In the Hot Seat With Cordia and Tom Harrington

Cordia Harrington, CEO and founder of Crown Bakeries, and husband Tom, partner and CFO of the global baking company, oversee production of more than 10 million baked goods every day, but they are always ready to serve their community. So, when Heritage Foundation of Williamson County President and CEO Bari Beasley asked them to co-chair its signature fundraiser, the Heritage Ball, they emphatically agreed. The couple has been actively involved with the nonprofit for more than 25 years, hosted three Heritage Ball Patrons Parties and attended countless Foundation events and festivals. “It’s truly an honor to help design and create a unique Heritage Ball that taps into every sense,” says Cordia, who promises lots of surprises but stays mum about specifics for the black-tie evening. She did share that Amos Gott of AmosEvents is the ball designer and G Catering will be providing dinner for more than 800 guests. We chatted with them about what they are looking forward to, their favorite Heritage Foundation project and more. To learn more about the Heritage Ball and the Heritage Foundation, visit williamsonheritage.org.

What can people expect at this year’s Heritage Ball? It will be like no other ball. From the minute guests step onto the welcoming red carpet, they will feel like a star which reflects our theme of “An Evening Under the Stars.” Expect spirited libations, engaging camaraderie, Nashville-style entertainment and surprises around every corner.

What are you looking forward to most? The surprised faces of our guest as they experience the sights, sounds and wow factor of the decorations, atmosphere and over the top entertainment. Our auction items are also one-of-a-kind experiences you can’t put a price on. We are thrilled to have the talented team at ‘incite,’ a nationwide production company that works with Disney and Netflix. It is owned by Williamson County resident Chris Thomason, and they are bringing world class elements to the design and production of this ball! Tom and I met him at a dinner at the Governor’s Mansion. His vision and ideas are super exciting!

Do you have any tips for someone who’s never attended before? This is not a stuffy black-tie event. It’s designed to be exciting and bring joy to all who attend. It will truly be an evening to remember that will never be duplicated. Come ready to soak up the fun, connect with old friends and meet new friends in a party like you’ve never seen before. We are also hosting a late party for the younger crowd to enjoy cocktails, tastings and dancing.

Is there a particular project of the Heritage Foundation that is most important to you? Tom and I have been involved with the Heritage Foundation for many years and we’ve always admired the spirit of preservation in Williamson County. We are particularly drawn to the Franklin Grove project, which will not provideonly historical perspective to our community but champion the entrepreneurial spirit of Franklin and Williamson County. It’s an exemplary undertaking that is so well designed with expansive touch points.

Why is it important to support the Heritage Ball and the Heritage Foundation? The Heritage Foundation is the flagship of Williamson County’s history. This organization not only preserves buildings and historic sites, but it works to elevate our downtown main street which is one of the country’s top examples of how to preserve and elevate our community, culture and history.