Long before Franklin was the buzzy Hallmark town with droves of visitors and transplants multiplying by the day, it was a quaint metropolitan suburb whose secrets were fiercely protected. A “hidden gem,” dare I say.
Those secrets included a charming Main Street district with local shops and incredible restaurants, picture-perfect master-planned neighborhoods, plenty of wide open spaces, and a certain Southern charm I didn’t know was special until I left. We had everything we needed and then some, including a sprawling galleria making the latest in greatest in fashion and beauty accessible right in the heart of town.
Now, despite Franklin’s massive growth in recent years, I’m proud to say all the city’s draws remain intact (there may be a few more neighborhoods and a few less wide open spaces, but it all works). And yes, in a country where shopping malls are turning into ghost towns, ours still stands strong.
Cool Springs Galleria houses the best of the best when it comes to recognizable brands: Sephora, American Girl, Pottery Barn, department stores galore, and much more. But in keeping with Franklin’s charming traditions, it’s impressive to find a slew of locally owned and operated businesses, right beside the big guys.
Here’s how to shop small in a place that feels big.
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David Parker Shoes
My dad always used to say it’s important to invest in your bed and your shoes, because when you aren’t in one, you’re in the other. This is a life hack made easy through David Parker Shoes, a local business that has called the Galleria home for three decades. Today, it’s a full-service comfort shoe store specializing in high-quality shoes and orthotics that fit the way they should.
Happy Backyards
A pair of childhood friends moved to Nashville from St. Louis in the mid-90s and began selling swing sets to residents in Middle Tennessee. Happy Backyards has evolved in its nearly 30-year run to occupying a massive space in the mall, selling everything from backyard swing sets to trampolines, in-ground basketball hoops, commercial playgrounds, and more.
Franklin Toy Works
Whether indulging your little one or embracing your own inner child, Franklin Toy Works has something for us all. From trading cards to plush toys, novelty items, antiques, and even some candy, this store (which recently moved into a bigger space) is literally what childhood dreams are made of.
Huaraches Parral
This family-owned business is a trade passed down through generations. Founded in 2017, Huaraches Parral offers 100% handcrafted leather products—belts, wallets, handbags, and more. Not only is this spot locally owned, but each of the leather (and exotic leather) products is made right here in Franklin.
Knick Nash
In a total deviation from other stores in the mall, Knick Nash brings together a collection of local makers and artisans to sell goods in one shop. You never know what you’ll find here, from quirky and edgy keepsakes to statement fashion pieces and novelty gifts.
Molly Green
Color me shocked when I learned one of my favorite boutiques was locally owned and operated. Molly Green is filled to the brim with the latest fashion trends and showstopping pieces, offered at an affordable price point. Stop by before your next occasion (or just because), and leave looking sharp and supporting a family business in tandem.
Socks and Soles
The statement sock trend is here to stay, because even the most professional business suit needs a touch of personality. Socks and Soles sells – you guessed it – socks and insoles for all ages. Featuring funny sayings, recognizable characters, pro sports teams, and even some political humor, you’ll be the office hero in a pair of these.
