Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Pries.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been drawn to hospitality and the way great spaces can bring people together. I studied Hospitality & Tourism Management at Southern Illinois University and worked across several parts of the industry; from Disney World and Norwegian Cruise Line to breweries and restaurants, and then spent some time in digital marketing.
Over the years, I realized the places I loved most were neighborhood spots where people felt comfortable dropping in, running into friends, grabbing a coffee, or staying longer than they planned because the atmosphere felt welcoming.
After becoming a mom, that idea became even more important to me. My husband Brock and I wanted to create the kind of place we felt our neighborhood was missing, something between a corner store, coffee shop, and gathering place that felt approachable and community-driven.
That idea became Vannie’s Table, named after our daughter Savannah, who we call Vannie. Today, Vannie’s Table is a neighborhood market and café in North Nashville focused on local goods, good food and drinks, and creating a space where neighbors can connect. A true third place. Whether someone stops in for a coffee, a quick grocery item, or stays to chat with friends, our goal is for everyone to feel like they belong here.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. We’re learning everything as we go, and like many small business owners, we’ve faced construction delays, permitting and licensing hurdles, unexpected costs, and the challenge of building awareness as a new business.
I think the hardest part has been accepting that community businesses are built over years, not months. We’re incredibly encouraged by the support we’ve received so far and remain focused on creating something meaningful for the neighborhood for the long term.
We’ve been impressed with Vannie’s Table, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Vannie’s Table is a neighborhood market and café in North/West Nashville inspired by the corner stores and gathering places that make neighborhoods feel like communities.
Part coffee shop, part market, and part neighborhood hangout, we focus on local goods, approachable food and drinks, and creating opportunities for connection. Whether someone is stopping in for their morning coffee, grabbing ingredients for dinner, or meeting friends after work, we want Vannie’s Table to feel like an extension of their home.
What sets us apart is our belief that hospitality is about more than service; it’s about making people feel known and welcome. We’re especially proud of the community that has already begun forming around the space and excited to continue building a place that neighbors can truly call their own.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Hospitality has always been my biggest strength and the foundation of my career. I genuinely enjoy creating spaces and experiences where people feel comfortable, welcome, and cared for.
As a business owner, I’ve also learned that persistence is just as important. There are always challenges, setbacks, and unexpected turns, but continuing to show up, adapt, and keep moving forward has been critical to building something meaningful.
If I had to choose one characteristic, though, it would probably be the ability to connect with people and understand what makes them feel at home.
Pricing:
- Coffee beverages: $3–6
- Draft beer: $5–7
- Grab-and-go breakfast and lunch items: $4–12
- Local grocery and pantry items available across a variety of price points
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vanniestable.com
- Instagram: vannies.table
