Local Ark

Wedding Ceremony

Ceremony

The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

Reception

Our Wedding

Matt &amp; Heather met in April of 2024 at a wedding reception. It wasn't until a year later that they began talking back and forth. With Matt living in Charlotte, NC &amp; Heather in Nashville, TN the two began chatting via phone. They eventually decided to meet on a first date in downtown Franklin, TN at Grays on Main. After the first date, Matt joked with his family that he was going to marry Heather. The rest was history with the two of them traveling for close to a year back and forth from Charlotte &amp; Nashville. Matt has two beautiful daughters - Ava (12) &amp; Eden (10). Along with the girls, Matt &amp; Heather have 3 dogs that have become best friends - Sarge, Dolly, &amp; Porter. Matt and Heather got engaged on December 21, 2025 in Franklin, TN.Heather &amp; Matt currently reside in Charlotte, NC where they enjoy spending time with the girls, their animals, gardening, hiking, golfing, grilling, cooking, traveling to Nashville, and trying new brunch spots. With Matt's family residing in College Grove, (outside of Franklin), and Heather's in Owensboro, KY (2 hours away), they knew Franklin, TN where their first date was would be the perfect spot for their wedding. Not only is Franklin charming &amp; beautiful but it's outside of Nashville, where Heather owns a home, and her grandparents who have been married for 72 years had their first date at the Ryman Auditorium. As you celebrate with us, keep an eye out for the special touches that reflect our families and the traditions that have shaped us. From Matt's South Carolina roots - surrounded by golf, the coast, and the bond he shared with his brother- to Heather's Kentucky upbringing, filled with old-school country music, cherished moments gardening with her grandparents, and love for her family, dogs, &amp; closest friends, these details tell a piece of their story. We are so grateful to have you join us as we begin this next chapter together!

Our Story

Wedding & Reception Venue

Chelsea Odil

Nikki Bartram

Lindsay Woods

Ava Simms

Eden Simms

Maylee Putman

Kai Putman

Dolly Parton Simms

Eric Young

Rick Whitbourne

Sean Robitzer

Mike & Karol Simms

Gary & Renona Putman

Melanie Hodskins

Justine DiVanna

Katy Pena

Wedding Party

Q + A

Ultimate Formal Attire Shopping Guide

25 Hand-Picked Formal Guest Dresses

Tux vs. Suit: What's the Difference?

Dress Code

The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton has a fitness center, shared lounge, a terrace and bar in Franklin. This 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property has an ATM, a concierge service and luggage storage for guests. At the hotel, the rooms come with a desk. Complete with a private bathroom equipped with free toiletries, all rooms at The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and some rooms also feature a balcony. Guest rooms will provide guests with a fridge. At the accommodation you'll find a restaurant serving American cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and vegan options can also be requested. The area is popular for hiking and cycling, and bike rental is available at The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton. Johnny Cash Museum is 21 miles from the hotel, while Bridgestone Arena is 22 miles from the property. Nashville International Airport is 21 miles away.

Southall Farm & Inn

If you prefer, there are many wonderful Airbnb options in and around historic downtown Franklin, making it easy to enjoy all the area has to offer during your stay.

Airbnb 

Travel

This is where Heather & Matt had their first date! Grab a seat upstairs by the windows for some of the best people-watching in town. On most evenings, you’ll also enjoy live music. Be sure to check the website for the latest event schedule.

GRAYS on Main

Located in the heart of downtown Franklin, 55 South is one of Heather & Matt’s favorite spots. Whether you’re stopping in for brunch, handcrafted cocktails, or classic Southern comfort food, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the charm of Main Street.

55 South

The cutest little bakery behind 55 South. This Southern Bakery is across from the parking garage. It's perfect for breakfast and sweet treats!

Merridee's Breadbasket

Coffee and Cocktails - Stable Reserve is a favorite of the locals, and offers amazing coffee, and TN Whiskey!

Stable Reserve Distillery

Travel a few miles down the road through the TN Hills to South Hall. This spot is not only beautiful, but has a wonderful brunch, farm, spa, and gift shops. It's also a favorite place to stay for celebrities such as Matthew McConaughey &amp; Kourtney Kardashian.

Catch a movie at the cutest old school movie theatre in downtown Franklin.

The Franklin Theatre

Take a stroll down charming Main Street and explore some of Franklin’s best boutiques. From Anthropologie and Evereve to Philanthropy, Jondie, and Southern Cottage, you’ll find plenty of unique shops just steps from one another.

Anthropologie

Travel 12 miles down the road (from downtown Franklin), and check out the beautiful Arrington Vineyard Winery owned by Kix Brooks (Brooks &amp; Dunn). This is beautiful in the fall.

Arrington Vineyards

Broadway

Things to Do

Registry

Wedding Party- Please join us for our rehearsal dinner on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Mere Bulles in Brentwood, Tennessee. Following dinner, we’ll gather at The Local Ark in Franklin for the wedding rehearsal. Additional details will be shared as the date approaches.

Matt & Heather