Why Williamson County, TN, is a Hub for Arts & Culture
From wood carving and filmmaking to outfitting the stars, Williamson County is the ideal home for artists to live and work. With a unique blend of quiet Southern charm, collaborative creative energy and unwavering community support, this thriving Tennessee region keeps inspiring world-class creators to plant deep roots and build lasting legacies.
Running on Rhinestones: Designer Manuel Cuevas
Manuel Cuevas, better known as “Manuel,” is a heavy-hitting name in the fashion industry. He has outfitted countless stars, including Jimi Hendrix, Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton, as well as presidents and even royalty.
The 93-year-old powerhouse tailor has been creating since he was 7 years old and is known for his iconic rhinestones and western-inspired attire.
From Hollywood to Williamson County
After making a name for himself in Hollywood, Manuel moved to the heart of Music City in the late ’80s.
“I changed to rock and roll and country music. And where else would you go but Nashville?” Manuel says.
For 37 years, Manuel has resided with his family in the quiet rolling hills of Williamson County’s Bethesda community. Though his showroom has been based in several Nashville locations throughout the years, Manuel now runs his design studio as an appointment-only space right here in the region.
Manuel remains a Middle Tennessee icon. He’s won countless awards, earned a star on Nashville’s acclaimed Music City Walk of Fame and even has an official “Manuel Day” dedicated to his work every year.
When asked what it’s like to be such a big part of the area’s industry, Manuel says fashion is booming here.
“This place is gonna be the center of fashion shows,” he says.
Franklin on Film: Kingdom Story Company
Since 2019, Kingdom Story Company has been a prominent fixture in Williamson County’s growing film industry. Co-founders and brothers Andrew (Andy) and Jon Erwin were initially drawn to the area for several reasons, but much like Manuel, Andy ultimately credits its people and creative energy.
“We love the family values in Franklin. We love the creatives in Franklin. We love the ability to tell great stories with all the talent that is moving in from L.A. and New York,” says Andy, who serves as chief creative officer.
That community spirit is a two-way street. Kingdom Story Company uses its space at The Factory at Franklin as a hub for local creatives to connect, fostering a collaborative local network in the region.
“The community goes to the theater to see our movies. We get opportunities to work with other businesses in Franklin,” Andy adds.
Building on that momentum, the Kingdom Story Company shot a film in Nashville in 2025 and is looking to shoot another in the area in the near future.
Around and Around: The Carousel of Dreams
For more than 30 years, master wood carver Ken Means painstakingly hand-crafted the 32 unique animals that make up the beloved Carousel of Dreams, creating a one-of-a-kind work of art that has delighted generations of riders.
Beneath the spinning platform, a band organ breathes nostalgic life into the ride, filling the pavilion with authentic acoustic melodies that echo the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
A Ride That Gives Back
Today, The Circle of Giving, a local nonprofit dedicated to turning childhood joy into community impact, owns and operates the carousel.
Every ride purchased helps fund grants and support for local nonprofits and charitable initiatives throughout Williamson County, making each trip around the carousel an investment in the community.
Also located at The Factory at Franklin, the Carousel of Dreams has become a destination for families and visitors alike.
More than just an attraction, it’s a place where handcrafted artistry, lasting memories and philanthropy come together, proving that something as simple as a carousel ride can help make a meaningful difference.
Like the cinematic stories of the Erwin brothers and the iconic designs of Manuel, this beloved carousel stands as a testament to how Williamson County nurtures world-class art that leaves a lasting footprint on the community.
A Space for Creators
Allison and Dave Dyer have, quite literally, turned their dreams into reality.
After moving from Portland, Oregon, the idea for Franklin Social came to the Dyers in a vivid dream.
“The dream set us on this trajectory of figuring out how to gather people, creating a physical space to put the doers and dreamers in proximity to one another,” Allison Dyer says.
Located atop the Crews Public Square building at downtown Franklin’s epicenter, Franklin Social is the perfect place for connection. The membership-based club is a “third space” for entrepreneurs, artists, filmmakers, investors and everyone in between who wants to build community and impact culture.
Amenities like a members-only lounge, private rooms and an outdoor rooftop terrace make the space ideal for intentional meetings, events and fellowship. While these thoughtful touches may lure people in, it’s their ethos that keeps them coming back.
“Our heart sees this space as a way to really invest in those who are creators and have that entrepreneurial mindset,” Allison Dyer says.
Trust Before Transactions
Franklin Social is one of a kind. Allison Dyer says their mindset focuses on building trust before transactions and developing authentic relationships that organically lead to collaboration and co-creation. Their goal is to break the narrative of social clubs being about status and encourage investing in others.
“It’s not a place where you hand out your business card,” Allison Dyer says. “Networking will naturally happen through relationships, but that’s not the intent.”
The club celebrated its first anniversary in May 2026 and is currently accepting new members.
Get to Know Williamson County
Want to learn more about living and working in Williamson County, TN? Check out the latest edition of Livability Williamson County, Tennessee.