Make it stand out

Blog

Rhonda Baskin Rhonda Baskin

It’s Fall Ya’ll

🍂 Embracing the Season — Middle Tennessee in Fall (and Why It’s a Great Time to Be in the Market)

I have loved living in Tennessee since 1987.  I became a Realtor in 2007 and began my adventure of discovering all of the true beauty that this area has to offer.  The first time I discovered Leipers Fork and drove the Natchez Trace Parkway, I literally thought I was going to Heaven:)  I am originally from southeast Texas, so the scenery and views were different.  I never saw faraway countryside from hilltops, like the views we get in Tennessee.

As we turn the corner into fall here in Middle Tennessee, there’s a special kind of magic in the air. The leaves begin to deepen into rich hues of amber, red, and gold. The mornings bring a crispness, and evenings find folks cozying up by fire pits or sipping warm cider. It’s a time for transitions — in nature, in our routines, and in life.

For me, after 18 years in Williamson County real estate, this season always brings fresh perspective — on homes, on communities, and on what people are searching for in their next chapter. Below, let me walk you through the beauty, the happenings, and the opportunities this season holds for our region. Enjoy!

🍁 Seasonal Highlights Around Middle Tennessee & Williamson County

A. Fall Festivities & Local Events

This time of year, folks across Middle Tennessee are looking for fun, family-friendly ways to soak in the season. Here are a few standout events in 2025:

  • Cheekwood Harvest – A perennial favorite. You’ll find pumpkin displays, a scarecrow trail, and (this year) expanded nighttime events. summitconcretetn.com

  • Lucky Ladd Farms Fall Festival – Corn mazes, hayrides, animal exhibits, fall treats, and plenty of photo ops. summitconcretetn.com

  • GOODFest in the Park (Moss-Wright Park, October 25th) — free family fun, vendor marketplace, music, and a candy trail for kids. summitconcretetn.com

  • In Nashville proper, events like OktoberfestCheekwood HarvestSouthern Festival of Books, and fall concerts help keep the city buzzing into autumn. Axios

These are great calendar entries for your clients, neighbors, or anyone wanting to get out and enjoy the season. When I’m out and about, I often bump into folks — and these events give me natural touch-points to stay top of mind.

B. Parks, Nature & Scenic Spots in Williamson County.  I love the parks in Tennessee!

One of the biggest perks of living in Williamson County is access to green spaces and well-maintained parks. As the foliage shifts, these spots become even more inviting:

  • Williamson County’s Parks & Recreation system oversees 30+ parks and facilities across the county. wcparksandrec.com

  • Some highlights:

    • Timberland Park (along the Natchez Trace Parkway) and Peacock Hill Nature Park offer wooded walking paths and scenic overlooks. wcparksandrec.com+1

    • The Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park hosts more than 6 miles of trails for cycling enthusiasts. wcparksandrec.com

    • Castle Park (though more known for its Renaissance Festival in the spring) is a reminder of how versatile our park system is. wcparksandrec.com

    • Other county parks: Bethesda Park, Civitan Park, Greer Park, Scales Nature Trail, and more. wcparksandrec.com+1

Closing Thoughts from Rhonda

As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect — not just on the world around us, but on where we are and where we’re headed. Maybe this season finds you feeling grateful for where you are planted… or maybe it’s stirring a desire for something new — a different view, more space, or a fresh start.

Wherever you find yourself, I’d love to walk alongside you when the time comes. Whether it’s exploring possibilities, preparing for your next move, or simply dreaming about what’s ahead, I’m here to help you navigate each step with confidence and care.

After all, every season has its purpose — and sometimes, the most beautiful changes begin right where you are.

🍂 Embracing the Season — Middle Tennessee in Fall (and Why It’s a Great Time to Be in the Market)

I have loved living in Tennessee since 1987.  I became a Realtor in 2007 and began my adventure of discovering all of the true beauty that this area has to offer.  The first time I discovered Leipers Fork and drove the Natchez Trace Parkway, I literally thought I was going to Heaven:)  I am originally from southeast Texas, so the scenery and views were different.  I never saw faraway countryside from hilltops, like the views we get in Tennessee.

As we turn the corner into fall here in Middle Tennessee, there’s a special kind of magic in the air. The leaves begin to deepen into rich hues of amber, red, and gold. The mornings bring a crispness, and evenings find folks cozying up by fire pits or sipping warm cider. It’s a time for transitions — in nature, in our routines, and in life.

For me, after 18 years in Williamson County real estate, this season always brings fresh perspective — on homes, on communities, and on what people are searching for in their next chapter. Below, let me walk you through the beauty, the happenings, and the opportunities this season holds for our region. Enjoy!

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

🍁 Seasonal Highlights Around Middle Tennessee & Williamson County

A. Fall Festivities & Local Events

This time of year, folks across Middle Tennessee are looking for fun, family-friendly ways to soak in the season. Here are a few standout events in 2025:

  • Cheekwood Harvest – A perennial favorite. You’ll find pumpkin displays, a scarecrow trail, and (this year) expanded nighttime events. summitconcretetn.com

  • Lucky Ladd Farms Fall Festival – Corn mazes, hayrides, animal exhibits, fall treats, and plenty of photo ops. summitconcretetn.com

  • GOODFest in the Park (Moss-Wright Park, October 25th) — free family fun, vendor marketplace, music, and a candy trail for kids. summitconcretetn.com

  • In Nashville proper, events like OktoberfestCheekwood HarvestSouthern Festival of Books, and fall concerts help keep the city buzzing into autumn. Axios

These are great calendar entries for your clients, neighbors, or anyone wanting to get out and enjoy the season. When I’m out and about, I often bump into folks — and these events give me natural touch-points to stay top of mind.

B. Parks, Nature & Scenic Spots in Williamson County.  I love the parks in Tennessee!

One of the biggest perks of living in Williamson County is access to green spaces and well-maintained parks. As the foliage shifts, these spots become even more inviting:

  • Williamson County’s Parks & Recreation system oversees 30+ parks and facilities across the county. wcparksandrec.com

  • Some highlights:

    • Timberland Park (along the Natchez Trace Parkway) and Peacock Hill Nature Park offer wooded walking paths and scenic overlooks. wcparksandrec.com+1

    • The Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park hosts more than 6 miles of trails for cycling enthusiasts. wcparksandrec.com

    • Castle Park (though more known for its Renaissance Festival in the spring) is a reminder of how versatile our park system is. wcparksandrec.com

    • Other county parks: Bethesda Park, Civitan Park, Greer Park, Scales Nature Trail, and more. wcparksandrec.com+1


Closing Thoughts from Rhonda

As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect — not just on the world around us, but on where we are and where we’re headed. Maybe this season finds you feeling grateful for where you are planted… or maybe it’s stirring a desire for something new — a different view, more space, or a fresh start.

Wherever you find yourself, I’d love to walk alongside you when the time comes. Whether it’s exploring possibilities, preparing for your next move, or simply dreaming about what’s ahead, I’m here to help you navigate each step with confidence and care.

After all, every season has its purpose — and sometimes, the most beautiful changes begin right where you are.

Read More
Monica Van Landingham Monica Van Landingham

Tennessee Turquoise Company: Treasure is an Understatement

We all love visiting Leipers Fork, am I right? 

In business now for 5 years, Tennessee Turquoise Company, a jewelry and collectible shop like none other. The shop is located in the historic town of Leiper's Fork in Franklin, Tennessee.


Inspired by founder Morgane Stapleton’s love of all things turquoise, the shop, which is run by an all- female team, is more than just a place to purchase amazing pieces—it’s a love letter to both the stone itself and the community it represents.

Morgane Stapleton, the talented singer, mother of five, and wife of Chris Stapleton shares her love of jewelry at Tennessee Turquoise Company, located in the former White’s Mercantile log cabin at 4150 Old Hillsboro Road. 

Run by an all-female team led by Morgane Stapleton & her love of all things turquoise.

Morgane handpicks everything that goes in the shop, it’s become a real passion for her. 

Morgane is also glad to bring more education about the stone and its heritage to Tennessee—and find other ways to support the community from which it comes. In fact, all of the profits from Tennessee Turquoise go directly to the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, which seeks to end gender-based violence in Indigenous communities.


“We care deeply about Native American Culture & Community & that is why every purchase supports the National Indigenous Women's Resource Center.” 

The NIWRC is helping to end gender-based violence in Indigenous communities. They work to provide educational materials & programs, direct technical assistance, & develop local & national policy that strengthens Indigenous communities both on & off tribal lands.

You have to check out Tennessee Turquoise Company. 

Open Wednesdays through Saturdays-10-5 pm.

Tell them Realtor Rhonda sent you!

Read More
Rhonda Baskin Rhonda Baskin

PD’s: A Downtown Franklin Treasure

Have you been to PD’s? If not, you are missing out!

PD’s aka Premier Discounters in downtown Franklin…if you’ve haven’t heard of PD’s, put it on your list!

Have you been to PD’s? If not, you are missing out!

PD’s aka Premier Discounters in downtown Franklin…if you’ve haven’t heard of PD’s, put it on your list!

Welcome to the best kept secret in Franklin!

This shopping emporium is off the beaten path in an inconspicuous building with no markings. 

There’s no sign out front. 

You won’t know you’re there until you get to the front door and find a handwritten paper sign in the window with the name and hours of the establishment. 

It’s always amazing that you learn the history behind the places that you shop, and you eat, and you live!

There’s so much!

So, PD’s was originally a freight line depot, next to the railroad tracks here. Then, it was a Civil War triage center.

Sherri Porter has owned it since 1998.

Sherri is known to be “spunky” and a salvage baby at heart-as her parents both lived and breathed the business.  

Her store of 29 years is such an incredible success, with no advertising whatsoever!

PD’s is a furniture-everything home store.

Sherri has local vendors that she works with, and she also works with international vendors as well.

Maybe the best designed train depot in town!

PD’s is a local secret with furniture, bedding, and all kinds of home decor! Every week is something new and you never know what they will have but that’s what makes it fun!

“Her store requires that you walk around it one way, then the other, looking up and down, then down and up.  I promise if a picture is worth 1,000 words, then this post says it all. You be the judge. 

And, happy shopping!  It’s worth the drive south.”

-Elizabeth Fox, Style Blueprint

You will find beautiful pieces here-furniture, art, accessories, everything…

You have to check out PD’s. They’re open Wednesdays through Saturdays-

10-5 pm.

Tell them Realtor Rhonda sent you!

Read More
Rhonda Baskin Rhonda Baskin

Peach Fuzz is Pantone’s 25th color of the year.

Have you ever walked into a home and suddenly felt an internal response to the color? How does this one work for you?

Have you ever walked into a home and suddenly felt an internal response to the color?  How does this one work for you? 

Peach Fuzz is Pantone’s 25th color of the year.  This hue “echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection” and is “radiant with warmth and modern elegance.” 

Why Peach Fuzz?

The Pantone Color Institute references our collective need for nurturing, empathy and compassion. In a time of increased turmoil in many parts of the world, Peach Fuzz, aka Pantone 13-1023, stands for caring, sharing, collaboration and a re-evaluation of values.

Where will we see it?

Where will Peach Fuzz show up in 2024? Rugs, wallpaper, fabric, makeup, tea and more—which are all examples of products released in conjunction with Pantone’s announcement.

How does it make us feel?

Soft and Cozy. Peach Fuzz is a shade that evokes the delicacy and softness of a sunset, with nuances ranging from peachy tones to blush pinks. This color palette brings a sense of calm and coziness, establishing a welcoming ambiance in any setting. It’s a versatile choice that easily adapts to different styles and preferences.

Peach Fuzz in Decor

Not as pink-leaning as coral, peach is a pastel version of orange and reflects the shift toward warmth and color in interiors we have been seeing in the last couple of years in the home decor industry.

As a color for interior design and decor, Peach Fuzz pairs well with neutrals like creamy whites and even some beige tones.

It is natural with wicker, rattan, and bamboo pieces as well as grass rugs like sisal and jute.  

No matter if in the form of a knitted blanket or a faux fur Peach Fuzz welcomes a sense of security and ease.

Personally, I am on the fence about this one.  I love peaches but not sure I enjoy the color as much as blues and greens.  But now that we are on the subject, I think I will go eat a peach.


Read More