FRANKLIN, Tennessee — Visit Franklin is continuing to invest in how people experience the destination, reinforcing its mission to help Williamson County thrive. Creating a welcoming, connected experience for visitors remains a top priority. That commitment is reflected in the addition of new senior leadership and the continued growth of a department already earning national recognition.
At the center of that effort is the expansion of a dedicated Visitor Experience Department, led by newly hired Senior Director of Visitor Experience, Tatiana Wells. The role reflects a clear belief that, when the visitor experience is thoughtful, connected, and welcoming, it benefits not only visitors but the people who call Williamson County home.
“We’re investing in the way people experience our community,” said Visit Franklin President & CEO Maureen Thornton. “Tatiana brings a level of experience and enthusiasm that we are excited to work alongside. She shares our vision that we want visitors to experience Franklin and Williamson County in a welcoming way, because we are a welcoming space.”
Thornton added, “When we get that right, it creates something meaningful for both visitors and residents.”
Wells joins Visit Franklin from Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, where she had nearly a decade of experience leading a county-wide visitor experience strategy anchored by a historic downtown. This approach closely mirrors Franklin and Williamson County. In her new role, she will lead efforts to shape the visitor journey across every touchpoint, from the organization’s two physical Visitor Center locations in downtown Franklin and The Factory at Franklin, to experiences throughout the destination. She will work across the organization and alongside local partners to ensure that each interaction feels intentional, connected, and rooted in community.
Under her leadership, the department’s work will focus on blending visitor experience with community connection by bringing together research, collaboration, and on-the-ground insight to develop programs and initiatives that enhance how people experience Franklin and all the communities of Williamson County. At a time when many destinations are moving away from in-person engagement, Visit Franklin is leaning in.
“At a time when many communities are losing the personal touch of visitor centers, Visit Franklin is embracing the opportunity to increase the human connection that sets it apart,” noted Thornton. “That’s what this role is all about. Making sure people don’t just visit here, but feel welcomed into the community.”
Supporting that vision is a team committed to delivering those experiences every day. That commitment was recently recognized on a national level, as Visit Franklin Senior Manager of Destination Experience, MyKenzie Johnson, was named a 30 Under 30 honoree by Destinations International. This award from the global association for destination marketing organizations highlights emerging leaders shaping the future of destination organizations, and Johnson was recognized for her hands-on approach to working with meeting and convention planners hosting events in Williamson County, as well as for expanding the opportunities of leisure visitors through accessible programs like the digital passports available throughout the county.
Together, the addition of new leadership and national recognition of rising talent underscore Visit Franklin’s focus on creating a visitor experience rooted in connection. One that brings people closer to the community and ensures that Franklin and all the communities of Williamson County continue to be known not just for what there is to do, but for how it feels to be here.
ABOUT VISIT FRANKLIN Visit Franklin is the public brand name of the Williamson County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Visit Franklin is the official destination marketing organization for Franklin and the unique communities of Williamson County, Tennessee. Visit Franklin stimulates economic growth by promoting travel and tourism assets such as history, music, attractions, entertainment, the arts, and events to visitors worldwide. For information on Franklin and Williamson County, visit us on the web at VisitFranklin.com.
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