About: Lennie Omalza
Lennie is a Southern-based freelance writer. Originally from Hawaii, she is a yoga-loving foodie who travels as often as she can.
Lennie Omalza
Meet Chef Alison Settle of Barn8 Restaurant
Chef Alison Settle runs the kitchen at Barn8 Restaurant, located at the bucolic Hermitage Farm in Goshen, KY. Meet Chef Settle and hear all about the farm-to-table magic happening this year at Barn8!
We’re Smitten With This Elegant Lexington Bride
With guests flying in from all over the country, this bride and groom designed their wedding weekend with quality time in mind — complete with games, music, and plenty of room for an after-party. Even the bride’s dress was customized for comfort!
Where to Get Mother’s Day Brunch in Louisville
Celebrate Mom with a little extra pampering this year. Here are six Louisville restaurants offering Mother’s Day brunch specials!
16 Louisville Events & Happenings: May 2022
And they’re off! First comes the Derby, and then Louisvillians can settle into a warmer month full of other fun activities. Here’s what’s happening in May. Image: Facebook/@KentuckyDerby
5 New Louisville Restaurants to Try (Updated April 2022)
Hope you’re hungry, Louisville! Check out these new Louisville restaurants that deserve a spot at the top of your must-try list.
Foraging: What’s Up with This Outdoor Trend?
Is foraging the newest outdoor trend? We spoke to foraging expert Caleb Arnold of Ever Wilder to learn more about why it’s drawing so much attention!
The Louisville Country Club We Wish We Could Join (Spoiler: It’s for dogs!)
The Pet Station Country Club enhances pets’ lives with impressive grooming, training, and boarding options. Meet owner Rebecca Blackburn to learn about the origins and current offerings of this fabulous local business!
Statement Patio Umbrellas: Our Favorites for Your Patio or Pool
The right patio umbrella can infuse your outdoor space with color, texture, and dimension. Check out a few of our favorite styles, and pick up expert tips for hopping on this trend! Image: Digital Love / White Limozeen
23 Louisville Events & Happenings: April 2022
With Easter Sunday, Earth Day, and the kick-off of Derby season on the docket, there’s lots to do and see this month in Louisville. Here are our top picks! Image: Facebook/@ThunderOverLouisville
A Romantic Louisville Wedding with Creekside Vows
This ceremony along Louisville’s Beckley Creek featured lush outdoor elements and an abundance of flowers. Despite a little rain, the day was a reflection of the bride and groom’s relationship — and a total dream come true.
16 Louisville Events & Happenings: March 2022
With spring on its way, Louisville is gearing up to play host to exciting arts and culture events around town. There’s no shortage of fun ways to celebrate in Derby City! Image: Instagram/@tailspinalefest_official
Enneagram with an Edge: Truly Knowing Your Number
Do you know your Enneagram number? We spoke with Enneagram expert Ian Morgan Cron to learn about the nine different types, what they mean, and how to use your number to lead a more intentional life.
Do You Have ‘Tech Neck’? Experts Share Causes + Remedies
Neck creasing caused by looking down at our phones and computers excessively is often referred to as ‘tech neck.’ We spoke to cosmetic experts across the South to learn more about this common issue and ways to combat it.
17 Louisville Events & Happenings: February 2022
February may be the shortest month of the year, but there’s no shortage of fun to be had in Louisville. Check out these 17 local happenings you won’t want to miss this month! Image: 8UP Elevated Drinkery & Kitchen
Meet Meghan Tinker of Louisville’s House of Colour
As the owner of House of Colour Louisville, Meghan Tinker helps Kentuckians look fabulous and radiate confidence by delivering accurate color and style analysis to find the hues that harmonize with their skin, hair, and eye color. Meet our newest FACE of Louisville!
Do You Need a ‘Complaint Cleanse’?
Do you have a habit of complaining? If you find yourself constantly airing your grievances, it might be time for a complaint cleanse. Here’s how reframing your thinking can lead to a more positive lifestyle.
Keep Your Eye on This Atlanta Jewelry Designer
Billie Hilliard’s jewelry has been worn by celebrities like Beyoncé, Robin Givens, and many of the Real Housewives. We spoke to her about her journey from model to designer to blacksmith — and what’s coming next.
The Culinary Trail You Haven’t Heard About
Kentucky is famous for its Bourbon Trail, but have you ever heard of the Bon Appetit Kentucky Appalachia Trail? Learn the history of this path that takes travelers to one-of-a-kind restaurants, farms, wineries, and more!
13 Louisville Events & Happenings: January 2022
A new year, a fresh start, and a fabulous lineup of events! From concerts to cocktail classes, check out this month’s events around Louisville to kick off January in style.
Gift These Louisville Experiences (No Wrapping Required!)
From outdoor adventures to encouraging loved ones to engage in self-care, make this holiday memorable with these fun Louisville experiences — no long lines or gift wrap required.
Louisville’s Holiday Pop-up Bars & Markets 2021
These Louisville holiday pop-up bars and shops are only around town for a limited time — check them out before Santa’s sleigh heads back to the North Pole!
15 Louisville Events & Happenings: December 2021
2021 will be here before you know it. Here’s our December roundup of fun Louisville events that help end the year on a high note.
Southern Artist Spotlight: April Sanders
We spoke to Texas artist April Sanders about how her hobby became a career, the challenges of abstract painting, and how she makes it all happen as a mom of two. Meet this inspiring Southern artist, and enter to win a piece of her work!
The New Cellulite Treatment That Actually Works
Have you heard about the new cellulite treatment that ACTUALLY works? We spoke to experts across the South to learn all about QWO, the first and only FDA-approved injectable for treating moderate to severe cellulite in adult women.
12 Louisville Events & Happenings: November 2021
There’s so much to be thankful for this November — especially these events. Here are 12 Louisville happenings you don’t want to miss this month. Image: Instagram/@ChurchillDowns
Meet Jennifer Cissell of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival
Jennifer Cissell is the new VP of Operations and Administration at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, and she brings a decade of experience in the industry to the celebration. We’re excited to welcome her as this week’s FACE of Louisville!
8 Louisville Bars With Games
From pool and pinball to cornhole and giant Jenga, there are plenty of Louisville bars on the scene that serve as great venues for game night. Cheers, Louisville!
The Best Wine Bars in Louisville
Derby City offers more than just bourbon. Whether you’re into reds, whites, or rosé, these six Louisville wine bars are sure to satisfy. Cheers!
How Delicious Louisville Pies Spread Kindness & Hope
Dawn Urrutia began Georgia’s Sweet Potato Pie Company with the goal of starting a nonprofit — and that dream is on its way to becoming a reality. Meet this inspiring FACE of Louisville!
Southern Artist Spotlight: Erin Donahue Tice
We spoke to artist Erin Donahue Tice about her unexpected journey from PR guru to abstract artist, and what inspires her work today. Meet this inspiring Southern artist, and enter to win a piece of her work!
Caroline Paulus Is Blazing Louisville’s Bourbon Trail
As whiskey historian at Justins’ House of Bourbon and senior editor of ‘The Bourbon Review,’ Caroline Paulus is making a name for herself in Kentucky’s bourbon scene. Learn why she left a career in archaeology behind, in favor of bourbon.
Kayce Hughes: Southern Artist Spotlight
We spoke to popular artist Kayce Hughes about what inspires her, how she spends her days creating, and how she transitioned from fashion designer to visual artist. Meet this inspiring Southern artist, and enter to win a piece of her work!
7 Things To Do in Louisville Before Summer Ends
It’s not too late! You can still squeeze plenty of fun out of summer before it’s over. Check out these seven things to do in Louisville before the temperatures start to drop.
She Showcases African American History Throughout Memphis
When Carolyn Michael-Banks was denied a chance to include African American history in her corporate tourism role, she created a company of her own. Learn about the fascinating path that inspired her to bring history to the forefront.
Move Over, Bourbon — Louisville’s Brewery Scene is Booming
Thirsty visitors will find there’s more to Louisville than just bourbon. With the help of the founders at Louisville Ale Trail, the city’s craft beer scene is booming, making Louisville a destination for beer lovers.
Where Memphis Interior Designers Love to Shop
We spoke with some of the top Memphis interior designers to get the scoop on local retailers offering must-have treasures. Here’s what they had to say!
Louisville Senior Dog Hero: Rebecca Williams
Rebecca Williams understands the compassion fatigue that comes with caring for an older pet. This inspired her to open LouPetville, a veterinary-focused pet care business.
Nashville Artist Amanda Norman: Affordable Art for Your Collection
We spoke to Nashville artist Amanda Norman about her creative career path, the types of paintings she creates and her creative process. Meet this inspiring Southern artist, and find out how you can win a piece of her work.
Your Updated Guide to Butchertown
Get out and explore Louisville’s historic Butchertown neighborhood. Here’s your guide on where to eat, drink, shop and play.
20 Memphis Local FINDS for Summer + Father’s Day: June 2021
Start your summer in style with these 19 FINDS — from Father’s Day gifts to jewelry to home decor and more. Take a look!
Your New Summer Beauty Routine
We talked to Southern beauty experts for the latest tips, tricks, and products you need for a top-notch summer beauty routine.
Meet the Founders of Change30 Movement
Erica Walters and Lauren Bruke have created a unique and accessible business with Change30 Movement. Meet these bright and brilliant Louisville FACES.
Laura Clark: Southern Artist Spotlight
Birmingham artist Laura Clark tells us about her journey to rediscovering her passion for art, her clay artifact pieces, and how she uses her talents to make a difference. Meet this inspiring Southern artist, and find out how you can win a piece of her work.
This Custom-Built Louisville Home was Made with Love
This custom-built Louisville home is so stunning both inside and out, one would never guess it was designed on a napkin. Take a look!
Your Updated Guide to NuLu
From plant-based soaps and custom candles to small-batch ice cream, here’s your guide to the shops and eateries in NuLu. Plus, we’ve included two special events!
Southern Artist Spotlight: Sarah Ella Cole
After taking a brief hiatus from the art world, Sarah Ella Cole once again tapped into her creative side when she created art for her son’s school auction. Meet this talented Southern artist, and find out how you can win a piece of her art.
Your 2022 Guide to All Things Derby
The Kentucky Derby promises to be a fantastic and fun event. Get the scoop on how to be prepared with the help of our 2022 Kentucky Derby guide. See you at the races!
5 Ways to Spend Time Outdoors in Louisville This Spring
From camping trips to bike rides, here are five great local outdoor activities to enjoy this spring.
Where to Eat in Louisville on Easter
Many Louisville restaurants have resumed in-person dining options, and several offer Easter menus — both for dine-in and carryout. Here are 11 that are preparing special meals to help you celebrate the holiday.
Southern Artist Spotlight: Emily Morgan Brown
She’s always known that her life’s work would be that of an artist. Today, Emily Morgan Brown is fulfilling her dream, creating beautiful botanical-inspired art. Meet this creative Southern artist, and find out how you can win a piece of her work.
Meet Christina Jones of Baked: FACES of Louisville
Christina Jones has turned her love of baking into a full-time profession with the launch of her business, Baked. Meet our inspiring new FACE of Louisville!
10+ Heated Restaurant Patios in Louisville
Support local restaurants as you safely dine outdoors. Here are 10+ heated patios in Louisville where you can enjoy your favorite dishes this winter.
Ed Nash: Southern Artist Spotlight
Ed Nash moved from London to America to be an art dealer, but he quickly realized his calling was that of an artist. Find out more about this beloved Southern artist.
3 Kentucky Artists Whose Works You NEED to See
The world of art is constantly changing, and it encompasses a plethora of mediums. Here are three Kentucky artists who are making waves in their local art scenes.
Meet the Owner of Louisville’s First Dog Park Bar
After changing career paths and letting her passion for her rescue dogs lead the way, Regina Nobles opened PG&J’s Dog Park Bar — a place to enjoy furry friends and craft beer while giving back to the community. Meet this inspiring FACE of Louisville!
Meet the First Female CEO of Greater Louisville, Inc.
As President and CEO of Greater Louisville, Inc., Sarah Davasher-Wisdom advocates for 1,700 local businesses. Meet this inspiring FACE of Louisville, find out her best advice and more!
6 Southern Winter Experiences to Explore This Season
From rooftop ice skating and igloo dining to drive-thru light shows, here are six Southern winter experiences you’ll want to check out this season, all made to be safe during 2020.
Meet Sam Montgomery of Bardstown Bourbon Company
As the Beverage Specialist and National Brand Ambassador at Bardstown Bourbon Company, Sam Montgomery paves the way for other females to excel in the world of bartending and bourbon. Meet this trailblazing FACE of Louisville!
Meet Melanie Fischer of Froggy’s Popcorn: FACES of Louisville
She took what was a challenging time in her life, and she channeled it into a delicious opportunity to give back. Meet Melanie Fischer, founder of Froggy’s Popcorn.
Barn8: Farm-to-Table Dining at Its Best
Venture out to the bucolic Hermitage Farm, where the brand new Barn8 Restaurant offers farm-fresh flavors in upscale dishes. Here’s what to expect from this new restaurant in Goshen, KY.