FEATURES

Churchill Downs has released its second annual Kentucky Derby Style Guide, curated by fashion expert Zanna Roberts Rassi, to help fans craft unforgettable looks for the 151st Derby

Franklin’s Margin District, led by Devin McClendon, blends history, modern design, and community-focused development.

There’s something truly special about celebrating the holidays in Colonial Williamsburg. It’s like stepping back in time, where the charm of Christmas mingles with the echoes of our nation’s beginnings.

The beauty and charm of Franklin has always provided the perfect backdrop for filming a Christmas movie– and that is exactly what took place this past summer. Great American Family network will air A Little Women’s Christmas this holiday season, beginning on November 23rd. Filmed in Franklin, it is described as a contemporary retelling of the classic novel, Little Women.

For 2024, Cheekwood Estate and Gardens have teamed up with former White House Floral Designer, Laura Dowling, for their annual Christmas installation. With a theme of “Gifts from the Garden,” the entire display is a luscious, French-inspired fever dream that feels magical and transcendent.

Williamson County owes its greatness to the remarkable individuals who call it home. Our expansive nonprofit community is a driving force for tangible positive change, and we are forever indebted to the dedication of the people who make charitable organizations operate and events happen. Those people are our heroes because they dedicate their careers, businesses and personal time to giving back on a daily basis.

The Leiper’s Fork Foundation, along with Middle Tennessee State University's (MTSU) Center for Historic Preservation, recently published Charting Your Own Vision: Lessons from Leiper’s Fork. The book is a guide for other small towns and rural communities interested in following the Leiper’s Fork model of success.

Downtown Franklin is special… Especially if you live at Magnolia Hall. Currently under construction, the new neighborhood will be home to ten spectacular custom houses, designed to look like the 1900’s, but built with virtually every modern convenience. Every plan and every home allow you to live day to day all on one level — therefore, no steps up from your garage or to your front porch — providing age-in-place living at its finest.

Charm is a southern way of life. It is a characteristic that is instilled in most, especially southern gentlemen. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with a true southern gentleman who has expanded his business to middle Tennessee. Craig Conover, reality TV star of Bravo’s Southern Charm, has brought his exclusive line of pillows and home goods to local Kroger stores in Williamson County, as well as opening the second flagship store for his brand, Sewing Down South.

In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, the role of a REALTOR® goes beyond just facilitating transactions. It's about community, mentorship, and shaping the future of the profession. At the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAR), this belief is embodied by leadership. WCAR President Brandi Thigpen and President-Elect Jennifer Bickerstaff comment on their experiences, challenges, and vision for the future of real estate in Williamson County.

An exhibit honoring the life of Alexander von Humboldt (1769 – 1859) will be visiting Franklin from October 6, 2023 to March 1, 2024 at the Williamson County Archives & Museum, in downtown Franklin. In recent years, this collection has traveled to the Czech Republic, Austria, Paris and throughout Germany.

For decades, award-winning artist Anne Goetze has documented the closed-cloister Visitation Order in Annecy, France. While trying to understand her aunt Soeur Margarite Marie’s faith journey, it organically and ultimately became her own.

Mike Wolfe is a name known through the television airwaves and now synonymous with stories of our American heritage. Locally, and all around the country, he now stands as a testament to the spirit of community. You may have seen him on the extremely popular, almost cult classic television show, American Pickers, sifting through dusty barns and attics in search of history.

I was interviewed recently about my involvement over the years with the Heritage Ball and it got me to thinking – because it’s really more than a ball to those who are a part of the history of this uniquely Williamson County event celebrating its golden anniversary this year. For those unfamiliar, the Heritage Ball is a fundraising event for the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. It is the oldest and largest black-tie event held in Williamson County.

Introducing Taylon Hope, a local rising star who’s making her mark in the world of country music. As a current student at Belmont University and graduate of Battle Ground Academy, Taylon is a young artist boldly carving her path in the industry. Her unique blend of classic storytelling with a modern edge captures the essence of country music, influenced by icons like Dolly Parton and Vince Gill. Her music resonates deeply, bridging generations and striking a chord with her au

Nestled within the serene embrace of Manchester, Vermont, The Equinox Resort stands as a harmonious blend of timeless grace and contemporary opulence. As visitors step onto the meticulously manicured grounds, a profound sense of tranquility envelops them, transporting them to a realm where the relentless march of time seems to slow, and the burdens of the outside world gently fade into the background.

One thing we can all agree on… Chocolate chip cookies! Celebrated author and Williamson County native, Katie Jacobs, released her new book The Chocolate Chip Cookie Book: Classic, Creative, and Must-Try Recipes for Every Kitchen on October 3rd. From cookie dough milkshakes to chocolate chip cheesecake to the classic recipe that started it all, The Chocolate Chip Cookie Book features more than 100 chocolate chip cookie and cookie-inspired recipes.

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Williamson County boasts a rich cultural heritage that is nurtured and celebrated through various artistic endeavors. Among the pillars of this vibrant artistic community stands the Arts Council of Williamson County, an organization dedicated to fostering creativity, supporting local artists, and enriching the cultural fabric of the region.

Williamson County is highly regarded for its exceptional schools, diverse retail sector and the growing presence of corporate headquarters. It is no surprise that this county has become a highly desirable place to live, offering a fantastic community with a wealth of amenities such as outstanding restaurants, shopping options, recreational activities and beautiful parks.

The Old Edwards Inn & Spa, situated in the heart of downtown Highlands, North Carolina, offers a mountain retreat with luxury guest rooms, suites, cottages and vacation homes. Perched atop the southwest plateau of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the European style Relais & Châteaux resort is woven into the Highlands, North Carolina community and culture.