Franklin, TN: The Story Continues
Franklin, TN: The Beginning (Recap - In Case You Missed It!)
When we last shared our story, Flying Cow had just received the keys to our new home in Franklin, Tennessee. Here’s the recap, in case you missed it!
In 2023, Joshua and Britney Arceneaux fell in love with Franklin, Tennessee. The historic downtown and creative, close-knit community felt like a natural home for Flying Cow - but finding the right space wasn’t easy. After two failed attempts to secure a location, they paused the search. Then, in December 2024, a surprise call came: a storefront had opened up directly across from the Franklin Theatre. It felt perfect.
What followed were months of waiting and uncertainty as multiple offers came in. Wanting to share the true heart of Flying Cow, Britney put together gift baskets for the building owners - telling the story of the brand as a family business with deep Tennessee roots and a passion for supporting local makers.
Three months later, the call finally came! What felt like a long road of waiting and hoping had finally turned into a big, joyful, “YES.” We had our new building, a big dream, and a whole lot of excitement.
From there, it was all hands on deck. Joshua became the builder and contractor, Britney designed the space, and teams from Midland, Lubbock, and Fredericksburg stepped in to help bring the vision to life.
After plenty of hard work, a few setbacks, and more than a little faith, Flying Cow officially found a new home in Franklin, Tennessee. Now, we’re just a week away from our official Grand Opening, and we’re looking back at everything that’s happened since that moment - the construction, the creativity, the soft opening, the new friendships, and all the small miracles in between.
This is Part 2 of the journey: the in-between moments that turned a space into a store, and a dream into something real.
Part 2: The Story Continues
In December, we quietly opened our doors for the first time - the same night as Franklin’s annual Christmas tree lighting.
Without an official launch, Britney and the team simply unlocked the doors and welcomed whoever wandered in from the cold. What was meant to be a soft, gentle start turned out to be a surprisingly magical first night. Locals who were already downtown for the festivities stepped inside out of curiosity, asked questions, tried samples, and helped make that very first evening feel warm and welcoming.
The following weekend brought an even bigger introduction to downtown Franklin: Dickens of a Christmas.
Having never experienced the event before, the team had no idea what to expect. The tree lighting had felt busy - but Dickens weekend was on an entirely different level. Downtown filled with over 100,000 people, many dressed in Victorian costumes, turning Main Street into something that felt straight out of a storybook. Saturday was especially packed, and Flying Cow quickly went from “quietly open” to wonderfully, joyfully swamped.
Amid all the excitement, one small interaction captured exactly what A Place for the Maker is meant to be. A longtime Franklin resident noticed the sign in the store and shared that years ago, festivals on Main Street used to feel different. Instead of tents lining the road, each shop would have someone inside actually making something. Seeing makers highlighted inside Flying Cow reminded her of the way downtown used to feel.
That moment felt like a quiet confirmation that this store had landed in exactly the right place.
Two Months of Real Life
The decision to open softly and slowly was intentional. Rather than immediately jumping into a grand celebration, Britney wanted time for the store to settle in, get to know the rhythm of downtown Franklin, and get to genuinely connect with the community first.
Those first two months ended up being full of meaningful, everyday moments. People stopped in just to say hello. Locals came back multiple times to chat. Travelers discovered the store while visiting Franklin for the holidays. And, unexpectedly, makers of all kinds began walking through the doors.
“We’ve met so many people just by being open…Artists, poets, soap makers, toy creators - just from having our sign out there. People come in and want to talk. They want to connect. That’s been a really cool, unexpected part of this season.” Britney said.
What has been especially sweet has been hearing fresh stories about the products themselves. After nearly a decade of making tallow skincare, it can be easy to forget how new and life-changing it feels to someone trying it for the first time. But throughout December and January, customers began coming back in with real excitement, sharing that their skin had improved, that long-time issues were clearing up, and that something they were skeptical about had actually worked.
For Britney, hearing those stories in person again has been a gift.
“It’s been one of the most encouraging things seeing people come back in after trying tallow for the first time. It's like a breath of fresh air.”
Being back in a store environment and hearing customers stories face to face has been one of the sweetest parts of the move for Britney. It’s been a great reminder of why Flying Cow started in the first place - to make something simple and natural that genuinely helps people.
Bringing the Space to Life
Behind the scenes, those same months were filled with finishing touches and creative decisions that slowly turned an empty building into a home.
Without question, Britney’s favorite part of the entire renovation was the murals. Working with artist Liza Proch, whom she had collaborated with for years in Texas, felt like a dream come true. The designs were finalized almost in real time as they were being painted. Because everything happened on a tighter timeline than expected, there wasn’t much opportunity to overthink.
“That was a dream come true,” Britney said. “We designed as we were painting them. We chose a direction and went for it - sometimes even one wall at a time.”
The finished result brought so much color and personality into the space.
There were other little details that made the store feel special too: a disco ball chandelier that adds a playful sparkle, and a circular light fixture discovered in Nashville that instantly reminded Britney of the marquee light back in Midland. Piece by piece, the Franklin location began to carry the same warmth and creativity that define every Flying Cow store, while still feeling completely unique to this city.
A Familiar Face in a New City
One of the sweetest threads woven into this chapter is Cambrie’s story.
She has been with Flying Cow since the very beginning, back in 2018 when products were still being made out of Britney and Joshua’s home. Long before Franklin was ever part of the “work plan”, Cambrie and her husband had already decided to move to Tennessee. In a beautiful, unexpected twist, Flying Cow ended up following them there.
Now she gets to stand inside this brand-new store and watch everything come full circle.
“It’s just so cool to be on Main Street directly across from the theater where we first all came together on that team trip,” Cambrie says.
Every day brings a mix of new faces through the doors. Tourists from all over the country and even around the world stop in while exploring downtown, and at the same time, regular local customers are slowly becoming familiar friends.
“I see a LOT of interesting people come in…And it’s really nice getting to know the locals.”
For someone who has seen Flying Cow grow from kitchen counters to multiple storefronts, getting to be part of this new beginning in Franklin feels especially meaningful.
Looking Toward the Grand Opening
After months of building, planning, and quietly finding their footing, the team is finally ready to pause and celebrate.
This grand opening feels significant for many reasons. Years ago, the very first Flying Cow store in Midland was supposed to have a big celebration, but weather canceled the plans and the moment quietly passed by. This time, there is an opportunity to do what never quite happened before - to intentionally mark the milestone and enjoy it together.
Store #4 also holds a special place in Britney’s heart because of the stage of life her family is in now. Her kids are old enough to truly be part of the experience.
“I think what I’m most proud of with this store is that our kids are old enough now to really be a part of it. The littles have a special place in the back. The older ones help in the store. They WANT to be there…I’m proud that I get to do this with them, and that they actually want to be a part of it.” Britney says
In the weeks leading up to the soft opening, the whole family was there together making tallow, cleaning, and preparing the shelves. Getting to build something alongside her children has made this chapter feel even sweeter.
More than anything, Britney hopes that when people walk into Flying Cow Franklin, they feel something beyond just “shopping.”
“I would love for people to feel inspired,” she said. “Whether it’s by reading a maker’s story, feeling a product someone crafted by hand, or even by the possibility of trying something new to help their own skin…I hope they feel encouraged.”
Whether someone leaves with a jar of tallow, a piece of local art, or simply a little encouragement, the hope is that they walk back out the door feeling a bit lighter and more hopeful than when they came in.
Join Us Valentine’s Weekend
All of it - the long search for the right location, the quiet December opening, the busy holiday weekends, the murals, the new friendships, and the everyday stories - has been leading to this moment.
We are so excited to officially celebrate Flying Cow Franklin with our Grand Opening Weekend on February 13th–15th.
There will be giveaways, prizes, treats, and plenty of fun, and we would love nothing more than for you to be part of it.
Franklin has already welcomed us so warmly. Now it’s time to celebrate together.
And of course - It's Giveaway Time!
Where do you fit in to our Flying Cow Story? Comment below for a chance to win a $250 goodie basket from Flying Cow! Did you first find us online? Did you stumble upon us on a girls trip to Fredericksburg? Are you a Midland local who used to do porch pickups? One winner will be chosen after the Grand Opening! Check your email to see if you've won!
Comments
Kim said:
We love Tennessee and I hope the next time we are there we can visit the store, as we’ve only ever ordered online. We’ve shared your products with many and only wish you all the greatest of success in your business!
February 06, 2026
Emily A said:
I live in Lubbock and love your tallow. I literally use 4 different types daily. My favorites are the Restore and Blemish Balm.
February 06, 2026
Jeannie said:
Found in fbg tx! Love them all but the peppermint is my fave.
February 06, 2026
Kristi said:
My daughter who lives in Midland first bought me a little “try me” set. It was just what I was looking for – gentle skincare with powerful results. I use it literally from head to toe. The peppermint is especially soothing on the feet. I’ll be going back to the shop over and over again.
February 06, 2026
Amanda said:
I found out about it from a friend and have been hooked for over a year now! I love so many products and have seen noticeable changes in my skin. Even friends have noticed and I’ve gotten them hooked on flying cow!
February 06, 2026
Annalisa Riggins said:
What an amazing story! Congrats on your new location. Your Lubbock store is precious and I found you when we owned a gym in the same retail strip. You guys had donated some products to us to use in a raffle and after the winner shared her great feedback I was sold. I have loved many of your products for myself, for my family and as gifts (especially for pregnant mammas or little ones with eczema). Thank you!
February 06, 2026
Patrice said:
I found Flying Cow on our first trip to Hill Country. I wandered in and gravitated towards the tattoo balm, as I was scheduled to get freshly inked the following week. My new tattoo healed so well with the balm, that I started learning a bit more about tallow. I love that these products are natural and are made with care. I’m passionate about supporting small businesses and my skin care!
At this point, I’ve tried most of the collections and gifted this stuff to everyone!
February 06, 2026
Marla Wootan said:
Midland local. I found y’all at Natural Food Market and felt in love with your products. And visited your store and the friendly staff. Thank you for all y’all do.
February 06, 2026
Jeremy said:
Early 2024 I was on a family vacation and talking to my cousin Morgan about how I have a mild case of psoriasis on the inner part of my eyelids.
Long story short, she lives in midland and she ordered me some of yalls unscented tallow; from there my Flying Cow tallow journey began….. I now have the night, recovery, coffee, and a couple others! I am a 36 year old male WAY late to the game of daily & nightly moisturizing, and man has it done wonders! And all bc of YALL= Flying Cow!
I have told several of my buds & girlfriends about yall who have all ordered online (bc we are all north Texans) and they all love your products as well!
Having said that…. PLEASE PLEASE open a location in the DFW area!!! You guys would crush it up here!
Congrats on new store and pray for yalls continued growth & success. Cheers
February 06, 2026
Synthia said:
Congratulations on your new location! What a great story! I’m on the west coast, so I’m very happy I found you on Instagram. I’ve been using the restore products for a few weeks now and my skin has never looked and felt better!
February 06, 2026
Mary Ellen said:
I find you because of a cousin. Then I starting ordering online. I would love to be able to visit a store in person.
Congratulations on your new place.
February 06, 2026
Amber said:
I hope the new store is a huge success! I am so glad I found your products they have changed my skin and I will be a customer for life!
February 06, 2026
Erin Nave said:
I discovered Flying Cow at a Wild and Free Conference in TX. I have been hooked ever since. It’s my favorite. The Magnolia, Renew, and the Coffee balms are some of my favorites. It’s also a favorite gift to give. Teachers, pregnant mamas, daughter-in-laws. I received a magnet with an order years ago that says, “Admire someone else’s beauty without questioning your own.” It was the first time I had heard that statement and it really resonated with me. I keep it on the inside of the medicine cabinet door in my bathroom. Thanks!
February 06, 2026
Sarah Jurek said:
I heard about you from a gal on Instagram who lives in Ohio! Not even sure where she heard of you. Baby Moon is my go to while pregnant. I’ve had the pleasure of slathering my big ol’ belly with it three times now! Congrats on a new location! Houston next?!
February 06, 2026
Katie said:
I found you because of a suggestion from a friend in Lubbock! I gifted a lot of FC tallow this holiday season too, and have been loving your products for myself, friends, and family! We love FC!
February 06, 2026
Jill Spannaus said:
My daughter discovered Flying Cow as she was dealing with adult acne….. she was so frustrated and a friend told her about your products. She started trying several and gave me a jar of Restore. Well…. My my my…. I’ve used it EVERY NIGHT since then! I remember picking up my jar on your front porch! (I always loved the smell walking up!) Fast forward many years and I’m at dermatologist, he asks if I have any questions and I tell him about the large nickel size “liver spot” on my cheek – it was GONE! He asked what I was using or doing differently and there was nothing. Then I mentioned Flying Cow tallow and how I had used it every night for all of these years. He said, “ I love Flying Cow and their products!” We looked up the ingredients of Restore and he said the combination of frankincense and tallow did the trick!!!
I’m so excited for this journey and wish you God’s Speed and blessings as you share Flying Cow!!!!
February 06, 2026
Melissa H said:
My daughter found you in Fredericksburg while on a bachelorette weekend. She loved your product and then convinced her sister to use it. This past Christmas, your product was on their list, so I ordered some and decided to try some for myself. I thought tallow would be greasy and even though I have mature skin, it still has some oiliness. I tried it…and LOVED IT! My skin looks and feels great.
February 06, 2026
Ben F said:
Knowing your family from church has been amazing. And your tallow has changed my face! No lotion would help my dry skin, and Flying Cow has totally helped.
February 06, 2026
Sabrina A. said:
I discovered your store visiting Fredericksburg. Congrats on your new location!
February 06, 2026
Julie Haverdink said:
I live in Lubbock and discovered you when frequently visiting my favorite vitamin store that is next to you. I love your products and now my friends, family, and grandbaby use them. Congratulations on expanding to Tennessee!
February 06, 2026
Tracy G said:
So excited to have a store so close now!
February 06, 2026
Brittany Anderson said:
I found you on a fun weekend away in Fredericksburg. My family and I spent so much time perusing all your tallows and trying many! We order online now, and they are a part of our everyday routines – for skincare, rashes that we had tried everything else for, and moisture during the dry winter. Glad we found you! Congrats on your new TN location!! Sounds like a perfect place!
February 06, 2026
Brandon R said:
Congratulations on the new store! When we finally travel up to Tennesse we’ll have to stop on by! We found y’all walking around downtown Fredricksburg when we were there for my wife’s birthday weekend. She tried and fell in love with the Wild Orange lotion and it actually fixed her dry cracks hands. It’s the only lotion she will use. Thank y’all for making amazing lotions.
February 06, 2026
Lori S said:
I first found you in Fredericksburg and also have purchased online. I love my beef tallow! Congratulations on your new adventure.
February 06, 2026
Sarah Leslie said:
I first walked into your storefront on a family girls weekend in Fredericksburg, and it was love at first sight. I’d never seen whipped beef tallow before, and after leaving with several jars, I became hooked. I now order online and use it on the daily 🥰
February 06, 2026
Jody A said:
I found out about Flying Cow Tallow when i was living in Midland, TX. Before there was a brick and mortar store I would order it or pick it up at a local boutique. I love everything you make.
February 06, 2026
Julie said:
I found you online and am excited to try more products
February 06, 2026
Kim Osborne said:
Best wishes on your new store. Looks amazing. I found you online and your products have been a blessing to my family during this cold, dry winter weather.
February 06, 2026
Jessica said:
I found you on line and have been hooked since. Congrats on your Franklin store.
February 06, 2026
Ashtan S said:
Ohhhh I am so happy you are finally here!! We connected online via Instagram maybe almost 2 years ago now. I send everyone I know to your website to order and I’m so excited we can just go down the road to your shop now!!
February 06, 2026