When Tiffany Anich Mansito moved to Chattanooga from Miami Beach in 2014 to start her interior design firm, she had a vision, but she had no idea she’d soon meet the love of her life, start a family, and become part of one of Riverview’s most connected households.

Tiffany, a graduate of ASU and AIA with a BFA in Interior Design, founded Southerly Abode Interiors, a boutique mother-daughter design firm known for balancing timeless elegance with modern comfort. In 2016, she expanded by renovating a North Shore commercial property that now houses her design studio and other creative local businesses.

That same year, she married Nicolas Mansito III, a Hollywood, Florida native with a PhD in Latinx Studies and Creative Writing. Nick is an Associate Professor of English at Chattanooga State, where he teaches and co-founded LASO, the college’s largest student organization. His work in literature and advocacy includes two poetry books and a Best Microfiction nomination.

Though they grew up in Ocala and even attended the same high school, Tiffany and Nick didn’t meet until their 30s. A mutual friend (with a little help from Nick’s mom) arranged a five-hour first date that sparked a cross-state romance. Nick later moved to Chattanooga, giving up tenure to start their life together. They married on a Florida beach and later discovered they had unknowingly played childhood soccer against each other. “It was meant to be,” Tiffany says.

Now settled on Englewood Avenue, they share life with their children, Myles (5) and Quinn (3). Myles, heading to kindergarten at Normal Park, loves sports and drawing. Quinn attends NLC and shares her brother’s energy. Their cats, Hemi and Ollie, are always nearby.

The family lives creatively—painting, drawing, swimming, paddle boarding, and hiking together. Nick introduced rock climbing, which the kids love too. The arts, nature, and togetherness are at the heart of their days.

With Tiffany’s parents as next-door neighbors, Sunday dinners and shared swims are part of the family rhythm. “Watching our kids grow up surrounded by love, laughter, and tradition - it’s everything,” Tiffany says.

Through school, playgroups, and events—like Mahjong Mondays for Tiffany and a dad’s book club for Nick—they’ve built deep friendships. Riverview Park, lovingly dubbed the "birthday park," is the setting for cherished memories—from stroller walks to bacon breakfasts at The Daily Ration.

Tiffany also serves on the North Shore Chamber of Commerce board and supports causes like the Jordan Thomas Foundation. “Chattanooga is a family city through and through,” she says. “It offers that perfect balance of nature and convenience—but it’s the people who make it feel like home.”

The Mansitos' story is one of love, creativity, and meaningful roots - right here in Riverview.