We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Carver and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Ahhh, balance… the mystical creature everyone is chasing. As life evolves—raising families, managing homes, building careers, caring for aging parents, and trying to fit in self-care and time with friends—it can feel harder than ever to achieve what we think balance is supposed to be.

But I’ve come to believe that balance isn’t a fixed destination; it’s a mindset. It’s about perspective, boundaries, and making intentional choices. It’s recognizing that we get to decide what we prioritize, what truly deserves our time, and what we can let go of.

For me, balance means doing the things that only I can do, delegating what doesn’t require my personal touch, and carefully choosing how I use the rest of my time. That’s why at Carver Concierge, we live by the motto: “If it doesn’t bring you joy or make you money, it should be on our list, not yours.”

True balance isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing what matters most.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Carver Concierge was built on the belief that time is our most valuable resource, and how we spend it matters. We help busy professionals, executives, and families reclaim their time by handling the details—whether that’s managing homes, organizing spaces, coordinating service providers, or taking care of the endless to-dos that come with a full life.

What sets us apart? We don’t just complete tasks—we create ease, efficiency, and peace of mind. Our clients know they can trust us with their homes and their lifestyle needs, and that level of trust is something I take seriously.

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. Like most entrepreneurs, I’ve faced the ups and downs of business ownership—the long hours, the growing pains, the moments of doubt. But I’ve also learned that resilience, adaptability, and surrounding yourself with the right people make all the difference. I’ve learned to delegate, to set boundaries, and to stay focused on the bigger picture.

What I want the world to know about Carver Concierge is this: You don’t have to do it all yourself. There’s freedom in letting go of the things that drain you, and there’s power in choosing to spend your time on what truly matters. That’s what we help our clients do every day, and I couldn’t be prouder of the impact we’re making.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
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Buckle up—remember, you asked! This is my zone of genius, and I love sharing the best ways to experience Nashville and Franklin like a local. If my best friend was visiting, I’d plan a week that blends incredible food, live music, Southern charm, and a few hidden gems that make Tennessee special. Here’s how we’d do it:

Day 1: Welcome to Music City

Check-in at The Hermitage Hotel – A stunning, historic stay with five-star service.
Lunch at The Continental – ​A modern take on classic fine dining.
Walk & Shop along Broadway – ​Don’t miss White’s Mercantile and Imogene + Willie for local finds.
Pre-Dinner Drinks at The Patterson House – A speakeasy ​and best craft cocktails in town.
Dinner at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – ​Incredible steaks and live music.
Nightcap at Twelve Thirty Club – Rooftop views and a perfect first night in Nashville.

Day 2: Classic Nashville Vibes

Breakfast at Biscuit Love – Because you can’t visit Nashville without trying the “bonuts!”
Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame – A must-see for any first-time visitor.
Lunch at Peg Leg Porker – ​The best BBQ in the city, hands down.
Tour Ryman Auditorium – The “Mother Church of Country Music” never disappoints.
Sunset Drinks at Lou/Na – A rooftop bar with skyline views.
Dinner at 5th & Taylor – Cozy, elegant, and always a perfect meal.

Day 3: A Day of Art & Adventure

Morning at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens – Gorgeous gardens and rotating art exhibits.
Lunch at Hattie B’s – A Nashville hot chicken experience is non-negotiable!
Afternoon Shopping in 12 South – Boutiques like Draper James, Vinnie Louise, and Judith Bright ​(my fav).
Dinner at The Optimist – Fresh seafood ​-Yum.

Day 4: Day Trip to Franklin, TN

Breakfast at The Coffee House at Second & Bridge – A ​super cute spot with ​greatcoffee.
Stroll through Downtown Franklin – Antique shops, historic landmarks, and charming boutiques.
Lunch at Gray’s on Main – a beautifully restored 1800s pharmacy.
Tour Carnton Plantation – ​a bit of history​ never hurts.
Afternoon Drinks at The Harpeth Hotel’s McGavock’s Coffee Bar & Provisions – A break before dinner.
Dinner at Cork & Cow – Elevated steakhouse dining with incredible wine pairings.

Day 5: Outdoor Fun & Live Music

Morning Hike at Radnor Lake – ​A little exercise after all the good food.
Brunch at Butcher & Bee – Inventive dishes and fresh ingredients.
Afternoon at The Factory at Franklin – Live music, shopping, and artisan goods.
Dinner at Puckett’s Grocery – A Tennessee classic with live music and southern food.

Day 6: A Luxe & Relaxing Day

Spa Morning at Rose Spa at The Joseph – A little self-care before heading out.
Lunch at Adele’s – Farm-to-table deliciousness in The Gulch.
Private Distillery Tour at Nelson’s Green Brier – ​You can’t visit Tennessee without Tennessee whiskey.
Final Dinner at Kayne Prime – The perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable trip.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch & One Last Stroll

Brunch at The Loveless Cafe – Because you can’t leave without having their biscuits!
Last-minute Shopping at L&L Market
Airport Drop-off – ​Woohoo!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Success is never a solo act, and I have to give a huge shout out to my family—the ones who ride the waves of entrepreneurship with me. They support the long hours, entertain my crazy ideas, and, most importantly, keep me from throwing in the towel when things get tough.

They’re the ones who celebrate my wins (even when I’m too busy to pause and recognize them myself) and remind me why I started this journey in the first place. Their belief in me has been unwavering, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

So, to my family—thank you for being my sounding board, my biggest cheerleaders, and my safe place to land. I couldn’t do this without you.

Website: https://carverconcierge.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carverconcierge/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carverconcierge/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarverConcierge

Image Credits
Andi Diamond Photography
Branding by B&E Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.