From Henpeck(ed) to Simply Living Life – The Epitome of a Small Business in Franklin
Article by Karen Creason
Photography by Provided
Originally published in Franklin Lifestyle
During their 40 years of marriage, high school sweethearts Don and Jackie Gregory have done a lot – 20 years traveling with the carnival, raising five children, owner/operators of Henpeck Village Market, and for the past 10 years owner/operators of Simply Living Life. While the years have marched on, several things have remained constant – their love for each other, their family, their community, cooking, and gathering together to enjoy food that looks and tastes great.
Walking away from the Henpeck Village Market with only their menu board and a mixer, Jackie was “finished with the food business.” But just a year later Don was anxious to get back to serving wholesome food to the community he and Jackie love, and Simply Living Life was founded. Bringing their customers all-time favorite recipes from Henpeck Village Market, such as chicken salad on cranberry pecan bread, grilled pimento cheese on jalapeno bread, and their famous oatmeal chocolate chip cookies to the new location, Don and Jackie have seen their quaint 900 square-foot location at the intersection of Moores Lane and Franklin Road prosper. “We serve wholesome food for those who don’t have the time or don’t like to cook.” Made daily in small batches in their shop, you will find gourmet entrees, salads, sandwiches, casseroles, soups, and desserts filling the refrigerated cases. They also carry a large selection of gluten-free foods, specialty food items, and local Tennessee items. Simply Living Life also offers catering, holiday menus, gift baskets, and a great gift idea for new parents and the elderly called ‘Stock the Fridge.’
Each Friday through Sunday, Jackie can be found at Arrington Vineyards working alongside her youngest son. “He does everything I do, everything Don does, and then things neither of us do.” They offer three distinctively themed service areas at the Vineyard – Grill at the Barn, a bluegrass-inspired grill, The Derby – a bakery and coffee shop, and The Cottage, which offers charcuterie and flatbreads. They also offer call-ahead out-of-this-world picnic baskets.
Ever mindful of their losses at Henpeck Village Market, which Don refers to as “our greatest failure,” Don and Jackie appreciate where they are today. “This place we started from nothing and it’s doing well. We are grateful, especially after we walked through a hard place. We just don’t take it for granted.”
Jackie and Don have been able to carry the traditions of great food, friendly service, and love of community to Simply Living Life. Stop by, say hi, get some food, and become family. You won’t be disappointed! Simply-Living-Life.com
