Editorials

Franklin Barn Market at Willowbrook Farm

When decorating your home and you “Don’t want what everyone else has,” there’s no better way to find unique items than shopping the Franklin Barn Market at Willowbrook Farm July 17-18. This enjoyable event is located on a beautiful 40-acre Franklin, Tenn., farm that was purchased in 2013. The property was the former home of the country music legend Carl Smith. Willowbrook Farm features gently rolling fields, two ponds, an 8,400-square-foot arena with beautiful wood flooring and a rustic four-stall barn.

You only have one chance a year to come out and enjoy the sights and sounds of the farm as it bustles with amazing “picking” vendors who scour the country with an eye for finding items that can serve a second life as decorative elements or storage solutions in and around your home.

I have always valued older pieces for their historical value. Many items have been around longer than I have been alive,” says Leigh Neidhart of the Franklin Barn Market. “There have been some crazy changes in our society with technological advances and, what I believe, is a disconnect from our heritage. It just makes sense to incorporate some older pieces into today’s living if for nothing else but to remember a time that connections and people are what matter. On top of that though, we have great vendors doing the work of finding special pieces that add beauty and function to your life and home.”

Items found at the Franklin Barn Market can be used to re-style a whole room or can often complement an existing style. If there’s a question, the knowledgeable vendors will lend a hand and give advice to buyers. This sale is not to be confused with a fair, though those types of events can serve their own purpose. This sale is geared toward a beautiful day out to gather with friends on a scenic property enjoying time together connecting, shopping and enjoying a barn-side meal. “We had the best mix of vendors and shoppers last year. The vendors became our friends and the shoppers were welcomed guests on our property.” said Keith of the husband and wife team who host the barn sale each July.

As a shopper, you will be able to find a wide variety of goods. Vendors offer everything from rusty, crusty originals to reclaimed and repainted surfaces. A number of vendors will also custom finish pieces to ensure it fits your current home décor. From kitchens to bedrooms, baths, family living, man caves and beyond, you’re sure to discover a unique piece to add dimension and conversation to any home décor.

Friday, July 17, 8-10 a.m. will be first dibbs shopping. Friday, July 17, 10 to 6 and Saturday, July 18 from 8 to 5 will be general admission shopping. First dibbs plus two-day shopping tickets are $20, and one-day general admission shopping tickets are $8. 25% of all ticket sales are donated locally.

Tickets may be purchased ahead of time at Eventbrite.com. Cash-only ticket sales will be sold at the gate. For more information on the Franklin Barn Market visit www.FranklinBarnMarket.com  and for information on booking Willowbrook Farm for special events visit www.WillowbrookFarmFranklin.com. True southern hospitality is at home at the Franklin Barn Market located at Willowbrook Farm, 6246 Ladd Road, Franklin, Tenn. Be sure to add this one to your “must” list if you haven’t already.

franklin barn market