The Brookettes Take Nashville by Storm

posted Tuesday, December 7, 2010 by Rebecca Brooks

We were thrilled when our newest client, Gigi’s Cupcakes (www.gigiscupcakesusa.com), invited The Brooks Group to their Annual Franchise Owners Convention in Nashville. Gigi’s is one the fastest growing franchises in the country and their cupcakes are adored by celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Reba McEntire. Brookette’s Erika and Amanda will be spearheading the team and landed this sweet assignment. Below chronicles their adventures in Music City, USA.

Upon arrival our first order of business was attending a mixer at the historic Wild Bill’s (it’s the oldest building in Nashville). Over vino from their special wine vending machines (we were so glad we have @GaryVee on speed dial to ask what to choose!) we had the chance to speak with Gigi executives and franchise owners from around the country.

We learned about everyone’s backgrounds and how they became Gigi’s owners. Most stores are owned by families, including married couples, fathers/daughters, sisters and friends. Many owners even have other full times jobs, which include everything from doctors and lawyers, to contractors, teachers and more.
After the mixer, we had free time to explore Nashville’s famed Broadway. First stop visiting authentic cowboy boot stores! Later we met up with Gigi and her crew and hit several of the famed live music venues.

Saturday was packed with conferences and planning meetings for 2011. We learned about the day to day operations of each Gigi’s Cupcake store and discussed business operation strategies. Someone from each department spoke, from website and marketing, to the founder Gina. During the Vendor Session, we set up a “Brooks Group” booth which gave owners the opportunity to learn more about PR and our strategy.

Following a long day of meetings, we made a quick visit to a Gigi’s location in Franklin, TN. We were hoping to indulge in our first cupcake of the trip but the store was completely sold out (over 500 cupcakes)! Back at the hotel we attended a dinner where several owners received awards for their impressive achievements over the past year.

After dinner, we were treated to an intimate concert by famous Nashville singer/songwriters Kevin Denny, David Lee, and Wynn Vrable.

It was incredible, but the highlight of the evening was when Gigi jumped onstage and sang two songs (she originally went to Nashville to be a country singer)!

Following the live performances, a DJ took the stage and we enjoyed a few hours on the dance floor.
It was a great weekend! Not only did we learn about running a successful franchise, we made fantastic friends and can’t wait for the New Year!