his clients a partnership rather than a job since they’re working together toward the same goal, usually for an extended amount of time that it takes to complete a project.

2022 IN REVIEW: In 2021, the company completed the massive jumbotron at the Los Angeles Rams’ SoFi Stadium in time for 2022’s Super Bowl 56, which, according to Bumgarner, “was the biggest project on the planet for sports.” After winning the contract in 2017, it took months of labor with crews working 12- to 15-hour days to complete – all while navigating around the stadium schedule. With that impressive accomplishment under their belts, they moved on to Michigan State for a basketball arena installation.

OUTLOOK FOR 2023: This year will see the crew continuing their partnership with Michigan State with a new installation for Spartan Stadium, home of the school’s football program, as well as working on a new project for the Chattanooga Airport. Bumgarner Construction will also be focusing its energy on building new partnerships and landing contracts closer to the South since that’s somewhat of a rarity for a core team that calls Chattanooga home. Bumgarner has his sights set on winning a bid for a project for the Tennessee Titans.

Steve Warren, Gary Bumgarner, and Richard Porter

KYLE LUTHY, CRPC™, APMA™, Financial Advisor

JOHN MARK GRIGGS, CFP®, CRPC™, APMA™, Associate Financial Advisor

DAMON RIGGS, CRPC™, Financial Advisor

LUANE CULPEPPER, CKA®, CFP®, Financial Advisor

JODY B RIGGS, CPA, CFP®, CLTC®, RICP®, CKA®, APMA™, Private Wealth Advisor

SAMUEL MONTGOMERY, CFP®, CKA®, APMA™, Associate Financial Advisor

FOLLOWING IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS

For many folks, discovering the career they find most fulfilling is a long journey full of trial and error. For others, that journey began much earlier in life as they accompanied their parents to work as kids, or watched them grade papers in the evenings, or listened to them talk about how much their work meant to them. Here, we talked with six locals who were inspired to be just like their parents – at least when it comes to their jobs.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS KIMBRELL

JAY CAUGHMAN President, Caughman & Caughman Architects

Which family member inspired you? As far back as I can remember, I wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps, J. Wayne Caughman.

What do you admire most about your father when it comes to his career? His ability to sketch. As a kid, I remember watching his hands while he was sketching conceptual plans. He made it look so easy.

Do you have any favorite memories together? Touring his buildings that were under construction and seeing the construction methods, how materials join together. Seeing him interact with clients, general contractors, and subcontractors. Seeing him treating the subcontractors respectfully, valuing what they bring to the project and listening to their opinions. Feeling a sense of importance knowing I was

“with the architect.” And seeing how his super loose early sketches came to life.

Was there a particular moment when you realized your job was right for you? In high school, an architect came to visit and speak to a group of us who thought we might want to be architects. One of the tools he used to illustrate a point was whether we could close our eyes and envision the room we were standing in. What color was the carpet? What kind of lights were in the room? How far were the windows above the floor? Without looking, I could see all of that stuff. I mean really, I never wanted to be anything else besides an architect, but this was a moment I remember.

What do you love most about your work? I’m glad that I can use the few talents that I have to help people. I did really poorly in high school, so to find an area I excelled in, and actually enjoyed, was exhilarating.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced on the path to your career? A global recession in 2008 wasn’t all that fun. But I have found that if I treat people fairly and do what I say I am going to do, I keep a good reputation. And with a good reputation, as long as there is work to do in Chattanooga, I stay busy. Is there any advice you would give someone else pursuing a career in your field? If you can see 3D spaces in your head, and manipulate them in your head, you can do it.

As a kid, I remember watching his hands while he was sketching conceptual plans. He made it look so easy.

VICENTE MEJIA, MD, FACS

Surgeon, University Surgical Associates & University of Tennessee at Chattanooga College of Medicine

Which family member inspired you? My father was a veterinarian. I used to go and help him out in his clinic and on farms. He had a cool job, but I thought I’d like to deal with human beings instead of animals. I never saw myself doing anything else.

What do you admire most about your father when it comes to his career? His commitment and his ethics. My father was one of the most honest people I’ve ever known.

Do you have any favorite memories together? He was the vet for the zoo at one point, so going into the lion cages was pretty cool.

What drew you to the job and made you want to pursue it? I grew up in Colombia and was a very active kid, so I was always in the hospital with some kind of problem, like needing stitches in my head. In Colombia, the number one cause of mortality in the younger population is trauma. Seeing people going into the ER with these horrible injuries and seeing the doctor being so cool and collected – I thought it was great, and I wanted to do that.

Was there a particular moment when you realized your specialty was right for you? In Colombia, surgeons are mostly just technicians – they only do the surgery – so I thought about going into medicine. I had the fortune of coming to Chattanooga and Erlanger, where I did my internship, and I saw that doctors here operated and took care of patients, especially the surgical intensivists. So I said, I want to be able to operate because I know I have the hands for that, and I also want to take care of patients.

Is there anything else you’d like to add? My motivation has always been my three children. I think one of the highlights of any career is when one of your kids at least considers going into medicine. They know better than anyone else how much time you spend at the hospital and how hard it is, and they still want to go into that because you’ve done something right. One of my kids is doing that right now – she might change her mind, and if she does, that’s okay, but just considering it is a great recognition of what I do.

My father was one of the most honest people I’ve ever known.

Which family member inspired you? My father. He went from being a brick mason to being a manager and eventually became co-owner of a masonry company. I didn’t realize until I got started in the industry what an impact my father made on others.

What do you admire most about your father when it comes to his career? I admire his honesty and

the reputation he had for treating everyone equally. I also admire his immense construction knowledge. Has your father taught you any lessons or given any advice that you’ve carried into your own career? My father taught me the golden rule, to treat others the way you want to be treated, and to never look down on anyone.

Do you have any favorite memories together? I always loved laying brick together on weekends when we were building our houses and hobby farming on the land we purchased together.

What drew you to the job and made you want to pursue it? I loved the idea of working outdoors and that every job would be different, and it also offered good pay. My father told me that the job was a hard but honest way to make a living, and he was right. It’s been a good life.

What do you love most about your work? I enjoy the variety –every job is different. Sure, they use the same materials, but the designs are never the same.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced on the path to your career? When I worked for my father’s company, being the boss’s son was challenging because you’re always held to a higher standard than everyone else, and you have to really prove yourself.

Is there any advice you would give someone else pursuing a career in your field? Being a brick mason is a trade you can take with you anywhere. There’s always room for advancement if you apply yourself.

STEVE DAVIS Estimator, Adams Masonry

I admire his honesty and the reputation he had for treating everyone equally.

RANITA SCRUGGS Assistant Principal, Ooltewah Elementary School

Which family member inspired you? My mother, Cheryl Glenn, inspired me to go into the field of education. What drew you to the job and made you want to pursue it? From an early age, I wanted to be a teacher. I was intrigued by my mother as I watched her prepare lessons for her students and saw the positive, long-lasting relationships she had with them. I grew up in her classroom. I had so many positive experiences and interactions with my teachers, and I wanted to foster those same experiences with my students. What do you admire most about your mother when it comes to her career? I admire the professionalism and longevity of my mother’s career, and the various capacities she served during her time in education. She retired after 31 years, and during her tenure, she taught kindergarten, first, and second grades and served as an instructional coach in the later years of her career. Upon retirement, she worked in an early childhood setting with pre-K students, and she currently tutors one of her former students from her pre-K class.

Has your mother taught you any lessons that you’ve carried into your career? My mother has taught me to respect others’ beliefs and celebrate their differences, to be fair, and to treat others in the manner in which I would like to be treated. The greatest lesson she taught me is to be true to myself and never waver from my beliefs and values. Do you have any favorite memories together? My favorite memory would be spending my afternoons in my mother’s classroom after school and helping set up and organize her classroom before each year. This is where I got to play “school” in an actual classroom.

Was there a particular moment when you realized your career was right for you? At the beginning of my first year of teaching, I assessed my students to see their current levels, and again after the first quarter to see the progress that was made. I was blown away by their growth over such a short time span – it confirmed that I was indeed doing something right in my classroom as a first-year teacher. The feeling when students “get it” is indescribable. It’s the moment where you realize all of your hard work has paid off.

I watched her prepare lessons for her students and saw the positive, longlasting relationships she had with them.

JORDAN MIDDLEBROOKS Senior Firefighter, City of Chattanooga Fire Department

Which family member inspired you?

My dad, Nathaniel Middlebrooks, is a Battalion Chief in the Chattanooga Fire Department. I was drawn to the atmosphere at a very young age while visiting my father at the fire hall. I witnessed lessons taught, lessons learned, positive connections, and the camaraderie and service to the community for many years.

Did you always want to follow in his footsteps? I’ve looked up to my

dad my entire life. His footprints are large, and his strides are even larger. I am not surprised that we both chose careers of service.

What do you admire most about your father when it comes to his career? The thing that I admire most is his sense of calmness. As firefighters, we experience many storms that life brings – life can literally change in minutes – and his steadiness under stress has really helped me and other firefighters.

Has your father taught you any lessons or given any advice that you’ve carried into your own career? I’ve received countless gems from him throughout my life – many of which I had to grow into – that make me so thankful for the person he is. He taught me that sacrifices will pay off in the end. He continues to give useful advice and demonstrates what a good person should be. The older I get, the more I understand the life lessons he was teaching.

Do you have any favorite memories together? Some of my favorite memories include him teaching me how to cook – that has also been helpful within the fire department. The last thing that you want is to prepare a bad meal for fellow firefighters.

What do you love most about your work? The camaraderie is incomparable. The knowledge that I continue to acquire and the relationships that I’m building are matchless. Although I am very early in my career, I’ve been exposed to a collection of great people who have shared their knowledge and encouraged me. Everyone within the fire department has the best intentions for each other and the community. Is there anything else you would like to add? I also have an amazing mother who has been a consistent and positive presence in my life, a true shining example for me to witness and learn from. Some words I live by that my grandfather used to say are, “Love somebody today.”

I witnessed positive connections and the camaraderie and service to the community.

ANGIE WOOD Professor, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Chattanooga State Community College // Interim Director of the Global Scholars Honors Program

Which family member inspired you? My mom, Sue Evans, is my inspiration for being an educator! She was a middle and high school math teacher for her entire career and now continues as a tutor in her retirement.

What do you admire most about your mother when it comes to her career? My mom didn’t see being an educator as her career – it was who she was. She lived and breathed being a role model, mentor, safe space, and most of all – a mom.

Did you always want to follow in her footsteps? Absolutely not! In fact, I was the typical teenager who wanted to do anything in the world that wasn’t what their parents did for a living. I was determined to always live in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, be single, never have children, and be a CEO. Thank goodness dreams don’t always come true, because I am living a life even more amazing than I dreamed. Now I am married to the love of my life, have a son and daughter-in-law who I couldn’t be more proud of, and after a short stint as a CEO, I am quite happy being the CEO of my own classroom.

Has your mother taught you any lessons or given any advice that you’ve carried into your own career? Both of my parents have led by example. They both taught my sister and me that you have to work hard and take pride in what you do. You need to be kind, understanding, strong, and always be the best you can be.

What do you love most about your work? William Cowper wrote “variety is the very spice of life,” and that is

what I love about my work. As a geography professor, each day brings new leaders, religions, languages, and information I can learn with the students as we work to be better global citizens.

Is there any advice you would give someone else pursuing a career in your field? Don’t quit! If you have a calling to education, follow it. You may not see the difference you’ve made until years from now, but that’s okay. Think of all the things in the world that weren’t built overnight but have altered the course of history – you can make that kind of impact as an educator!

She lived and breathed being a role model, mentor, safe space, and most of all – a mom.

Mastering Martial Arts

BY RACHEL STUDEBAKER

From an engaging hobby to a challenging workout to valuable self-defense knowledge, martial arts are an appealing pursuit. These deeply rooted traditions each boast a unique style and function that both children and adults of any age can enjoy the process of mastering. Martial arts teach discipline, foster mutual respect, and demand physical skill and mental focus.

Martial arts can be traced back for dozens of centuries, the origins of these unarmed fighting systems depicted in ancient artwork and texts. For some martial arts, centuries-old techniques inform modern-day practices, while others emerged as recently as last century. Whether old or new, martial arts continue to thrive thanks to skilled instructors who have dedicated decades to learning and teaching their arts. Chattanooga is home to dozens of martial arts studios, whose instructors provide insight into their respective disciplines and share what it takes to become a martial arts master.

KUNG-FU

Evolved from a Chinese monastery founded in antiquity, with origins tracing back even further, kung-fu is a storied martial art. Kung-fu mirrors nature through movements that imitate the fighting stances of animals. For nearly two millennia, people have assumed the positions of a striking tiger or poised snake in meditation, exercise, or defense. The practice made its way to the Western world and soared in popularity in the 20th century, when movie star Bruce Lee brought kung-fu and its stances to the big screen.

Trevor Haines, owner of Dojo Chattanooga, knows these stances by heart. Trained in both the Five Animal Kenpo and Wing Chun styles of kung-fu, he sheds light on their histories.

“The roots of both arts are from the Shaolin Temple. Wing Chun was developed about 300 years ago by a Shaolin nun who named the new style after her first student. The essence of the style is to control your opponent’s center of balance with minimal physical force and to maintain your attack once their center is controlled, until you are safe.”

The term kung-fu means “achievement through great effort,” an accurate moniker, as achieving the required level of control often means rewiring entire instincts. “The body tenses when the mind tenses. The mind tenses when the body tenses. Learning to reverse that feedback loop, to trust in relaxation and not rely on brute force, is counterintuitive to many,” explains Haines.

What led you to learn a martial art?

TREVOR HAINES: I originally wanted to learn fencing when I was 10 years old, but I was told I was too young. I started learning martial arts as a “plan B” and fell in love with it.

MICKEY SWAFFORD: I was always interested in martial arts as a kid, but there were no schools where I lived. When I saw Royce Gracie fight in UFC 2, I knew I had to learn Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

RICK HALL: I began my martial arts training during college. When I was a young man in the late 1960s and early 1970s, martial arts were not as well-known or as popular as they are today. As a former boxer, I was interested in combat arts, and Bruce Lee had just burst onto the scene. “Kung Fu” was a new series on television, and I became interested.

JESSIE THORNTON: I wanted to learn how to protect myself; I was getting bullied in school. I got started in 1974 with Mr. Ray Reeves in Ringgold. In 1975, Robert Harris and Chester Greene introduced me to Mr. Ben Kiker at Ben Kiker’s United Karate Studio – I have been training with him for 47 and a half years.

LARRY SCOTT: I started martial arts to build confidence. As a young boy, I experienced being bullied. I saw a clip of Bruce Lee filming the movie “Enter the Dragon” and was mesmerized by his impeccable martial arts skills. I asked my father Gary Scott, an Air Force Master Sergeant, about taking lessons. He signed me up for my very first lesson, and I got started in my martial arts career in 1972 at the age of 10.

Trevor Haines, owner of Dojo Chattanooga

JIU-JITSU

Another martial art refined by centuries of practice is jujutsu, the foundation of multiple modern martial arts. This defensive combat method developed in feudal Japan and was taught to Samurai warriors should they need to fight unarmed. While it originated on the battlefield, jujutsu began to develop into a competitive, ground-fighting combat sport and merged into new disciplines. Judo was formed in the early 20th century and was shortly followed by jiu-jitsu. The latter emerged halfway across the world from its predecessor in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when Carlos Gracie and his family founded a jiu-jitsu school in the 1920s. Today, this Brazilian style of jiu-jitsu, also known as Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, is widely practiced.

Mickey Swafford teaches Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to students at the Chattanooga Jiu-Jitsu Academy. A 4th degree black belt with over 25 years of experience, Swafford expertly instructs his students in ground-fighting, grappling techniques. Jiujitsu allows a fighter of any size to gain the advantage, from initial takedowns to holding an opponent from any position. “Through understanding the techniques and the use of leverage, strategy, and patience, a smaller, weaker person can defeat a larger, stronger opponent,” explains Swafford.

He continues, “Learning jiu-jitsu is like putting together a 100,000-piece puzzle with no clue what it will look like in the end. You just have to be patient and get 1% better every day. After a year or two, you will be amazed at what you have learned and how far you have come.”

What skills do martial arts foster?

TREVOR HAINES: You must learn to relax, especially under pressure, and use your opponent’s force instead of directly fighting against it. Positioning your body at angles that both deflect force and line your structure to transfer your power to the opponent’s center requires the skill to defend and counter-strike at the same time.

MICKEY SWAFFORD: An open mind and a willingness to be disciplined in your practice. It is one thing to mentally know what to do in a certain situation. It’s another thing altogether to be able to physically do it with a resisting opponent.

RICK HALL: Any exercise program requires the mental discipline to get up and participate on a regular basis. With martial arts training, you must learn patience. You do not develop great skill immediately – it takes time and commitment. You must learn to respect and enjoy the journey.

JESSIE THORNTON: No skills are required to start learning. The skills acquired will be agility, focus, self-discipline, and better stamina and overall health. Also, better flexibility and self-confidence!

LARRY SCOTT: Be willing to apply skills on awareness, learn to react without complacency, and create leverage by learning how to use balance and breathing during the techniques that are being performed. Physical training, self-discipline, and engagement in training scenarios also play a huge role.

Mickey Swafford, owner of Chattanooga Jiu-Jitsu Academy

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KARATE

Karate was born in Okinawa, influenced by Japanese fighting styles and Chinese kenpō. Its name simply means “empty hand,” reflecting its unarmed nature and emphasis on using the hand to attack and defend. While the exact timeline of its origin is debated, karate’s influences significantly predate its eventual rise to international popularity in the 20th century. A continually modified art, karate can take different forms, but all maintain an emphasis on its fundamental hand techniques.

Jessie Thornton has been honing his martial arts skills for nearly 50 years and instructs students in karate at his studio, Jessie Thornton’s United Karate Studio. Here, Thornton strives to create a family environment where students can experience holistic growth.

“Martial arts challenge the student physically, mentally, and spiritually. This is an individual sport, and everyone’s challenges are different. I see these challenges as individual goals; we set goals, earn rank, and set new goals. We’re always improving,” shares Thornton.

He believes that any age is a good age to begin learning, and his classes are living proof: “We have students as young as three, and our oldest training student was 87! Many parents and grandparents train with their children. It’s for everyone.”

TAEKWONDO

A more recent, but just as popular, martial art debuted in Korea in the 1950s when several preexisting Korean martial arts – many with centuries of history – united to form taekwondo. Loosely interpreted to mean “the way of kicking and punching,” taekwondo is known for its powerful kicking and striking techniques. General Choi Hong Hi, considered the father of taekwondo, suggested this name during the merge and became known for his Chang-Hon style of the art.

Rick Hall has been teaching this original style of Chang-Hon taekwondo at his Chattanooga studio, Rick Hall’s Tiger Martial Arts, for the past 35 years. He holds a 9th degree black belt, one of the highest levels awarded, and is respected by his pupils as Grandmaster Hall.

“When I went to Korea to train for the first time, I learned that taekwondo was not only taught and used in the military for combat, but also taught to civilians who were interested in health, fitness, and mental clarity. The training is dynamic, but not brutal. We want to improve our bodies, not damage them,” describes Hall.

Taekwondo focuses on tenets such as honor, perseverance, and self-control to guide students in their approach to its techniques and to day-to-day life. Hall adds, “In our classes, we are all partners trying to improve our lives through taekwondo and also trying to help each other improve our lives and skills.”

Jessie Thornton (left), owner of Jessie Thornton United Karate Studio Rick Hall, owner of Rick Hall’s Tiger Martial Arts

KRAV MAGA

While most well-known martial arts hail from East Asia, krav maga was founded by an Israeli man living in Slovakia. Born in 1910, Imi Lichtenfeld grew up training at his father’s gym and became a talented competitive boxer and wrestler. He adapted this knowledge into the krav maga system of self-defense during World War II to help Jewish communities defend themselves against antisemitic attacks. He fled to Israel, where he continued developing his system, and by the 1960s, krav maga was an established and accessible martial art.

Today, krav maga is taught to American law enforcement agencies and civilians alike, equipping them with practical self-defense skills. Krav maga emphasizes real-world situations and prepares its trainees for any potential encounter.

Larry Scott has over 50 years of martial arts experience and teaches krav maga to participants of the Agoge Combatives program. “I am passionate about safety and giving others the tools necessary to ensure a better chance of keeping themselves safe,” he shares, adding, “It’s all about community safety … helping others learn and live safely is our goal.”

Scott explains how krav maga promotes safety: “The foundational elements of krav maga start with situational awareness. Paying attention to your surroundings and incorporating surprise, speed, and aggressiveness against the threat is the outcome krav maga produces. The key rule of our training is to go home safe.”

Interested in learning a martial art or just getting started? Here’s what the experts have to say.

TREVOR HAINES: Be patient and kind to yourself and enjoy the process of learning. Take corrections you receive positively and realize that every student and your instructors are all on this journey together.

MICKEY SWAFFORD: Go for it! It’s hard to put into words the impact that jiu-jitsu has had on my life. I have seen that and received that feedback from more students than I can count as well.

RICK HALL: There are many styles of martial arts – not all are for everyone. Try out different schools and find one that is a good fit.

JESSIE THORNTON: Try it! You have nothing to lose. Trying karate was the best thing I ever did.

LARRY SCOTT: Follow through and give it a chance. You are worth it! It’s not only about your safety and wellbeing – it’s also about your family and friends.

Larry Scott, lead krav maga instructor at Agoge Combatives

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

These martial arts, among many others, provide discipline and recreation to people in the Chattanooga area and beyond. Even more so, they provide valued communities. “Our students become our family,” says Thornton. “Often, students will say, ‘Welcome to the family!’ when a new student joins.”

The instructors emphasize that in addition to creating friendships, the community found in martial arts studios is a vital part of the training process. “The friendships and camaraderie are crucial for maintaining motivation. On a practical level, training partners truly round out your skills by touching hands with different heights, strengths, and psychologies,” explains Haines.

Swafford echoes this sentiment, saying, “We are all sharing information with one another and working to make each other better. As we raise the level in the room, our level increases as well. A rising tide lifts all boats.”

LEAVING A LEGACY

By imparting their knowledge, these local instructors are investing in a larger, worldwide legacy. Together, they carry on traditions rich with history and inspire their students to do the same. Haines adds a word of encouragement to anyone thinking about getting involved: “Don’t wait to start something new when every condition in your universe is perfectly aligned, or you never will. Just jump in, have fun, and grow from the new experience.”

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Animal Foster Families

It is no secret that cats and dogs are a wonderful part of many people’s lives, and many people consider them to be part of the family. Unfortunately, there are a surprising number of pets that end up in our shelters year after year – often to the point that shelters run out of room. Here, we’re shining the spotlight on locals who have chosen to open their homes to animals in need. Read on to learn more about the heart behind what they do and the special connections they have made along the way.

BY CATHERINE SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICH SMITH

Wendy Caswell

Wendy Caswell’s foster journey began when a litter of puppies was found outside a Salvation Army. Days old and without their mother, these puppies didn’t have the easiest start in life, but their luck changed when Caswell and other volunteers took them in.

“I had no experience in fostering, but offered to help three of them,” Caswell recalls. She enjoyed that experience and wanted to stay involved, thinking she might take a litter of fosters once a year or so, but quickly realized there was a much larger need for foster homes than she had anticipated.

In the 12 years since that first litter, Caswell has fostered over 400 puppies. “I always tell people that fostering is fun – and it is! There are certainly worse things I could do in life than watch puppies play in my backyard,” she says. “Unfortunately, I never have time to dwell on their leaving because I know there will always be another litter of unwanted puppies in need – usually within a couple of days – for me to foster.”

To keep up with this demand, she and her husband designed a wing of their house where their dogs and foster puppies can have their own space. When she is home to supervise, Caswell allows some of her dogs – all of which are rescues – to spend time with the puppies. “Puppies that didn’t grow up with a mom can learn a lot from adult dogs,” she explains. “However, some of my dogs are older now, and I don’t expect them to tolerate a bunch of energized puppies, so I keep them separated.”

For Caswell, animal fostering is simultaneously a source of joy and a reminder of the harsh reality that animal overpopulation is a huge problem. “Shelters are overflowing with unwanted animals and are running out of space to keep them alive. Fostering is needed to give these unwanted animals more time to find a forever home,” she says.

As a veteran foster, Caswell advises, “If you have a good setup with your kennel area, that’s half the battle.” Her puppy area, for instance, includes a large pen where puppies stay together as a litter, which she has found to be beneficial. “If you can foster more than one puppy, please do! They entertain and keep each other company,” she explains, adding that newborn puppies tend to be most comfortable with their littermates.

Looking to the future, Caswell is happy to welcome more puppies into her home, but would rather see fewer animals end up in need in the first place. In order for things to change, she stresses the importance of responsible pet ownership, which includes spaying or neutering animals. “Dogs and cats are the most wonderful companions, and we as humans need to do better for them,” she concludes.

Abigale Choi & Zachary Madonia

Growing up, Abigale Choi was surrounded by animal companions of all sorts, from cats and dogs to turtles and ducks. When she moved into her own apartment after college, it’s no surprise that getting an animal was the first item on her agenda.

“I knew I wanted to have animals, but I wasn’t sure if I was ready for the commitment of getting my own yet,” Choi explains. “After a little bit of research, I applied to become a foster through McKamey Animal Center.” Days later, she brought home her first litter of foster kittens, which she would care for until they were old enough to be adopted. At that point, she was hooked.

“Back in July of 2021, I had just brought another litter of kittens back to be adopted when I sent my foster coordinator a text saying I was ready for more,” Choi recalls. Rather than another litter of kittens, she was told about a senior cat named Paddington who needed a foster to provide feline hospice care. He had severe health complications from feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and Choi had a difficult choice to make.

“They suspected he had about two weeks left to live,” she recalls. “I prayed about it, called my vet to ask a million questions about FIV, and even called a foster mentor of mine before deciding that I would try.”

When she brought Paddington home, his fur was matted in some places and missing in others, his eyes were clouded by cataracts, and he would only eat if Choi fed him by hand. Nevertheless, with plenty of love and attention, his life extended far beyond the two weeks he had been given. The change in Paddington was remarkable, and Choi was given the chance to officially adopt him. “Without even hesitating, I said yes,” she shares. “Paddy was my first foster fail, and he quite honestly saved me when I was in a really hard spot in my life.”

“It’s definitely not all rainbows and butterflies,” Choi admits. “There are not enough resources and too many animals, and it breaks my heart.” Even so, she remains dedicated to giving her fosters the chance to have a happy ending. “I have to focus on the ones that I can save – the ones that are safe in my house with warm beds and full tummies.”

Choi fostered a total of 65 animals in 2022 and has already fostered three puppies and four kittens in the first weeks of 2023. She has no plans to slow down, and to anyone who wants to follow her lead, she has some advice: “If you are considering fostering, I can promise you that it is singlehandedly the hardest but most rewarding thing I have ever done, and I 100% think you should at least try it.”

The Ward Family

Samantha Ward was seven months pregnant when her husband, Ashby, found a chocolate lab wandering on Signal Mountain’s infamous W Road on a rainy evening in 2015. This road, with its sharp turns and low visibility, would be a precarious path for the dog even on a good day, so Ashby decided to bring her home. This sweet stray, who the Wards named Lucy, would be the first of many fostering success stories for the family.

“We fell in love with the idea of another dog, but we knew we couldn’t keep her, so we made the tough decision to post about Lucy on Facebook, and that’s when we were connected with the East Tennessee Alliance for Animals (ETAA),” Samantha says. Though they were a young couple with their first baby on the way, the Wards found this experience incredibly rewarding and were surprised by how easy it was to work with ETAA.

It wasn’t long before the Wards decided to take in another foster, a 100 lb. hound dog named Moose. “Though Moose’s size was nothing short of daunting, his demeanor and love for our family showed us we could help these animals find a forever home,” Samantha recalls. “We wanted to become a ‘foster fail’ and keep him, but we knew he needed more room to run and family that could give him the full attention he deserved.” Once again, ETAA was able to find Moose a perfect forever home, and this second success story solidified the Wards’ commitment to fostering.

Their love for fostering has only gotten stronger as their family has grown, and Samantha says it has been a wonderful bonding experience. “The love our girls have for fostering and puppies has been more than a driving force to continue,” she explains. “We can find the girls in our kennel 90% of the time when we have puppies. Building beds, reading to them, or running around outside has helped us teach them responsibility and love for animals in need.”

The Ward’s dogs, Abe and Sadie, also get involved in the fostering experience. “The two family dogs we have now both take turns showing the puppies the ropes. Leading through example is huge for these foster puppies, and it shows them that they are safe and loved,” she says. “Like anything, you have your trials, but you learn what works for your family.” To date, the family has been able to help one cat and nearly 200 dogs of all ages, and every animal leaves a special memory in their hearts.

To anyone considering becoming a foster family, Samantha’s advice is simple: “Take the plunge! It was never something I thought about for our family, but our daughters have truly loved knowing that they helped puppies find and prepare for forever families.”

Lindsey Phillips

Lindsey Phillips’ fostering journey began when she was scrolling on Facebook and came across a friend’s post. The post said that a local animal shelter, Trooper’s Treasures, needed a foster who could bottle feed two newborn puppies who had lost their mom, and Phillips decided that she was up for the challenge. “I started out doing that, and then I just never stopped, honestly,” she says.

In the 11 years since those first two puppies, Phillips has fostered over 250 dogs of all ages. She is happy to help any dog she can, but she has developed a particular affinity for larger adult dogs, such as Cane Corsos and Great Danes. “Over the last few years, I have been more drawn to taking in the bigger dogs. Most of these dogs have had a home, they’ve known that life, and then they end up in scary shelters or just thrown out on the streets,” she says. It can be difficult for them to thrive in a shelter environment, which makes it difficult for them to be adopted by a new family.

Older dogs often develop personality quirks that can make adoption challenging, but fostering gives Phillips the opportunity to get to know them and figure out what kind of home will be a good fit for them. For example, Knox is a 4-year-old Great Dane who displays some separation anxiety, so he needs to be with someone who can spend plenty of time with him. “Fostering is key because we’ve got to know these things – what are his triggers, what’s going to work for him – so we don’t set him up to fail in his new home,” Phillips explains.

In addition to these potential quirks, older dogs are often passed over by adopters in favor of puppies or dogs who otherwise stand out from the crowd. Pugsley, for example, is an 8-year-old pit bull mix who has been in foster homes for over three years. “She’s a really, really good girl, but she’s just not the bright, shiny puppy that everybody wants,” Phillips explains.

Often, dogs like Knox and Pugsley just need time away from the chaos of a shelter environment to let their personalities shine through again, and that is why Phillips loves taking them in. “Most of these dogs are so shut down – they’ve been strays, they’ve been in a shelter, or they’ve lost everything they’ve ever known. Watching them become comfortable enough to be who they are and giving them hope again is my favorite part,” she shares. Phillips is always happy to see these dogs find their forever homes and knows that there will always be a spot in her home for a new dog in need.

Holley Shalene Busch

In April of 2021, Holley Busch began assisting with trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, led by SCRATCH Inc. and the Humane Educational Society, to help decrease the number of kittens born without homes. After only a month with the TNR program, Busch and another volunteer were tasked with catching three adult cats as well as a litter of kittens that were tucked away under the porch and in the engine of a car.

Those kittens ended up paving the way for her foster journey. “The adults were vaccinated, spayed, and returned to the property, but the kittens were of weaning age. So, I chose to foster one of the litters and adopt them out after they were fully vetted,” Busch explains. “I was prepared to take a lot of time adapting them to human interaction, as they’d never had any human contact prior to this.”

“With a lot of work – and I mean a lot – I was able to domesticate them and find them the perfect homes. They are now approximately 2 years old and are loved beyond belief,” she shares. That success story was the first of many, and in just under two years, Busch has already fostered over 75 cats and kittens of all ages.

For Busch, the best thing about fostering is getting the chance to love on the cats and kittens that she cares for, but the impact that fostering has for these animals is what really drives her to continue. She explains, “Fostering has so many benefits. It frees up space in shelters, which means more lives are saved!”

Though she loves all of her fosters, recently a mother and two of her newborn kittens earned an extra special place in Busch’s heart. She was strongly considering adopting them herself, but changed her mind when the perfect family came along to meet them. “I knew immediately they were perfect, and there was no question. They ended up falling for the two boys and the mom, so it was a triple adoption!” she says, adding that she developed a friendship with the adoptive family and has been able to see the cats regularly. “It’s endings like this that make me continue to foster and remind me why I am so passionate about it,” she shares.

For those who want to get involved, Busch recommends finding an agency like the Chattanooga Humane Educational Society that offers plenty of support throughout the process. “If you’re considering it, just do it! It’s the most rewarding thing you’ll ever do,” she says. “Even though it’s tough when it comes time for them to be adopted, just know there is another litter waiting on you to help them next. Kitten season is right around the corner.”

Chaired by Roshan Amin, the annual Heart Ball was held on February 11 at The Chattanoogan Hotel. The black-tie event celebrated the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, as well as raised funds for the organization’s community health initiatives.

PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

David & Ashley Kinzler, Davis & Ashlan Morelock, Gracie & David Allen, Melissa & Ryan Lusk, and Melissa & Robert Swift

Dr. Bradley & Mandy Keel

Rhonda & Garry Thurman

Brian & Erin May

Chairman Roshan & Tonya Amin

Chris & Lori Hopkins

John Alston, Abby Alston, Michael & Lynnette Alston, and Anna & Graham Taylor

Scott Coulter, Benjamin Coulter, Dr. Steve Coulter, and Beverly Coulter

Becky & Derek English

April & Adam Royer

Lisa & Jimmy Patton

Lemon Williams and Cynthia Fain

Cari Camden and James Blevins

On January 28 at the Chattanooga Convention Center, Chattanooga Business Elite presented its fourth annual Black Excellence of Chattanooga Awards. The event, hosted by Greg Funderburg, recognizes and celebrates Black businesses across Hamilton County.

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HAMPTON

Devin Davenport, Ramona McCoy, and Vita Glover

BEC Awards Staff

James & Lisa Davis Talor Iman and Clifford Bryant

Tyrus & Dierra Truss

On January 21, the CHI Memorial Foundation hosted its 18th annual Pink! Gala at the Chattanooga Convention Center to benefit the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center at CHI Memorial.

Jake & Kirby Yost and Paige & Michael Mathis

Billy & Terri Ann Weathers and Jeff & Amy J. Hill

Dr. Jejal Bathi and Dr. Sumana Nagireddy

Jill & Brandon Adkins

Janelle & Pat Reilly

PHOTOS BY FLINT CHANEY

Tonya & Travis Lytle

Heart Ball Chair Roshan Amin, together with the Executive Leadership Team, thank the community for their support of the 2023 Chattanooga Heart Ball! We are a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

TOP SPONSOR LIFE IS WHY SPONSOR

CHI Memorial, Encompass Health, Jim and Morgan Cardwell, Simon Quick Advisors Apogee Wealth, Arch Plastics, CapStar Bank, Centennial Heart at Parkridge, Chambliss Law, Dr. Harish Manyam, Parkridge Health System, Rodizio Grill, Southern Heritage Bank

THANK YOU TO OUR MEDIA SPONSORS

Photo by Philip Slowiak

A RUSTIC RETIREMENT in the Making

BY CHRISTINA DAVENPORT / PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHILIP SLOWIAK

Decades before moving to eastern Tennessee, Jeff Lloyd visited on a mission trip and quickly fell in love with the area.

“The beauty of this place and this land really resonated with me, and the people were genuinely nice,” he says. “Years later, my business took me to North Carolina, and it reminded me of my time in Tennessee.”

“We were also really attracted to this lot because of its beautiful view. We had looked at other locations, but when we saw the long-range, extended view of the valley it took our breath away.”

- JEFF LLOYD

The more time that passed, the more Jeff began to consider a move to the southeastern U.S. With their two sons pursuing their education and careers away from home, he and his wife Maggie thought about what they wanted for the next chapter of their lives. There was no question the right decision was for them to pack up their things and make the cross-country move from California.

With such an appreciation for the history and the surrounding land, it’s no surprise that the Lloyds’ home has a delicate ode to nature woven throughout its design. Built by McCoy Homes, an MH Builder Group company, the exterior features

white Hardie board that is embellished with several vertical expanses of stacked stone. Numerous gable brackets and wooden shutters bring in another natural material, and four archtopped windows let plenty of natural light flood the interior.

“We really liked the style of homes that were being built in this development, and we knew that we wanted a spacious, single-story home,” says Jeff. “We were also really attracted to this lot because of its beautiful view. We had looked at other locations, but when we saw the long-range, extended view of the valley it took our breath away. We knew this was the spot for us.”

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The subtle rustic flair isn’t only present on the home’s exterior, however. Natural materials and elements that help provide a sense of place appear time and time again, all the while being paired with a more sleek and streamlined foundation. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the home’s entryway and great room.

Upon entering the home through a stately set of French doors, guests find themselves standing underneath an understated chandelier composed of sheds from whitetail deer. Sliding barn doors on either side provide access to his-and-hers offices, and their rich color mimics that of the exterior wood.

Progressing further into the home, visitors arrive in the great room, which is anchored by a sense of serenity. A hermitage stacked-stone fireplace rises to the peak of the 18-foot ceilings and is flanked on either side by built-ins. A framed TV allows for entertainment without sacrificing style, and two nearby cathedral-paned mirrors reflect light back into the room. Lively botanicals punctuate the space and plush seating options abound, but the real crowning jewel of the space is the fir trusses.

“Some of the few things we absolutely knew we wanted in this home were the arched trusses and a large fireplace,” adds Jeff. “We wanted those rustic elements since this is a mountain home, and we also wanted them to be to scale so that the entire room feels like it flows together.”

Just steps away, an open-concept kitchen allows for an effortless flow of conversation. Dark island cabinetry is paired with white, double-stacked perimeter cabinets, and the high contrast tones are pulled together with leathered quartzite full of dark veining. A glossy gray backsplash and stainless-steel appliances round out the monochromatic motif and provide a stylish simplicity. The adjacent dining area, while still open to the kitchen, sports a recessed ceiling and two linear beams, which help to give the space definition and an identity all its own. Millwork travels roughly halfway up the Agreeable Gray walls, and the six dining chairs dotting the space feature ornate backing and patterned seats – both of which offer a more traditional touch.

Just off the dining area, a screened-in porch is a relaxing oasis regardless of the season. More stacked stone makes an appearance and complements the flagstone floor. A wicker sofa can seat three, and two matching swivel armchairs round out the arrangement. Nearby, a gas fireplace provides a convenient source of heat, and that sense of warmth is layered on top of the deep grain tongue-and-groove ceiling.

Back inside, the spacious master suite delivers a calming aesthetic with its use of cool neutrals. Black Pepper walls pop against the Snow Bound trim, and a tray ceiling with two horizontal beams adds a dose of sophistication while celebrating clean lines. An upholstered bed frame is topped with a botanical quilt, and the grays found in the textiles are repeated in the metallic table lamps and a plush rug. Steps away, the ensuite doubles down on the spa-like atmosphere. Two vanities bookend a set of French doors, and their overlay, shaker-style cabinetry is a simple selection. A narrow alcove houses a freestanding tub complete with a floor-mount faucet, and the entire room is washed in soft light, which truly embodies the spirit of the Lloyd home.

“We’ve only been in this home for several months, but we are really enjoying this chapter of our lives,” says Maggie. “We’ve embraced an entirely different lifestyle, and we couldn’t have felt more welcomed by the community. We are looking forward to the coming months and years when we can begin cultivating some new traditions and friendships. We’re looking forward to our family and friends visiting as well, helping us turn our house into a true home.“

THE FLANAGAN HOME A COMFORTABLE CRAFTSMAN

BY CHRISTINA DAVENPORT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHILIP SLOWIAK

When Susan and Tom Flanagan set out to build their charming craftsman home, they had two main priorities – convenience and community. With their previous home being three stories, the Flanagans knew they wanted all of their main living spaces on one floor, and with nine grandkids, they also needed the spaces to function for not just them, but their family as well. The result is a chic yet effortless home that is outfitted with all the creature comforts one could ask for.

The front porch runs nearly the length of the home and is set off by four tapered columns, the top of which sports a creamy white color that comprises the majority of the home’s façade. Natural stone rounds out the base of the porch and columns and is repeated in the chimney stack that juts out from the steeply pitched roof. White shake siding covers the second story exterior and offers up a subtle change in texture.

Susan and Tom Flanagan

After passing through the oversized front door, visitors are welcomed with a fun and luxurious zebra print rug that bisects the home’s more formal spaces. To the right, a sitting room accommodates eight and is the perfect spot to enjoy pre-dinner drinks with family or catch up on some reading.

A foundation of neutrals is set with two beige couches, a pair of ottomans, and two light wooden end tables. Layered on top are several muted colors that emerge from throw pillows, table lamps, and a large piece of abstract artwork. The

subtle blue-gray color of the room ties the space together, and several other elements – such as a silver chandelier and fireplace with marble surround – provide added sophistication while maintaining approachability.

“I wanted our entire home to be really light and bright,” explains Susan. “I tried to keep most of our home very neutral and add color through textiles and other accents, but this room and the formal dining room are an exception. I wanted something a little more different and bold.”

A short hallway takes guests past a powder room and to the home’s kitchen where the bright and airy aesthetic that the Flanagans love is in full force. “Even though I love color, there’s just something timeless about white cabinets. They never really go out of style,” says Susan.

The overlay shaker cabinetry is painted a milky white to match the remainder of the Swiss Coffee kitchen and great room. Brushed brass hardware and a brass overhead pendant light pull the warmth from the hardwood floors upward, and a suite of stainless-steel appliances contribute to the room’s mixed metals.

White-washed wood and rattan barstools add yet another texture to the space while pulling the room’s accent colors together. Calcutta gold quartz counters top the island and run along the perimeter, as well as comprise the backsplash.

To the right, a glass-top table is surrounded by six cane chairs and offers up a more casual dining experience. Floral drapery adds a fun flair, and several pieces of chinoiserie help double down on the energetic atmosphere.

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Open to the kitchen is the home’s great room. A gray upholstered sofa commands the room and partially encapsulates a tufted leather coffee table. Sculptural elements and warm accents dot the space, and a fireplace surrounded by the same stone found on the

home’s exterior is a cozy addition.

“One thing we knew we really wanted when building this house was a lot of fireplaces,” says Susan. “We almost have one in every room. I find them so relaxing, and we start a fire nearly every night.”

Geometric euro-pleated cur-

tains offer another spirited pattern to the mix, and an identical shape is found in the mirrored sideboard resting along the opposite wall. Natural light streams in from the room’s vaulted windows supplementing the two-tiered, candlestyle chandelier.

Off of the great room is the Flanagans’ master suite. Here several geometric patterns found in the bedding, a wall mirror, and a set of table lamps offer a subtle contrast to the animal print area rug. Creams, beiges, and pale blues create a tranquil environment, which carries over to the ensuite.

A his-and-hers, furniture-style vanity stretches from one wall to another and boasts plenty of storage. The opposite side of the room, however, trades the rich wood tones for a light marble-style tile. A glass shower is situated next to a footless soaking tub, which reinforces the motif for the Flanagan home – rest and relaxation.

Whether it’s through neutral tones, a well-thought-out floor plan, or an array of fireplaces, guests and family alike are meant to feel at ease.

“We built this home hoping it would become a gathering place that everyone enjoys coming to,” says Susan. “At the end of the day, we just want a comfortable home that is used and lived in and filled with things that make us happy.”

Eclectic Ranch Revelry

BY CHRISTINA DAVENPORT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHILIP SLOWIAK

If you were to ask Mike and Barbara Byers what makes a home, they’d likely tell you that a home should be a reflection of those who live in it. It should tell you what a person likes, where they have been, and what they have experienced. That being said, it’s only fitting that after decades in the Air Force and being stationed in numerous places around the globe, the Byers sought to tell a story when designing their spacious ranch home.

“Our decorating style is somewhat eclectic from all of the places we’ve lived, and we also wanted a very open feel to our home,” says Mike.

Before even stepping inside, that goal is achieved. Gauntlet Gray Hardie board and natural stone comprise the majority of the exterior, and the front porch and entryway are set off by a series of robust columns and a gable bracket.

A large, arch-top knotty alder door surrounded by privacy glass beckons visitors inside where the Byers’ storied decorating style immediately comes into play. A tufted leather settee rests just below an elongated mirror, and a simple crystal pendant light is another natural touch.

After passing through the home’s foyer, guests find themselves at the center of the main living spaces. Poplar beams travel the length of the room and draw the eye toward the massive picture window along the opposite wall. Gray euro-pleated drapes tie in with Repose Gray walls and a couch of a similar color. These cool tones are married with a warmth that emerges from the stacked-stone fireplace and an array of woods used throughout the space.

“I think wood is such a beautiful material,” says Barbara. “I wanted the space to flow together, but I also wanted to use as many different woods as possible. There’s a lot of character in the different species of wood, and we wanted to celebrate that.”

“I think wood is such a beautiful material ... There’s a lot of character in the different species of wood, and we wanted to celebrate that.” –Barbara Byers

To the right of the space is the home’s expansive kitchen fit for even the best of home chefs. An oversized 6-foot by 10-foot, furniture-style island is topped with a striking honed quartzite, and four barrel-backed barstools are tucked under the overhang. Niches on either end of the island allow space for a pop of personality, and even more opportunities exist within the glass-front upper cabinets along the perimeter.

A different style of quartzite countertops runs along the border of the room, and the cabinets are furnished from hickory, which helps soften the atmosphere of the room. A combination of recessed, pendant, and under-cabinet lighting works to illuminate the space, and a nearby offshoot accommodates yet another space to dine.

Here, a built-in bar allows guests to grab a drink without getting in the hustle and bustle of the kitchen. A round table is surrounded by four slat-back chairs, most of which have an unobstructed view of the acreage outside.

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In the master suite, the travertine floors found throughout the majority of the home are traded for wide-plank oak hardwoods, and various pieces of traditional wood furniture repeat the material.

“We lived in New Mexico for a while, so you’ll find a fair amount of Southwestern influence in our home, but especially in this room,” says Mike. Sculptures, artwork, and textiles punctuate the rather large room and tie together years of a life well lived on the other side of the United States.

Continuing further into the master suite, visitors arrive at the bathroom, which is as comfortable as it is spacious. Two vanities are bisected by a hallway leading to the closet, and the same quartzite found in the kitchen makes an appearance in this room as well. Quarter-sawn oak cabinets sport mixed metal pulls, while the opposite side of the room features a limestone shower and freestanding soaking tub.

Proud

Accessible from both the master suite and the dining room is the Byers’ covered porch.

“We really enjoy being outside, and this area of our home gets a lot of use, especially during football games,” says Mike. Complete with a fire table, flat-screen TV, and built-in grill, this space is primed for relaxation and fun.

The tongue-and-groove fir planks that comprise the ceiling feature accents of a

chevron pattern for added visual interest, and the entire space is outfitted with a captivating lineup of natural materials that pay homage to the 26-acre estate.

“We’ve really enjoyed how peaceful it is here. We have great neighbors, and we enjoy watching the horses and cattle that graze on nearby properties,” explains Mike. “We feel most comfortable and most like ourselves when we’re surrounded by nature.”

Historic Mid Mod Revival

BY CHRISTINA DAVENPORT / PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEACON IMAGERY

Every time the weekend rolled around, it wasn’t uncommon for the Walker family to spend their days rushing to and from downtown Chattanooga. So when a home came on the market in the energetic neighborhood of Fort Wood, it provided the perfect opportunity for the family to be closer to where they lived their lives.

“We really liked the idea of living downtown and the convenience it offered. We had also heard a lot about how great this neighborhood was, and it sounded really intriguing,” says Karen Walker.

In 2019, Karen and her husband Dan pulled the trigger on the purchase of a quaint 1910 craftsman home that afforded their family of four both the convenience and community they were looking for.

“We’ve really enjoyed living in this area, and everyone has been so inviting. We were invited to our first neighborhood party before we even moved in,” recalls Karen. “We also do something called Friday Two where on the second Friday of each month, a different house hosts the entire neighborhood. We have about 40 regulars, and it’s really neat to see all the different styles and the various projects people are working on.”

The lively spirit of the Fort Wood neighborhood is everywhere you turn in the Walker home. A set of French doors to the right of the foyer provides access to the Walkers’ living room. Here, a deep L-shaped sectional rests on a colorful, albeit muted, rug. Several antique pieces, such as a rocking chair and nearby piano, offer a more traditional touch, but when paired with bold textiles and artwork, the entire scene

begins to take on a more transitional nature.

“When it comes to my aesthetic, I try to not overcomplicate it. I just choose things I like and hope they’ll work together,” explains Karen. “I really just want a space that is cozy and warm. I want a kind of house that you want to wake up in on Christmas morning, and I think we’ve achieved that.”

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On the other side of the foyer is the family’s dining room. A sleek, round dining table rests in the middle of the room and is surrounded by six white chairs. A Sputnik light fixture hangs just overhead, and several buffets and sideboards in the room double down on the clean lines. These elements complement each other

and lend themselves to the mid-century modern style. Steps away, a suite of house plants soaking up light in a bay window adds another layer to the overall design, and the entire space playfully utilizes color. The room’s white trim pops against the Naval walls, and accents of yellow and green round out the palette.

Nancy Waddell, Owner & Designer

After passing through a charming arch-top door, guests find themselves in the kitchen, which again artfully combines color and texture. The kitchen island is cloaked in Tempe Star paint and is topped with countertops comprised of concrete and black enamel. White upper cabinetry keeps the room light, while several liveedge floating shelves boast a more laid-back personality. Sleek hardware and a linear pendant light pay homage to the mid-century modern style, and the simplicity of the shaker-style cabinetry reinforces the motif.

“We are really grateful that the previous owners did a complete renovation. It meant that we could come in and just update surface elements to reflect our style,” says Karen. “It’s been really fun to play around in that way. I enjoy working on projects, and I gravitate toward buying a house that needs a bit of love and just making it my own.”

“I enjoy working on projects, and I gravitate toward buying a house that needs a bit of love and just making it my own.” –Karen Walker

On the top floor of the home, the master suite is a spacious respite from the world. Sporting an eloquent lineup of cool colors, this room exemplifies a sense of peace and tranquility. A queen-size, tufted bedframe rests in between a set of curtains, and just beyond the foot of the bed are two blue velvet armchairs.

“We’ve really started to utilize this area,” says Karen. “Having fireplaces is new for us, and I love how cozy it makes the house feel. As our kids get older, we anticipate using this space even more. We can come up here and have some time to ourselves while letting the kids take over the living room.”

Regardless of what room you find yourself in within the Walker home, it’s sure to radiate joy and love. With a distinct sense of style, this historic home puts quality time with loved ones at the forefront and welcomes visitors with open arms.

I specialize in new home construction sales from North Georgia to Athens, TN. I love helping clients find the perfect home for their budget and lifestyle. If you are a growing family looking for a larger home, purchasing your first home, starting over, or downsizing, D.R. Horton offers a home for every stage of life. I can’t wait to work with you.

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Religious affiliation: Christian (Lutheran) Tuition: Call for rates. Inquire about BCA’s Variable Tuition program.

Baylor School

171 Baylor School Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37405

p: 423.267.5902

f: 423.757.2525

baylorschool.org

admission@baylorschool.org

Founded: 1893

Grades: 6th-12th

Total students: 1,060

Avg. class size: 15

Religious affiliation: At Baylor, faith is central to every person’s life, and the study of religion is an essential part of a complete education. The school welcomes and respects all faiths.

Tuition: $28,310 day (6th-12th) | $57,340 boarding (9th-12th)

Uniforms: Yes

Baylor School is one of the country’s leading coeducational college prep schools, and the sports program was recently ranked the third best overall in the nation by MaxPreps. Baylor School is committed to providing students and faculty with the best instructional resources, including a $15 million academic center and the same cancer research equipment that is found in professional labs. A recent graduating class earned more than $15 million in college scholarships, and more than 100 alumni are currently playing their sport at the collegiate level.

Uniforms: Yes, for K-8th

Since 1887, Belvoir Christian Academy (BCA) has been serving students in pre-K through 8th grade, providing a strong academic and spiritual foundation to prepare them for admission to the collegepreparatory high school of their choice. Small class sizes allow for individual attention and the opportunity to excel. The school also offers year-round child care for infants ages six weeks to early age three, preparing them for the full academic programs for pre-K3/4, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. BCA is fully accredited by the National Lutheran School Accreditation and Tennessee Department of Education. Sports opportunities include intramural and competitive cross country, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track. Students may also participate in extracurricular activities such as taekwondo, gymnastics, soccer instruction, and piano lessons.

Berean Academy

441 Berean Ln. Hixson, TN 37343

p: 423.877.1288

f: 423.875.5965

bereanacademy.net

info@bereanacademy.net

Founded: 1972

Grades: PK4-12th

Total students: 340

Avg. class size: 18

Belvoir Christian Academy

800 Belvoir Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37412

p: 423.622.3755

f: 423.622.0177

bcalions.org

admissions@bcacademy.net

Founded: 1887

Grades: Infants-8th

Total students: 200

Avg. class size: 12

Religious affiliation: Baptist

Tuition: Call for rates.

Uniforms: Dress code

Berean Academy exists to glorify God by challenging students to follow Jesus Christ and educating them in the wisdom of God as it applies academically, spiritually, and socially.

Boyd Buchanan School

4650 Buccaneer Trl. Chattanooga, TN 37411 p: 423.622.6177 bbschool.org

admissions@bbschool.org

Founded: 1952

Grades: PK3-12th

Total students: 1,050

Avg. class size: 16

Religious affiliation: Christian Tuition: Please visit the website for tuition information.

Uniforms: Yes

Boyd Buchanan School offers a loving, Christ-centered environment, fully nurturing the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical potential of each student while preparing them to walk with the Master and embrace life’s challenges with joy, courage, and wisdom. The school is committed to offering young people a source of truth, strength, and vision for today’s changing world and strives to guide students toward possessing the heart and spirit of Jesus. Located on 58 beautiful acres, Boyd Buchanan provides a well-rounded college preparatory educational environment that promotes academic

excellence, innovation, technology, fine arts, engineering, and a legacy of success in athletics.

Brainerd Baptist School

4107 Mayfair Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37411 p: 423.622.3873

f: 423.624.5164 brainerdbaptistschool.org

scorcoran@brainerdbaptist.org

Founded: 1953

Grades: PK2-5th

Total students: 300

Avg. class size: 13

Religious affiliation: Christian (nondenominational)

Tuition: $7,270 PK2-4, MWF | $8,870 PK2-4, M-F | $11,480 K | $12,380 1st-5th

Uniforms: Yes

Brainerd Baptist School is an independent Christian school that offers a challenging curriculum through which teachers instill a love of learning. Students will be exposed to a robust fine arts program, innovative technology, and a strong athletic program. Brainerd Baptist School alumni excel at the best middle and high schools in Chattanooga.

Baylor School

Independent Schools

The Bright School

1950 McDade Ln. Chattanooga, TN 37405

p: 423.267.8546

f: 423.265.0025

brightschool.com

bmoore@brightschool.com

Founded: 1913

Grades: PK3-5th

Total students: 350

Avg. class size: 12 (PK3) and 16 (PK4-5th)

Religious affiliation: The Bright School is not religiously affiliated, and it welcomes all faiths and religions.

Tuition: $6,800 PK3, 3-day | $8,900 PK3, 5-day | $12,463 PK4 | $17,980 K-5th

Uniforms: Yes, for PK4-5th; PK3 does not wear uniforms

The Bright School is committed to providing a developmentally appropriate elementary experience for children in a safe and nurturing environment. The Bright School strives to develop young learners through discovery, exploration, and play. Children learn in a stimulating setting where they are encouraged to think, solve problems independently, and collaborate with peers to reach their greatest potential. The Bright School works to build a firm foundation in reading, writing, and math that will sustain students through their educational journeys.

Calvary Christian School

4601 North Ter. Chattanooga, TN 37411

p: 423.622.2181

f: 423.622.0150

ccseagles.org

info@ccseagles.org

Founded: 1976

Grades: PK3-12th

Total students: 82

Avg. class size: 9-15

Religious affiliation: Independent Baptist

Tuition: $4,100 PK3-4 | $4,600 K-12th

Uniforms: Yes

For more than 40 years, Calvary Christian School (CCS) has educated children from a biblical point of view. Children are taught by highly qualified, spiritual teachers and enjoy a low studentteacher ratio. CCS places a strong em-

phasis on patriotism, discipline, and moral values. The school is affiliated with the Tennessee Association of Christian Schools and the American Association of Christian Schools.

Chattanooga Christian School

3354 Charger Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37409

p: 423.265.6411

f: 423.756.4044

ccsk12.com

admissions@ccsk12.com

Founded: 1970

Grades: PK2-12th

Total students: 1,475

Avg. class size: 15-20

Religious affiliation: Christian (interdenominational)

Tuition: $14,675 PK2, 5-day | $7,600 PK3-5, 3-day | $10,800 PK3-5, 5-day | $12,500 K-5th | $14,200 6th-8th | $16,700 9th-12th Uniforms: Yes

Chattanooga Christian School (CCS) is a pre-K-12th grade day school on 55 acres at the foot of Lookout Mountain. CCS has been serving Christian families in the Chattanooga area for over 50 years.

The new, state-of-the-art high school science labs, new Lower School building with a large STEM room, and inviting student spaces provide environments for building strong relationships between teachers and students. CCS is committed to meeting students at their point of need and helping them reach the peak of their God-given potential.

Collegedale Academy

Collegedale Academy

4855 College Dr. E. (high)

4856 College Dr. E. (middle)

4820 University Dr. (elementary)

Collegedale, TN 37315

p: 423.396.2124 (high)

p: 423.396.3020 (middle)

p: 423.396.2122 (elementary) collegedaleacademy.com

marketing@collegedaleacademy.com

Founded: 1892

Grades: PK3-12th

Total students: 800

Avg. class size: 20-25

Religious affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist

Tuition: $6,850 PK3-5, 5-day | $5,450 PK3-5, 3-day | $9,300 K-5th, non-consitituent | $6,250 K-5th, constituent | $10,700 6th-8th, non-consitituent | $7,650 6th-8th, constituent | $14,600 9th-12th, nonconsitituent | $11,550 9th-12th, constituent

Uniforms: Yes

Collegedale Academy (CA) is a Seventhday Adventist school established to educate, equip, and inspire students to be critical thinkers who serve others and reflect Christ’s character. Through the blend of spiritual and academic growth activities and classes, along with a wide variety of learning experiences including classroom worship, mission trips, community service projects, fine arts (orchestra, band, choir, art), athletic activities, and dual enrollment classes, students are afforded many opportunities. CA’s pursuit of academic rigor includes fair and robust academic standards integrated with relevant technology. The students and families at CA

have the opportunity to bond, both spiritually and personally, all while obtaining a strong academic foundation.

Discovery

Learners’ Academy

4315 Brainerd Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411 p: 423.708.2621 dlachatt.org

info@dlachatt.org

Founded: 2022

Grades: PK3-12th

Total students: 20

Avg. class size: 8

Religious affiliation: None

Tuition: $6,200

Uniforms: No

Discovery Learners’ Academy (DLA) is a microschool empowering learners to think critically and creatively. DLA individualizes academics, enabling learners to work at their specific level in each subject and challenging them to grow their foundational skills at the pace that allows them to deeply understand the concepts. Discovery learning via social studies and science projects provides authentic opportunities to apply what is learned in a context that fosters critical thinking and creative problem solving. At DLA, learners practice embracing all emotions and responding in healthy ways and interacting with others in meaningful ways including respectful and vigorous discourse.

Girls Preparatory School

SUMMER CAMP FOR YOUR BRAIN!

Southern Adventist University Academic Summer Camps

JUNE

12-14, 2023 southern.edu/camps

Open to all high school students, Southern’s academic summer camps provide a fun and educational taste of university life while allowing campers to “test-drive” a potential future career. On-campus lodging is available, as well as delicious and healthy vegetarian meals each day.

Registration is now open and camps fill up quickly, so don’t wait!

Photography

Outdoor Leadership

Culinary Arts

Pre-Med*

Automotive Repair

Media Production

Journalism

Computing

Film

Independent Schools

es, and peers support and encourage her, a girl is free to be herself and feels confident to step beyond her comfort zone. GPS fosters a culture where she is known, she is heard, and she is empowered to use her voice.

Girls Preparatory School

205 Island Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405

p: 423.634.7644

f: 423.634.7643 gps.edu

admission@gps.edu

Founded: 1906

Grades: 6th-12th

Total students: 510

Avg. class size: 14

Religious affiliation: Founded on Christian principles, GPS embraces individuals of all faiths and encourages spiritual awareness and growth as an integral part of the GPS experience.

Tuition: $29,370 Middle School | $30,710 Upper School

Uniforms: Yes

A college preparatory day school for grades six through 12, Girls Preparatory School (GPS) is committed to educating the whole girl – in mind, body, and spirit. In an environment where teachers, coach-

The Goddard School

17 W. Bell Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405 p: 423.382.2525 f: 423.541.6471 goddardschool.com/chattanooga/ chattanooga-bell-avenue-tn chattanoogatn@goddardschools.com

Founded: 2020

Grades: 6 weeks-K

Total students: 136

Avg. class size: 15

Religious affiliation: None

Tuition: $1,050-$1,750

Uniforms: Dress code

The Goddard School uses the most current, academically endorsed methods to

ensure that children have fun while learning the skills they need for long-term success in school and in life. Talented teachers also collaborate with parents to nurture children into respectful, confident, and joyful learners. The school offers classes for infants through kindergarten, with programs and enrichments such as Kindermusic, Yogaroos Yoga, Time to Sign, Student Lead STEM, and Fitness Focus.

info@hamiltonheights.net

Founded: 1998

Grades: 9th-12th

Total students: 60

Avg. class size: 14

Religious affiliation: Nondenominational

Tuition: $6,900 day | $24,000 domestic boarding | $30,000 international boarding

Uniforms: Dress code

Grace Academy

7815 Shallowford Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421 Morris Hill Baptist Church p: 423.892.8224

f: 423.892.1194 gracechatt.org admissions@mygracechatt.org

Founded: 1985

Grades: PK4-12th; Grace Children’s Center: ages 2 months-4 years

Total students: 644

Avg. class size: 15

Religious affiliation: Baptist

Tuition: Text or call for rates.

Uniforms: Yes

A school where God changes hearts, minds, and futures, Grace has partnered with Christian parents since 1985. The goal is to see students trained to think and live biblically in order to transform their world. With hundreds of graduates having attended more than 100 colleges and universities, Grace provides an excellent educational program. Creating high levels of student engagement is a priority, using appropriate curriculum and creative methods in a supportive, safe, and wholesome environment. The total educational experience at Grace enables students to discover their abilities and talents, pursuing God’s design for their lives with the gifts He has given them.

Hamilton Heights Christian Academy

5455 North Ter. Chattanooga, TN 37411

p: 423.894.0597

f: 866.567.0892

hamiltonheights.net

Hamilton Heights Christian Academy (HHCA) is a Christian, nondenominational, and interfaith school, offering a challenging, college preparatory education with a Christian worldview designed to help students reach their personal and academic potential. HHCA is nationally and regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (Cognia/AdvancED) and the Association of Christian Schools International, as well as certified by the Department of Homeland Security to enroll international students. HHCA has graduated over 150 international students since 2009. Hamilton Heights also prides itself on exceptional athletic programs.

Hickory Valley Christian School

6605 Shallowford Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421 p: 423.894.3200

f: 423.894.8665 hvcs.org

frontoffice@hvcs.org

Founded: 1980

Grades: PK3-5th

Total students: 110

Avg. class size: 12

Religious affiliation: Christian (nondenominational); accepts students of other faiths

Tuition: $5,400-$8,300 (varies by age and hours)

Uniforms: Yes, for 1st-5th

Hickory Valley Christian School (HVCS) exists to help families develop strong foundations for their children. The mission is to lead students toward a lifechanging relationship with Jesus Christ and provide a high-quality, preparatory academic foundation through creative learning. HVCS is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools.

Signal Centers Early Childhood Education

HAL JONES, DDS | ANDREW MEGISON, DDS, MD | JOHN A. SPANN, DDS | IVO AARON MILLER, DDS, FACS

Independent Schools

Lester Coon Adventist School

11429 Bates Rd. Apison, TN 37302

p: 423.236.4926

f: 423.236.5677

lestercoonadventistschool.com

apisonsdaschool@yahoo.com

Founded: 1971

Grades: K-8th

Total students: 50

Avg. class size: 13

Religious affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist Tuition: Approx. $500/month

Uniforms: No

Lester Coon Adventist School (LCA) is a small school in a rural setting. At LCA, students grow holistically by studying God’s word and His works in a multi-age environment where outdoor learning experiences are prioritized. Involvement of families in the educational experience is encouraged.

McCallie School

500 Dodds Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404

p: 423.493.5631

f: 423.493.5426 mccallie.org

admission@mccallie.org

Founded: 1905

Grades: 6th-12th

Total students: 979

Avg. class size: 14

Religious affiliation: Christian (nondenominational)

Tuition: $31,330 day (6th-12th) | $60,710 boarding (9th-12th)

Uniforms: Dress code

McCallie School is dedicated to preparing young men to make a positive difference in their world. By fostering boys’ intellectual, spiritual, physical, and emotional development, the school seeks to inspire and motivate them to strive for excellence, seek truth, live honorably, act responsibly, and help others.

The Montessori School

300 Montessori Wy. Chattanooga, TN 37404

p: 423.622.6366

f: 423.622.6027 themontessorischool.net

admissions@themontessorischool.net

Founded: 1973

Grades: 4 months-6th

Total students: 210

Avg. class size: 14-24

Religious affiliation: None Tuition: $7,500-$10,500

Uniforms: No

The Montessori School is dedicated to a model of learning that recognizes children as naturally eager for knowledge and capable of their best learning in a thoughtfully prepared environment. The school’s mission is to promote independent learning, support emotional growth, and embrace differences using the Montessori approach.

Notre Dame High School

2701 Vermont Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404

p: 423.624.4618

f: 423.624.4621 myndhs.com

communications@myndhs.com

Founded: 1876

Grades: 9th-12th

Total students: 400

Avg. class size: 15

Religious affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $13,499 Catholic students (includes fees and books) | $17,729 non-Catholic students (includes fees and books)

Uniforms: Yes

Notre Dame High School remains the only Catholic, coed, college preparatory high school in Chattanooga open to students of all faiths and backgrounds. With its diverse population and curriculum, Notre Dame graduates are prepared – academically, spiritually, and ethically –for the wealth of postsecondary opportunities that await them.

Oakwood Christian Academy

113 Oakwood St. Chickamauga, GA 30707

p: 706.375.7247

f: 706.375.5216

ocaeagles.org

laurahulsey@oca.oakwoodbc.org

Founded: 1992

Grades: PK3-12th

Total students: 350+

Avg. class size: 14-25

Religious affiliation: Baptist

Notre Dame High School

Tuition: $3,285-$7,950 (varies by grade)

Uniforms: Yes, for 1st-12th

Oakwood Christian Academy (OCA) is a standards-driven school, embracing a solid Christian curriculum to achieve its goal of a biblical worldview. Students participate in weekly chapel programs and have extensions opportunities, as well as fine arts and sports. Students in grades 10 through 12 have an opportunity for dual enrollment classes through Truett University at no additional cost to parents. OCA is fully accredited by American Association of Christian Schools, Georgia Association of Christian Schools, North American Christian School Accrediting Agency, National Council of Private School Accreditation, and Cognia (formerly AdvancED).

Ooltewah Adventist School

9209 Amos Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 p: 423.238.4449 f: 423.238.4577 oaksonline.net

ooltewahsda@epbfi.com

Founded: 1978

Grades: K-8th

Total students: 150

Avg. class size: 17

Religious affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist

Tuition: $4,800-$6,800 (varies by grade)

Uniforms: Yes

Ooltewah Adventist School (OAKS) is a Christian organization that seeks to inspire its students to think deeply, live fully, serve unselfishly, and love God completely. OAKS is a great place to grow with God.

Skyuka Hall

Independent Schools

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School

505 S. Moore Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37412

p: 423.622.1481

f: 423.622.2016

myolph.com

kroden@myolph.com

Founded: 1937

Grades: PK3-8th

Total students: 275

Avg. class size: 15

Religious affiliation: Catholic

Tuition: $3,767-$5,920 PK3-4 | $7,893 K-8th, Catholic students | $11,000 K-8th, nonCatholic students

Uniforms: Yes

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School (OLPH) prepares its students to live in an ever-changing society. OLPH strives for its students to become thoughtful, productive, and compassionate future citizens through its faithbased education program. Beginning in PK3 and going through 8th grade, students are active participants in a joyful learning environment. Through the support of a nurturing community, students engage in a comprehensive core curriculum designed to encourage critical thinking and creativity across concepts. OLPH educators believe that a classic curriculum of science, math, English, and the arts is enhanced through a thorough understanding of technology and how to use it as a tool to enhance multidimensional thinking and problem-solving skills.

Point Christian Academy

4000 Dayton Blvd. Chattanooga, TN 37415

p: 423.847.2919

pointacademy.org

info@pointacademy.org

Founded: 2022

Grades: PK2-4th

Total students: 41

Avg. class size: 12-15

Religious affiliation: Christian Tuition: Call for rates.

Uniforms: Yes, dress code for PK Point Christian Academy’s (PCA) goal is to provide the best care and education possible in a Christian environment

that allows students to grow to their full potential intellectually, physically, and spiritually. PCA is a ministry of Red Bank Baptist Church. PCA offers kindergarten through 4th grade and provides full-day preschool for ages 2 through 4 years old.

Primrose School

of East Brainerd & Hixson

East Brainerd

1619 Gunbarrel Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421

p: 423.499.5584

f: 423.499.9846

primroseeastbrainerd.com

jsexton@primroseeastbrainerd.com

Hixson

5170 Preschool Ln. Hixson, TN 37343

p: 423.870.4840

f: 423.870.9447

primrosehixson.com

ctownsend@primrosehixson.com

Founded: East Brainerd: 1993 | Hixson: 1994

Grades: Infants-PK4

Total students: 100+

Avg. class size: 8-20

Religious affiliation: None

Tuition: Varies by classroom and full- or part-time

Uniforms: Yes, for PK4 only

Primrose Schools is an educationally based preschool that blends accredited teacher-directed curriculum with a childinitiated approach called Balanced Learning. The school combines the best of both philosophies. Primrose School lets the particular interests of each child serve as the springboard to healthy social, emotional, physical, and academic development, while teachers guide students to self-assurance and prepare them for lifelong academic and social success.

ulum, outstanding athletics, and exciting mission opportunities. The rigorous academic curriculum is taught through a biblical worldview in a rich, nurturing community of teachers, coaches, mentors, and peers all passionate about serving Christ.

Signal Centers Early Childhood Education

109 N. Germantown Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411 p: 423.698.8528 signalcenters.org info@signalcenters.org

Founded: 1957

Shenandoah Baptist Academy

138 Osment Rd. SE Cleveland, TN 37323 p: 423.339.0992 f: 423.790.5451 sbcministries.com

lionsofshenandoah@gmail.com

Founded: 1999

Grades: PK3-12th

Total students: 100

Avg. class size: 10

Religious affiliation: Baptist

Tuition: $4,500

Uniforms: Yes

Shenandoah Baptist Academy features incredible teachers, a challenging curric-

Grades: 6 weeks-K

Total students: 100

Avg. class size: 8 (Infants-toddlers) and 12 (6 weeks-K)

Religious affiliation: Nondenominational Tuition: Signal Centers works to connect eligible families with resources to assist with the cost of childcare fees. Fees range from $190-$240, based on age.

Uniforms: No

The Chattanooga Children’s Program serves both typically developing children and those with disabilities/special needs. Low student-teacher ratios are maintained, thus enabling individualized attention.

Silverdale Baptist Academy

Consistently voted the Best of the Best Private School in Chattanooga, Silverdale Baptist Academy has been providing the highest quality Christian education in the Tennessee Valley since 1999. With new programs and facilities complementing the same commitment to discipleship, there’s a lot happening here beyond the four walls of the classroom!

Signal Mountain ChristianSchool

Christ-Centered Educating for Life

Signal Mountain Christian School

808 Key-Hulse Rd. Signal Mountain, TN 37377

p: 423.886.1115 smcstn.org

smcs@smcstn.org

Founded: 1998

Grades: K-5th

Total students: 100

Avg. class size: 10-12

Religious affiliation: Nondenominational

Tuition: $6,750 K-2nd | $7,200 3rd-5th

Uniforms: Yes

The mission of Signal Mountain Christian School (SMCS) is to assist Christian parents in educating their children so that they understand God’s Word and His world. At SMCS you will find an emphasis on challenging academics and hands-on learning in a natural setting that is inspired by Charlotte Mason.

Silverdale Baptist Academy

7236 Bonny Oaks Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37421

p: 423.892.2319

f: 423.648.7600 silverdaleba.org

development@silverdaleba.org

Founded: 1999

Grades: Infants-12th

Total students: 1,300

Avg. class size: 17

Religious affiliation: Baptist Tuition: $9,955 elementary | $11,575 middle | $12,452 high

Uniforms: Yes

Silverdale Baptist Academy is a Christcentered college preparatory academy. The school’s mission is to partner with families in providing an environment of academic excellence through a biblical worldview. Silverdale is a member of TSSAA and is an ASCI Exemplary Ac-

credited institution. Silverdale Baptist Academy also provides students with learning challenges and opportunities to flourish with its Instructional Support Department.

Siskin Early Learning Centers

Downtown

1101 Carter St. Chattanooga, TN 37402

p: 423.648.1760

f: 423.648.1780

Siskin at Little Miss Mag

225 Lookout St. Chattanooga, TN 37403

p: 423.266.5286

f: 423.266.3993 siskin.org

julie.mickel@siskin.org

Founded: 1950

Grades: 6 weeks-5 years

Total students: 170

Avg. class size: 12

Religious affiliation: None

Tuition: Contact for rates.

Uniforms: No

At Siskin Early Learning Centers, children of all abilities grow and develop to their full potential by engaging in developmentally appropriate activities. Children are exposed to multiple instructional approaches while interacting with peers and building relationships with others in an inclusive environment. Now offering two locations.

offers a low student-teacher ratio and individualized programming to support students with learning challenges such as language-based learning differences, dyslexia, and attention deficit. The mission of academic, physical, social, and spiritual growth allows students to graduate with courage, confidence, and conviction. Limited financial aid is available to qualifying families.

St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School

290 Quintard Rd. Sewanee, TN 37375 p: 931.598.5651

sasweb.org

admission@sasweb.org

Founded: 1868

Grades: 6th-12th

Total students: 240

Avg. class size: 15

Skyuka Hall

5600 Brainerd Rd., Ste. A-24 Chattanooga, TN 37411

p: 423.877.9711

f: 423.876.0398

skyukahall.org

abeason@skyukahall.org

Founded: 1966

Grades: K-12th

Total students: 120

Avg. class size: 10

Religious affiliation: None

Tuition: See websites for rates.

Uniforms: Yes

Skyuka Hall is an AdvancED and SAIS accredited college preparatory independent school serving students with learning differences in grades K-12. Skyuka Hall

Religious affiliation: Episcopal Tuition: $23,100 6th-7th | $23,800 8th-12th | $57,000 boarding | $51,000 mountain boarding

Uniforms: No

St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School is a private, coeducational, Episcopal, boarding and day college preparatory school located on a beautiful and historic 550-acre campus, where students enjoy abundant opportunities for outdoor education and adventure. At SAS, students from across the country and around the world are challenged to fulfill their greatest potential while cultivating lives of balance and joy. Thanks to a close relationship with the neighboring University of the South, qualified students are able to take university courses for free and for credit.

Primrose School

Oakwood Christian Academy

Independent Schools

St. Jude School

930 Ashland Ter. Chattanooga, TN 37415

p: 423.877.6022

f: 423.875.8920

mysjs.com

info@mysjs.com

Founded: 1960

Grades: PK3-8th

Total students: 320

Avg. class size: 14

Religious affiliation: Catholic Tuition: $5,800 Catholic students | $10,500 non-Catholic students

Uniforms: Yes

Guided by God, St. Jude School strives to provide academic excellence in an environment that embraces the Catholic values of spirituality and service. St. Jude School’s strong core curriculum, dedicated faculty, extracurricular activities, enthusiastic parental involvement, and most importantly, ability to serve and honor God, make it unique. At St. Jude School, students learn, pray, and play.

St. Nicholas School

7525 Min Tom Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37421

p: 423.899.1999

f: 423.899.0109 stns.org

admissions@stns.org

Founded: 1958

Grades: PK3–5th

Avg. class size: 10-16

Religious affiliation: Episcopal Tuition: $8,975-$17,572

Uniforms: No

St. Nicholas is a community where children feel safe, valued, and known. They develop independence, a love of learning, and are well-prepared for a lifetime of success. Located on a beautiful, wooded, 24-acre campus in the East Brainerd community, St. Nicholas is an independent Episcopal school for students ages PK3 through 5th grade. The Early Learning Center offers a nature-based program that gives PK3, PK4, and kindergarteners, in addition to Grades 1-5, a strong educational foundation. St. Nicholas School offers after-school enrichments, a comprehensive summer camp, Spanish, music,

art and art history, and year-round gardening programs. Financial aid and payment plans are available.

outdoor experiences, and athletics into the learning experience. Located on 12 acres, the campus facilities include large classrooms, an art studio, a music conservatory, a science lab, playgrounds, a large sports field and track, a chapel, and an organic garden.

St. Peter’s Episcopal School

848 Ashland Ter. Chattanooga, TN 37415

p: 423.870.1794

f: 423.877.2604 saintpetersschool.net

bsharp@stpeters.org

Founded: 1964

Grades: PK3-5th

Total students: 223

Avg. class size: 14

Religious affiliation: Episcopal Tuition: $11,180 - $14,370

Uniforms: Yes

St. Peter’s Episcopal School is a childcentered community offering families a choice between a classic program (English) and a language immersion program (Spanish). Both tracks offer a sequence of studies through which students interact as scientists, artists, mathematicians, authors, and scholars. Striving to elevate and expand elementary education, the school incorporates art, music, foreign language, technology,

Standifer Gap SDA School

8255 Standifer Gap Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421

p: 423.892.6013

f: 423.664.4891 sgsdaschool.org

standifergapsda@gmail.com

Founded: 1948

Grades: K-8th

Total students: 60

Avg. class size: 15

Religious affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist

Tuition: $4,900-$6,000

Uniforms: Yes

Standifer Gap SDA School is a K-8th school that operates in cooperation with the Georgia-Cumberland Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Students enjoy the advantage of low student-teacher ratios, providing individualized instruction in an inviting environment.

Tennessee Christian Preparatory School

4100 Stephens Rd. NE Cleveland, TN 37312 p: 423.559.8939 f: 423.641.0836 tcpsk12.org

contact@tcpsk12.org

Founded: 1997

Grades: PK3-12th

Total students: 170

Avg. class size: 12-15

Religious affiliation: Christian (interdenominational)

Tuition: $4,500 PK3 TTH | $5,500 PK3 MWF | $7,500 PK3-4 full-time | $8,814 kindergarten | $9,690 1st-5th | $9,917 6th-8th | $10,469 9th-12th

Uniforms: Yes

Tennessee Christian Preparatory School (TCPS) is a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence (2015), AdvancED accredited, coeducational school offering a strong college preparatory academic program. Located in Cleveland, Tennessee, TCPS integrates a Christ-centered curriculum into the daily life of students of all denominations and beliefs.

United Christian Academy

2200 Peerless Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 p: 423.478.2500 f: 423.479.8847 ucacleveland.org

uca@ucacleveland.org

Founded: 2003

Grades: PK2-12th

Total students: 135

Avg. class size: 10

Religious affiliation: Nondenominational Tuition: See website for rates.

Uniforms: Yes

United Christian Academy (UCA) is a Christ-centered, nondenominational school that pursues excellence. With compassionate staff, UCA offers various sports, art, computer, music/band, and Spanish classes. UCA high school students participate in college dual enrollment and TN Promise. United Christian Academy is TANAS accredited and is approved by the Tennessee Department of Education.

Grace Academy

Summer Camps

Aqua Camp at the Tennessee Aquarium

1 Broad St. Chattanooga, TN 37402

423.785.4093

tnaqua.org/camp

summercamp@tnaqua.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 5-16

Programs: Hands-on animal encounters, aquarium tours, and more. Specialty camps for ages 9 – 16 include field trips.

Cost: Varies by camp

Aqua Camp offers a summer of fun at Tennessee Aquarium. Campers will explore the world around them through hands-on exploration, animal encounters, tours, activities, and more. Camps are geared toward children between the ages of 5 and 16 years old with a variety of fun themes. Registration begins March 6 for members and March 13 for non-members. Camp dates are June 12 through July 28.

Belvoir Christian Academy Summer Camp

800 Belvoir Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37412 423.622.3755 bcalions.org

admissions@bcacademy.net

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: PK3-rising 8th grade (Childcare for infants-PK4 is year-round)

Programs: Outdoor activities, sports, swimming, crafts, and field trips to local attractions

Cost: Call for pricing

Belvoir Christian Academy’s summer camp provides a variety of engaging activities such as gymnastics, sports training, and biblical studies, as well as water play days, movie and pajama days, and other special theme days. Creative hands-on activities include cooking and arts/crafts activities. Children also have free play on the campus playground and can enjoy the climbing wall in the school’s gymnasium. Pre-K has in-house activities that include visits from the Tennessee Aquarium, Creative Discovery Museum, Chattanooga Zoo, as well as visits from a petting zoo and a local chef and artist. Camp hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Baylor Summers

171 Baylor School Rd.

Chattanooga, TN 37405

423.757.2616

baylorschool.org/summer summers@baylorschool.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 5-16

Programs: Both day and overnight programs place emphasis on skill development, mentoring, fun, friendship, and lifelong memories.

Cost: Varies by program

Baylor’s beautiful campus on the Tennessee River features hiking trails and state-of-the-art facilities, making it the perfect setting for action-packed, skill-building, fun-filled, sports, arts, enrichment, and outdoor adventure. Baylor Summers offers a huge array of programs to choose from, including day and overnight options for kids and teens all summer long. Baylor Summers also offers convenient early drop-off and late pick-up for busy parents.

Berean Academy Day Camp

441 Berean Ln. Hixson, TN 37343 423.877.1288 bereanacademy.net info@bereanacademy.net

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 4-12

Programs: STEM activities, weekly themes, games and competitions, field trips both on- and off-site, swimming, crafts, scavenger hunts, movies, themed parties

Cost: Registration fee $50; call for pricing.

Berean Academy Day Camp offers weekly field trips for grades 1-5 to a variety of locations, such as the Creative Discovery Museum, IMAX Theater, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and Bricks 4 Kidz. Campers in 1st through 5th grades are taken to the pool every

week, while campers ages 3-5 have a weekly water day. The camp offers a daily craft time for all ages, free play time, and weekly activities such as theater-style movie screenings, games, and parties.

Bright Days at The Bright School

1950 McDade Ln. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423.265.0024

brightschool.com/summer

Boyd Buchanan School Summer Programs

4650 Buccaneer Trl. Chattanooga, TN 37411 423.622.6177

bbschool.org/about/summer ajohnson@bbschool.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: PK3-12th grade

Programs: Athletic, academic, artistic, and adventure camps in half- and full-day formats, with custom schedules available

Cost: $65-$300, depending on the session; early-bird pricing available through May 1

Boyd Buchanan Summer Programs emphasize participation, cooperation, learning, and fun in a safe, loving Christian community. Campers may attend fullor half-day camps, take advantage of before- and after-care, and design a custom schedule for selected camps. Choose from athletic, academic, creative arts, or adventure camps that engage campers physically, cognitively, and spiritually.

summer@brightschool.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 4-8 (or rising 3rd grade)

Programs: A combination of enrichment activities with fun summertime experiences each day for eight weeks (first week of June through last week of July).

Campers are grouped by age.

Cost: Weekly rate for full day 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., $250; weekly rate for half day 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., $200; early care 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., no charge; late care 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., $35 per week

In rising junior pre-K and pre-K, a day for your camper will include circle time, developmental centers, stories, music, crafts, and outdoor play. In rising PK3, a day includes group games, team builders, themed projects in the color lab, free play, quiet time to read or draw, guided nature exploration, and time on the playground. Each week includes an on-site field trip and water day.

Chattanooga Christian School Summer Camps

Summer Camps

Camp Invention

800.968.4332 invent.org/local campinvention@invent.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: Rising K-6th grade Programs: High-energy, hands-on STEM activities promoting creativity, confidence, and problem-solving

Cost: $245 and up

Spark your child’s curiosity and creativity with the all-new Camp Invention® program, Wonder! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate with friends to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From building a mini skate park to launching a pop-up shop to transforming a robot into a stuffie, each experience adds up to an imagination-stretching, confidence-boosting summer.

gramming to the public through weeklong summer camps centered around learning in the outdoors. Programs run early June through mid-July and are open to rising PK-12th grade students. Sessions include Environmental Steward Camp, Outdoor Leadership Cohort, Survival Skills Camps, Nature Art Camp, and Forest Play School. Applications open online on February 17.

Camp Joe Joe’s at The Clay Pot

1311 Hanover St. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423.265.2007

theclaypotriverview.com

theclaypotriverview@comcast.net

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 4-12

Camp Bobcat at Brainerd Baptist School

4107 Mayfair Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37411 423.622.3873

brainerdbaptistschool.org bworkman@brainerdbaptist.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: Summer Care - 2 years-rising 1st grade; Summer Camp - rising 2nd grade-exiting 5th grade

Programs: Summer Care children remain on campus and have special activities come to them. They also participate in water play, arts and crafts, games, outdoor play, books, and technology. Summer Camp children participate in weekly field trips, swimming, cooking, book club, technology, games, arts and crafts, and more.

Cost: See website for pricing

Every summer, Brainerd Baptist School offers a high-quality, comprehensive, and affordable program in a loving Christian environment.

Programs: Daily field trips, swimming, art, science, STEM, cooking, computers, sports, games, and hands-on activities are provided from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cost: Registration fee $75/camper; $200/ week or $1,400 full session

Camp Grace is a day camp designed for students to enjoy active fun, develop strong biblically based character, develop a love for the outdoors, and expand academic learning in a safe environment for a summer they will never forget!

Campers may attend all or some of the 9 weeks scheduled between June 5 and August 4.

Camp Ivy

8520 Dayton Pk. Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379 423.305.7494

ivyacademychattanooga.com camp@ivyacademychattanooga.com

All Genders

Ages: Rising PK-12th grade Programs: Forest Play School, Environmental Steward Camp, Camp Sasquatch, Nature Art Camp, and more Cost: $200/week, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (extended care and transportation options available)

Ivy Academy Environmental Charter School extends its nature-based pro-

Programs: Games, water day, photoshoots, gift making for family and friends, and more Cost: $125/child for a three half-day session Camp Joe Joe’s is a fun, imaginative camp that creates an atmosphere for all campers to shine. From tie-dyeing to dancing, snacks to flowers, Camp Joe Joe’s strives to bring out the creativity in all kids. The Clay Pot owner, Joe Jumper, and his crew, The Potters, help kids be original and have a blast with other campers.

Camp Juliette Low

321 Camp Juliette Low Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731

706.862.2169

Winter: P.O. Box 5113 Marietta, GA 30061 770.428.1062

CJL.org

info@CJL.org

Boys | Girls: Girls

Ages: 8-17

Programs: Archery, canoeing, sailing, horseback riding, challenge course, climbing wall, swimming, diving, outdoor living skills, crafts, campouts, campfires, cookouts, pottery, hiking, and kayaking Cost: Mini-camp $915; one week $1,050; two weeks $2,080

CAMP GRACE

Camp Grace at Grace Academy

Mailing address: 7815 Shallowford Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421

Current location: Redemption Point Church 423.892.8222, ext. 3 campgracechatt.org campgrace@mygracechatt.org

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: 5-12

Camp Juliette Low (CJL) is a residential summer camp where girls can be themselves, make lifelong friends, learn new skills, and explore the outdoors. CJL campers live in platform tents and enjoy fun, instructional programs that foster self-confidence, independence, teamwork, and leadership skills. Located on Lookout Mountain, CJL was founded in 1922 by Juliette Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. Today, CJL operates independently from the Girl Scouts and is open to all girls.

Lee University Summer Camps

Southern Adventist University Academic Summer Camps

Summer Camps

Camps at Signal Centers

109 N. Germantown Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411

423.698.8528

signalcenters.org

info@signalcenters.org

Camp Signal

Typically developing children and children with disabilities

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 3-11

Programs: Age-appropriate activities in art, movement, music, crafts, sports, water play, games, singing, dancing, cooking, drama, science, and technology. June 19-July 28.

Cost: $250/week; scholarships available

Chatter Camp

Children who are nonverbal or have communication challenges and use augmentative communication devices

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 5-16

Programs: The curriculum supports the frequent and effective use of students’ personal technology. Students spend a week of camp together with highly qualified educators and volunteers. June 5-9.

Camp Signal offers a quality camp experience while specializing in social and emotional development through fun projects and activities. Chatter Camp offers focused services for children who are nonverbal or have other communication challenges.

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Dr. Cloudland, GA 30731 423.472.6070 campwoodmont.com

Camp Vesper Point

3216 Lee Pk. Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379 423.648.7936

vesperpoint.org

cvp@vesperpoint.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: Rising 3rd grade-rising 10th grade

Programs: Swimming, water skiing, crafts, blobbing, kayaking/paddleboarding, frisbee, volleyball, fishing, baseball, basketball, bouldering, and group games

Cost: $600/week ($625 after May 1) Located on Chickamauga Lake, Camp Vesper Point (CVP) has provided over 65 years of Christian camping for children and families. At CVP, Jesus Christ is presented to kids through fun outdoor activities and adventures, sports, worship, and a loving relationship with Christ-centered counselors. The camp is owned and operated by First Presbyterian Church of Chattanooga.

Northwest Georgia. Founded on strong Christian morals and principles in 1981, Camp Woodmont is the perfect place to build lifelong friendships and lasting memories. The camp program is wellsuited to first-time campers. All traditional camp activities start at an introductory level, and the camp layout is conveniently spaced out. Camp Woodmont is accredited by the ACA.

Chattanooga Christian School Summer Camps

3354 Charger Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37409 423.664.1250

ccsk12.com/summer summerprograms@ccsk12.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: PK3-12th grade

Programs: Chargers Day Camp; musical theatre camps; art, dance, sports, cooking, and robotics camps

Cost: $140-$525

alyson@campwoodmont.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 6-15

Programs: Horseback riding, hiking, canoeing, archery, climbing wall, high/low ropes, giant swing, dance, crafts, and more Cost: $1,275 for one week; $1,925 for two weeks

Camp Woodmont is a traditional overnight camp on Lookout Mountain just 30 minutes south of Chattanooga in

Chargers Day Camp at Chattanooga Christian School (CCS) incorporates art, games, water slides, sports activities, theme days, and more. Full and halfday specialty camps, along with before/ after-care, are available. Lunch is available in all day camp options. CCS offers something for everyone. Sample camps for young children include Fairy Princess, American Girl, LEGO Adventures, Kids in the Kitchen, and Intro to Sports.

Chattanooga State Summer Camps

4501 Amnicola Hwy. Chattanooga, TN 37406 423.697.3100

chattanoogastate.edu/economicworkforce-development ewd@chattanoogastate.edu

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: 8-12

Programs: Robotics, coding, musical theater, culinary, media/entertainment Cost: See website for pricing. Email or call for more information.

Chattanooga State offers a variety of summer camps for boys and girls ages 8-12. Camps include robotics, programming, coding, musical theater, culinary, and media/entertainment. Camps run for half-days in either the morning or afternoon hours, Monday - Friday. Prices vary per camp. Registration is now open.

Junior and Teen Rail Camp at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Wilderwood Summer Camps

Summer Camps

Cohutta Springs Youth Camp

P.O. Box 12000 Calhoun, GA 30703 706.602.7346

cs-yc.com

campinfo@gccsda.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 7-18

Programs: Archery, basketball, BMX biking, canoeing, cable park, climbing tower, crafts, drama, gymnastics, horseback riding, mountain biking, music, paintball, photography, rocketry, sports, super science, swimming, videography, wakeboarding, water slide, zipline

Cost: $465-$580/week

Accredited by the American Camp Association, based on Christian values, and located against the Chattahoochee National Forest, Cohutta Springs is a wonderful place to enjoy nature, make lifelong friends, learn skills, and experience incredible plays that entertain and inspire positive living. Trained and caring collegiate staff makes the experience unforgettable.

DLA Summer Experience

4315 Brainerd Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411 423.708.2621

dlachatt.org/camps

info@dlachatt.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 3-12

Programs: Dinosaur Explorations (June 5-8), Art Across the Ages (June 12-15)

Cost: $160/week or $300 for both weeks; discounts available

DLA Summer Experience is a handson day camp designed to help kids discover the joy of learning. Campers will play and work in the garden, participate in improv activities, create visual works of art, discover science and social studies concepts through hands-on exploratory modules, as well as dancing, playing on the playground, and playing in the gym. Camps run Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., and snacks are provided.

Creative Discovery Museum Summer Camps

321 Chestnut St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 423.648.6061 cdmfun.org/camps alt@cdmfun.org

Friends’ Discovery Camp: Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: Rising 1st grade-exiting 8th grade Cost: $175/camp

Chattanooga Theatre Centre Summer Academy

400 River St. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423.267.8538, ext. 313 theatrecentre.com

chuck@theatrecentre.com

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: 6-17

Programs: Acting, movement, dance, comedy, and more

Cost: $250-$600; one- to two-week sessions

The Chattanooga Theatre Centre’s Summer Academy includes half, extended, and full-day classes that explore acting, movement, dance, comedy, and more. The academy runs from June 5-August 4.

Chattanooga Zoo Camp

301 N. Holtzclaw Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423.697.1322

chattzoo.org/education/camps

summercamp@chattzoo.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: K-8th grade

Programs: Animal encounters, ageappropriate crafts, learning about various species, and age-appropriate games

Cost: Camp pricing varies by age group

Chattanooga Zoo campers will “go wild” as they get the chance to interact and learn about the magnificent animals of the Chattanooga Zoo and the keepers who work with them.

Friends’ Discovery Camps are inclusive camps designed for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their typically developing peers to explore the museum together with the help of Big Buddies from UTC!

Summer Camps: Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: PK4-rising 5th grade

Cost: See website for rates

Summer is all about play, exploration, and camp! Creative Discovery Museum camp experiences center on a variety of themes that bring art and science alive for children. An enthusiastic, experienced staff provides a fun-filled and safe environment for children to explore, innovate, create, and play! Camps are designed for children ages 4 and up. Registration is online.

First Cumberland Dayplayers Summer Camp

1505 N. Moore Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411 423.698.2556

firstcumberland.com/summer office@firstcumberland.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: K-8th grade Programs: Outdoor games, onsite swimming, daily chapel, summer musical, and crafts

Cost: Full- and part-time rates available, with add-ons available for an additional cost; see website for complete listing Dayplayers is an affordable Christian environment for school-aged children to spend the summer. With small group time, daily chapel, and weekly character traits, campers have the opportunity for spiritual development throughout the summer. Daily swimming and outdoor games are offered.

Boyd Buchanan School Summer Programs

St. Nicholas Summer Camp

BOYD BUCHANAN SUMMER CAMPS OFFER CUSTOM SCHEDULES FOR AGES 3 AND UP!

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE: ATHLETIC, ACADEMIC, ARTS & MORE!

Summer Camp May 30-July 28

Day Camp for Ages 3-12

Junior Counselor Program for Ages 13-15

The Day Camp Fee includes Art, Music, Gardening & Outdoor Program and Campus Carnivals

Register Online STNS.ORG

Summer Camps

Fort Bluff Camp and Retreat Center

370 Fort Bluff Camp Rd. Dayton, TN 37321

423.775.0488

fortbluff.com

info@fbc-naca.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 7-18

Programs: Summer camps, church retreats, corporate retreats, banquets, birthday parties

Cost: Junior Camp $280-$325; Teen Camp $315-$360

Fort Bluff is a nondenominational camp and retreat center that operates yearround. Many housing options are avail able from dorm style to private cab ins and can accommodate up to 900 guests. During the signature overnight Junior and Teen camps, campers will be challenged with biblical teaching, daily worship services, making friends, play ing games, swimming, and, of course, eating great food! Signature camps are open to individuals or church groups of any size. There is a lake for kayaking and swimming, a pool, 240-foot-long water slide, athletic fields, a full-size indoor gymnasium, and more. There is also availability to host groups that want to design their own camps.

GPS Summer Camp

205 Island Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423.634.7623 gps.edu/summer campsclinics@gps.edu

Boys | Girls: Both (but more for girls)

The Goddard School Summer Camp

17 W. Bell Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423.382.2525

goddardschool.com/chattanooga/ chattanooga-bell-avenue-tn

chattanoogatn@goddardschools.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 6 weeks-8 years

Programs: In My World (open to infants 6 weeks-18 months and toddlers 18 months-36 months);

The World Out There (open to PK and school-aged children ages 3-8)

Cost: $240-$340/week

Children have big ideas about how the world around them works. This summer, through this exclusive program, families are invited to discover what their children’s big ideas are. The first four weeks focus on the children themselves in I Am Changing, which is built around children’s new accomplishments and confidence. The following four weeks focus on observing and interacting with the world around them in The World is Changing. During the final weeks, children experience their own power in I Can Change the World. Within each of these sections, the learning experiences focus on four core actions: inspire, investigate, invent, and imagine.

Ages: 3*-17 (*must be potty-trained)

Programs: Day camps, sports clinics and camps, academic/enrichment camps, STEM camps, and arts/music camps

Cost: $200 and up

Each day at GPS Summer Camp is unique, designed for girls to learn, play, laugh, and meet new friends. From yoga to robotics, musical theater to basketball, GPS Summer Camp will help your girl discover more about who she is and who she wants to be. Whether she spends a week or two or the entire summer, GPS is ready to provide her an unforgettable experience.

Programs: Half-day camps (9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.) weekly from May 29-July 31

Cost: First child $234 for members, $259 for non-members; $224 per additional child for members, $245 for non-members

High Point summer camps teach kids ages 5-14 about rock climbing and team building. The staff is dedicated to teaching the basics of climbing, including equipment usage, climbing techniques, and the importance of trust and communication. These camps will encourage kids to find new ways of approaching climbing through age-appropriate group instruction. Everyone will finish climbing camp with a sense of self-confidence and accomplishment.

art experiences, experimenting with a variety of materials and artistic styles. In addition, campers will have access to the Hunter collection, enjoy outdoor activities along the riverfront, and celebrate their own creativity at the end of each week with a family showcase of their creations. Volunteer opportunities are also available for teens as assistant camp counselors.

Junior and Teen Rail Camp at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

4119 Cromwell Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421 423.894.8028 tvrail.com

cgooge@tvrail.com

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: 7-17

Programs: Steam locomotive cab rides, train rides, field trips, railroad history Cost: $425 for full day; $1,140 for overnight These camps, which run from May 29 through July 1, teach all aspects of railroading, including railroad terms, signals, how steam and diesel engines work, and the history of trains. Campers will also participate in hands-on activities.

Lee University Summer Camps

1120 N. Ocoee St. Cleveland, TN 37311 423.614.8000 leeuniversity.edu/news/summercamp-opportunities-at-lee/ info@leeuniversity.edu

Hunter Museum of American Art Summer Art Camps

10 Bluff View Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37403 423.752.0990

huntermuseum.org/summer-camp

cbespalec@huntermuseum.org

High Point Downtown’s Summer Rock Camp

219 Broad St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 423.602.7625

highpointclimbing.com

info@highpointclimbing.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 5-14

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: Rising 1st-rising 6th grade with teen volunteer opportunities

Programs: Weeklong day camps throughout June and July

Cost: $300/child; $240/child for members at passport level and above; multiple child family discounts available

Each weeklong camp features a low counselor-camper ratio and a chance for kids to sample a wide range of hands-on

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: K-12th grade Programs: Art, athletics, computers, ESL, music, theatre, summer honors, and many more Cost: Varies by camp

Whether your child wants to design computer games, hone their theatre skills, explore art-making techniques, or learn a new sport, Lee University has a summer camp that is sure to pique their interest. Hosted by Lee personnel, these camps take place throughout the summer, with some offering an overnight stay in the dorms. Registration deadlines vary; find specific information for each camp on the Lee University website.

YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga Summer Day Camp

MULTIPLE FIELD TRIPS WEEKLY

CAMP GRACE

JUNE 5 - AUGUST 4

Where the Love of Jesus Christ Makes a Life-Changing Impact on Children

Boys & Girls Ages 5-12

$1400 Complete Summer Session (All 9 Weeks @ $155/week) OR $200 by the Week

Monday-Friday• 7:00am-6:00pm Contact Beth Smith: campgrace@mygracechatt.org campgracechatt.org

Summer Camps

McCallie Summer Camps

500 Dodds Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404

423.493.5886

mccalliesummercamps.com camps@mccallie.org

Boys | Girls: Both, varies by camp

Ages: 5-16

Programs: Day camp, first camp, 3D animation, 3D coding, baseball, basketball, cross country, film production, football, golf, lacrosse, maker, Minecraft, robotics, soccer, speed and agility, tennis, wrestling, and father-son weekend

Cost: Varies by camp

McCallie’s summer programs include a variety of camps emphasizing participation, cooperation, teamwork, and having fun. The camps’ goals are to provide a quality summer recreational experience in a safe and wholesome environment for all children through outstanding people, facilities, and programs.

Notre Dame High School “Camp Like a Champion”

2701 Vermont Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423.624.4618

myndhs.com/athletics/summer-camps webbj@myndhs.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: Rising 1st-rising 8th grade Programs: Sports and STEM

Cost: Contact school for rates

Notre Dame offers a variety of full and half-day (8 a.m. to 12 p.m.) camps.

Privateer Sail Camp

4713 Privateer Rd. Hixson, TN 37343 423.718.3704

privateeryachtclub.org/youth-sail-camp tim@psef.us

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 8-17

Programs: Sailing, knot tying, boating rules and safety; campers will also have the opportunity to swim, paddle, hike, and more.

Cost: $375/week; scholarships available Privateer offers weekly camps during June and July where the skills of sailing are taught. The emphasis is fun and safety. Campers will learn to speak the language of sailing and how to rig their own boat, leave the dock and return, and use the wind to sail in any direction. Learning to sail their own boat and safely return to shore gives children increased selfesteem and confidence in their abilities. Many campers return year after year. The camp is hosted by the Privateer Sailing Education Foundation.

Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center Escape to Nature Summer Camp

400 Garden Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37419 423.821.1160

reflectionriding.org/camps

danielle@reflectionriding.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 5-14

Programs: Animal Encounters, Wilderness Exploration, Plant-Based Fun, Forest Games

Cost: $200-$250 for members; $250-$300 for non-members

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School Summer Camp

505 S. Moore Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37412 423.622.1481 myolph.com

summercamp@myolph.com

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: K-8th grade

Programs: Art, cooking, math, STEM, and sports

Cost: Half-day $80; full-day $175 (includes lunch)

Campers can choose from the following programs: Art (grades K-8), Cooking (grades 5-8), Math (grades 1-4 and 5-8), STEM (grades 1-4 and 5-8), and Sports (grades K-8). Camps run June 5-9 and June 12-19. Half days are available 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., full days available 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There’s never been a better time to leave the house and escape to nature. Reflection Riding Summer Camp provides an immersive, educational, and most of all fun experience that challenges campers’ minds and abilities. Children will explore, play, create, and learn on a 300-acre campus while developing a connection to and an understanding of the great outdoors.

info@riverviewcamp.com

Boys | Girls: Girls

Ages: 6-16

Programs: Riding (both English and Western), swimming (heated pool), tennis, ropes course, climbing tower, canoeing, golf, archery, gymnastics, cheerleading, dance, sports, nature exploration, chorus and drama, basketball, volleyball, soccer, arts and crafts, Riverview Refinement, knitting, Leadership Training for Teens, and more

Cost: Short-term session $2,575; long-term session $4,775

On top of Lookout Mountain and on the banks of Little River, Camp Riverview is only 45 minutes south of Chattanooga. A favorite all-around summer camp for girls, Riverview’s Christian emphasis and exciting programs are appreciated by both parents and campers.

Silverdale Baptist Academy

Summer Camps

7236 Bonny Oaks Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37421 423.892.2319 silverdaleba.org

summercamps@silverdaleba.org

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: PK-12th grade Programs: Mountain biking, gardening, theatre, archery, robotics, art, sports, and more Cost: Varies by camp Silverdale Summer Camps offer morning and afternoon camps for girls and boys that keep students engaged in the arts, outdoors, athletics, and more all summer long.

SAS Summer

290 Quintard Rd. Sewanee, TN 37375

931.463.2119

sasweb.org/summer

sassummer@sasweb.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 6-adults

Programs: Day and residential camps for children and adults in arts, culinary, dance, farming, music, outdoor adventure, sports, technology, woodworking, and more; conference rentals

Cost: Varies by program; see website for more information

Riverview Camp for Girls

P.O. Box 299 757 County Rd. 614 Mentone, AL 35984 800.882.0722

riverviewcamp.net

SAS Summer offers children and teens day and overnight sports, arts, music, and adventure camps. Shakerag Workshops welcomes adults for one-week, residential arts programs. The campus also welcomes other camps and conferences.

Skyuka Hall “Bridging the Academic Gap”

5600 Brainerd Rd., Ste. A-24 Chattanooga, TN 37411 423.877.9711 skyukahall.org

amoore@skyukahall.org

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: 1st grade-rising 12th grade Programs: Academic support Cost: $1,600

Skyuka Hall offers a four-week summer academic achievement program for students who need support and lack confidence in reading, writing, and math. Students receive researchbased skills and strategies necessary to improve and succeed in the classroom, as well as encouragement and motivation. Camp runs Monday-Thursday from June 5-June 29.

SUMMER CAMPS

High Point Downtown’s Summer Rock Camp

CAMPS AT SIGNAL CENTERS

Signal Centers provides campers of all abilities with a summer of stimulating and incredible summer adventures

June 12th - July 28th

Six week camp for children of all abilities

June 5th - June 9th TBA

One week camp for no/low vision children and teens

One week camp for nonverbal children & teens

Summer Camp

Monday - Friday DAY CAMPS FOR AGES 3-15

May 29 - August 11, 2023

ADVENTURE•CAMP•FUN•GAMES

DROP-OFF: AS EARLY AS 7:00 AM

PICKUP: AS LATE AS 6:00 PM

For more information, scan the QR code or visit Summer Camp at www.signalcenters.org (423) 698-8528

WWW.Wilderw d.CAMP

Summer Camps

Southern Adventist University Academic Summer Camps

4881 Taylor Cir. Collegedale, TN 37315

423.236.2000

southern.edu/camps

enrollment@southern.edu

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: Rising 9th-12th grade

Programs: Computing, culinary, film, journalism, media, and photography

Cost: $150-$250/student

depending on housing needs

Each summer, Southern hosts several academic summer camps on campus that offer high school students an immersive learning experience. Campers can explore or sharpen potential career interests before starting college. Each three-day camp includes handson learning with professors as well as a spiritual component, modeling how Adventist education offers both academic rigor and development for the whole person. Overnight accommodations are available in the residence halls. Online registration opens March 1; camps take place June 11-14.

St. Nicholas Summer Camp

7525 Min Tom Dr. Chattanooga, TN 37421

423.894.6485 or 423.899.1999 stns.org

kleckenby@stns.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 3-12 (Day and Enrichment Camp); 12-15 (Junior Counselor)

Programs: Swimming and swim lessons, art, music, gardening, sports, nature trail exploration, playground time, and more

Cost: See website; sibling discounts available

Summer at St. Nicholas Camp is an incredibly fun time for kids that challenges and nurtures imagination, encourages self-directed initiative, and develops leadership skills. Involvement in age-appropriate group activities and diverse athletic and educational experiences are the foundation of the program. Camps run Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 30 – July 28.

Camps run 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and provide relaxed fun for students to enjoy fun times with arts and crafts, Bible lessons, play, Kona Ice, and a water party weekly.

week, escape room week, magic week, space week, wilderness week, retro week

Cost: $225/camp

Valley View Ranch

Equestrian Camp for Girls

606 Valley View Ranch Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731 706.862.2231

valleyviewranch.com

info@valleyviewranch.com

Boys | Girls: Girls

Ages: 8-17

Programs: Equestrian

Cost: $2,200-$3,800

Valley View Equestrian Camp has been a horse lover’s paradise since 1954. For 50 girls, during one to eight weeks, the 600-acre camp offers English and Western riding, barrels, vaulting, and trails. CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association) instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Girls spend up to six hours a day riding and caring for their own camp horse.

St. Peter’s Camp Twister

848 Ashland Ter. Chattanooga, TN 37415 423.870.1794

saintpetersschool.net

spendsummer@stpeters.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 3-12

Programs: Camp Twister

Cost: Varies by program

Designed to provide a fun and exciting environment, Camp Twister is a day camp that provides children the opportunity to participate in different weekly themes full of engaging activities and creative projects. Camp hours are 8 a.m to 3 p.m.; extended care 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (at additional cost).

Wilderwood Summer Camps

1800 Polk St. Chattanooga, TN 37408 1515 Tombras Ave. East Ridge, TN 37412 423.920.4552 wilderwood.camp

hello@wilderwood.camp

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: 3-15

Programs: Animal week, lego week, Western frontier week, robot week, bounce & jump week, surprise week, knight & princess

Wilderwood offers incredible educational summer adventure camps for kids ages 3-15. Wilderwood is dedicated to giving every child a summer full of fun opportunities through its LittleWilder Camps, Guild Program, community service opportunities, and legendary Quest Camp. With hands-on learning and oneof-a-kind adventure programs, Wilderwood camps offer a place for kids to just be kids. Camps run from May 29-August 11, with programs from 9 a.m-2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Extended hours are available for $10 per day or free with “all summer” registration.

YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga Summer Day Camp

301 W. 6th St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 423.266.3766 ymcachattanooga.org/summer-camps info@campocoee.com

Boys | Girls: Both Ages: 5-12

Programs: Swimming, games, crafts, and more

Cost: $140/week for YMCA members; $185/ week for non-members; financial assistance available

YMCA Summer Day Camps offer children a well-rounded camp experience with activities such as swimming, indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, fun and engaging learning opportunities, and more. Campers will embark on new adventures, forge friendships, and build confidence all summer long. Summer Day Camps are offered at the YMCA’s Downtown, Hamilton, North River, Cleveland, and North Georgia locations. Overnight camp opportunities available at YMCA Camp Ocoee. Camps begin May 30, and camp hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

UCA Summer Camp

2200 Peerless Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 423.478.2500

ucacleveland.org

uca@ucacleveland.org

Boys | Girls: Both

Ages: PK2-8th grade

Programs: Daily Bible lesson, arts and crafts, music, computers, play time

Cost: $50 to register; $150/week (includes breakfast and lunch)

Aqua Camp

Valley View Ranch

Equestrian Camp for Girls

Marc Cromie, MD; Todd Levin, MD; Lee Perry, MD; Jennifer Patel, MD; Jessica Van Mason, MD; Hyman Kaplan, MD

The Bride

MONICA’S BRIDAL

Gown

Martina Liana

Selah Giles

Chattanooga, TN

YACOUBIAN TAILORS

Tuxedo Baroni

Tuxedo Shirt David Donahue

Tie Dion

Pocket Square Dion

Shoes Johnston & Murphy

Wilder Robinson

North Chattanooga, TN

Photo by Rich Smith

The Bride

MONICA’S BRIDAL

Gown Watters

Caelin Larkin Chattanooga, TN

Photo by Emily Pérez Long

Attendee

YACOUBIAN TAILORS

Dress

TART

Necklace

CV Designs

Earrings

CV Designs

MaryLillian Tessmann

Lookout Mountain, TN

Photo by Rich Smith

Isabel & Hank Warren

High school sweethearts Isabel Perry and Hank Warren first met in Bible class at Chattanooga’s Boyd Buchanan School … but it was in chemistry class that the duo’s chemistry became apparent. “We were lab partners and constantly flirted with one another,” Hank recalls. “Isabel was so easy to talk to and easygoing.” Isabel adds, “We had our first date at Zaxby’s after church one night during my junior year. I thought Hank was so funny and sweet.” Although the couple attended different colleges, their love for each other persevered, and a winter wedding was soon in the works. “Getting to say we are married felt like a long time coming,” Isabel says. “More than anything, we were looking forward to being together all the time and starting our lives together.”

After a yearlong engagement, Isabel and Hank were joined by 175 guests on December 18, 2021, as they tied the knot at Ramble Creek, a wedding and event venue in Athens, Tennessee. Isabel shares, “I was about to start PA school at the time, and I loved that Ramble Creek was an ‘all-inclusive’ venue – I could plan everything with them, from the food and cake to the flowers and décor.” With on-site accommodations and a convenient location between Chattanooga and Knoxville, Ramble Creek was an easy choice for the couple.

The Warrens describe the theme for their wedding day as “gold and green Christmas.” Isabel adds, “Being a December wedding, I wanted to incorporate Christmas tastefully, especially the colors and music.” Subtle nods to the holiday, like the Christmas tree greeting guests at the ceremony entrance, could be

how he proposed

“Hank took me to dinner (well, appetizers) at Il Primo in Cambridge Square … He told me I shouldn’t get a meal, which I thought was weird. Then we walked over toward an area with a fountain, string lights, candles, and rose petals, and he proposed. He had all our family at my house for dinner and a party afterward – that’s why we couldn’t order dinner!”

found in the décor, while quicksand roses and baby’s breath popped among the eucalyptus that made up the bridesmaids’ bouquets.

For their first look, which took place prior to the ceremony, Isabel and Hank met in a picturesque field on the Ramble Creek property. The bride was positively radiant in a fitted mermaid-style gown with intricate beading and a coordinating fingertip veil. Her “something borrowed” was a delicate gold necklace with a single pearl that belonged to her great-greatgrandmother. Hank remembers, “I waited in that field for what felt like a very long time. Then I finally heard Isabel’s voice before she tapped on my shoulder, and I turned around. She looked absolutely breathtaking.”

The 4:30 p.m. ceremony was held inside Ramble Creek’s Grand Hall, where cathedral ceilings and chic wooden interiors provided the perfect backdrop for Isabel’s elegant vision. Instrumental Christmas classics filled

the room as the wedding party – including the couple’s Australian Shepherd, Adele, who served as ring bearer – walked down the aisle. “Neither one of us got emotional until I walked down the aisle,” Isabel recalls. “And then the tears started flowing!” Isabel and Hank asked their former youth minister, Sean White, to officiate the ceremony, which was peppered with both traditional and personal touches.

During cocktail hour, guests mingled on the side patio and snacked on a charcuterie spread while the Grand Hall was flipped for the reception. Rows of chairs were quickly replaced with banquet seating – the wooden tables adorned with greenery and votive centerpieces, gold accents, and green linen napkins.

The couple teamed up with Ramble Creek to create a seasonal dinner menu featuring grilled chicken, twice-baked potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a strawberry salad. For dessert, guests had their choice of strawberry, chocolate, or vanilla cake. The venue also managed

bar services, which offered up beer, wine, and two specialty drinks: a maple old fashioned for the groom, and a cranberry mojito for the bride.

Dancing followed the meal, including Isabel and Hank’s first dance as husband and wife set to the tune of Ellie Goulding’s “How Long Will I Love You.” But the real party began when the headphones were passed around for the silent disco – the duo’s favorite part of the whole day. “I always knew I wanted a silent disco after going to my first one in college,” says Isabel. “They are so fun, and I thought it would be perfect for a wedding with a large age range and different tastes in music.” Hank adds, “At one point, Isabel and I stole the mics and proceeded to sing our favorite songs!”

To end the evening in a truly magical way, the happy couple exited the Grand Hall under a sea of sparklers, with family and friends wishing them well as they embarked on their new journey as husband and wife.

Arney Guess Goldsmith

Bracelet

14k two-tone Allison-Kaufman Company bangle bracelet with diamonds

Necklace

18k white gold Yael Designs necklace with emeralds and diamonds

Ring 14k two-tone Allison-Kaufman Company ring with diamonds

Ring 18k yellow gold Yael Designs ring with turquoise and diamonds

Earrings

14k white gold Bassali Jewelry earrings with sapphires and diamonds

Ring

14k white gold customdesigned Arney Guess Goldsmith ring with London blue topaz and diamonds

Bracelets 14k Real Gems Jewelry diamond tennis bracelets available in white, yellow, or rose gold

Earrings

Diamond pearl drop earrings featuring round diamonds

Band

18k Picchiotti expandable band featuring emerald-cut diamonds totaling 5.82 carats

Necklace

14k diamond tennis necklace totaling 7 carats

Earrings

Platinum kite-shaped diamond earrings featuring round and baguette diamonds totaling 6 carats

Ring

Platinum Tacori emerald-cut diamond engagement ring totaling 4.5 carats

Bracelet

14k white gold bangle bracelet featuring baguette and round diamonds totaling 7.72 carats

Band

Platinum diamond band featuring emerald and round diamonds totaling 1.91 carats

Photos by Emily

Necklace

18k white gold Mikimoto pendant necklace featuring Akoya 7mm pearl surrounded by a 0.15-carat diamond circle

Necklace

14k white gold Sabel Collection necklace featuring 2.55-carat round diamond stations

Bracelet

14k yellow gold Sabel Collection four-prong diamond tennis bracelet featuring 12.21 carats of round diamonds

Earrings

14k white gold Sabel Collection oval twist hoop earrings featuring 0.74-carat round diamonds

Earrings

18k yellow gold

Roberto Coin Venetian Princess earrings with 0.65 carats of round diamonds

Bands Sabel Collection stacking and anniversary bands

Ring

Fink’s Exclusive yellow gold and platinum engagement ring featuring 2.52-carat center diamond accented by a 0.95-carat diamond shank

Band 14k white gold 1.50-carat diamond anniversary band

Band 14k white gold 0.50-carat diamond band

Earrings 14k white gold 0.50-carat dangle diamond earrings

Necklace 14k white gold 0.33-carat diamond necklace

Ring 18k white gold 3.50-carat Asscher-cut diamond ring

Bracelet 14k white or yellow gold bangle featuring 0.25 carats of diamonds

Ring 14k platinum 4.50-carat ring featuring a cushion-cut diamond surrounded by pear-shaped diamonds

Photos by Rich Smith

Dress by Cheron's Bridal

Kennedy Jewelers

Necklace 14k white gold pendant necklace featuring a 0.50-carat oval diamond with 0.35 carats of accent diamonds on the pendant

Ring

14k white gold engagement ring with a 1-carat round center stone and a 0.38-carat setting

Band

18k white gold emeraldcut, seven-stone ring totaling 2.11 carats

Necklace 14k white gold 20-inch, three-stone diamond necklace totaling 0.92 carats

Bracelet

14k yellow gold paperclip bracelet featuring 1.50 carats of diamonds

Earrings 14k yellow gold paperclip earrings featuring 0.24 carats of diamonds

Watch Rolex Lady-Datejust 28mm Oyster steel and white gold bezel

Lisa’s Gold & Diamonds

Ring 18k yellow gold ring with 3.45 carats of tanzanite and 0.86 carats of diamonds

Ring 14k rose gold, peachshaded freshwater pearl with 0.38-carat diamond accents in round brilliant-cut and baguette-cut diamonds

Band 14k white gold band with a combination of round brilliant-cut and baguette-cut diamonds totaling 3.17 carats

Pendant with Chain

14k rose gold, peach-colored freshwater pearl with 0.38-carat diamond accents in round brilliant-cut and baguette-cut diamonds

Pendant 14k white gold pendant featuring 0.75 carats of diamonds

Bracelet

10k white gold vintage-inspired bracelet with round and marquise-shaped links featuring 1.02 carats of diamonds

Earrings 14k white gold, paperclip-style dangling diamond earrings totaling 1.28 carats

Pearls • Gemstones

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Titanium • Tungsten

Watches • Clocks

Seiko • Citizen • LeVian

Pendant 18k white gold Supreme Jewelry pendant featuring a pear shape, trillion-cut, and kite-cut diamond surrounded by halos of round diamonds

Earrings

18k white gold Supreme Jewelry chandelier earrings totaling 2.10 carats

Ring

18k white gold C. Gonshor engagement ring shown with a 3.01-carat oval diamond with a fancy double halo featuring 1.49 carats of round and marquise-cut diamonds on a split shank diamond foundation

Ring C. Gonshor pave diamond engagement ring featuring 124 round diamonds totaling 1.04 carats – can be made to accommodate any size/shape center stone

Band

18k yellow gold C. Gonshor wedding band featuring a row of 14 half-bezel-set, emerald-cut diamonds totaling 1.32 carats

Ring

18k yellow gold

C. Gonshor solitaire ring shown with a bezel-set, emerald-cut stone – can be made to accommodate any size/shape center stone

Band 14k C. Gonshor white gold band featuring nine marquise-cut diamonds totaling 0.78 carats

Photos by Rich Smith

Lily & Justin Hendrick Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall

When Lily and Justin first hit it off at a wedding in 2017, they never expected they would be celebrating their own union four years later. A University of Tennessee – Chattanooga alumna, Lily married Justin on March 13, 2022, at the campus’s Patten Chapel during a short and sweet ceremony.

The reception was held at Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall, which for Lily was an easy choice.

“I fell in love with Chattanooga Whiskey when I was in college and never imagined I would actually get to have my reception in that space … I just needed Justin to love the space too, and he did.”

As guests arrived at the reception, they were met with a stunning setup that Lily describes as “modern elegance.” Glowing pillar candles, crushed velvet, and gold accents provided an enchanting contrast with the rustic venue. Arrangements featuring ferns and roses draped the sweetheart table and dotted the rest of the venue, while whiskey barrels doubled as a gift table and cake stand.

chips, queso, and salsa and a buffet-style dinner of barbecue tacos with a wealth of toppings. Guests also enjoyed an open bar run by Chattanooga Whiskey staff and two tiered cakes.

HOW HE PROPOSED

“I am a huge lover of art, especially the Impressionist period. We went on a small vacation to Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience in Atlanta. Justin added on the virtual reality experience at the end, which was a total surprise, and when I took my VR goggles off, he was down on one knee!”

“We wanted the food to reflect what Justin and I love most,” says Lily. This meant a cocktail hour featuring smoked wings,

The touch of loved ones enriched the evening, from table runners hand-sewn by Lily’s mother to calligraphy done by a close friend. A deeply moving recording of Lily’s late father singing played while she danced with her brother in lieu of the traditional father-daughter dance.

“There was not a dry eye in the entire venue. It was such a special way to incorporate our father and pay tribute to him,” she recalls.

Lily and Justin danced the night away with their guests and chose to forego a traditional sendoff so they could be the last to leave at the end of the night.

While she cherished every moment spent with friends and family, Lily’s favorite part of the day was taking portraits with her husband: “It was such a quiet time between me and Justin, and we had time to just bask in the day.”

Abigail & Gary Green The Commons

When Abigail and Gary met at their church’s small group for college students, it didn’t take long for their love for God to blossom into a love for each other. Four years later, the duo married on a beautiful autumn day at The Commons.

“This was our No. 1 choice and is one of Chattanooga’s bestkept secrets,” says Abigail. “It’s located right between downtown Chattanooga and Cleveland, Tennessee, and it’s one of the most photogenic venues in the area.”

With the weather in their favor, the Greens held their gorgeous ceremony on the property’s back lawn, while the mountains, which were sporting prime fall foliage, served as their backdrop. After a special, Christ-centered ceremony, it was an easy transition to the reception in the Founders’ Hall.

“We liked the versatility of the space and how smooth the setup process was,” adds Abigail. “The Commons already has beautiful twinkling lights in the venue, so we were able to then add

draping to the ceiling that really tied the whole space together. We kept the table decorations simple using local greenery and candles to achieve the rustic yet timeless look we were going for.”

HOW HE PROPOSED

The simple yet elegant reception was a hit and provided guests with a delicious barbecue dinner, beer and wine bar, and plenty of dancing. An assortment of Bundt cakes big and small offered a little something sweet to those in attendance, and the couple made their getaway through a tunnel of sparklers before driving off in a shiny Bentley.

“Our favorite part of the day was just being surrounded by most of our family and friends and getting to feel all that love,” says Abigail. “It was a truly magical and great way to start our life together.”

Photos by Alexis Dimmer Photography

“Gary proposed at his family reunion at Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains. It was great to be surrounded by family for something so special.”

HOW HE PROPOSED

High school sweethearts Diana and Saul Pacheco’s love story began seven years ago with the help of a follow button. “Saul was the one who made the first move by adding me on all social media … he sent a message asking if I wanted a donut,” recalls Diana. Though she declined his offer at the time, Saul’s efforts were not in vain, and they began dating that same year. “What can I say, I guess it worked!” adds Diana. The couple married in an early afternoon ceremony on July 16, 2022, and celebrated afterward with loved ones at the Dalton Convention Center.

“We were in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to celebrate our anniversary, and Saul surprised me with a helicopter ride. I looked out the window and saw someone holding a ‘Will you marry me?’ sign. We got off the helicopter, Saul got down on one knee, and we all know what my answer was!”

The venue was exactly what they had looked for. “It’s the biggest venue here in our town. We both have a big family on both sides, so we wanted a venue that would be able to fit all of our loved ones. We liked that we had

someone helping us every step of the way,” explains Diana. The spacious room accommodated tables for guests while still providing ample space for visiting and dancing.

The evening was aglow, as string lights reflected off the reception’s gold décor and the bride’s sparkling tiara. Tall flower frames ascended above the guest tables, topped by classy arrangements of white roses and greenery. The sentiment of these handmade centerpieces, which featured flowers arranged by Saul’s aunt, was complemented by a thank you note from the couple to their guests at each table.

For dinner, the Dalton Convention Center catered a flavorful lineup featuring pasta and birria and served up beverages as guests enjoyed the celebration. A stunning cake display, featuring tiers of nearly a dozen cakes adorned with cascading gold beads, was certainly a highlight of the night and offered an array of flavors to suit any guest’s palate. A DJ kept the fun going as the dance floor filled with smiling faces.

Looking back, Diana is grateful for how effortlessly the day unfolded. “We were both calm during our wedding, and everything went smoothly. We got to enjoy our day in peace!” she shares. Her favorite part of the day was simply that she and Saul got to share it all with their family and loved ones.

Photos by Luz Art Photography

Diana & Saul Pacheco Dalton Convention Center

For more information call Kelly Ragan at 706-272-7676.

Lillian & Blake Layne Gilman Event Hall

Though Lillian and Blake Layne briefly dated as teenagers, their story isn’t that of your typical high school sweethearts. The two parted ways after graduation, but little did they know that years later, the stars would align. “We were in the same graduating class and even went on a couple of dates in high school, but nothing came from it. We went to separate colleges and found our way back to Chattanooga a few years after. We re-met and the rest is history!” shares Lillian.

Lillian and Blake married on the evening of December 31, 2022, and celebrated both their marriage and New Year’s Eve with guests during a reception at Gilman Event Hall. “We chose Gilman because it was a beautiful space, and the location was amazing for a New Year’s wedding,” says Lillian. Guests were able to walk a short distance from the ceremony site at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church to the event hall, where they enjoyed a cocktail hour before moving to the ballroom for drinks, dinner, and dancing.

Lillian describes the theme of the night as “a modern take on classic black and white weddings,” with a New Year’s twist. Baby’s

breath, garden roses, and hydrangeas matched the monochrome décor of the evening, while greenery added bursts of color throughout the room.

HOW HE PROPOSED

“Blake sent me to get my nails done and have dinner with my friends while he transformed the house into a beautiful proposal spot for when I got home. We left for Vegas the next day and celebrated!”

The couple staged an exit to capture getaway pictures before returning inside to celebrate until midnight. “Since it was New Year’s and we wanted to go until the ball dropped, we did a ‘fake exit’ around 10:30 p.m. We had all the guests move down to the street right outside of Old Gilman Grill with sparklers, and some guests chose to stay upstairs and watch from the balcony,” describes Lillian.

As midnight ushered in the new year, the newlyweds were able to cheer alongside their loved ones, an experience that Lillian says she will always remember. Looking back, she adds that her favorite parts of the day would have to be “finally getting to see Blake and then dancing into the new year!”

Photos by Michael Rizza Photography

Lindsay & Steven Barsy Grandview

Lindsay and Steven first crossed paths at a bar in 2011 but didn’t think twice about it. Yet fate seemed determined to bring them back together – seven years later, they ran into each other at a hockey game. “After that, he wouldn’t stop bothering me to hang out,” jokes Lindsay. Steven offered to help her move in exchange for a dinner date, and as Lindsay says, “The rest is history.”

The Detroit-based couple knew they wanted a destination wedding with an epic mountain backdrop. “We visited Chattanooga and fell in love with the city. We chose Grandview because it met all our desires. Steven knew it was the right venue when he saw the beautiful stairs I would walk down to marry him and start the rest of our lives together,” shares Lindsay.

Their early September wedding embraced the natural beauty of its outdoor venue and enhanced it with warm, earth-toned décor that Lindsay describes as “Sedona red rocks meets the lush green mountains.” The couple brought in wooden benches to complement the ceremony site’s cobblestone aisle and chose attire and décor with harmonizing shades of green, orange, and tan.

While the rainy weather was an initial disappointment, it graciously paused to allow the couple to enjoy an early evening ceremony and the reception afterward. Looking back, Lindsay adds that it “created a beautiful fog that our guests are still talking about.”

During their custom ceremony, Lindsay walked down the steps that had captivated Steven during their venue search, looking elegant in a crêpe gown with chiffon wings. Steven’s brother officiated, and close friends read the couple’s handwritten vows aloud.

HOW HE PROPOSED

“Steven proposed to me at my eighth annual Friendsgiving surrounded by my friends.”

Afterward, guests moved to Grandview’s front drive for cocktail hour and sampled from a massive charcuterie spread. The newlyweds arrived and a champagne tower kicked off the reception, held on the venue’s terrace. Grandview staff provided bar services and catered savory dishes, from red wine braised short ribs to three cheese risotto with a smoked tomato sauce. Later, the venue served Clumpie’s ice cream to refresh guests during the festivities.

Instead of closing the night out with a sendoff, Lindsay and Steven joined guests on a shuttle to downtown Chattanooga, where the party continued at local nightlife joints. “We chose to spend as much time together with our guests as we could, and we do not regret it!”

Photos by Emily Arwine Photography

Make Your Events Magical, at Grandview

Experience Grandview, where you and your guests will be treated to everything your event should be –a joyous and memorable day. We offer a variety of accommodating amenities and unique features which make Grandview such a special setting.

F0r information about catering and upcoming special events, please email: breanna@seerockcity.com

Eleanor & Grant Tomashoff The Hunter Museum of American Art

Former colleagues Eleanor and Grant Tomashoff went separate ways professionally, but the friendship they formed led them to a future together. While they met in New York City and now reside in Dallas, Texas, they planned their wedding in Chattanooga – Eleanor’s hometown. The duo married on October 8, 2022, and held a sophisticated reception at the Hunter Museum of American Art.

“From the moment we decided to get married, we both knew we wanted to feature Chattanooga’s best qualities for all our friends and family who had never visited the town or even the South before,” says Eleanor. “The Hunter Museum offered everything we wanted: a beautiful venue featuring indoor and outdoor spaces, views of all of Chattanooga (specifically the water and bridges), and a sleek modern design.”

After attending an early evening ceremony, guests were bussed over to the Hunter, where an elevated cocktail hour and exceptional views of the Tennessee River awaited them. The museum’s lobby and terrace hosted hors d’oeuvres and conversation, and its upstairs offered up a unique treat: access to one of the Hunter’s art exhibitions.

The party continued with dinner and dancing on the venue’s tented rooftop. The Hunter provided full bar and beverage ser-

vices, serving wine while guests enjoyed a plated dinner and crafting custom cocktails selected by the couple.

HOW HE PROPOSED

“Grant arranged for his whole family to come to Chattanooga for Thanksgiving under the guise of having our families meet for the first time. We went on a little hike with nice views, and the hike ended with the proposal, some hidden champagne, a toast, and a ring.”

The evening’s décor perfectly captured the garden party aesthetic the couple had hoped for. Every corner of the room bloomed with warm, romantic hues and whimsical flower arrangements, while a breathtaking floral installation floated over the dance floor and wowed the crowd.

Guests filled the checkered dance floor and stayed long into the night, energized by late-night snacks and light-up streamers. In lieu of a getaway, Eleanor and Grant ended their big day with a nightcap at a nearby bar with their closest friends.

The couple agrees that their wedding was “the best weekend of our lives.” Eleanor adds, “It felt like we highlighted the love we have for one another and our family and friends, and the Hunter perfectly captured the beauty of Chattanooga.”

Photos by Our Ampersand Photography

Wedding Gifts

Take the stress out of gift-giving with these unique options from local shops. Perfect for the occasion, they boast practicality, affordability, and that special touch that makes a gift an extraordinary treasure for years to come. Whether intended for the bride and groom or the bridal party, the following gifts will strike just the right note with your loved ones.

FOR THE WEDDING

PARTY

Zi Olive on the North Shore

“This unique gift can be given to anyone in your wedding party! It includes a large charcuterie board set with four tools and storage, one bottle of Zi Olive’s signature olive oil, one bottle of Zi Olive’s signature vinegar, cheese, and Kalamata olives. Your family and friends are sure to enjoy discovering the flavors of the Mediterranean and making their own creations.”

Charlie Kimball

Zi Olive on the North Shore

423.760.3866

ziolivenooga.com

@ziolivenooga

FOR THE BRIDE & GROOM

Sophie’s Shoppe

About Zi Olive on the North Shore: Opened almost four years ago, Zi Olive on the North Shore has 47 flavors of balsamic, 35 flavors of infused olive oils, 10 varietals, spices, sauces, and even wine. All Zi Olive oils are from the Mediterranean and flavor-infused and packaged in-house. Custom gift baskets can be made upon request.

“Timeless and oh-so unique, this gift box includes Sophie’s Shoppe favorites like recycled glass champagne flutes, a signature Napa candle, neutral kitchenware, and a gorgeous acacia hardwood cutting board – perfect for charcuterie night and festive cheese platters! These beautiful items are meant to be enjoyed by the happy couple for years to come.”

Zeen Oehmig

Sophie’s Shoppe

423.756.8711

sophiesshoppe.com

@sophies_shoppe

FOR THE BRIDE & GROOM

Plum Nelly Shop

About Sophie’s Shoppe: Founded almost 20 years ago, Sophie’s is a woman-owned, small business that prides itself in finding cool makers who create beautiful products. We carry a mix of goods including home décor, art, foodie gifts, jewelry, and accessories.

“Handblown in Chattanooga by local artist Prentice Hicks of Wauhatchie Glassworks, these beautiful champagne glasses are a classic, yet unique gift for the happy couple. They’re perfect for toasting when cutting the cake and for celebrating all of life’s cheeriest occasions together afterward! When ordered in advance, the glasses can be inscribed with the bride and groom’s initials and/or wedding date as a sweet keepsake. They’re available in a variety of colors and sizes.” $73

Catharine Daniels

Plum Nelly Shop

423.266.0585

plumnellyshop.com

@plumnellyshop

About Plum Nelly Shop: Celebrating 50 years of business, we carry a unique array of locally and regionally made pottery, glass, jewelry, art, and giftware as well as stationery, invitations, and so much more.

MARQUEE LETTERS

Alpha-Lit Chattanooga

Amber Scott is no stranger to the event industry – she has been creating balloon displays for weddings and other special events for years in and around Opelika, Alabama. “I love balloon styling, but it’s not my passion,” she shares. In 2021, a fortuitous move to the Scenic City led Scott to her dream job: owning and operating the Chattanooga location of Alpha-Lit, a Dallas-based marquee letter company. In May, Scott will celebrate her one-year anniversary with the company.

Alpha-Lit Chattanooga can light up any event – from bachelorette parties to engagements and weddings – with marquee letters, numbers, and symbols made by another small business outside Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The marquee letters are approximately three feet tall, while numbers are four feet tall. Scott says, “We also have 1-foot ‘THE’ and 1.5-foot ‘MR&MRS’ toppers that sit on top of a couple’s last name, which is very popular with our weddings.”

These customizable, attention-grabbing displays not only serve as the perfect backdrop for wedding photos, but they’re also a fun way for couples to show off their personalities. “We can stack our marquees, and we offer colored bulbs to create a unique look for our clients,” explains Scott. She adds, “All of our letters are UL certified, which means that you know that our product is the highest quality and constructed correctly with safety in mind.”

For Scott, Alpha-Lit is much more than a business – it’s a way to engage her new community and foster new relationships. “I love connecting with people and seeing how much they love our letters when they see them,” she says. AMBER’S

Amber Scott alphalitletters.com/chattanooga Alpha Lit Chattanooga  alphalitchattanooga

BOUQUET PRESERVATION

Blossom and Rhyme

When Rachael Croxall first began learning the art of resin in college, she could have never guessed that the medium would have such an impact on her life and future business. “The craft immediately captured my interest for how difficult it was to make everything perfect. It wasn’t easy, which is why I liked it,” she explains. “Then, after working in the wedding industry for about two years, I realized I wanted to combine my greatest passions in life: working with weddings and resin art.”

Soon Croxall’s business, Blossom and Rhyme, was born, offering professional bouquet preservation for weddings and special events. Both fresh and older bouquets can be preserved in a variety of products, from blocks, trays, and bookends to ring holders and necklaces, each carefully crafted from hand-poured resin. Croxall and her team of 10 also go above and beyond by offering color correction and frosted edging – their “signature touch,” according to Croxall – on all orders.

“I am passionate about Blossom and Rhyme because I get to preserve these memories for others to pass down through generations; it’s a timeless way to keep a piece of your special day forever,” shares Croxall. She’s also very passionate about connecting with her clients and has been known to write poems to go with orders based on the client’s love story, which is where the “Rhyme” in Blossom and Rhyme comes in.

“We truly take the time to ensure the quality of our work rises above – not only rising above, but always brainstorming ways to improve and innovate,” says Croxall. “Our plan is to be the brand that is known when you hear the words ‘bouquet preservation.’”

Rachael

Croxall

blossomandrhyme.com

blossomandrhyme

blossomandrhyme

RACHAEL’S TOP WEDDING DAY TIPS

1. Take three mental pictures in your mind. Scan the room and remember those memories forever.

2. Make sure to eat throughout the day! Enjoy some of that food you picked out – especially the cake.

3. Let your friend, family member, or wedding planner take care of the bouquet preservation process of delivering your flowers.

Photos Courtesy of Blossom and Rhyme

Chattanooga Tent & Event Solutions

Mike Holland grew to love the event industry from an early age, when he spent his summers working for the family business – Chattanooga Tent. With 44 years of experience under his belt, Holland now manages the full-service tent and event rental company, which carries the distinction of CERP (Certified Event Rental Professional) from the American Rental Association.

Tents are certainly a specialty of Holland’s company; from frame and high peak to pole and nautical-themed tents, Chattanooga Tent has a large inventory of contemporary styles and sizes so that couples can find the perfect fit for their wedding day. The company also provides tabletop rentals, including tables, chairs, glassware, flatware, china, and linens, as well as flooring, décor, and more, for events both large and small. Holland and his staff work with local and national vendors to help bring the most current trends to their clients, and all of the company’s structures are designed and constructed to the highest safety standards.

With seemingly endless possibilities for styling an event, consultations are a crucial part of Holland’s process. “I enjoy talking with my clients and helping them find the best solution for their event,” Holland explains. “Our years of experience in the industry can help our clients with even the most challenging sites. It is a great feeling to see the smiles of a happy customer after they have had a successful event.”

Chattanooga Tent & Event Solutions goes above and beyond supplying exceptional rentals. “Our staff’s attitude to go the extra mile to meet our clients’ needs is something that really sets us apart,” Holland shares.

Mike Holland chattanoogatent.com

Chattanooga Tent & Event Solutions

@chattanoogatent

MIKE’S TOP WEDDING DAY TIPS

1. Start planning early. In doing so, you can secure the needed equipment and vendors.

2. Have vendor meetings to make sure everyone is on the same page. Communication between your vendors is helpful in creating a beautiful and successful wedding.

3. Hire a team of vendors that is responsive to your wants and needs. Then let them build your dream wedding!

Ivey Photo

Photography is a second career for Paige Ivey Evatt, who left her career as an attorney in 2018 to stay home with her two sons. “I quickly learned that staying at home is not my speed,” laughs Evatt. “My husband bought my first professional camera and encouraged me to begin shooting. His prompting to start taking photos was the birth of my business, and I love that Ivey Photo is rooted in love.”

Evatt describes herself as a “photographer for life,” saying, “I have served a family through their engagement, wedding, maternity, live birth, and family portraits.” She specializes in wedding and boudoir photography and even has a boudoir studio located in Chattanooga. Additionally, Evatt owns Ivey Photo Stationery Shoppe, which offers specialty items such as acrylic photo blocks, fine art prints, canvas wall art, and – a client favorite – luxury albums, all custom-designed by Evatt.

Evatt believes that relationships are key to the success of her business, which celebrates its fourth anniversary this year. As such, most of Evatt’s clients come from referrals from past clients. “I believe in building a strong connection so that I feel like a friend at your celebration rather than just another wedding vendor,” she shares.

Chattanooga is Evatt’s hometown, and she loves hosting couples who choose to have their destination wedding in the city. “Being able to serve couples as they begin their families and capturing that very important moment of their lives brings me such joy,” explains Evatt. “I am forever grateful to be a storyteller of some of the best love stories I’ve ever heard.”

Paige Ivey Evatt iveyphoto.com

PAIGE’S TOP WEDDING DAY TIPS

1. Choose your top three things that matter most to you, and let that guide your budget.

2. Dream weddings don’t just happen – they require a solid vendor team and detailed planning. Choose a solid team, and trust their insight and advice.

3. Have fun! Make it about YOU and YOUR preferences. Events that truly show off the couple are always my favorite ones to photograph.

Photos by Ivey Photo

WEDDING PLANNING & COORDINATION

Perfectly Planned by Amy

Chattanooga event and wedding planning has long been a dream for Amy Marcus. “As the wife of an Air Force Officer for 20 years with frequent and unpredictable moves, having a true career of my own wasn’t an option until a few years ago – but it did give me a tremendous amount of experience in event planning,” she explains. “Although it’s taken me a long time to get here, I’m convinced that my life’s journey has been leading me to this point.” Her business, Perfectly Planned by Amy, is the culmination of her hard work.

At Perfectly Planned by Amy, Amy and her team offer four main wedding planning packages: Day-of Coordination, Partial Planning + Day-of, Full Wedding Planning + Day-of, and a Micro Wedding package. They can also plan everything from proposals and elopements to bridal showers and bachelorette parties. Whether you hire Amy to assist with final preparations or coordinate all aspects of your wedding, you can expect a clear line of communication and a detailoriented approach.

What Amy offers goes far beyond flawless execution, however. “A mother of the bride, Stacey Street, told me once that I do far more than plan, guide, and prepare – I create a personal connection,” she shares. “I always tell my brides that it’s like having another mom on-site who is the most organized person ever.”

Amy feels grateful to finally have the opportunity to pursue her passion: “to ensure my clients have a truly special and stress-free day that will be remembered fondly for the rest of their lives,” she says.

Amy Marcus

perfectlyplannedbyamy.com

Perfectly Planned By Amy

@perfectlyplannedbyamy

AMY’S TOP WEDDING DAY TIPS

1. Before you start planning your wedding, set up a wedding email. This will allow you to keep all of your vendor emails, quotes, contracts, and payments in one place.

2. Don’t forget to eat and stay hydrated on your wedding day! Nothing is worse than feeling faint or hangry going into your wedding ceremony.

3. When all your guests are getting lined up for the exit, stay inside and do one last dance. You won’t regret it!

Photos by Summer Simmons Photo and Film

Bridal Parties

Michaela and Kenny Tumlin

September 16, 2022 | by Kris Hacker - Hacker Medias

Jenny and Jonah Gaines

June 24, 2022 | by Bonnie McGhee Photography

Morgan and Cameron Jones December 17, 2022 | by Beasley Photography

Haile and Clayton Cravatt September 16, 2022 | by Beasley Photography

Madeleine and Tyler Whitehead November 19, 2022 | by Emily Lester Photography

Bridal Parties

Giovannie and Traibion Drew March 26, 2022 | by Kris Hacker - Hacker Medias

Jessica and Adam Malone October 15, 2022 | by Natalie Caho Photography

Michelle and Joshua Allsup August 20, 2022 | by Daisy Moffatt Photography

Miah and Brennan McMurray April 16, 2022 | by Natalie Caho Photography

Jennifer Parker and Christopher Neal December 22, 2022 | by Taylor English Photography

Raquel and Michael Eggie September 3, 2022 | by Emily Lester Photography

Bridal Parties

Sydney and Lucas Cole July 2, 2022 | by Beasley Photography

Rachel and Thomas Hodges June 11, 2022 | by Emily Lester Photography

Taylor and DelVon Rouser September 24, 2022 | by Kris Hacker - Hacker Medias

Brenda and Michael Rademacher April 2, 2022 | by Bonnie McGhee Photography

Mikayla and Alexander Moomey May 29, 2022 | by Taylor English Photography

SPRING DINING & CATERING

Photo by Rich Smith

FEED CO. TABLE & TAVERN / FIVE WITS BREWING CO. + BARRELHOUSE BALLROOM / FOOD WORKS / GOOD DOG GO! + CLUMPIES ICE CREAM CO. CATERING & EVENTS / STATE OF CONFUSION / STIR

STATE OF CONFUSION

Ceviche Sampler Mexican, Peruvian, Fried, Avocado & Mahi ceviches

Traditional Muffuletta House-made Sicilian bread, Genoa salami, ham, provolone, olive tapenade salad

301 EAST MAIN STREET | SOCONFUSION.COM

Caprese Skewers Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic reduction

Seafood Tower Fresh oysters, stone crab claws, steamed shrimp, tuna salad, crostini, cocktail sauce, horseradish, drawn butter

1444 MARKET STREET | STIRCHATTANOOGA.COM

(left to right) Peruvian Pesto Shrimp Linguine Argentinian red shrimp with marinated tomatoes, sweet potato crisps, Cotija cheese, Peruvian pesto cream sauce

Photos by Rich Smith

(left to right) Filet & House Goat Cheese Ravioli Hand-cut 6 oz. grilled beef tenderloin, house-made goat cheese ravioli, a pecan citrus pesto

Photos by Emily Pérez Long

FIVE WITS BREWING CO. + BARRELHOUSE BALLROOM

authentic Mexican street tacos served with choice of carne asada

(potatoes and poblanos), or vegan bean Pastrami Reuben Boar’s Head pastrami and Swiss cheese on Niedlov’s marble rye, topped with sauerkraut and house-made Russian dressing, and then paninipressed to perfection Five Wits Beer Flight Czech Pilsner, English Mild Ale, Barrel-aged Stout, and Sunblaze IPA

1501 LONG STREET | FIVEWITSBREWING.COM | BARRELHOUSEBALLROOM.COM

FEED CO. TABLE & TAVERN

(left

Smoked salmon dip with everything seasoning

Bruschetta  Fresh chopped tomato, fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and balsamic glaze served on crostini

Mixed Grill  3 oz. grilled chicken with Carolina Gold sauce, 4 oz. grilled BBQ salmon with cucumber relish, 3 oz. grilled bistro steak with horseradish cream sauce, roasted red potatoes, Southern-style green beans, and Hawaiian roll

201 WEST MAIN STREET | FEEDTABLEANDTAVERN.COM

(left to right) Taco El Vez Tijuana- and Dorado-style

(steak), pollo asado (chicken), papas y rajas

Photos by Emily Pérez Long

to right) Cucumber Salmon Bites

Photos by Kris Hacker/Hacker Medias

From corporate lunches to parties and receptions, our private event space provides intimate comfort with the attention to detail and unique culinary creations of The FEED Co. Table & Tavern.

Located in the rear of the restaurant, our event space has a separate entrance off Williams Street. Enjoy a seated dinner for up to 80 guests or 110 for a social reception. Sip a beer or cocktail at the private bar or on the patio and relax as our full-service team oversees every aspect of your event.

Choose from menu favorites or work with our team to customize a menu especially for your event. From rehearsals and parties to corporate events, we are ready to FEED your soul.

GOOD DOG GO! + CLUMPIES ICE CREAM CO. CATERING & EVENTS

Chamomile Honey A chamomile flower ice cream with a honeycomb “dust” throughout, leaving swirls of concentrated floral honey

Pistachio A pistachio ice cream made by adding roasted pistachio purée to the base, with layers of homemade pistachio brittle

EATATGOODDOG.COM/CATERING | CLUMPIES.COM/CATERING

FOOD WORKS

Champagne Topped with fresh berries

Charcuterie A selection of artisan cheeses, cured meats, and bountiful accoutrements

205 MANUFACTURERS ROAD | FOODWORKSRESTAURANT.COM

(left to right) Praline Brie en Croute Puff pastry filled with brie cheese and topped with candied pecans

Photos Courtesy of Food Works

(left to right) “The Fred” Chili cheese dog with onion, ketchup, and mustard

Photos by Emily Pérez Long

Something Old and Something New

Vinterest Antiques is a treasure trove of unique finds, from timeless vintage furnishings to handcrafted pieces by local artisans. Here, we spoke with owners Katherine and Paul Schurer to learn more about the heart behind their business model and the passion that drives their success.

BY CATHERINE SMITH / PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY PÉREZ LONG

Years ago, Katherine and Paul sold their first antique store in Huntsville, Alabama, to relocate to Atlanta for Katherine’s corporate career. The opportunity to move up the corporate ladder seemed too good to pass up, but as the stress of the job compounded, she realized her heart was no longer in it.

This epiphany spurred them into action, with Katherine putting in her notice and Paul immediately starting to scout locations for a new antique shop, this time in Chattanooga. Re-

calling the day they found the perfect warehouse for their plans, Paul says, “Something kept nagging us to check out Hixson, and something about that space just felt like home.” Together, the Schurers went all-in on their fresh start, and it paid off in spades. The Hixson location was a resounding success, driving the couple to open two additional locations –one in Southside Chattanooga and another in Nashville, where Katherine grew up. Today, Vinterest has grown to include over 250 vendors

who set up shop in the store to sell their unique items.

The impact Vinterest has on local artisans and small businesses is a big one: the chance to sell their items in a brick-and-mortar location. With support from Vinterest, vendors can take their businesses to the next level without the typical risks of starting a solo venture. “We work with a lot of our vendors one-on-one,” Paul explains. “I enjoy getting to know what their financial and business goals are and being a part of their

journey.” For the Schurers, seeing vendors thrive and exceed their goals is incredibly rewarding. “Many of them are chasing their dreams of being self-employed and pursuing their passion as an artisan or entrepreneur,” Katherine says. “There is just so much heart poured into the place.”

From nostalgic décor to handcrafted art, each vendor booth showcases the heart and soul of the person behind it. As a result, Katherine says, “The shops are as unique as the people who source the products.” Additionally, Paul says the customers who frequent each location are just as unique. “In Hixson, the farmhouse style is still going strong. Mid-century items and other vintage items seem to be our downtown customers’ favorites, but music memorabilia and gift items completely dominate at our Nashville location.”

Vinterest offers something for everybody, and the welcoming nature of the store is no accident – the customer experience has been a priority since day one. Paul says, “Before we opened Vinterest, we spent a lot of time nailing down this piece of our business model. It is really important to us that Vinterest feels welcoming.” To this end, Vinterest welcomes pets and offers kids a free juice pouch to make shopping more fun for parents and pet owners alike. “Our staff comes

up with so many fun events and little customer service touches that you just don’t seem to find anymore. It is just a joyful, happy place,” Katherine says.

There’s no doubt that Vinterest has created a strong community of employees, vendors, and happy customers. As a result, the shop has been voted Chattanooga’s best antique store by the Chattanooga Times Free Press’ “Best of the Best” people’s choice awards every year since opening. “That award always feels like a nice, big hug from the community,” says Katherine.

Looking to the future, the Schurers plan to enjoy every step of Vinterest’s journey – wherever it takes them. “Every day we are open feels like a gift. We do not take a single day for granted as small business owners,” Paul shares.

Katherine and Paul Schurer stand in front of The Blue Screen Door booth by vendor Dawn Gadd.

A SPRING SOIREE

CELEBRATE SUNSHINE AND BLOOMING GARDENS WITH THESE SEASONAL SELECTIONS

After hibernating to recover from the frenzy of the holidays, springtime feels full of energy and possibility. It’s the ideal time for garden parties and rousing rounds of badminton or bocce ball before the heat gets unbearable. Between the smooth tequila, botanicalforward vodka spritz, and juicy wine recommendations here, you’re sure to find something to help you shake off the last of the winter doldrums and enjoy the balmy weather.

KETEL ONE BOTANICAL VODKA SPRITZ CANS

Ready-to-enjoy cocktails have risen in popularity lately – and for good reason! They’re simple, quick, and delicious, allowing you to spend less time mixing drinks and more time with your friends. These Ketel One Vodka Spritzes come in three flavors: grapefruit and rose, cucumber and mint, and peach and orange blossom. They’re made with vodka, botanicals, and sparkling water for a light, crisp, refreshing drink for any outdoor occasion, from backyard dinner parties to afternoon lawn games.

JEAN-LUC COLOMBO CAPE BLEUE ROSÉ

What is spring without rosé? This lovely rose-colored Cape Bleue Rosé offers aromas of wild herbs and fresh peaches. Juicy raspberry, apricot, and nectarine flavors burst on the tongue. It’s easy to see why this blend won the No. 3 spot on Wine Enthusiast ’s “Top 100 Best Buys of 2022.” The options are limitless with this wine – drink it by itself, pair it with a floral gin, or create delicious fruity sangrias.

CLASE AZUL TEQUILA REPOSADO

The luxury of this spirit begins with the ceramic vessel, which is hand-painted by Mexican artisans. Clase Azul’s golden reposado tequila was aged in American whiskey casks for eight months, imparting vanilla and hazelnut flavors and a very smooth finish. It features candied orange peel and American oak aromas with hints of cinnamon and banana. As you sip, you’ll also notice cloves and a subtle hint of agave syrup. It pairs well with pork shoulder or ribs and a bittersweet chocolate mousse.

EMMOLO MERLOT

This merlot is a great choice for those who’ve been waiting all winter long to pull their grills out of the garage the very moment spring arrives. Sourced from Napa vineyards on land that has been family-owned for generations, this earthy and well-balanced merlot pairs well with grilled sausage, pork chops, or mushroom risotto. On the nose are scents of sweet toasted oak, blackberry, and ripe plum. On the tongue, flavors include leathery tannins, dark chocolate, and cocktail cherries.

[ LAST LOOK ] SPRING

“There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, and the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love.”

– Sophia Loren