Category Archives: Employee Spotlight

Spotlight on Faith Fallin

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Not only does Sparkling Tiara find itself blessed with the best friends and customers around; we can turn the spotlight inward to our amazing staff. This month, we’re highlighting an employee who truly is a blessing in every sense of the word – Mary Faith Fallin!

Faith lives up to her name in every way. Her mother informed us that she was named “Mary” after several family members and “Faith” because the family knew that “God was going to teach [them] great things through this baby.” It’s no wonder, then, that Faith has such a generous spirit. She’s returned the blessings from God, her family, and her community tenfold with her own generous spirit, abundant laughter, and artistic skill.

In 1998, Faith’s father transferred his ministry from First Baptist Church in Kissimmee, FL to First Baptist Mount Juliet, TN. Faith was in 2nd grade when she entered Mount Juliet Christian Academy. That year, she began taking art lessons. Her work has been exhibited in many places including county fairs, art shows, and the Alzheimer’s unit of the local Adult Rehab Center. The Sparkling Tiara staff has also benefited from Faith’s artistic skills: she is an outstanding photographer whose talent really shines when she photographs the young ladies during princess parties.

Faith has athletic and leadership abilities as well. She played soccer throughout her school days and was part of her high school team, which won many awards. Her mother shared some of Faith’s leadership experiences with us: “She held many positions of leadership in their MJCA student council and student body. She volunteered on the yearbook staff and was the editor her senior year along with being ‘Miss MJCA.’ Faith was a leader in the youth council at First Baptist Mt. Juliet and went on many church and youth mission trips.”

Another special talent of Faith’s is her ability to work with all types of children, particularly those with illnesses and other special needs. Through the mentorship of a family friend, Faith has discovered that her calling is to be a Child Life Specialist. In an effort to realize this dream she is currently majoring in Child Development and Family Relations at Lipscomb University, where she is a Junior.

Faith has already taken advantage of many opportunities to use her skills with children who are stricken with illness or emotional strife. During a recent mission trip to Guatemala, Faith “was part of a medical team who cared for homebound medical patients. Faith helped refocus a sweet girl, Anyuli, while she was on kidney dialysis. ”

Faith also used her skills and position at Sparkling Tiara to fulfill a lifelong dream for a young girl named Angelica. Angelica was in need of a lifesaving facial surgery, so the Shalom foundation flew her from her home in Guatemala to Nashville, TN so that she could receive the medical care that she needed. Angelica possesses the heart of a princess, and Faith helped make her royal dreams a reality by working with Sparkling Tiara to host a very special princess party.

We at Sparkling Tiara count ourselves lucky to have Faith as part of our family. She always comes to work with a smile on her face, and you can hear her laughter throughout the store. She frequently makes our day by leaving positive notes in the store for other employees to find. In addition to standing out as an excellent party attendant, Faith serves as a great role model and is loved by all. We’re happy to count Faith as one of our truest blessings!

Special Sparkling Tiara Employee: Samantha Young

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This November we find ourselves giving thanks for our community, our customers, and our special family of pink ladies. At Sparkling Tiara we’re committed to customers of all ages, but there’s an extra special place in our hearts for our petite princesses and junior divas. It’s appropriate, then, that we shine a thankful spotlight on a very special employee who is especially committed to children.

This post is all about the talented and sweet Samantha Young. Samantha possesses a “million dollar smile” that dazzles coworkers and customers alike. Her sweet disposition, artistic flare, and dedication to children make her a favorite princess here at Sparkling Tiara. Coworkers and customers of all ages instantly take a shine to Samantha’s sweetness. She is always willing to lend a compassionate and non-judgmental ear to anyone with a problem. Her understanding attitude and dedication to hard work greatly contribute to the upbeat atmosphere here at Sparkling Tiara.

Samantha also artistically contributes to the visual atmosphere of the store by creating stunning displays and clever storefronts. She can sew anything, and enjoys crafting in her spare time. Her open ears and creative eyes definitely add a healthy dose of sparkle to our store.

Samantha attends TN tech, where she majors in elementary education and minors in special education. Samantha’s chosen career path suits her from head to toe: coworkers and her family praise Samantha’s understanding and compassionate personality. She works well with everyone, but she is especially dedicated to kids. She has a unique ability to make every child feel special and happy during the Princess Parties, and she helps new employees learn how to deliver the best possible experience for the children who come into the store or participate in a party.

Samantha’s commitment to children extends beyond career and into her free time. She dedicates her Sundays to teaching little ones about God’s love at Children’s Church at The Bridge.  Samantha’s dedication to children is heartwarming and inspiring to coworkers and family members alike.

Samantha is multitalented and enjoys a variety of hobbies. When she isn’t working or attending class, Samantha enjoys crafting, playing the mandolin, and listening to music. She lived in Florida for part of her life, where she picked up a passion for swimming and boating. She used to compete in gymnastics and played volleyball at Mount Juliet High School. Her mother describes Samantha as a “great leader” who was nominated captain of the volleyball team her senior year.

Samantha’s thoughtful nature also makes her a great debater who can, in the words of her mom, “debate the best of the best (even her dad) on any given subject.” She also enjoys the finer things in life, like a healthy portion of Mac n Cheese or any food covered in a dose of Ranch dressing.

Sparkling Tiara certainly has a lot to be thankful for with respect to this kind young woman.  Stop in and see sweet Samantha Young – and don’t forget to bring your little princes and princesses along!

Pink Ladies: Sparkling Tiara’s Shining Staff Serves Their Community, Families, and You!

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Who are those ladies who greet you with a smile every time you come in for a visit? The ladies who keep the store clean and stocked with the coolest items around? The ladies who keep your queens and princesses happy with the best royal treatment at the fanciest parties in town? The ladies who excel in school and make our community a better place to be? The Pink Ladies, of course!

The Pink Ladies are the staff here at Sparkling Tiara, and this month we’d like to spotlight these special women as a team. They are a unique group of students and cherished professionals who all show remarkable initiative, interest in business, and have personalities which shine in store and out. Kathy Brown, or “Sparkling Sissy,” is a mentor and role model for the younger employees. Her sparkling smile and bubbly personality make her a top salesperson. She has a warm spirit and sets a fantastic example for the other Pink Ladies. “Sparkling Sissy” is retired from Bank of America, where she worked for 30 years. Now, she works at Sparkling Tiara during the week. Sissy, along with the other Pink Ladies, is also active in the Wilson County community.

Community involvement is a regular activity for all of the Pink Ladies. Last year, the Sparkling Tiara Pink Ladies participated in Relay for Life, during which the girls won an award for the best campsite. The Pink Ladies are looking forward to participating again this year. The Pink Ladies have also helped run a spring fashion show at Charlie Daniels Park. The fashion show was a great way to add some sparkle to an exciting day of dress up fun for princesses, divas, and queens of all ages. Summer stays busy with the 4th of July celebrations, and the August princess breakfast party at Chick-fil-A. In the fall the Sparkling staff takes part in the Halloween festivities at Charlie Daniels Park. The Pink Ladies also donate time and resources to several causes such as Toys for Tots and Susan G Komen for the Cure. The Pink Ladies’ community involvement extends beyond activities with Sparkling Tiara and into participation in their schools’ volunteer programs, as well. It’s our mission to add sparkle everywhere we can, and we’re happy to grow a business in such a wonderful and thriving community!

Our Pink Ladies know that family matters. These women put their parents and siblings first. It’s obvious that each Pink Lady adores children and values the impact that positive role models can have on a growing girl. In addition to family matters – grades are tops! Those who are students are a part of honor societies and Dean’s lists. They make time to study for advanced placement classes and projects that will prepare them for careers as educators, businesswomen, and medical specialists. This is why sparkling parties are so special! The Pink Ladies are all upbeat, fun loving young women who show princesses a great time and set a positive example for growing girls.

Any time you and your princess walk into our store, you’ll be treated to the best customer service around – complete with a cheerful smile!  Kindness, smarts, and dedication make these dynamic gals the perfect employees and great role models for your little princesses. Stop in at Sparkling Tiara and see our Pink Ladies today!

Special Sparkling Tiara People: Taylor Kniffin

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Sparkling Tiara has so much to offer you and the royalty in your life, but our employees are the jewels that make our store sparkle the most. It’s important to take a break and tell you about the bright young women who really matter to our business and our community.

Today we’re proud to turn the spotlight on a very deserving and energetic member of our team: Ms. Taylor Kniffin. Taylor is a highly self-motivated young woman who brings energy and insight into the store. She stays on top of new changes to the business and suggests ideas to better serve our customers. She’s an upbeat and accommodating master of multi-tasking who responds well to the needs of the business and always radiates a positive attitude.

Taylor’s business sense is no mystery; she’s remarkably focused on her future and committed to success. Taylor is 18 years old and will graduate with honors from Mount Juliet High School this spring. She will start college at MTSU in the fall, where she will study accounting. Taylor has done a great deal to prepare herself for her career: she’s currently taking AP calculus and she’s enrolled in an online college course in accounting from Vol State Community College. Last summer, she attended accounting camp at Belmont University. Taylor has met these considerable academic challenges with a high standard: she’s a member of the National Junior Honor Society and the Beta Club (an organization which promotes academic leadership and community service).

Taylor’s extraordinary scholastic motivation doesn’t get in the way of her involvement with family and friends. Her mother notes that Taylor was an only child until age 8; and now she has two sisters, ages 9 and 5. Taylor’s energy and skill caring for children came naturally. She quickly and selflessly adjusted to the change in family dynamics and became a top notch big sister. She often babysits her sisters or other kids in her neighborhood.

Taylor has found a unique balance of striving for personal goals and happily serving the people around her. Her passions extend to a variety of interesting activities. In her 18 years, she’s found time to try snow skiing, SCUBA diving, fishing, dancing (ballet, lyrical, and hip-hop), and singing. She spends her spare time with her family, friends, and her boyfriend Noah.

This bright young woman has already mastered the art of harmoniously coordinating academics, community involvement, family time, and professional development in her life. We feel very lucky to have Taylor as a valuable part of our Sparkling family.  She’s a tremendous asset to the business as well as a beloved friend.  Stop by and see Taylor Kniffin today!

Special Sparkling Tiara People: CaSandra Thomason Always Goes the Extra Mile!

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Today, we’re putting the spotlight on an employee with an abundance of “sparkle factor”: a special touch that charms, dazzles, and delights. We’d like to introduce you to Ms. CaSandra Thomason!

CaSandra is a diligent and hardworking young woman, whose big heart and careful predisposition make her an important part of the Sparkling Tiara family. Whether she’s booking parties or primping princesses, CaSandra does a marvelous job. She’s good at math and she’s artistic – which is a perfect mix for a store that requires both excellent record keeping and the skills of a Hollywood makeup artist.

CaSandra’s cheerful “extra mile” attitude is another important quality that makes a difference in all of her work – whether it’s at Sparkling Tiara, at home, or at school. Her mother reports that CaSandra has always had it in her nature to do things precisely, a trait she inherited from her father. CaSandra lost her father to brain cancer when she was in kindergarten, but he’s been a guardian angel to her ever since – leaving her with mathematical and creative skills, a perfectionists’ touch, and a love for the Kentucky Wildcats.

An early sign of her conscientiousness was a hard earned handwriting award. CaSandra crossed those t’s, dotted those i’s, and perfected a script that stood out from the rest. Later, in the 5th grade, she received an award for the highest GPA. She continues to strive for scholarly excellence, and she’ll graduate with high honors this spring. CaSandra will leave more than academic accolades as a legacy at her school: she’s also an accomplished athlete. She began playing basketball in the fourth grade, and last year she led the Lady Wildcats to the state basketball tournament.

There’s no doubt that CaSandra will continue to brighten the environment around her at MTSU, where she will attend college next fall. Her keenness to help those around her is evident in her plan to study physical therapy.

CaSandra’s intelligence is matched by her big heart. Her team-values and longtime dedication to doing the highest quality work make her a cherished employee at Sparkling Tiara. She’s enthusiastic about serving others, and her care extends to customers and to her coworkers alike. When it’s necessary, CaSandra changes her hours to suit the needs of the store and comes in early or stays late without complaint.

We here at Sparkling Tiara are delighted to know and work with CaSandra. She’s a wonderful friend and model employee who, because of her generous spirit, shines brightly no matter what the circumstance. So if you notice a neatly handwritten note, an artistic touch, or an extra big smile – you’ll know you’ve seen the work of CaSandra Thomason! Stop on by our store and meet this gem!

Special Sparkling Tiara People: Amber Gregory Shines from the Inside Out!

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Amber Gregory- Sparkling Spotlight

In the midst of our bustling holiday events and activities, we know it’s important to find joy in everything we do and in everyone around us.  Here at Sparkling Tiara we sure have a great reason to be joyful.  Allow us to pause and shine the spotlight on someone who is special to our entire team. We take this moment to share with you one of our most treasured employees, Ms. Amber Gregory, and to tell you why we are so proud that she is part of Sparkling Tiara.

Amber has been with Sparkling Tiara since the very beginning and we are so very lucky that she found us.  As an employee, she is dedicated and hard-working, an “employer’s dream.”  As a friend, we know her to be kind, generous and a young woman who is already making a difference in the lives of others wherever she goes.

Amber is currently enrolled at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, as an Early Education Major, and plans to work with special needs children.  Her love for education and teaching started early, and according to her mother, Amber conducted class with her dolls and stuffed animals even as a small child.  This calling to teach never waned and by the time she entered high school, she worked as a peer tutor with special needs students.

Amber’s affinity to empower special needs students started long ago. While growing up she shared a strong bond with her uncle who, sadly, ultimately succumbed to complications due to Down’s syndrome.  The times they spent together left an indelible imprint on Amber’s heart and she loves to share with others her many warm memories.  The lessons Amber learned during these intervals have no doubt been instrumental in shaping this extraordinary young woman.  Amber’s desire to help children with disabilities lead full and productive lives is a keepsake born of love and empathy.

The desire to teach and empower children with special needs is a dream Amber has had for a long time, and her commitment to treating others with humanity and compassion is the reason she touches the hearts of so many.

We here at Sparkling Tiara are honored to call Amber both co-worker and friend.  As you can now clearly see, not only is she a Sparkling employee, she also delights in helping others find their own inner sparkle.  We think that Amber Gregory deserves a very bright spotlight!