FACES of Nashville: Cindi Earl

Cindi Earl, owner of Cindi Earl Fine Jewelry, embraces life with gusto. As an avid supporter of all things local, Cindi is the first one at the vegetable stand when it opens each season. She describes being there that very day as a reward for living another year. She loves sports and considers the NCAA Basketball Tournament on par with religious holidays. She even admits that she cried through the TCU Rose Bowl game and says that if we had sat through as many TCU games over the years, we would have cried too. Her enthusiasm for people, community, God, sports and the outdoors is infectious, and her approach to living daily life is a model for us all. We are so happy to feature this inspirational woman today as a FACE of Nashville.

Where did you grow up?

God gave me the great gift of being born in Texas, with parents born in Texas, whose ancestors came from Tennessee. (Confirming the statement that there would be no Texas, without Tennessee.) Early years in Abilene, wonderful West Texas roots and Waxahachie, a lovely little “antique town” outside of Dallas. Great football, great shopping, at precisely the right time in life for each. When I am asked, “Where are you from?” I always say I’m originally from Texas, but I live in Nashville, Tennessee. I’m Nashville proud, but Texas born. I guess you could say, I’m one of those southern blends.

What brought you to Nashville?

After TCU, I came to visit friends in Nashville, came back again, saw one of those great little houses on Woodmont that is now an empty lot and decided this was where I wanted to be. I went home, made peace with my Mother about moving, got the truck, lost the t shirt and have been driving up and down Harding Road ever since.

How did you jewelry business begin?

My mother had a long battle with cancer, during which my father and brother died as well. Needless to say, that experience was life altering. I loved working at Sperry’s – the restaurant  business gives you a great deal of freedom – but there comes a time when you have to grow up and get a real job. I loved jewelry and somehow knew about The Gemological Institute of America. So I got the education and waited for the right opportunity.

Cindi, with a tray of her jewels, in front of Sperry’s, her business neighbor and former place of employment.

When did you officially open?

I am now “of age.” My business turned 21 on Sept. 4, 2012.

What is your favorite thing about owning Cindi Earl Fine Jewelry?

My favorite thing about owning the store is writing the checks and paying the bills early or on time. Anyone who owns a small business knows what I mean.

Where is your favorite place to eat dinner in Nashville?

Any small, locally owned restaurant; they all need our support.

What books can be found on your bedside table or Kindle?

Always my Bible and To Kill A Mockingbird, which I consider to be required reading in order to remain human. Right now I’m reading Bowling Avenue by local author Ann Shayne. There’s a theme here: shop local, eat local, read local.

If you could change one thing about Nashville, what would it be?

Stop tearing everything down. Growth is good, but not at the cost of losing our history–of losing what Nashville is. The Jones Pet Store Sign sitting atop Fido is the best example of growth with preservation I can cite.

Cindi Earl

What is your one “must-have” purchase for fall 2012?

Something that fits. I always want a day to visit all the local shops. When I get that day, I’ll find my “must have.”

What is the last movie you saw at the theater?

I hate to admit this, but I don’t remember. It was playing at the Belcourt though.

Do you have any fears?

No, but I hold fire in great respect.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Always believe.

If there is one place on this earth that you would suggest the everyone visit, if they could, where would that be?

Can I have two? The Grand Canyon (as an adult) and Italy.

Name three things you can’t live without (Besides God, family and friends!)

The Bible, Dr. Pepper and being outside.

Thank you, Cindi! For more photos of Cindi, be sure to see photographer Ashley Hylbert’s blog: here.