When a destination leads with genuine care and welcome, it sets the tone for the entire event. We sat down with the team from Visit Franklin, the CVB for one of the South’s most welcoming towns, to talk about what true hospitality looks like, how walkability and local character help people connect, and the ways faith woven into the community can make a difference.

What does a hospitable destination look like, and how does it shape an event?

In a truly hospitable place, you feel taken care of from the moment you arrive. That kind of atmosphere gives planners the space to focus on what really matters, creating connections rather than solving problems. In Franklin, our team matches you with partners who love welcoming guests, whether that’s a local restaurant hosting a dinner, a venue that goes the extra mile, or a shop owner who treats attendees like neighbors. It is those little gestures of kindness that make an event feel special and why Franklin is known as ‘the South’s most charming town.”

What role do walkability and local charm play in helping attendees feel more connected and engaged?

When attendees can step outside a meeting and easily walk to restaurants, shops, or events, conversations naturally continue and relationships grow. A walkable area with character keeps the energy up, adds interesting experiences, and makes it easy for connections to carry from sessions into dinners and local exploration. In Franklin, the downtown convention campus puts meeting spaces, restaurants, and shops all within a few blocks, and the charm of Main Street makes every walk feel like part of the experience. That mix helps people feel more at home and more connected with each other.

How does faith being a part of the local fabric make a difference in an event?

When faith is part of everyday life in a community, it shows up in the way people care for one another and welcome guests. For groups, that can mean gathering in a place where kindness, service, and integrity already shape the way people interact. In Franklin, that spirit is easy to see in the many churches that open their doors, in faith-based organizations like Lifeway and K-Love that call the area home, and in the musicians and speakers who share their gifts with meeting groups. It adds a layer of meaning that helps an event feel rooted in something larger than itself.