THE FOODIE ISSUE
O C TO B E R 2 02 6
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PAULA HINEGARDNER ABR, CRS, ASP, LUXURY HOMES REALTOR®
C: 615.618.1330 | 0: 615.778.1818 PreviewNashvilleRealEstate.com KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 9175 Carothers Parkway Franklin, Tn. 37067 #1 Keller Williams Agent in the Southeast
Our Community. Our Mission. It’s more than where we work, it’s where we live. It’s where we raise families. Where we show up for one another – in the everyday and in the unexpected. It’s where names are neighbors, and care is connection. It’s about the people.
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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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BESPOKE BUILT-INS flauttwoodworks.com | 615-939-2041
LIFESTYLE LETTER
October In Full Swing October may be my favorite month in Franklin. After a summer spent dodging the heat, everyone is back outside, and this month gives us plenty of reasons why. Pumpkinfest takes over downtown for two days this year. Friends gather for Wine Down Main Street. Local farms welcome families looking for pumpkins, fresh produce, and a reason to spend an afternoon outdoors. Restaurants roll out seasonal menus and patios come back to life. And that is exactly what inspired this month's issue. From great places to stop for a bite or enjoy a sip to some of the people, places, and traditions that make Franklin such a wonderful place to call home, you'll meet interesting people and find a few new reasons to spend this month outdoors. You'll also find stories that celebrate a little music and nostalgia. We celebrate the incomparable Dolly Parton, whose influence continues to reach far beyond Tennessee, and catch up with our cover star, 1980s and 90s pop icon Tiffany, as she shares her latest project, Pop Life, her cookbook that combines recipes and memories from a life spent in the spotlight. What I love most about this issue is that it showcases some of the experiences available right here in our backyard. Whether you're spending a Saturday at Pumpkinfest, enjoying a glass of wine downtown, taking a scenic drive to a local farm stand, or trying a new restaurant with friends, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy October in Franklin. We're excited to launch Franklin Through Your Eyes, a new opportunity for readers to help tell the story of our community. As we begin planning our 2027 issues, we'd love to see Franklin from your perspective. Whether it's a photograph, painting, illustration, or another original work of art, we invite you to share the people, places, and moments that make Franklin special to you. Franklin means something a little different to each of us, and we'd love to see what makes it special through your eyes. Stay well,
October 2026 PUBLISHER
Athena West | athena.west@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R
Karen Creason | karen.creason@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R
Ryan Hurd | ryan.hurd@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R
Stephanie Krejci | stephanie.krejci@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R
Audrey West CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kellie Walton, Coleen Janeway, Stef Gorman, Maria Dinoia, Karen Creason, Maria O'Malley, Athena West, Denise Carothers C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Scotty Creason, Samuel Allen of the Parker House on Main, Karen Creason, Katie Polanzani
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
K A R E N C R E A S O N , P U B L I C AT I O N D I R E C T O R @FRANKLINTNLIFESTYLE Franklin Lifestyle is available for pickup at the following locations: • Fork of the South - The Factory at Franklin • Saint Goose - Downtown Franklin • The Parker House on Main - Downtown Franklin • United Country Real Estate - Leiper’s Fork • Local doctors and professional offices around the area
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Franklin Lifestyle® is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Franklin area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Franklin Lifestyle® is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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1006 LAGUNA DRIVE ~ LOT 1 FRANKLIN • $1,899,900
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1970 NAPA DR ~ LOT 18 BRENTWOOD • $2,149,900
DARTMOUTH DR, BRENTWOOD 99.49 ACRES • $11,000,000 LOT 44 • $1,749,900 | LOT 45 • $1,499,900
T H E
2026 REALTRENDS Best Real Estate Agents Onward Congratulates SUSANGREGORYREALESTATE.COM
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inside the issue OC TOB E R 2 02 6 | FOOD & D R I N K
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Featured
30 66 86
Departments
The French Table Belle Maison Teaches About French Tablescapes
From Singer To Home Chef
Pop Star Tiffany is Channeling Her Most Personal Project Yet
Raising a Glass
Wine Down Main Street celebrates 25 years of wine, food, music and community in Franklin
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Lifestyle Letter
18
City Scene
24
Business Monthly
30
Decor Trends SHOPPING
36
Local Limelight ARTS + CULTURE
40
Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Local’s Choice REAL ESTATE
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Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Gift Guide FOOD + BEVERAGE
66
Must See FOOD + BEVERAGE
74
Now Open REAL ESTATE
80
Giving Back TRAVEL
86
Hosting Tips FOOD + BEVERAGE
92
Outdoor Adventure TRAVEL
98
Road Trip LIFE + CULTURE
104 Inspired By HOME + DESIGN
On the Cover
110 Healthy Lifestyle LIFE + CULTURE
80s and 90s Pop Star Tiffany dishes on her new cookbook. Location: Rose & Plum Living Makeup: Jessica Vaughn; Beauty by Vaughn + Co Hair By: Misty Rogers of The Parker House on Main Photographer: Samuel Allen of The Parker House on Main Creative Team: Mossy Rock Creative Production: Alana Wood Wardrobe: Susan Becker Set Design: Susan Becker
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Chef ’s Selection FOOD + BEVERAGE
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Culinary Creations LOCAL SERVICES
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120 Locally Sourced EDUCATION 124 Hot Spot FOOD + BEVERAGE 130 Artist’s Palette LIFE + CULTURE 132 Events
Print Prestige Meets Digital Power. WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT? With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.
Modern Approaches to Anti-Aging & Weight Loss H E A LT H I S W E A LT H Get ready to look, feel, and live younger than ever before with the expert care of Dr. Gabe Allende and the team at the Center for Anti-Aging & Weight Loss. With over 20 years of experience helping patients optimize their health, we’ve transformed the lives of countless individuals throughout the Bay Area and the Nashville region. Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (Men) Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (Women) Medical Weight Loss Cosmetic Injectables Stem Cell Therapy IV Drip Therapy
DrGabeAllende.com 615-646-7655 233 Bedford Way, Franklin, TN
ELEVATE YOUR CONCERT EXPERIENCE
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WELCOME TO
FORK OF THE SOUTH
Southern Tea Room A beautiful space. A thoughtful community. A modern approach to Pilates that welcomes every age, every level, every body. Because movement should feel as good as it looks. theclubhousefranklin.com | @theclubhousefranklin 320 Liberty Pike | Suite 100 | Franklin, TN 37064
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Come sit a spell, y’all. We’ll handle the fuss, from the finger sandwiches to the fancy china. Bring your people and a love for tea and delicious treats. We’ll make sure every detail’s as lovely as the laughter around your table. Whatever your celebration, hosting’s never been so easy… or so delicious. forkofthesouth.com/the-southern-tea-room 615-497-2402 Located at Fork of the South inside The Factory at Franklin 230 Franklin Road | Bldg 8 Ste D
NEW HOMES NOW AVAILABLE
A Ford Community
Luxury Homes. Breathtaking Views. Ideal Location.
Featuring 1-acre estates, villas, bungalows, townhomes, and more
THE FRANCESCA | $2,933,930
3000 Copley Road | Franklin, TN 37064 5 Bedrooms | 5 Full and 2 Half Baths 3-car garage | 5,068 Appr. Sq. Ft.
THE NATASHA | $1,918,565
113 Dulwich Drive | Franklin, TN 37064 4 Bedrooms | 4 Full and 1 Half Baths 2-car garage | 3,673 Appr. Sq. Ft.
THE HANNAH | $1,996,255
121 Dulwich Drive | Franklin, TN 37064 4 Bedrooms | 4 Full and 1 Half Baths 2-car garage | 3,925 Appr. Sq. Ft.
HOMESITE 10 | $3,059,900
4000 Copley Road | Franklin, TN 37064 5 Bedrooms | 5 Full and 2 Half Baths 3-car garage | 5,467 Appr. Sq. Ft.
CollettaTN.com | 629.230.8866 FEATURING HOMES BY: LEGEND HOMES FORD CLASSIC HOMES BIRCHWOOD HOMES INSIGNIA HOMES Prices are subject to change
COLLETTA IS A FORD CLASSIC HOMES COMMUNITY
LISTED BY MARY KOCINA C: 615.300.5996 O: 615.263.4800
OCTOBER 2026
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1-7: Toll Brothers celebrated the opening of its new model home at Franklin Ridge in Franklin with a ribbon-cutting on Aug. 20. The boutique community offers luxury estate homesites with four- to six-bedroom floor plans, each designed with upscale amenities and high-end finishes. Photography by Karen Creason CONTINUED >
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C I T Y SC E N E
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city scene CONTINUED
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8-10: Friends of Franklin Parks hosted its annual Raise the Roof fundraiser, bringing together community members and supporters to celebrate and raise funds for Franklin’s parks, trails, and green spaces. Photography by Diana Marie Photography 11-12: The Williamson County Fair brought together families, exhibitors, volunteers, and community members for a week of fun, entertainment, competitions, and agricultural traditions. Photography Courtesy of the Williamson County Fair 13-14: Taste. Shop. Explore. Williamson brought together local restaurants, retailers, attractions, and businesses for an afternoon celebrating the best of Williamson County. Hosted by Williamson, Inc., the community event encouraged attendees to discover new favorites while supporting the local businesses that help make the county a vibrant place to live, work, and play. Photography by Readylight Media, LLC, Jeff Carpenter
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C I T Y SC E N E
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Roark Orthodontics
great smiles start here.
212 East Main Street, Suite 100, Franklin, TN
(615) 814-4884 | www.roarkortho.com
N A S H V I L L E ’ S P R E M I E R C U S T O M C L O T H I N G C O M PA N Y F O R
S U I T S » S P O R T C O AT S & B L A Z E R S » T U X E D O S
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WO M EN
» S L A C K S / J E A N S » S H I R T S » O V E R C O AT S » W E D D I N G AT T I R E
615- 66 9- 6845 » RI C HARD SBE SPO KE .C O M @RI C HARD S_ BE SPO K E MARTIN STREET IN NASHVI LLE »
OCTOBER 2026
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
WCS Celebrates Innovation Center Ribbon Cutting Williamson County Schools celebrated the grand opening of its new Innovation Center on August 7. Located adjacent to Franklin High School, the 26,000-square-foot facility provides hands-on career training for students in grades 10-12. Programs include Advanced Power and Machinery, Hospitality, Culinary and Tourism, Aviation, Fire Management, and Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. Students will have access to industry certifications, collegiate hours, and internship job opportunities, helping prepare students for college, careers, and the workforce. WCS.edu
L.L.Bean Debuts at CoolSprings Galleria L.L.Bean has officially expanded into Tennessee, choosing Franklin for its first-ever state location. Now open at the CoolSprings Galleria, the new 18,000-square-foot storefront brings the brand's iconic outdoor apparel, footwear, and durable gear directly to our active local community. Situated near Macy’s, the store is perfectly positioned to outfit Williamson County families and outdoor enthusiasts for their next adventures, both locally and beyond. Photography by L.L.Bean
A. Marshall Hospitality’s Puckett’s Love Gives Back A. Marshall Hospitality’s Puckett’s Love campaign has made a meaningful impact this summer, providing more than 2,000 hot meals to children through its Spring Break and Summer Feeding programs. The campaign also raised $2,235 for Big Table Nashville, which provides support to restaurant and hospitality workers facing unexpected hardships. Together, these efforts continue Puckett’s commitment to giving back to the communities it serves. AMarshallHospitality.com Photography by A. Marshall Hospitality
Photography by Williamson County Schools
CONTINUED >
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
keystone.co | 615-686-2819 2320 Kline Ave. Nashville TN 37211
Space For What Matters
Create a backyard of luxury with your custom deck, porch, or patio. Reach out to our team today to receive a complimentary quote & design
business monthly CONTINUED
DICK’S House of Sport Coming to CoolSprings Galleria
Franklin Police Launches Hiring with Higher Starting Pay
Upscale Housing Coming to CoolSprings Galleria
JCPenney will close its CoolSprings Galleria location this fall, making way for DICK’S House of Sport, the first location of the experiential sporting-goods concept in greater Nashville. The 100,000-plus-squarefoot store will offer a wide selection of sporting goods along with a climbing wall, golf bays featuring TrackMan simulators, and a HitTrax multi-sport cage. The store is expected to open in early 2028. CBLProperties.com
The Franklin Police Department has raised starting salaries and is accepting applications for entry-level and certified lateral officers. New recruits now start at $68,000, while certified officers can earn $73,000-$77,000 based on experience. Officers protect and serve Franklin while receiving world-class training, strong benefits, and opportunities for career advancement, including specialized assignments with SWAT, Investigations, FLEX Intelligence, Traffic, Dive Team, Crisis Negotiations, and Forensic Services. Learn more at JoinFPD.FranklinTN.gov
CoolSprings Galleria is expanding its mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment with a new 361-unit upscale apartment community from Greystar. The development will transform an underused 5.35-acre parking lot parcel into new housing featuring 15,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and services. Construction began in June and is expected to take approximately two years, bringing more places to live, shop, and enjoy to the growing Cool Springs area. CBLProperties.com
Photography by Dicks Sporting Goods
Photography by Greystar Properties
Photography by City of Franklin
Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / F R A N K L I N
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
A Ford Community
Prices Starting at $695,000 Ask About our Preferred Provider Incentives
THE DAISY TOWNHOME · $695,000 3BR · 2FB · 1HB · 1,669SF 4011 Forestside Dr, Franklin, TN
THE LILY TOWNHOME · $922,035 3BR · 3FB · 1HB · 2,475SF 3216 Long Branch Circle, Franklin, TN
THE AMELIA · $1,274,865 3BR · 4FB · 1HB · 3,388SF 7018 SouthVale Blvd, Franklin, TN
THE HANNAH · $1,499,995 5BR · 4FB · 1HB · 3,866SF 205 Equine St, Franklin, TN
Prices are subject to change
BUILT BY
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S O U T H B R O O K E T N .C O M S O U T H VA L E T N . C O M
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Customized, Functional Pilates Sessions for Your Body, Your Goals and Your Phase of Life As the premier STOTT PILATES®️ studio in middle Tennessee, Pilates Franklin has been providing the “Gold Standard” in pilates education and instruction since 2015.
Reach out to the studio for more details! pilatesfranklin.com | 615.656.8932 | V pilatesfranklin 206A Cool Springs Blvd, Franklin, TN
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when you mention this ad
Celebrating
172 YEARS
What began in 1853 as a small general store in the heart of Goodlettsville has grown into a 172-year tradition of serving Middle Tennessee families. Today, that tradition continues in Goodlettsville and Franklin, where this year we’re proud to celebrate one full year at our Franklin location. For generations, B.F. Myers Furniture has helped make houses feel like home, and we’re honored to carry that legacy forward. Thank you, Middle Tennessee, for 172 incredible years! Come celebrate with us during our 172nd Anniversary Sale through October 25, with special savings throughout the store at both our Goodlettsville and Franklin locations. Here’s to 172 years—and many more to come!
bfmyersfurniture.com |
@b.f.myers
117 French Street, Goodlettsville, TN 37072 209 S Royal Oaks Blvd, Franklin, TN 37064
THE ART OF THE Use the Good Plates
ARTICLE PROVIDED | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE POLENZANI
French Table
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D E C OR T R E N D S | SHO P PIN G
Who says you need a reason to use the good plates? In the French approach to entertaining, an ordinary meal can be just as deserving of beautiful linens, pretty glassware, and a little candlelight as a holiday dinner. For Carolyn Kalil and Katie Polenzani of Belle Maison, that philosophy is at the heart of the French approach to entertaining. Inspired by their travels to France and appreciation for beautiful, collected pieces, the pair sees the table as more than a place to serve a meal. It is an invitation to make an everyday moment special and linger. “The French have a beautiful way of making everyday moments such as a shared meal feel special. A meal doesn't have to be extraordinary for the act of sitting down together to matter,” says Carolyn. During their travels, they noticed that French tables often feature a mix of glassware, ceramics, and china that does not necessarily match. In other words, your plates do not have to attend the same dinner party to get along. The goal is a table that feels personal, inviting, and unexpected. “Beautiful doesn't mean perfect. The more fun you have with your table, the more your guests will enjoy the experience,” says Katie. A Wednesday lunch can feel special when water is served from a beautiful glass pitcher or when the good plates come out for bread and butter. Why wait for Thanksgiving to use the things you love? For Belle Maison, the magic is often found in the details, including a few charming touches that
may be less familiar to American diners. Candles can add warmth and romance, while low florals bring color and whimsy without interrupting conversation. One particularly French-inspired detail is the knife rest, which helps keep silverware clean throughout a meal. Vintage and antique knife rests can add personality, while napkin rings and tablecloth clips also bring charm. Layering is another essential element of the French table. Kalil and Polenzani embrace a mix of colors, textures, patterns, and materials while using a simple strategy to keep the look cohesive. They recommend the 70/30 rule, with 70% of the table grounded in a consistent element and 30% reserved for playful, mismatched pieces. The result is a table that feels collected rather than coordinated. A little mismatch can make a table feel more interesting and personal. That sense of history is important to both women, although their individual styles bring different perspectives. Carolyn is drawn to history and layering, while Katie gravitates toward eclecticism, color, and conversation. Katie's French oak dining table provides a rustic foundation for bright colors, unusual pieces, and colorful glassware. CONTINUED >
OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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For Carolyn, the story begins with a 150-year-old dining table. “I often wonder, ‘Who has sat at this table? What conversations did they have while sitting at it?’ With the element of history that this table holds, I enjoy layering it with serveware, glassware, and decor that may also be older or new.” Ultimately, the French table is less about perfection and more about presence. In a culture where busy schedules make slowing down difficult, Kalil and Polenzani believe there is something valuable to borrow from the French approach. “As Americans, we often feel that we have very little time to slow down and enjoy because we are so used to living our busy lives! The French teach us that when gathered around a table, it’s so important to slow down, savor your food, enjoy every bite, and take your time.” For homeowners, perhaps the most beautiful takeaway is also the simplest: Set the table, light the candles, pour something into the good glassware, and invite people to stay awhile. Because the art of the French table is not really about having the perfect table. It is about making everyday life feel worth gathering around. BelleMaisonStore.com
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D E C OR T R E N D S | SHO P PIN G
Compassionate Dental Care, Modern Dental Technology Call to Schedule
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ARTICLE BY ATHENA WEST | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Her initiative reflects so much of what Dolly has always stood for: the power of a child’s imagination, the importance of literacy, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to dream.
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ARTS + CU LT U RE
C elebrating Dolly by C ar r ying Her Dre am For war d
In November 2017, Dolly Parton graced us with the incredible honor of sitting down with us for an interview. The topic? Her beloved Imagination Library. Her initiative reflects so much of what Dolly has always stood for: the power of a child’s imagination, the importance of literacy, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to dream. We at Franklin Lifestyle thought about how we wanted to honor her, and we wanted our tribute to be more than simply a look back. We wanted it to be an invitation to celebrate Dolly by giving back in a way that carries her vision forward. According to public guidance shared by Dolly Parton and her team, those wishing
to honor her legacy are encouraged to support the Imagination Library. So, we’re re-sharing the cover of our 2017 issue featuring Dolly and inviting our readers to learn more about the Imagination Library (ImaginationLibrary. com) and the impact it continues to make in the lives of children and families. If you feel led to honor Dolly, we hope you’ll consider doing so by supporting the cause closest to this particular chapter of her legacy: putting books into the hands of children and helping their imaginations take flight. Thank you for celebrating with us and for helping us turn admiration into action. With gratitude, The Franklin Lifestyle Team
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Pubs, patios, breweries, and taprooms have come to define the beer scene in Franklin over the years. From long-standing staples to new spots alike, Williamson County knows how to deliver the perfect pour. Check out this mix of new and established lively spots to grab a brew!
1. BLACK DOG PUB & MUSIC LOUNGE
This newly opened pub-style watering hole has quickly captured the attention of locals. Set in a historic home off West Main Street, the Pub’s interiors are moody and timeless, bringing a bit of British opulence to the South. Check the show calendar if you take your beer with a side of live music, or slide into a picnic table on the outdoor porch for a golden hour brew. Dogs and kids welcome.
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2. M.L. ROSE NEIGHBORHOOD PUB
Another West Franklin newcomer arrived from Nashville in 2024. The gastropub-style restaurant has an expansive beer list that’s hand-selected by a prestigious beer council (they blind taste every beer, approving it before it’s officially added to the menu). Happy hours abound here, from daily afternoon specials (and all day Thursday) to weekend brunch deals.
3. THE SKYLIGHT BAR Centrally located in the heart of the newly renovated Factory at Franklin, The Skylight Bar offers two ways to enjoy a beer: seated comfortably at the bar, sipping over conversations with friends and neighbors, or on the go as you wander around The Factory in search of treasures. There’s plenty to see and do here, from vintage stores to art galleries, boutiques, and a handmade carousel.
7 BEST SPOTS TO GRAB A BEER IN FRANKLIN
ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON FOR VISIT FRANKLIN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VISIT FRANKLIN
6. HOP HOUSE TENNESSEE TAPS 4. MILL CREEK BREWING CO.
The motto painted on the wall of the taproom at Mill Creek Brewing Co., “Less fuss. More beer.” says it all! Choose from one of their six core beers, like the fan-favorite Lil Darlin, or sample one of their six rotating seasonal brews as you relax inside or out at the largest brewery in town. The brewery is also dogfriendly on its outdoor patio, so no need to leave your furry friends at home while you’re out having fun.
Located in downtown Franklin, just off the Five Points intersection, Hop House Tennessee Taps allows you to taste a wide range of brews from across the Volunteer State. With 36 local beer taps and an even larger selection of canned options, if there is a beer brewed in Tennessee or across the Southeast, you’ll likely find it here. Grab a few seats at the bar with friends or find a table inside the historic building just off Main Street to take a tasty trip through many of Tennessee’s best brews.
5. DRAFT ROOM AT KINGS
7. HERBAN MARKET
The perfect place to pair your brew with the biggest game on the biggest televisions is at The Draft Room at King’s. King’s offers 18 beers on draft, both craft and domestic, along with a rotating selection of regional beers from Tennessee breweries. Plan for plenty of excitement at King’s because, in addition to the brews, there are multiple 15-foot televisions in the taproom, along with ten-pin bowling, pool, and on many nights live music performances too.
For the beer drinker who likes to balance a craft brew with a healthy salad or organic bakery treat, Herban Market is your spot. They have a healthy selection of regional craft brews you can enjoy over lunch from their “build-a-bar” for salads, pizzas, and wraps.
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#1 Real Estate Team in Tennessee
Leveraging real estate resources with a creative and tenacious spirit, the LCT Team of Onward Real Estate are experts in delivering a synergy of success for each client with long-time REALTOR® Lisa Culp Taylor as team leader. We are ready to help you buy or sell a home in the Franklin, Brentwood, Murfreesboro or Nashville areas - and we have the experience and knowledge to make the whole process easier for you.
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THE Real estate is often a numbers game. There are listings, offers, square footage, interest rates, and enough zeros to make anyone reach for a calculator. But for Erin Krueger and the 15 women of the Erin Krueger Team, the numbers tell only part of the story. Sure, the team has surpassed $200 million in sales so far in 2026 and is approaching $3 billion in career sales. Those are the kinds of milestones that deserve a toast, or perhaps several. But Krueger sees something much more meaningful behind every transaction. “The numbers are meaningful, but they are not what motivates us. To me, they represent trust. Every transaction behind that number is a person, a family, a move, a new chapter, or a major financial decision that someone trusted us to help navigate.” That philosophy has helped shape one of the top real estate teams in Nashville, Tennessee and beyond. The Erin Krueger Team, or EKT, is made up of 11 agents and four administrative team members, each bringing a different specialty and perspective to the organization. Together, they have more than 80 years of real estate experience and thousands of completed transactions. Krueger did not set out to build a team filled with carbon copies of herself. In fact, quite the opposite. “The easiest way to describe this team is that we are 15 very different women who share the same standards.”
Those differences are part of the team's strength. Its agents bring experience in luxury properties, new construction, relocation, specific neighborhoods, and first-time homebuyers. Behind the scenes, the administrative team keeps operations, transactions, marketing, and client experiences moving smoothly, often handling the details clients may never notice but undoubtedly appreciate. What connects the group is a shared commitment to work ethic, integrity, creativity, competitiveness, and taking care of people. Krueger believes the team's culture has been just as important to its success as its sales figures. “I would say two things: culture and adaptability.”
P OW E R ARTICLE PROVIDED | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT ANDREWS PHOTOGRAPHY
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That adaptability matters in a market that rarely sits still for long. Nashville and Williamson County have experienced dramatic growth, while buyers and sellers have navigated changing inventory, interest rates, and market conditions. Rather than relying on last year's playbook, the team continually evaluates its systems, marketing, and client service. Krueger's own career began with tremendous individual success. She was once ranked No. 1 in Tennessee and No. 14 in the United States as a solo agent. Eventually, however, she recognized that growing the business meant building something larger than one person could manage while maintaining the level of service she wanted to provide. Today, that larger organization allows the team to offer specialized expertise while maintaining a highly personal approach. Experience provides perspective, and with multiple market cycles behind them, the team can help clients look beyond the headlines and focus on what current conditions mean for their particular situation. That attention to the individual also extends to the way EKT markets homes. The team does not believe every property should receive the same treatment. A luxury estate, a new construction opportunity, and a family home in Williamson County each require a strategy tailored to the property, likely buyer, competition, and seller's goals. The same customized thinking applies to client service. Krueger describes white glove service not as one grand gesture, but as hundreds of small details handled exceptionally well. Communication happens before clients have to ask. Questions are anticipated. The right team member is involved at the right moment. “White-glove service is not one big gesture. It is hundreds of small things done exceptionally well.” Strong systems and defined roles help make that possible, but Krueger is quick to point out that systems are not meant to replace relationships. They are meant to support them. For EKT, the relationship does not end when the paperwork is signed and the keys change hands. Clients stay connected through events, personal outreach, market updates, and the simple understanding that the team remains a resource long
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after moving day. Some clients have become friends, while others have returned for multiple transactions and brought generations of their families along with them. As the team continues to grow, Krueger's goal is not simply to make the numbers bigger. After all, $3 billion is already plenty of numbers to keep track of. The greater ambition is to build an organization where extraordinary results and genuine relationships can coexist, proving that even in the fast-paced world of real estate, success is ultimately measured one person, one family, and one trusted relationship at a time. ErinKrueger.com
Come Home to French’s www.frenchscabinets.com | 615-371-8385 OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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2465 Old Charlotte Pike, Franklin View Listing
$ 1 9, 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 | 1 0 R I V E R F RO N T AC R E S 1 4 , 0 0 0 S F M A N O R + N E A R LY 9, 0 0 0 S F S T U D I O
JAMIE PARSONS Affiliate Broker M: 310.508.4008 O: 615.475.5616 jamie.parsons@compass.com JAMIE-PARS O NS .CO M |
JAMSE3
Jamie Parsons is a licensed real estate agent affiliated with Compass RE, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
FROM KONA TO GERMANTOWN
Chef Heidi Barrette
THE HEART BEHIND SLIDE HUSTLE ON 3RD ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE
For Chef Heidi Barrette, her brand-new neighborhood café is more than a place to grab a bite. It’s a place where local bounty, history, and the spirit of Ohana come together. Some restaurant dreams begin with a business plan. Chef Heidi Barrette’s began as a young girl in the rural little town of Kona, Hawaii, listening to her father play guitar, watching over her siblings, and experimenting with gifts of the island, often dropped off by hospitable neighbors who were generational local hunters and fishers. Today, that dream lives in a 110-year-old repurposed cottage house in Germantown, Nashville, as Slide Hustle on 3rd, a “Farm-to-Table Sliders & Small Bites” café. Slide Hustle is a welcoming little village spot where you’ll find a seasonal craft cocktail, mocktail and coffee bar, and as many ingredients as possible are sourced from local and family farms. It’s a place that is undeniably built around the spirit of ohana—family. “Everyone who is greeted gets treated like family, and everyone leaves feeling like a foodie” is not only Barrette’s motto for her staff; it's a mission that she’s deeply committed to. That philosophy is woven throughout nearly every detail of the restaurant. Rather than build over the cottage’s history, Barrette and her team worked hard to carefully preserve it by adding subtle touches that honor the property’s past and repurposing everything they could, including the kitchen sink! The community bar table is actually the home’s original front door, restored and transformed by her friend Tony. The greeting stand was one of the first pieces of furniture in the house, while old horseshoes and cowboy-inspired details give a nod to the property’s earlier days - as well as to her own earlier days of horseback riding through the island’s lush valleys with her mother.
Though she is a transplant, Barrette feels that sense of history, music, tradition, and resourcefulness has come full circle here in Nashville, where she has developed a deep connection to Tennessee for these same reasons. As a child, Barrette fondly remembers gathering mangos, squash, guavas, eggs, and herbs from her mom’s coops and gardens. She reminisces over the fresh-caught fish, seashells, wild boar, and whatever else neighbors might have quietly dropped off in little styrofoam coolers at their front door, particularly the amazing Ahi tuna that her mom Carol (“Kalola” in Hawaiian) loved so much...and which has become the namesake for a staple on her menu. Experimenting and creating culinary “potions” for her younger siblings, she eventually turned that childhood curiosity into a lifelong love for cooking. “I just couldn’t get enough of sharing my creations with pretty much everyone I knew,” Barrette says, laughing. “So I went off and learned how to [properly] cook.” CONTINUED >
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“IF THAT LITTLE GIRL FROM KONA COULD SEE THIS PLACE TODAY, SHE’D WHISPER, ‘THANK YOU FOR NEVER GIVING UP ON OUR DREAM…I TOLD YOU EVERYONE WOULD LOVE THE AHI!’” That passion led to a colorful culinary journey, from owning a popular gourmet food truck (sliders, of course), to teaching hospitality and cooking classes, and eventually catering to Southern California’s elite celebrity circle. Then, in early 2022, Barrette moved to Nashville, where she was quickly invited to host her first pop-up at a local coffee shop. She served sliders from a tent. In the snow. Alone. But what looked like a humble beginning was actually the start of something much bigger. Over the next four years, Barrette built a following through hundreds of pop-ups and cooking gigs, steadily refining the vision she had carried with her for years. Eventually, she made a promise to her small staff: God willing, they would have a place of their own by the end of the year, and she believes that promise was heard. Today, Slide Hustle on 3rd reflects both where Barrette came from and where she is now—a little bit Kona, a little bit Nashville, and entirely her own. The menu carries some of the flavors and memories of her childhood, while the cottage itself creates the warm, lived-in feeling of gathering around a family table. And perhaps that is the real spirit behind Slide Hustle. It isn’t simply a restaurant she dreamed up; it is the expression of a dream that began decades ago. “If that little girl from Kona could see this place today, she’d whisper, ‘Thank you for never giving up on our dream. I told you everyone would love the ahi!’” Barrette says with a smile. At Slide Hustle on 3rd, the message from the chef is clear: ”May the true spirit of hospitality, warmth, and Ohana shower you with every bite!” **Slide Hustle on 3rd proudly offers delivery by ordering directly from their website at www.sh3rd.com
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EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE
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The Future of Medicine. Now Welcoming
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F R A NKLI N’S G e m for ELEVATED TAST I NGS , G ift ing & EXCLUSI V E GAT HER I NGS ARTICLE PROVIDED
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Walking into Saint Goose in downtown Franklin is a little like being let in on a really good secret. Instead of endless aisles of bottles, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated selection and a team ready to help you discover something you’ll love, whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a great bottle to bring home. Saint Goose has built its reputation around something a little more personal: curation. Brent and Heidi Hyland, along with their team of Joel LaTondress (Director of Wine +Spirits), Rob Spieler, and Liz Brassell, have created a boutique experience where carefully selected wines and spirits can become the centerpiece of a dinner, a gift, a wedding celebration or an entirely customized gathering. CONTINUED >
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"We like to think of Saint Goose as a hidden gem in downtown Franklin. Our focus is on bringing together wines and spirits that are thoughtfully selected, interesting and, in many cases, difficult to find elsewhere. We’re proud that Saint Goose was recently voted to have the best wine selection in Williamson County,” says Heidi. That same thoughtful approach extends far beyond the shelves. Saint Goose hosts regular tastings and events throughout the year and can also create exclusive gatherings at the shop. Sommelier Sara Jimenez typically leads and develops these experiences, thoughtfully selecting the wines and spirits for each occasion. Tastings might explore a particular wine region, a favorite spirit, or simply offer an evening of discovering something new with friends. But the fun does not have to stay downtown. Brent mentions, "We can bring the Saint Goose experience to our customers. The shop has helped create intimate corporate events, wedding welcome gatherings, birthday celebrations, baby couple showers and realtor appreciation events, among others."
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For a host or event planner, that can mean a guided tasting, carefully selected bottles for guests to enjoy, wine and spirit pairings with a menu, or a more casual exploration of interesting flavors. Saint Goose starts with the people, the occasion, and the atmosphere, then builds the experience from there. That philosophy opens the door to some especially memorable gatherings. "One of the things we enjoy most is that no two events have to look alike. We have helped create experiences ranging from an intimate fine-dining tasting to a more relaxed evening of pizza and wine,” Heidi tells us. That personal touch also makes Saint Goose an unexpected resource for gifting. Saint Goose can create customized wine and spirits packages based on a recipient's preferences, a special occasion, or a particular budget. A gift might include a premium bourbon with Glencairn glasses, artisan chocolate, and a hand-selected cigar. Another might pair wine with a cheese knife set, unique wine glasses, a Tennessee-shaped cutting board, or even a local candle.
“Sa i n t Go ose ha s bu i l t i ts re p u ta t i o n a ro u n d s o m e t h i ng a little m o re p e r so n a l: c u ra t i o n .” For realtors, businesses, and individuals celebrating milestones, the options can be tailored to the recipient and the occasion. A closing gift can feel warm and personal. A client thankyou can reflect a company's brand. An employee recognition gift can become something more memorable than the usual box of cookies. "A good gift should feel like you actually thought about the person receiving it. That's what we try to accomplish with our gift packages,” Brent stresses. At the heart of it all is connection. Brent and Heidi enjoy sharing the stories behind the bottles, from where they come from to who makes them, and what makes them unique. The experience can be as educational or as simple as the customer wants. Sometimes the best recommendation is simply, “Try this. You’ll love it.” The goal is to make discovering great wine and spirits approachable, personal, and fun. Whether the occasion calls for an exclusive tasting at Saint Goose, a customized experience brought to another location, or a gift package designed to celebrate a special moment, the Hyland's approach remains the same: Start with the people. At Saint Goose, the right bottle may be where the story begins, but a memorable experience is what keeps the conversation going long after the cork has been popped. SaintGoose.wine OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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FROM POP S TA R TO HOME CHEF
ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOSSY ROCK CREATIVE; SAMUEL ALLEN
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POP ICON TIFFANY IS CHANNELING A LIFETIME OF TRAVEL, FAMILY, AND FOOD INTO HER MOST PERSONAL PROJECT YET
Most people know Tiffany as the teenager who took over shopping malls, topped the charts, and became one of the defining pop voices of the 1980s. Fewer people know the Tiffany who grew up between two grandmothers' kitchens in East LA — one German, one Lebanese — learning that food is its own kind of love language. That Tiffany has been there all along. And now, she has written Pop Life: The Ultimate 80s Kitchen Encore cookbook to prove it. The roots of the project go all the way back to childhood with her two grandmothers. "They would let me play in their kitchen," she says. "Food is everything. And it definitely was for me as a child growing up." The cookbook is dedicated to both of those grandmothers. As Tiffany began touring the world as a teenager, she turned every city into a culinary adventure. She didn't sightsee in the conventional sense. She preferred eating and would drag her band through the streets of a city and insisted on eating where the locals ate. "I found Kanji in Malaysia," she says. "And this rice porridge was everything. You could put toppings, whatever you wanted on it, like crushed chili paste and cut up green onions and coriander. I'm a spice girl!" She came home and started replicating these dishes for her family. "It was something that my grandmas really enjoyed because they couldn't travel with me." "I find that no matter where you go, people want to tell you about their food and their music," she says. "It's a cultural thing. It's a bonding thing. They're so proud about it." Pop Life is a reflection of how Tiffany actually lives. She is what she calls an "Insta party" host, the kind of person who pulls into her Nashville driveway after two or three weeks on the road and immediately starts calling people to come over by 7:00 p.m. CONTINUED >
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"I make these elaborate meals, but it's my way of de-stressing," she says. "It's my way of catching up with people." Her philosophy around hosting is a deliberate departure from the pressure-filled entertaining of her mother's and grandmother's generations. "They had to have everything done," she says. "And that's a little stressful." Tiffany's approach is different in that she likes to leave a little work for the guests, pull them around the table, make something together. Sausage rolls. Tamale pizza. Whatever sounds good. Years of cooking for friends with dietary restrictions — "I don't eat this and I don't eat that" — made her extraordinarily skilled at blending flavors in ways that sneak ingredients past even the skeptics. "I got really good with blending things together and doing marinades," she says. "So you're still getting that flavor, but you might not have the onions as a big chop." Tiffany met chef and co-author Alicia Shevetone after a friend had booked her for a show in Las Vegas. The connection was both immediate and electric. "We went out for cocktails and they started playing 80s songs," she says. The two women, both children of the eighties and both deeply passionate about food, sat down and began to dream. The result is a cookbook with an 80s theme woven through it and a dual perspective that balances Tiffany's adventurous, spice-forward approach with the classical training of a professional chef. "You get the up level and you get my foodie fun," Tiffany says. The chef's contributions polish and elevate. Tiffany's contributions bring the road, the party, the grandmother's kitchen, and the food prep happening in a hotel Airbnb at midnight before a show. "This is my life and this is really what I do," she says. Researching the food culture of the eighties was, by her admission, an adventure of its own kind. "There was a lot of color. There was a lot of funky things there that I remembered as a kid that I hated," she says. "So we omitted a lot of that." The jello molds did not make the cut. The cookbook arrives alongside a spice line that Tiffany launched in the aftermath of COVID. Three blends rooted in her family's culinary heritage and developed over nearly a year of back-and-forth with a professional bottler in Florida. There is a zaatar she calls Rockstar Zaatar, a taco blend called Let's Taco Taco Taco, and a harissa that traces directly back to her Lebanese grandmother. A savory blend is now in development, built around the spices that appear in what has become one of the cookbook's signature dishes: the sausage roll that shares its name with one of her songs. She launched the cookbook in the UK first, with the sausage roll leading the way. The UK approved. "I was like, thank goodness," she says. A spicier blend may follow, possibly named after one of her classic hits. "I'm thinking about doing something where I play on ‘children behave’ or ‘I Think We’re Alone Now’ or something for a really, really spicy blend," she says. Three years in the making, Pop Life "taught me to live your dreams," Tiffany says of the process. Her father, who died of cancer, left her with words she often reflects on. "Don't wait," he told her. "Even if you don't have all of it together, just believe in yourself, have fun with it. Some things aren't meant to be perfect, but as long as you're growing, that's the battle."
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“I MAKE THESE E L A B OR AT E MEALS, BUT I T ’ S M Y WA Y O F D E-S T R E S S I N G ,” S H E SAYS . “ I T ’ S M Y WA Y O F C A T C H I N G U P W I T H PE OPL E .”
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Pop Life is the story of a woman who has spent her whole life letting food connect her to the people and places she loves, and who finally decided to write it all down, with her family's fingerprints on every page. TiffanyTunes.com
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Location: Rose & Plum Living Makeup: Jessica Vaughn; Beauty by Vaughn + Co Hair By: Misty Rogers of The Parker House on Main Photographer: Samuel Allen of The Parker House on Main Creative Team: Mossy Rock Creative Production: Alana Wood Wardrobe: Susan Becker Set Design: Susan Becker
Volunteers make our community stronger. They change lives. Because of volunteers, children discover the joy of learning. Families find support. Neighborhoods become brighter, safer, and more welcoming places for everyone. Volunteer today at HON.org and use your talents, skills, and compassion to benefit your community. Join us October 24 at Centennial Park for our Season of Sharing kickoff event. Meet local nonprofits with volunteer opportunities, enjoy music and giveaways! LEARN MORE ABOUT SEASON OF SHARING
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t h e l o o ka e s t h e t i c s . c o m
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ERIN KRUEGER Team Lead - The Erin Krueger Team Realtor ®, ABR, ASP, CRS, CLHMS, Affiliate Broker, MBA erin@erinkrueger.com m. 615.509.7166 | o. 615.475.5616 erinkrueger.com | @theerinkruegerteam
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Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
THE ART OF COMING HOME I N A F A S T- M O V I N G W O R L D , H O M E S H O U L D B E T H E P L A C E W H E R E P E O P L E C A N R E C O N N E C T W I T H W H AT M AT T E R S M O S T.
There is a particular magic that happens when you pull into your driveway after a long day. The meetings are over, the grocery bags are unloaded, the group texts can wait and, at last, you can take a deep breath. In a world that seems to move at approximately 400 miles per hour, home has become more than an address. It has become a sanctuary. Daily life can be hectic, and homeowners are increasingly looking for spaces that help them reset. That might mean a dedicated office, exercise room, wellness space with a sauna or a hobby room. The idea is simple: Home should work for the people living in it, not the other way around. As Chesney Ford of Ford Classic Homes explains, “Coming home” has become a safe space for many where they can finally take a breath and relax. That feeling begins before residents even reach their front doors. Colletta is surrounded by hillside views and natural landscapes that create an immediate sense of calm. Although the community is only minutes from the hospital, grocery stores, dining and entertainment, driving into Colletta offers a noticeable change of pace. “The area around Colletta is bustling but when you drive into Colletta, the atmosphere changes. The breathtaking views provide an intimate escape right at your doorstep,” Ford says. The community's architecture balances familiar and fresh, pairing traditional elements with modern details. Large windows, tall ceilings and sleek cabinetry give the homes a contemporary feel without losing warmth and character. Luxury, meanwhile, is being redefined. Bigger is not always better when a space is thoughtfully designed and comfortable to live in. Outdoor spaces that feel like an extension of the home also create more opportunities to relax, gather and entertain.
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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Rendering by: Envision Renderings
Photography by: Pro Media Tours
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Rendering by: Envision Renderings
At Colletta, the surrounding views are part of daily life. Porches overlook the hillsides, while the community remains close to everyday conveniences, which is fortunate for anyone who has ever realized they are out of coffee at the worst possible moment. Future residents will also have the Pearlene M. Bransford Complex nearby, with plans for an inclusive playground, football and lacrosse fields and an educational walking trail along the Harpeth River. Of course, sometimes the sense of home comes from the little things. Sidewalks. Streetlights. Culde-sacs. A clubhouse and fire pit. These everyday features can easily be overlooked, but they create opportunities for neighbors to meet, children to play and families to feel connected. “The key word is community. It has become not just a noun, but an adjective and a lifestyle,” Ford says.
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Ultimately, home is where the ordinary moments become the meaningful ones. “Home is where you are finally able to take a breath at the end of the day. Where you can sit and watch a show on the couch, catch up with your children after a day at school, cook, and relax,” Ford says. Colletta was developed by Ford Classic Homes and features a builder's guild that includes Ford Classic Homes, Legend Homes, Insignia Homes, Birchwood Homes and Stonegate Homes. New homes are available now and listed by Fridrich and Clark Realty. In the end, the art of coming home may not be about escaping the busy world altogether. It may simply be about having a place that gives you permission to pause, look around and remember that sometimes the best plan for the evening is nowhere to go at all. CollettaTN.com
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SAGEHAIRCOMPANY.COM 615-599-5339 188 FRONT ST, SUITE 120, FRANKLIN, TN OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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Tenne s see's S weet e s t Cont r ibut ions How the Volunteer State Helped Shape America's Candy and Beverage Culture
When people think of Tennessee, country music, barbecue, and whiskey often come to mind. But we have other claims to fame: a sweet history. From Nashville's Goo Goo Cluster to Chattanooga's role in bottling Coca-Cola, Tennessee has given the world some of its most beloved treats and drinks. Here are four stories that prove it.
ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON
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Courtesy of Standard Candy Co.
The Goo Goo Cluster:
A Tennessee Dentist
Nashville's Original Candy Bar
Invented Cotton Candy
There was a time when candy bars didn't come in endless varieties. Then a Nashville confection changed the industry forever. In 1912, Standard Candy Company changed the candy business for good. Most bars back then were built around a single ingredient, but Howell Campbell Sr. and plant supervisor Porter Moore had a better idea. They combined marshmallow nougat, caramel, roasted peanuts, and milk chocolate into one bar, mixed by hand in a copper kettle at the company's Nashville factory. They called it the Goo Goo Cluster, and its rounded shape made it stand out. More than a century later, the Goo Goo Cluster is still made right here in Nashville and remains one of Tennessee’s most recognizable candy exports. Visitors can explore the candy's legacy at Goo Goo Chocolate Co. in downtown Nashville, where the story of this sweet treat continues to delight and proves Nashville's creativity shows up in more than just music.
Here's a fun one, and it may be the last profession you'd expect behind a sugar-filled candy: a dentist. In 1897, Nashville dentist Dr. William Morrison teamed up with confectioner John C. Wharton to build a machine that spun heated sugar into delicate strands. They called the result "Fairy Floss," and it made its debut at the 1904 World's Fair, where fairgoers snapped up more than 68,000 boxes, making it one of the fair's biggest hits. The name eventually evolved into "cotton candy," but the treat itself never changed. It's still that same cloud of spun sugar that melts almost the moment it touches your tongue. Today it's everywhere from state fairs to ballgames, and hardly anyone asking for it at the concession stand knows it was started by a Tennessee dentist. CONTINUED >
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Knoxville's Contribution:
Chattanooga
Mountain Dew
and the Birth of Bottled Coca-Cola
Before it became a soda aisle staple, Mountain Dew was really just a fix for a personal problem. In the 1940s, Knoxville bottlers Barney and Ally Hartman were frustrated they couldn't find a citrus mixer they actually liked to pair with their whiskey, so they made their own. Their lemon-lime creation would eventually become the foundation of the drink we know today. The name came straight from Appalachian slang for moonshine, a nod to the East Tennessee mountain culture that inspired the whole recipe. What started as a regional mixer for local drinkers grew into one of the best-selling soft drinks in the country. The formula has changed quite a bit since the Hartmans' kitchen table version, but the Tennessee roots and the name have stuck around.
Few business deals have ever paid off quite like the one struck in Chattanooga in 1899. Attorneys Benjamin Thomas and Joseph Whitehead bought the rights to bottle Coca-Cola for a single dollar, back when the drink was sold almost entirely at soda fountains. Bottling it for wider distribution was still an unproven idea at the time. The Chattanooga operation proved it could work, turning a regional fountain treat into a portable, nationwide product almost overnight. That first bottling plant became the model that plants across the country would follow, helping fuel Coca-Cola's growth into a global brand. More than a century later, Chattanooga's role in that story is still a point of local pride, and a nice reminder of what a bold idea and a single dollar can do.
G IV IN G BAC K | TRAVEL
“From Nashville’s Goo Goo Cluster to Chattanooga’s role in bottling Coca-Cola, Tennessee has given the world some of its most beloved treats and drinks.”
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COCKTAIL CARRIAGE BRINGS THE BAR TO THE PARTY ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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“TO US, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE IS THE ART OF MAKING EVERY GUEST FEEL INSTANTLY WELCOMED, CARED FOR, AND VALUED. A GREAT COCKTAIL CAN START A CONVERSATION, BUT REMARKABLE HOSPITALITY CREATES A CORE MEMORY.” HANNAH YACONIS What if the bar wasn't just where you grabbed a drink, but one of the best parts of the party? That is exactly the idea behind Cocktail Carriage, a luxury mobile bartending service created by Matt Watson and Hannah Yaconis to bring elevated cocktails, beautiful bar setups, and genuine hospitality to celebrations throughout Middle Tennessee. After years in the hospitality industry, the couple noticed something interesting. Hosts were putting enormous thought into their venues, florals, food, and decor, yet the bar was often treated as little more than a place to pour a drink. They saw an opportunity to turn it into something guests would actually notice, enjoy, and remember. Cocktail Carriage combines custom mobile bars and carriage setups with professional bartenders, handcrafted cocktails, and menus designed specifically for each event. The result is a bar experience that feels less like an add-on and more like another carefully considered element of the celebration. “What truly sets us apart is our relentless commitment to detail, aesthetic elegance, and flawless execution. When clients work with Cocktail Carriage, they aren't just hiring bartenders; they are bringing a polished, end-to-end luxury bar experience to their guests,” says Matt. And yes, the drinks matter. Fresh-squeezed juices, artisanal syrups, and thoughtfully selected garnishes help create cocktails that feel worthy of the occasion. But the experience starts before the first pour. Cocktail Carriage works with clients to understand their tastes, favorite spirits, event style, and even the story they want their celebration to tell. That might mean creating a signature cocktail for a bride and groom, designing a pair of "His & Hers" drinks, or building an entire mocktail menu for guests who prefer something alcohol-free. Custom printed bar menus and drink styling can also tie the experience into the larger event design.
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“WHAT TRULY SETS US APART IS OUR RELENTLESS COMMITMENT TO DETAIL, AESTHETIC ELEGANCE, AND FLAWLESS EXECUTION.” - MATT WATSON
In other words, there is no one-size-fits-all cocktail menu. Hospitality is just as important. The team believes the best bartenders do more than make great drinks. They know how to read a room, keep the bar moving, stay organized, and make guests feel welcome. Because when the bar becomes the social hub of a party, the people behind it can set the tone for the entire evening. “To us, exceptional service is the art of making every guest feel instantly welcomed, cared for, and valued. A great cocktail can start a conversation, but remarkable hospitality creates a core memory,” notes Hannah. Cocktail Carriage is at home at just about any celebration. Weddings and engagement parties are a natural fit, especially because they allow the team to become part of such meaningful milestones. But they also love intimate dinner parties, milestone birthdays, corporate gatherings, community events, and celebrations with friends. And now, the couple has another reason to appreciate the wedding world: They recently got engaged themselves. “Experiencing the engagement process firsthand has given us an entirely new level of empathy and appreciation for our clients. Stepping into the shoes of a couple planning a major milestone deepens your understanding of just how meaningful every single vendor relationship is,” Matt notes. As they look toward their own wedding and the future of Cocktail Carriage, they are excited about creating more celebrations that feel personal rather than cookie-cutter. Think elegant barn weddings, garden parties at private estates, rehearsal dinners under the stars, and sophisticated gatherings where every detail feels intentional. They are also focused on building something special behind the scenes. When Watson and Yaconis onboard new bartenders, they emphasize teamwork and having one another's backs. Their goal is to create a team that speaks highly of each other even when no one else is listening and that treats clients and guests with the same sense of family. That approach fits naturally into the Williamson County community they love. With its appreciation for entertaining, gathering, and supporting local businesses, Middle Tennessee provides plenty of opportunities for Cocktail Carriage to make an entrance. “We hope Cocktail Carriage continues to bring a fresh level of refinement, craftsmanship, and joy to the local event scene, helping our neighbors celebrate their finest moments with unique style and genuine hospitality.” Because sometimes the difference between a good party and an unforgettable one really does come down to what is happening behind the bar! CocktailCarriageLLC.com
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It’s Smile Season! Now is the perfect time to ensure your child’s smile is ready for the season.
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Compass Real Estate Advisors, LLC · 4031 Aspen Grove Drive, Suite 400 · Franklin, TN · 37067 · (615) 475-5616 Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
20 Years as Your Trusted Solar Partner For two decades, LightWave has helped Tennessee homeowners and businesses invest in something bigger than solar panels. We’ve helped them build resilience, gain greater energy independence and prepare for whatever tomorrow brings. Thank you for trusting us for the past 20 years. Here’s to the next 20.
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615.641.4050 | LightWaveSolar.com 90
TAKE THE Backroads On A TREASURE HUNT... With Snacks HOW ONE WILLIAMSON COUNTY FARMSTAND STARTED A NATIONWIDE FIND ARTICLE BY ATHENA WEST | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
There are plenty of things worth getting out of the house for: a good cup of coffee, a great sale, maybe the promise of tacos. But for Amy Elrite, the perfect excuse to hit the country roads was a little more wholesome… and considerably more likely to come with fresh eggs. When Elrite opened The Pick-Up Spot Farmstand in Williamson County two years ago, she knew of only three other farmstands in the area. She loved having her own stand, but she also loved visiting the others. Every stop had its own personality, its own products and, usually, its own story. And that's when she had a thought: Why should visitors stop at just one? Elrite grabbed a pen and drew a simple map of farmstands around Leiper's Fork. She also started a Facebook group called Farmstand Finds by Leiper's Fork, hoping to connect the people running these little roadside businesses with the people eager to find them. “The idea was simple: when someone came to my stand, I wanted them to know there were other wonderful little stands just down the road worth visiting, too,” she says. In other words, no farmstand left behind. That hand-drawn map, however, had a greater sense of adventure than anyone expected. As more farmstands popped up and more people started looking for them,
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the map grew beyond Leiper's Fork, then beyond Williamson County, then Tennessee. Before long, a local idea had turned into Local Farmstand Finds, a nationwide website helping people locate those charming, often tucked-away stands that can be easy to miss if you're traveling too fast. And people, it turns out, are happy to slow down. The website has become an unexpected tool for agritourism, giving visitors another reason to trade the interstate for the backroads. Families visiting Williamson County can add farmstands to their itineraries, while locals can pull up the map when they travel and find farmstands in other parts of Tennessee and across the country. “A stop at a farmstand becomes part of the trip itself,” Elrite says. It's easy to see why. A farmstand detour might mean fresh produce, warm sourdough, a bouquet of flowers, homemade jam, or something you didn't know you needed until you saw it sitting on a shelf in a little red barn. Here at home, Local Farmstand Finds now features official Williamson County and Leiper's Fork Farmstand Trails, giving residents and visitors an ongoing excuse to explore. No need to wait for a special one-day event. Just gas up the car and see where the road (and the map) takes you.
The Pick-Up Spot Farmstand
Rose Leigh Farm
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Mangrums Farmstand
As the idea expanded, Elrite also realized the people behind the farmstands needed a place to connect. Many are farmers, bakers, gardeners, homesteaders, and makers running small businesses from the end of a driveway or a tiny shed on their property. That inspired the American Farmstand Association, an organization created to support, connect, and promote the people making this little slice of local commerce possible. Then came the Farmstand Crawls, which essentially turn an ordinary Saturday afternoon into a treasure hunt with better snacks. Guests travel from stand to stand, discovering local products with plenty of surprises along the way. “The best part is getting to meet the people who grew, baked, or made what they're bringing home,” Elrite says. The next adventure is the Carters Creek Fall Farmstand Crawl on Oct. 25, featuring stands on and near Carters Creek Pike.
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Then, when the fall leaves give way to twinkle lights, Elrite is taking the concept into the holiday season with Cocoa & Country Roads, running Nov. 28 through Dec. 13 in Williamson County and at participating farmstands nationwide. The two-week event encourages shoppers to skip at least some of the big-box madness and find gifts, holiday treats and seasonal goodies from local makers, bakers and farmers instead. It may even give seasonal farmstands a reason to stay open a little longer, offering everything from holiday baking and handmade gifts to cocoa, winter products and festive experiences. Not bad for an idea that started with a simple hand-drawn map. And if you happen to come home with a loaf of sourdough, a dozen eggs, and three jars of jam you absolutely did not plan to buy, well, that's just part of the journey. Find the nationwide farmstand map, official trails, and upcoming events at LocalFarmstandFinds.com.
A FEW FARMSTANDS TO VISIT The Little Farmhouse On Henpeck • 2340 Henpeck Lane, Franklin TN • Open everyday from sun up to sundown • @thelittlefarmhouseonhenpeck
Mangrums Farmstand • 5320 Hargrove Rd. Franklin, TN • 8am-8pm • @mangrums_farmstand
The Pick-Up Spot Farmstand • 5890 Davis Hollow Rd, Franklin • Always open • @the_pick_up_spot
Meadowbrook Farm 1850 • 3514 Baer Creek Rd., Franklin • Monday through Friday 10:30 to 5 and Saturdays 11 to 4. • @meadowbrookharvest1850
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PUMPKINFEST GETS A LITTLE B I G G E R—B U T T H E H E A R T O F F R A N K L I N S TAYS T H E S A M E
ARTICLE BY MARIA O'MALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY HERITAGE FOUNDATION OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY & KRIS RAE
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There are certain signs that fall has arrived in Franklin: crisp mornings, mums on front porches, pumpkins filling shop windows and that unmistakable energy building along Main Street. And then there’s PumpkinFest. For more than four decades, this beloved tradition has brought generations of families together in Historic Downtown Franklin. This year, the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County’s 41st Annual PumpkinFest returns October 24–25, 2026 and for the first time in festival history, the celebration will span an entire weekend.
“This is an exciting next chapter for a tradition that means so much to Franklin,” says Maria O’Malley, manager of the Downtown Franklin Association. “PumpkinFest is about more than fall festivities. It’s about gathering together, supporting our neighbors and celebrating this extraordinary place we’ve been entrusted to steward.” And if anyone wonders whether Franklin needs the extra day, last year provided a convincing answer: more than 135,000 people attended PumpkinFest in a single day. Apparently, Franklin really loves fall. This year, guests will have two days to explore more than 140 arts and crafts vendors, 30 food and beverage vendors, three stages of live entertainment, KidZone, seasonal treats and the beloved PumpkinFest costume contests. But some of the best experiences won’t be found on the festival schedule. You stop for coffee and talk to the owner. You wander into a boutique “just to look.” Lunch suddenly sounds like a good idea. Your children spot friends across the street. Before you know it, a quick PumpkinFest outing has become an afternoon downtown. That’s Franklin. “There’s a warmth here that’s difficult to manufacture,” O’Malley says. “It’s the historic buildings, but it’s also the shopkeeper who remembers your name, families walking Main Street together and business owners who genuinely care about this community.”
The Scarecrow Crawl gives visitors another reason to explore, with participating downtown businesses offering treats, discounts and special experiences throughout the historic district. For the Downtown Franklin Association, that connection between historic preservation and economic vitality matters. Main Street may provide the beautiful backdrop, but locally owned businesses and the people behind them give downtown its soul. A thriving Main Street helps sustain businesses occupying historic buildings, while preservation protects the distinctive character that continues to draw people here generation after generation. “When you choose to spend your dollars with a locally owned business downtown, you’re doing something bigger than making a purchase,” O’Malley says. “You’re supporting a family, an entrepreneur and a dream. In a very real way, you’re casting a vote for the kind of community you want Franklin to remain.” Franklin’s streets and buildings also carry chapters of our nation’s history. Preserving them requires CONTINUED >
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THE D E TA I L S : 41st Annual PumpkinFest October 24–25, 2026 Historic Downtown Franklin Saturday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free & family-friendly
more than admiring beautiful architecture. It requires a community willing to care for what previous generations entrusted to us. “I believe stewardship matters,” O’Malley says. “We’ve been blessed with something incredibly special here. Honoring those who came before us while thoughtfully preparing Franklin for those who come after us is a responsibility worth taking seriously.” Yet the moments families remember may be much simpler: grandparents watching grandchildren walk Main Street, neighbors catching up, children proudly showing off costumes or introducing an out-of-town friend to Franklin for the first time. That’s what makes a historic downtown worth preserving. It isn’t simply the architecture. It’s the life happening within it. So this October, come for the pumpkins, costumes, food and music but stay long enough to wander. Step inside our shops. Meet the people behind them. Look up at the buildings. Spend locally. Make a memory. Because PumpkinFest may be getting bigger, but its heart remains wonderfully and distinctly Franklin. williamsonheritage.org/events/pumpkinfest/
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All features, amenities or other representations shown are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that any of the features, amenities or other representations depicted or described will be built or performed at all. No warranty or representation, expressed or implied, is made to the accuracy of the information contained herein. This does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy real estate in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law or in any jurisdiction where registration or other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Equal Housing Opportunity. Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. ©2026 Firefly Holdings Tennessee, LLC. All rights reserved.
THE MOMENT HAS ARRIVED. ANDREW GREEN-DESIGNED COURSE NOW OPEN
andrew green championship golf course and short course tennis | pickleball | swimming pools | fitness center | trails | bowling golf simulators | music hall | dining
ARTICLE BY STEF GORMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN CREASON
AT THE TABLE WITH STEF
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A F A L L G AT H E R I N G AT C R O W N W I N E R Y
There’s just something about fall in Tennessee that makes me want to gather my people. Maybe it’s that first cool morning, football on the television, or the simple joy of lighting a candle and putting something delicious on the table. Fall makes me want to slow down, open the door, and say, “Come on over.” And honestly, that’s what hospitality should feel like. It doesn’t require a perfectly set table or three days of preparation. Sometimes all you need is a bottle of wine, something good to nibble on, and people you love around the table. One of the best parts of being a business owner is getting to know other women who are building something meaningful in our community. That's what led me to Dawn Fallert of Crown Winery. We both believe hospitality starts with making people feel welcome and creating spaces where guests feel valued, connected, and part of a community. As gathering season arrives, Dawn and I found ourselves talking about hospitality, entrepreneurship, and the importance of women supporting women.
"When people walk through our doors at Crown Winery, we want them to feel welcome, that they're seen and that we're genuinely happy they're here," Dawn says. "We never know what kind of day someone is having, so we hope they leave with kindness, appreciation, and community. We want Crown Winery to be their happy place." I couldn't agree more. People may come for the wine or the food, but they remember how they felt when they were there. That's what hospitality is all about. We agree that gathering people together doesn't require perfection. Whether hosting friends at home or welcoming guests into our businesses, the goal is creating an atmosphere where people feel comfortable enough to connect. For Dawn, some of the most rewarding moments have come from seeing relationships form naturally. "Watching complete strangers become friends during a tasting has reminded me that we're not all that different," she says. "It's taught me the value of a smile, a listening ear, and the simple joy that comes from bringing people together. That's good for the soul." CONTINUED >
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"FALL MAKES ME WANT TO SLOW DOWN, OPEN THE DOOR, AND SAY, “COME ON OVER.” AND HONESTLY, THAT’S WHAT HOSPITALITY SHOULD FEEL LIKE." STEF GORMAN
The same philosophy carries into the way we both approach entertaining. Dawn says cheese is always a staple when she's hosting, though a loaded hummus topped with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, and feta is another favorite.
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I take a simple approach as well, always adding something unexpected. Manchego cheese is one of my favorites because it cuts beautifully into little wedges and always looks elegant on the board. Next, I add rich, savory meats like prosciutto or salami and, because we're in the South, a little pimento cheese. One of my favorite additions is smoked peach habanero jam. It's sweet, smoky, has just enough heat, and pairs beautifully with Manchego. I finish with apples, pears, figs, or grapes, pecans, good crackers, and a little dark chocolate tucked into an empty corner. My charcuterie boards are never about perfection. They're about making people feel comfortable enough to linger. Of course, no fall gathering is complete without the wine. Dawn recommends Crown Winery's Leiper's Fork Cayuga White paired with a double-cream Brie topped with fig jam. For red wine lovers, she suggests the Leiper's Fork Red alongside smoked salmon or savory meats like salami. And with Thanksgiving around the corner, she says Crown's Cranberry Rosé is a favorite for welcoming guests and serving throughout the meal. My advice? Don't stress over perfect pairings. Taste, experiment, and discover what you love. There are no grades at the end of girls' night.
Food and wine may bring people to the table, but the experience goes far beyond what's being served. Owning Fork of the South has taught me that what we sell and what we create aren't always the same thing. We may serve tea, wine, food, or gather around a mahjong table, but what we're really creating is connection. That idea extends beyond hospitality and into entrepreneurship. One of the most meaningful parts of our conversation centered on the relationships we've built with other women business owners and the support we've received along the way. "I've been incredibly fortunate to work alongside so many amazing women," Dawn says. "Their generosity, resilience, and willingness to support one another continue to inspire
me. Collaborating with other women business owners has strengthened our business, made the journey more meaningful and, honestly, a lot more fun." The best gatherings aren't remembered because every detail was perfect. They're remembered because the people around the table mattered. So don't save the good cheese, the pretty board, or the bottle you've been waiting to open. Your people coming over is the occasion. Light the candle. Open the wine. Then pull up another chair. There's always room at the table. ForkOfTheSouth.com
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Red Pony
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Merridee's Breadbasket
@franklinfoodz Is the Instagram Account Doing the Delicious Work So You Don't Have To
ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY @FRANKLINFOODZ
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If you live in Franklin and you haven't already hit follow on @franklinfoodz, consider this your sign. The Instagram account run by a local husband and wife duo has become one of Middle Tennessee's trusted guides to the ever-expanding dining scene in our own backyard. It's a love letter to the restaurants that make Franklin such a remarkable place to eat. @franklinfoodz shows
Hogwood BBQ
up hungry and has never met a plate they weren't willing to share their opinion on. We sat down with the couple behind the account to learn how it all started and how they keep it real. Anonymous by design, they’re perfectly happy to let the food and fun steal the show. How would you describe @franklinfoodz? What is it and who is it for? @franklinfoodz is a local culinary guide run by a husband-and-wife duo passionate about highlighting the best of Williamson County dining. We are local foodies who grew up in Franklin, and we try to blend a combination of honoring long time local spots with shared excitement for new dining experiences. We built it as a trusted resource for locals, newcomers, and weekend visitors looking to discover incredible meals, standout coffee, and the hidden neighborhood spots that make our community special. What made you want to create it? It really started naturally. We’ve always loved documenting our meals, coffee stops, and dessert runs whenever we went out. Eventually, we realized we had this huge collection of photos that we would refer
back to and a genuine enthusiasm for Franklin’s dining scene. We wanted to create a central space to showcase the places we truly love eating at, celebrate local kitchens, and give our community a visual guide to the best spots in town. Walk us through what a typical day looks like. How do you decide where to eat and what to post? It usually starts with a running list of spots we’re excited to visit, whether it's a new opening or a local staple we haven’t been to in a while. Since we both love cooking and baking at home, dining out is something we truly look forward to planning. We’re always on the hunt for incredible flavors and great presentation, so on those days, we love capturing the food and space in real time and sharing the standout dishes our followers need to try. Franklin has a mix of longtime local institutions and exciting new arrivals. How do you balance celebrating the places that have been here forever with shining a light on what's new and worth trying? We see them as two sides of the same coin. Since we grew up here, there’s something so comforting about our longtime local staples—places with deep history CONTINUED >
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Little Hats Italian Market
“We’ve always loved documenting our meals, coffee stops, and dessert runs whenever we went out. Eventually, we realized we had this huge collection of photos that we would refer back to and a genuine enthusiasm for Franklin’s dining scene.”
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where you can count on the food to deliver time and time again. It gives our growing community the “small town feel” that everyone loves about Franklin. With new spots, we love the excitement of trying fresh concepts and seeing how they measure up. Beautiful aesthetics and great vibes might draw people in initially, but if the quality of the food doesn't match, diners won't come back. At the end of the day, flavor creates longevity—and every beloved local institution was once the new kid on the block. We are trying to find those spots that people will want to revisit time and time again. Is there a meal, a dish, or a restaurant experience that stands out above everything else? It’s impossible to pick just one because Franklin offers incredible experiences across different times of day. For breakfast, it’s hard to beat “The Throwback Early
Riser” at Puckett’s in downtown Franklin or a breakfast sandwich at The Country Boy. For dinner, we love the ambience and bold flavors at Red Pony. And for a special night out, Sperry’s sets the standard for quality and service—from their exceptional steakhouse service and quality cuts down to finishing the meal with their classic tableside Bananas Foster. What do you look for beyond the food itself? Do atmosphere, service, value, and presentation factor into how you cover a place? Absolutely. A great dish is only part of the equation—atmosphere, presentation, service, and value all weigh heavily into how we view a place. Exceptional service or a warm, inviting space can transform a good meal into an unforgettable memory. When a kitchen pays attention to those details, it shows they genuinely care about the guest's total experience, and that’s what keeps people coming back.
Culaccino Italian Restaurant and Bar
1799 Kitchen & Bar Room
Franklin's food scene has exploded in recent years. What do you think is driving that growth? Franklin has become such a desirable place to live, raise a family, and build a business, so a thriving culinary scene is a natural extension of that growth. As more people call Franklin home, there’s a real demand for thoughtful, scratch-made menus and standout dining experiences in order to bring people in. Talented chefs and operators recognize that locals here appreciate quality and want to support great food right in our own backyard, without always having to drive into Nashville. We truly desire a community feel here in Franklin, and we love supporting local businesses when we eat out. Do you venture outside of Franklin to Brentwood, Nashville, or other neighboring communities? While our heart is rooted in Franklin, we frequently venture into Nashville and surrounding pockets when
we find something special or hear about a great dining experience. We view @franklinfoodz as a curated guide for local food lovers, so if a dish or restaurant outside our immediate city limits delivers an exceptional experience, we’re excited to share it. Where do you see @franklinfoodz going from here? Do you partner with restaurants? Do you want to grow your following? Our goal is simply to keep growing alongside Franklin and continue showcasing the incredible culinary talent here. We love partnering with local restaurants—especially when it gives us a chance to share the history of a beloved staple or spotlight a new seasonal menu. While seeing our audience grow is exciting, what we love most is having an engaged community of followers who genuinely look forward to our posts and rely on us to guide their next great meal out. @franklinfoodz
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888 Is Nashville's Most Intriguing New Restaurant
ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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There is a door on 8th Avenue South with a red light above it. No sign and no bold indication of what's really inside. The almost anonymous entry is the first clue that 888 is unlike anything else. Created by Turnberry, the operators behind Bourbon Steak and the JW Marriott Nashville, 888 is a Japanese dining experience at 800 Clark Place that draws inspiration from the jazz kissas of Japan, intimate listening bars where food and music existed side
Cotton candy bonsai tree Photo by: Maria Dinoia
by side. The concept of food and sound as equal partners runs through everything at 888, from the rice program in the kitchen to the handcrafted hornloaded speakers on the wall. The name comes from hachi, the Japanese word for eight. Eight is a number associated with rhythm, repetition, and continuity as well as a number that signals abundance and good fortune. Triple it, and there’s no way to avoid all that goodness. At the center of 888's culinary program is Master Sushi Chef Kiichi Okabe, whose career spans decades in Michelin-recognized kitchens and globally respected Japanese restaurants across Japan, Singapore, Dubai, the Maldives, and Los Angeles. At 888, he leads The Kounter, the sushi bar experience that is at the heart of the restaurant. Chef’s rice program, a shari recipe refined over the years, uses top-grade Japanese rice and a vinegar blend so the savory rice supports and complements the fish. The fish is selected through long-standing brokers out of the Japanese markets, held to a standard of texture, fat content, and age. Signature dishes include nigiri, maki, cured salmon onigiri, donabe fried rice, and chicken karaage. The tempura asparagus is a must-have starter. 888’s beverage program is equally exceptional, showcasing an extensive selection of Japanese products including craft beers, rare whiskies, and a curated sake program. To really appreciate 888, you have to understand that it is as much a listening experience as it is a dining one. The acoustics and sound system were meticulously crafted by a collection of talent: award-winning Steven Durr Designs, Soundlux Audio, and Devon Turnbull. Durr, a Nashville native, has worked with Lenny Kravitz and Taylor Swift and brought his expertise to many legendary recording spaces. The setup includes specially crafted horn-loaded speakers, based on vintage Altec Lansing designs, considered by expert musicians to be the most musical speakers ever created. The result is a high-performance, handmade sound system where the music is not background noise, but part of the actual experience. With a seating capacity of 100, including two sushi bars, a private dining room, and a central cocktail island, 888 is both intimate and communal at the same time. The interior was designed by Los Angeles-based Commune. Co-founder Roman Alonso drew his inspiration directly from the kissa bars he visited while working in Japan. 888 is for the food lover, for the vinyl connoisseur, for the design enthusiast, or for anyone, really, who believes that a truly great evening out should engage all five senses at the same time. 888Nashville.com OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / F R A N KL I N
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THE FIELD-TO-PLATE VISION OF COLEEN JANEWAY
ARTICLE BY COLEEN JANEWAY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
In the quiet hours before dawn, when the dew still clings to the soil, Coleen Janeway is already listening to the land. As a Master Gardener, chef, and the guiding force behind Alchemy Greens, Janeway operates at the rare intersection of agronomy and culinary art. Her work is not about yielding a quick crop; it is a profound exercise in environmental stewardship and a lifelong devotion to everything sprouted, grown, and harvested. Janeway’s philosophy is deeply rooted in her background in plant-based foods. Long before field-to-plate dining became a gastronomic trend, she was exploring the quiet alchemy of turning raw, sun-ripened ingredients into vibrant, nourishing meals. This culinary intuition directly informs her landscape design. When she creates chef gardens, she isn’t just plotting raised beds and irrigation lines; she is mapping out menus months in advance. “I anticipate how the peppery bite of early arugula or the rich earthiness of late-season squash will eventually anchor a meal in your kitchen,” says Janeway. Beyond private homes and estates, her dedication to green spaces extends into the heart of her community. She frequently lends her expertise to local garden clubs and historical societies, volunteering to restore and preserve historic public parks so their living heritage can thrive for generations to come. “I want to plant the tree your grandchildren will pick fruit from,” says Janeway. Her vision shines just as brightly in private realms through breathtaking ornamental, rustic, and cottage landscape vignettes that create legacy gardens to protect your investment. These spaces are designed to endure and evolve, blending wild beauty with meticulous execution. Janeway possesses a rare ability to elevate any outdoor space, transforming overlooked plots into thriving ecosystems. A legacy garden under her care feels less like a manicured installation and more like a sanctuary that has belonged to the earth for centuries. Ultimately, the heart of Janeway’s contribution lies in her holistic field-to-plate offerings. “Through Alchemy Greens, I am doing more than beautifying spaces; I am cultivating a vital, enduring connection between people and the natural world that sustains them,” says Janeway. She weaves the labor of the land directly into the fabric of the table, reminding us that exquisite flavor is ultimately the reward of a hands-on reverence for nature. AlchemyGreens.com
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A Garden Dreams are made of... Services & Signature Offerings: Full Garden & Seasonal Landscape Design Custom Site Planning | Seasonal Application | Installation Bespoke garden layouts engineered for both visual impact and ecological vitality. From spring preparation to autumn succession planting, we design, install, and transition your personal estate garden through every season.
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Culinary & Educational Workshops Edible Gardens | Skinfood Prep | Plant-Based Alchemy Hands-on learning sessions held in your garden or green space. Learn how to cultivate, harvest, and craft seasonal plants into raw plant-based dishes, nutrient-dense meals, and pure skinfood formulations.
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A Quarter Century of Raising a Glass for a Cause Wine Down Main Street celebrates 25 years of wine, food, music and community in downtown Franklin
Some traditions are worth keeping, especially when they involve a glass of wine, a stroll down Main Street and a really good reason to celebrate. On Saturday, Nov. 7, Wine Down Main Street returns to historic downtown Franklin for its 25th anniversary, bringing together wine lovers, foodies, shoppers and philanthropists for what has become one of Middle Tennessee’s most anticipated nights out. From 7 to 10 p.m., Franklin’s Main Street will transform into a lively tasting experience, with more than 20 locally owned shops opening their doors to guests. Along the way, attendees can sample wines from around the world, enjoy bites from area restaurants and listen to live entertainment. For Denise Carothers, Chief Development Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee, the longevity of the event is something worth celebrating all on its own. “Twenty-five years is a pretty incredible milestone,” Carothers says. “What started as a great night out has grown into a tradition that brings the community together year after year, all while making a meaningful difference for local kids.” And if the name Wine Down Main Street sounds familiar, there’s a reason. The event has earned a reputation as “The Best Night Out All Year,” a title that is perhaps easier to understand once the evening gets underway.
ARTICLE BY DENISE CAROTHERS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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Guests can wander from shop to shop, glass in hand, discovering new wines and enjoying the personality of downtown Franklin along the way. The event’s partnership with Lipman Brothers, Nashville’s oldest and largest distributor of wine and spirits, brings an especially curated selection of wines to the celebration. “You don’t have to be a wine expert to enjoy Wine Down Main Street,” Carothers says. “It really is about getting together with friends, discovering something new, enjoying great food and music, and being part of something bigger than yourself.” That last part is what makes the evening more than just another night on the town. Every ticket purchased helps support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee, which provides after-school and summer programs for young people ages 5 to 18. The organization’s programs focus on everything from academic support and character development to mentorship and creating safe, positive places for kids to spend their time.
“It’s a wonderful example of how a community can have fun and give back at the same time,” Carothers says. “The proceeds help us provide programs and opportunities that can truly change the trajectory of a young person’s life.” That mission gives the evening a little extra sparkle. Guests may arrive looking forward to discovering a favorite new wine or sampling something delicious, but they leave knowing their night out helped create opportunities for young people across Middle Tennessee. And there is plenty to look forward to beyond the wine. The combination of locally owned businesses, restaurants, live entertainment and Franklin’s historic setting makes the event feel distinctly local — and distinctly Franklin.
For those who have attended before, the 25th anniversary is an opportunity to return to a favorite tradition. For newcomers, it may be the perfect year to see what all the fuss is about. “After 25 years, Wine Down Main Street really has become part of the fabric of this community,” Carothers says. “We’re excited to celebrate that history and, at the same time, look ahead to all the young people we’ll be able to impact in the years to come.” The event is rain or shine and is open exclusively to guests 21 and older. A valid photo ID is required for entry, and children, infants and pets are not permitted. So, gather your friends, put on something you can comfortably walk Main Street in and raise a glass to 25 years of a Franklin tradition that proves a great night out can do a whole lot of good. Because when wine, community and a good cause meet on Main Street, there’s plenty worth toasting. For tickets and event information, visit WineDownMainStreet.com
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SWEET BY DESIGN Mark & Evane Stoner, a.k.a. Poppy & Peep
POPPY & PEEP IS ONE OF NASHVILLE'S MOST EXTRAORDINARY CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCES ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIERRA RUIZ
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There is a small campus off the beaten path in Nashville where two chocolate-themed Airbnbs sit beside a 1,500-square-foot production kitchen, and where some of the most exquisitely hand-painted chocolates in the country are being made by a small team of people. It is, as founder Evane Stoner puts it, "destination chocolate." You have to really want to find it. And once you do, you will wonder how you ever lived without it. Poppy & Peep Chocolate, the father-daughter brand that Stoner has been building for the last 10 years, is one of Nashville's quiet culinary stories. The origin story of the creative young woman, her entrepreneurial father, and a converted one-bedroom apartment that became their first production facility reads like folklore. Stoner's father, a man in the chimney industry, found himself at the Javits Center in New York trying to sell chimney franchises. Nobody wanted them. But he spotted a chocolate fudge concept nearby, and something clicked. He called his daughter, Evane. "I've been a creative since I was five," she says. "I made lemonade and brownies and I think anybody from my high school would tell you that I was always selling something and always just very artsy." In college, she was making and selling jewelry at fairs and festivals. The pivot to chocolate felt natural. "We started in the chocolate industry in 2016 when we sold fudge at kiosks at Cool Springs Galleria and Opry Mills," says Stoner. "We had a hard time getting supplies from our suppliers at the time, so we decided to just become our own manufacturer of chocolate." They found a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment and converted it into a chocolate shop, and for three and a half years, they made everything out of 700 square feet. Today, they operate out of a 1,500-square-foot production kitchen and, as of recently, have just closed on a building two doors down from their existing facility. The campus is growing. CONTINUED >
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Poppy & Peep is named for the relationship at its center. "We wanted something that meant dad and daughter, like father-daughter," Stoner says. Her father remains involved behind the scenes. "He's very involved in the equipment and we're getting a new facility, so he's involved in a lot of the strawberry machines and chocolate covered strawberries in that world," Stoner says. "He is much more involved than I think people would think, but he's not always on the site." What truly sets Poppy & Peep apart in the artisan food landscape is the painting. Using the same tools and fine instruments used to create intricate nail designs, Stoner and her team paint directly onto chocolate domes with cocoa butter, creating pieces of edible art that are, simply put, extraordinary. "There's no one in town that is painting as much as we are," she says. "We're really doing a lot of painting. It's much more difficult than a box of chocolate that has just enrobed dark chocolate and things like that. So we enjoy that." The designs range from seasonal collections to custom commissions — logos, watches, even a rendering of the Masters tournament flag. "Yes, we made some chocolate for the Masters and we've made very intricate things like Rolexes, Crowns." The cocoa butter paint has an eighteen-month shelf life, making it one of the few elements of their production that can be prepared in advance. For the holidays, she is currently working on a collection that she hopes will blend the nostalgic warmth of traditional Christmas imagery
with something that speaks to a younger, more design-forward aesthetic. "I kind of want to blend with modern and traditional," she says. Stoner takes sourcing seriously as well. The beanto-bar chocolate line at Poppy & Peep is sourced from Uncommon Cacao, a San Francisco-based cooperative, that Stoner says is "very transparent, traceable, and has sustainable relationships with cacao farmers." Local honeys, sugars, and edible flowers round out a sourcing philosophy that favors knowing exactly what is in the chocolate and where it came from. In her chocolate classes, which have recently opened to the general public, Stoner teaches participants to understand the difference between a mass-market chocolate bar and a bean-to-bar product. "When you're buying a beanto-bar chocolate bar, you really see three ingredients. It's cocoa nibs, cocoa butter and sugar, and that's pretty much it," she says. "A lot of palm oil and other things are inside of regular candy and chocolate bars because chocolate itself is so expensive, they add in oils and things like that to cut it to make it last longer." The classes cover everything from roasting processes to chocolate and wine pairing to the multiday art of making chocolate bonbons. There are even classes dedicated to the Mondiant — ultrathin chocolate discs adorned with toppings of the participant's choosing. It is education as entertainment, and it reflects Stoner's belief that the story of chocolate is one she loves telling.
“I’ve been a creative since I was five,” she says. “I made lemonade and brownies and I think anybody from my high school would tell you that I was always selling something and always just very artsy.” —Evane Stoner
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Stoner tracks flavor trends with the same rigor she applies to design, a skill she has honed through a parallel career doing interior design for commercial developers. "Matcha is having its moment," she says. Although Poppy & Peep carried matcha bonbons in 2022 and 2023 before the trend caught up, adaptogen chocolate, incorporating ingredients like reishi mushrooms and ashwagandha, is coming. Protein chocolate is already arriving. And she sees a continued movement toward mineral-rich functional chocolate that promises specific emotional benefits. "I think a lot of people in the industry are really getting away from single origin bars," she says, as sourcing challenges and rising cacao prices reshape what's possible for small producers. For now, the bestsellers lean classic. The bonbons remain their signature product. Salted toffee, cookie butter, candied
orange peels, and a dark chocolate strawberry bar with dehydrated strawberries and powderized strawberry round out the popularity lineup. As for the next chapter, Stoner is clear: "I've always kept us pretty small in an intentional way because I think a lot of people get lost in the middle," she says. "I think a lot of companies also have to start making big sacrifices when they scale." "We're just playing in the sandbox and trying to figure out what we like," Stoner says, channeling her father's philosophy. "Just kind of go for it and make it make sense later." For destination chocolate in Nashville, Poppy & Peep is worth every bit of the effort it takes to find them. PoppyAndPeep.com
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YOU R D IGITAL D ESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
A Fa m i ly L eg acy Ta kes Root A Fifth-generation Family Farm Finds New Purpose as Armistead Farm Takes Root in Franklin.
130 A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L I FE + CU LT U RE
October 5-12, 2026, at Armistead Farm, 1740 New Highway 96 West, Franklin. Volunteers are invited to take part in the weeklong effort and help bring the farm's vision to life. To learn more and sign up, visit armisteadfarm.org/volunteer. The hoop house project is the first step toward an even larger vision. In 2027, Armistead Farm plans to launch a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, offering seasonal shares of locally grown vegetables, flowers, and herbs. Future programming will give children and adults opportunities to learn about growing food, cooking what they grow, and experiencing the daily life of a working farm. To follow the Farm's progress and be the first to know about the October groundbreaking, CSA sign-ups, programming, and events, visit armisteadfarm.org, follow @armisteadfarm on social media, and subscribe to the Farm's newsletter. To learn more about the Armistead community, visit armisteadtn.com
ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Since 1887, the Short family has farmed the land that will soon become home to Armistead Farm. Today, that family legacy is taking on new life as a nonprofit dedicated to connecting people with food, agriculture, education, and the land itself. Located on 48 acres, Armistead Farm will operate as a regenerative farm with educational programming within the forthcoming Armistead agrihood, a new community being developed through a partnership between the Short family and Character Development. Franklin native Jim Short, a fifth-generation steward of the property, grew up visiting the farm for fresh milk and spending summers helping bale hay. Today, he is working to preserve those agricultural traditions while creating opportunities for future generations to experience farm life firsthand. This month, the community is invited to help build Armistead Farm's first hoop houses. The community groundbreaking and hoop house build will take place
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OCTOBER 2026
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S SAT U RDAYS , S UN DAYS , AND MO NDAYS IN O C TO B E R
Gentry’s Farm & Corn Maze Gentry Farm - 1974 New Highway 96 West, Franklin | 9:00 AM Celebrate fall at this seventh-generation working farm featuring pumpkin picking, heirloom pumpkins, gourds and winter squash, a corn maze, wagon rides, farm animals, tractor playground, grain barn, mini-golf, and hands-on activities. Pick the perfect carving pumpkin while enjoying simple family fun, agricultural learning, and cherished autumn traditions. Open Saturdays: 9AM - 5PM; Sundays: 1PM - 5PM; Mondays: 9AM - 1PM. GentryFarm.com O C TOBE R 1 ST - 3 1 ST
Cheekwood Harvest Cheekwood Estate & Gardens | 9:00 AM Fall magic returns to Cheekwood Harvest with 100,000 pumpkins, the all-new Marigold River featuring more than 2,500 vibrant blooms, interactive Pumpkin Village houses, and the storybook-themed Once Upon a Harvest Scarecrow Trail. Enjoy live entertainment, seasonal activities, stunning autumn colors, and Harvest Nights while exploring Nashville's 55-acre botanical garden transformed into a festive fall wonderland. Cheekwood.org. O C TOBE R 2 N D - 3 1 ST
Fear Fest at The Franklin Theatre The Franklin Theatre | 5:00 PM Get into the Halloween spirit with The Franklin Theatre's annual Fear Fest, featuring classic Halloween favorites, family-friendly films, horror movies, and themed events throughout October in Franklin's historic theater. Check the website for specific show titles and times. FranklinTheatre.com O C TOBE R 3 RD, 1 7 T H, 31ST
Sunsets & Cider Morning Glory Orchard | 5:00 PM Relax and indulge in a two-hour sunset picnic in the orchard. Share a deluxe artisan charcuterie box, paired with fresh‑picked fruit, ice‑cold slushies, and fruit‑infused water. Tableware, organic bug spray, and the spectacular views are provided. All you need to do is show up and enjoy! MorningGloryOrchard.com O C TOBE R 8T H - 2 5T H
The Addams Family | A Spooky, Kooky, and Delightfully Ooky Musical Comedy Turner Theater (inside the Factory at Franklin) | 7:00 PM Enjoy the delightfully kooky world of The Addams Family, the musical comedy that celebrates the wonderfully weird. Wednesday Addams falls in love with Lucas Beineke, a sweet and perfectly “normal” young man but when Lucas's very normal parents come to dinner at the Addams mansion, an unforgettable night of shocking confessions, hilarious culture clashes, and family chaos unfolds. StudioTenn.com/the-addams-family O C TOBE R 9 T H - 1 1 T H
Williamson County Home Show Williamson County Ag Expo Park | 12:00 PM Explore the latest trends in remodeling, outdoor living, home automation, security, solar energy, and design. Meet local builders, remodelers, designers, and home improvement experts all under one roof. The free event features exhibits, demonstrations, exclusive offers, and inspiration for every home project. Friday: Noon - 6PM; Saturday: 10AM - 5PM; Sunday: 11AM - 4PM. WilliamsonCountyHomeShow.com CONTINUED >
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The Doobie Brothers – Walk This Road Tour FirstBank Amphitheater, Franklin | 8:00 PM Rock legends, The Doobie Brothers, bring their Walk This Road Tour to Franklin with a catalog of timeless hits spanning decades. Fans can expect an unforgettable night of classic rock under the stars. FirstBankAmphitheater.com O C TOBE R 1 6T H - N OV E MB E R 1ST
Boo at the Zoo Nashville Zoo | 5:00 PM Get ready for a hauntingly good time! Nashville's favorite family Halloween tradition returns with trick-or-treat stations, costumed characters, carnival games, festive photo opportunities, animal shows, and seasonal activities for all ages. Celebrate Día de los Muertos, Sunday, Nov. 1, with special themed entertainment, activities, food, and meaningful ways to honor loved ones through culture and remembrance. NashvilleZoo.org/Boo O C TOBE R 1 7 T H - 1 8T H
Southern Festival of Books Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park | 9:00 AM One of the nation's premier literary festivals, this free event welcomes hundreds of authors, readers, publishers, and booksellers for discussions, signings, live performances, food vendors, and activities celebrating the written word. Saturday, October 17, 9AM - 6PM and Sunday, October 18, 10AM - 5PM. SoFestOfBooks.org O C TOBE R 2 4 T H - 2 5T H
Halloween Pooch Party Cheekwood Estate and Gardens | 9:00 AM Bring your pup to an event designed especially for them. Enter our costume contests, browse the dog-friendly vendors, and delight your pooch with special treats. This year’s special costume category is “Founding Paw-thers,” so bring your pooch dressed as an American Icon to celebrate America’s 250th. Costume Contests start at 11 AM & 2 PM each day. Cheekwood.org O C TOBE R 2 4 T H - 2 5T H
PumpkinFest Main Street, Downtown Franklin | 10:00 AM The 41st Annual PumpkinFest, Middle Tennessee's largest family fall festival, expands to two days (Saturday and Sunday) for the first time. Enjoy more than 140 arts and crafts vendors, live music, costume contests, children's activities, seasonal food, and autumn fun throughout Franklin's historic Main Street district. WilliamsonHeritage.org/events/pumpkinfest O C TOBE R 2 9 T H
Sweet Baby James: The #1 James Taylor Tribute Williamson County Performing Arts Center, Franklin | 7:00 PM Bill Griese brings his acclaimed Sweet Baby James tribute show to Franklin, performing James Taylor favorites including Fire and Rain, You've Got a Friend, Shower the People, and How Sweet It Is. Audiences praise Griese's remarkable vocals, guitar skills, and authentic celebration of Taylor's timeless music. WCPACTN.com
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