Founder, Southern Exposure Magazine
Director of Development, High Hopes Development Center
Home: 615.300.5251
E-mail: brandy.blanton@franklintn.gov

City Administration Office: 615.791.3217

Brandy Blanton, a Tennessee native, has lived in Williamson County since 1977 and is a graduate of Franklin High School (Class of 1985). She is the founder of Southern Exposure Magazine, a bi-monthly publication that exists to celebrate life in Williamson County. Blanton created SEM in 2002 with no experience in the magazine business, only armed with a heart for her community and the people in it after living here 30+ years. Along with her talented and dedicated team, Blanton created a publication that has become a staple of the community. 

Blanton sold Southern Exposure to the Williamson Herald in 2012 after a successful campaign for Alderman At Large for the City of Franklin in 2011. However, she remained as publisher until 2018, when she decided it was time for a new challenge. 

Having become a grandmother in 2015 to a baby girl with special needs, Elliott Grace, it was a natural transition for her to become the director of development for High Hopes Development Center in 2018, an organization and non-profit who changed the trajectory of her granddaughter’s world through their therapeutic services. 

However, before her departure, it was important for Blanton to create something tangible to immortalize and celebrate the stories and photos over her 16-year tenure with SEM. The result is a 448- page coffee table book, “LEGACY; The Stories of Williamson County (2002 – 2018)” published under the moniker of Soul Cake Publishing – another venture she started from scratch. 

Blanton has been very active in the community supporting many non-profit organizations. During her time with SEM that was via sponsorships and editorial coverage, today she serves the community through her roles on the board of directors for:  Leadership Franklin (a graduate of the Class of 2007) and Williamson County Homeless Alliance which she co-founded and serves as the board secretary and organizes all the meals for their emergency shelter. Blanton is a member of the Elks Lodge #72 and 100 Women Who Care. She previously served on the board for Mercy Community Healthcare, Williamson County CASA, Williamson County Library Foundation (2016-2022), and Franklin’s Charge. 

Through her role with the City of Franklin, she serves on the Capital Investment Committee, Williamson County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, Public Arts Commission, Executive Board member for Franklin Tomorrow, Inclusive Playground Committee and is chairman of the Tree Commission.  Blanton has also served on the Beer Board, Budget & Finance Committee, Sister Cities of Williamson County and was Vice Mayor in 2016 and 2022.  

However, her most cherished accomplishment will always be her family: Nick (Ashley), Samantha (Brandon), Caitlin (Will), Zac, Emma, and her husband, Mendall and their six grandchildren.