In an era where friendships are often maintained through text messages, and business relationships begin with LinkedIn requests, Franklin Social is betting on something refreshingly analog: gathering around a table.
Founded by Dave and Allison Dyer in the heart of Franklin, Tennessee, the private social club has become a home for entrepreneurs, artists, philanthropists, and families seeking something increasingly rare—a place to truly belong. Rather than building a club around status or exclusivity, the Dyers have curated a community rooted in character, curiosity, and hospitality. Their philosophy reflects a growing movement across America as private clubs evolve into modern "third places": spaces between home and work where meaningful relationships flourish. We sat down with the Dyers to discuss community, the future of hospitality, and why living well begins with being known.
Palomino County: Franklin Social was founded when many traditional gathering places were fading. What gap did you see in modern American life?
Dave & Allison Dyer: After the pandemic, people were more isolated than ever, yet deeply hungry for connection. We wanted to create the intersection of work and play—a place where proximity and shared experiences naturally lead to friendship. Franklin, Tennessee is full of remarkable people looking for something more intentional. Our hope was to build the kind of place where you arrive as a stranger but leave with a genuine sense of purpose and belonging.
PC: Many people describe private clubs as the new "third place." Why do you think that idea resonates so strongly today?
DD & AD: So many people have relocated to places like Franklin to begin a new chapter. They left careers, friendships, and communities behind, and they're looking for somewhere they can truly be known. We think that's a deeply human desire. People aren't searching for another networking event—they're looking for authentic relationships. What makes Franklin Social unique is that people aren't posturing. They're seeking genuine connection with others who share similar values and want to build something meaningful together.
PC: Franklin Social attracts creatives, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders. What have you learned about cultivating that kind of community?
DD & AD: We've learned that résumés don't create chemistry, curiosity does. When you gather people from different backgrounds and create opportunities for authentic conversation, relationships naturally follow. We talk a lot about "trust before transaction." We also curate around values rather than credentials, which creates an incredibly generous, welcoming culture. Our members genuinely invest in one another; our programming ranges from songwriter nights to chef dinners and is designed to encourage those connections in approachable ways.
PC: You've embraced the philosophy of "unreasonable hospitality." What does that look like day to day?
DD & AD: It's choosing small, intentional moments that make people feel seen. Our team remembers names, favorite drinks, birthdays, and celebrates life's victories while also walking alongside members during difficult seasons. Hospitality isn't simply service; it's a relationship. Our goal is that whether you're a longtime member or a first-time guest, you never leave Franklin Social feeling like a stranger.
PC: As artificial intelligence transforms how we work and communicate, do you think real-world gathering places become even more valuable?
DD & AD: Absolutely. As life becomes more automated, people crave spaces that are purposefully human. Many of our members appreciate having somewhere that's largely free from screens—a place where conversation, serendipity, and genuine presence still matter. Technology will continue advancing, but it can't replace the warmth of a room filled with people who intentionally chose to gather together.
PC: The city of Franklin has become one of America's fastest-growing communities. How has that shaped the culture of the club?
DD & AD: Franklin has this remarkable balance of small-town warmth and world-class talent. You'll find artists, entrepreneurs, retired athletes, filmmakers, and nonprofit leaders all sitting at the same table. Most came here because they value what Franklin already represents—family, faith, freedom, and community. We see Franklin Social as an extension of that spirit rather than a lifestyle brand. Everything we do reflects the city's entrepreneurial energy and Southern hospitality.
PC: This issue explores the idea of "Living Well." What does that phrase mean to you?
DD & AD: Living well means choosing relationships over possessions and slowing down enough to gather around the table. Soon after moving to Franklin, we were invited into a community that welcomed us before we felt we'd earned a seat there. That experience changed us. Today, whether it's in our home or at Franklin Social, we want others to experience that same invitation—to be known, to share life together, and to discover that the richest moments are often the unhurried ones spent in community.
Photo credit: Lane Miller
