Nashville is a city of doers — a place where residents wake up each morning ready to conquer the day ahead. This year’s class of Model Behavior honorees embodies that spirit, exemplifying the phrase “carpe diem,” or “seize the day.” With every venture they pursue, these women pour themselves fully into the organizations and causes they represent. Their impact reflects countless hours spent strengthening Nashville’s nonprofits and improving the city as a whole.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens' Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE floral exhibit — on view for just 10 days — makes a fitting backdrop for these women and their collective can-do attitude. Thousands of blooms bring each sculpture to life through determination and collaboration, offering a fleeting but powerful reminder of how beauty and purpose can blossom for even the briefest of moments.

Editor: Janet Kurtz 

Associate Editor: Madeleine Bradford

Art Director: Christie Passarello 

Photographer: Tausha Dickinson 

Photo Assistant: Anthony Romano

Stylist: Bruce Pittman

Stylist Assistants: Eldar Gorak, Linnea Tweedy

Hair & Makeup Artists: Madison Dennis, Nichole Holloway-Smithson,

Kaylin Kollek | MHD Beauty, Aignes Rogan | Posh Salon & Glam Studio 

Location: Cheekwood Estate & Gardens