Walton’s Antique and Estate Jewelry Honored with Best in Business Award
Walton’s Antique and Estate Jewelry, a Franklin, Tennessee institution since 1974, has been awarded the Boxwood Insurance Group’s Best in Business Award. Established over three years ago by Blake Lambert and Patrick Baggett, the award celebrates local, family-owned businesses committed to exceptional customer service. This year, Walton’s, a third-generation family business, epitomizes the award’s values.
Derby Jones, publisher of the Williamson Herald, noted that Walton’s rich history and consistent success made them an ideal choice. “Third generation, family-owned, you’ve been in business 51 years now, and you’re a mainstay on Main Street,” Jones said to Julie Walton Garland, the current owner. “Just being in your lobby a few minutes ago, I can see why people gravitate towards what you guys do.”
Lambert expressed his appreciation for the jewelry store’s knowledgeable staff and the comfortable atmosphere they cultivate. “Julie, I know that I’ve stumbled into your showroom many times and I am so grateful that you’re here,” Lambert said. “You make buying something that can be intimidating for a lot of people because of cost or knowledge, you make it very easy.”
Garland emphasized the importance of community in Walton’s philosophy. “It means a lot to us to be part of the community, and I think that’s something that is the most important component to us,” she said. “Yes, we sell jewelry, we love jewelry and we’re so excited to share the history of our pieces with our clients and be part of their memorable life moments, but it’s also part of being in this community.”
While many past award recipients have been family-owned, Lambert and Baggett acknowledged the unique achievement of Walton’s in being a third-generation business. Garland attributed the business’s longevity to both honoring the foundation established by her grandmother, Melba Walton, and adapting to changes in the modern world. “I think that’s the biggest reason why generational businesses struggle is because you have to accept, understand and learn why you’re successful with that first generation and continue that, then also change the business to be relevant today,” Garland explained. “If my grandmother were alive today, seeing us selling things online on our website, seeing us on Instagram doing Reels would blow her mind, but we still incorporate the things that she created to be current and modern for people today.”
Walton’s Antique and Estate Jewelry continues to evolve, its principles of community support and quality service remaining unchanged since Melba Walton first opened its doors. Lambert concluded, “I’m sure that you have made your dad and grandmother extremely proud,”
To nominate a locally owned business for the Boxwood Best in Business Award, visit www.williamsonherald.com and click on the Best in Business Award box on the right-hand side of the homepage.
