DIY crafts make fun night out at AR Workshop Franklin

AR Workshop Franklin, the newest trend in do-it-yourself craft workshop venues, is creating quite a buzz in Williamson County. The hands-on boutique studio and store opened in late August and is quickly becoming a favorite destination for girls nights out, mother-daughter activities, date nights, corporate team-building events and more. 

Similar in concept to paint your own pottery or paint while you drink wine businesses, AR Workshop visitors create their own handmade, mixed-media pieces such as framed and plank wood signs, canvas wall hangings, centerpiece boxes, chalkboard art, pillows and décor. 

At the guided workshop sessions, participants use customized patterns and templates to create one of a kind pieces for their home or to give as gifts. 

“There’s a lot of satisfaction that comes from making something yourself,” said storeowner Brandon Nunnally. “Even people who say ‘I’m not crafty’ are guaranteed to leave our workshops with something they love.” 

Nunnally, a former music industry artist manager and most recently, Vanderbilt administrative officer, has had a passion for arts and crafts since she was a young child. 

“My mother taught me all kinds of crafts — crocheting, paper crafting, scrapbooking — we did it all. We’d take craft classes together and she’d sell crafts in local consignment stores,” Nunnally said. 

Her love for creating things prompted Nunnally to explore business opportunities that would allow her to express her creativity. Through online research she discovered the AR Workshop franchise. It was founded in 2016 by designers Maureen Anders and Adria Ruff of Anders Ruff Design Company, hence the A and R in AR Workshop. 

“I fell in love with the concept. I discovered it in May, signed a franchisee agreement in June, signed a lease in July and opened on Aug. 24,” Nunnally said. “Maureen and Adria have been so accessible and supportive throughout the whole process. It’s a tight-knit community — all owned and run by women.” 

AR Workshop Franklin has had a steady stream of business and interest from the start. 

“There’s been so much excitement. People started booking classes before we were even open,” she said. “We already have regulars who’ve taken multiple classes. We offer a rewards program where you buy four classes and get the fifth class free. At least a dozen people have already earned a free class.” 

As you enter the boutique workshop, you may be greeted by one of the “shop dogs,” Lulu or Maple.  The warm and welcoming atmosphere is conducive to conversation, creativity and lots of laughter. 

“It’s addictive. It just feels good. Friends put down their phones and get back to the basics. We provide an experience — face to face,” Nunnally said. “Not only are you creating something beautiful to display in your home or give as a gift but you are also creating memories.”

If you go 

AR Workshop Franklin is at 330 Mayfield Dr., Suite A-9, Franklin. There is a 15-20 person minimum for private classes depending on the day of the week. However, anyone can join public classes, which are scheduled throughout the week. Groups not meeting the requirement for private classes can reserve tables at any public class. 

Children’s birthday parties are available for ages 8 and up. 

Most adult projects range from $40 to $70 and children’s projects range from $30 to $45. Participants are encouraged to bring their own food and wine or other beverages. 

To view the gallery of available projects, calendar of classes, or for more information, visit www.arworkshop/franklin or call 615-285-4292.

Angela Folds is an independent writer. Her website is www.creativedaycafe.com.