Our Team
Mike Walton
Co-owner, GIA Graduate Gemologist
Mike Walton joined the family business in 1982 when his mother, Melba Walton, opened the doors to Walton's Jewelry. He received his Graduate Gemology Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America in residence at Carlsbad California in the early 1980s and put in hundreds of hours along with completing coursework to become our resident jeweler. For many years, Mike handled most aspects of day-to-day operations here at Walton's, playing a pivotal role in shaping the store into the esteemed establishment it is today.
Mike's adventurous spirit and love for exploration have taken him around the world in search of gemstones and antique jewelry to bring back to Franklin. As Mike enters the retired phase of his life, he enjoys time spent with his wife, Adrian, and revels in the joy of being a grandparent. Though he has stepped back from the day-to-day operations, his legacy and contributions continue to shape the spirit of Walton's, reminding us of the store's rich heritage and commitment to excellence.
Julie Walton Garland
Co-owner, GIA Graduate Gemologist
Julie Walton Garland continued the Walton's Legacy by joining the business in 2012 after spending six years in Colorado where she received her Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs from the University of Colorado, Boulder in 2010. Driven by her desire to expand her expertise, Julie earned her Graduate Gemologist Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America. She has since played a pivotal role in establishing the business's strong online presence, ensuring that Walton's Jewelry resonates with customers far and wide. Her unwavering dedication to delivering an exceptional customer experience shines through in her recent achievement of overseeing our remarkable showroom remodel. With her keen eye for design, she transformed the space into a stunning and inviting environment, where clients can immerse themselves in the beauty of our collection of fine antique jewelry.
Recognizing her achievements, Julie's outstanding reputation extends beyond Walton's Jewelry. In 2017, she was selected as one of eleven business owners from across the nation to join the Facebook Small Business Council. She also proudly serves as a Founding Member of the Facebook Leader Network, reflecting her commitment to advancing the success of small businesses.
Beyond the world of jewelry and entrepreneurship, Julie nurtures her passion for interior design, consistently seeking the next home improvement project. She also treasures the quality time spent with her beloved husband, Patrick, and their two beautiful children, James and Kate.
Miller Williams
Manager, Repair & Design Specialist
GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional, GIA Diamond Graduate
Miller graduated from Western Kentucky University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Psychology. While working toward her degree, she began her career in the jewelry business where she quickly realized her passion truly lay in the world of gems and jewelry design. In 2015, she joined Walton's Jewelry, bringing her knowledge, skills, and unwavering enthusiasm to our team. With her expertise as a Repair Specialist, Miller works closely with our resident jeweler, overseeing and managing all aspects of our repair services. Her commitment to expanding her knowledge in the field of fine jewelry is evident through her various accreditations. She is a GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional, GIA Graduate diamonds, and is working towards completing her GIA Graduate Gemology degree. Outside of her professional endeavors, Miller enjoys baking and staying connected with friends in the jewelry community.
Mary Rozas
Marketing Manager
GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional
Mary, a graduate from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2018, has been an invaluable member of our team since she joined us in 2020. She has taken the lead in managing various aspects of our website, overseeing branding initiatives, and driving our marketing efforts. She is dedicated to fostering long-lasting relationships with clients, ensuring they receive the highest level of care throughout their journey with us at Walton's. With a background in digital design and photography, she is also the creative force behind the fabulous photos you see on our social media platforms. Outside of work, Mary's love for art extends to various forms, including painting and architecture. In her leisure time, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Charlie, and finds joy in the great outdoors.
Katie Walton
Product Photographer
GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional
As a third generation Walton - Melba’s granddaughter, Mike’s youngest daughter, and Julie’s younger sister, Katie's family ties bring a special passion to her work here at Walton's Jewelry. Katie initially joined the team as an apprentice, immersing herself in the art of jewelry design and earning the Accredited Jewelry Professional credential. She now plays a crucial role in showcasing our extensive collection of fine jewelry through her exceptional photography skills. Her understanding of the intricacies of antique jewelry enables her to capture its beauty in every photograph she takes. When she's not behind the camera, Katie enjoys spending time with her beloved dachshund, Dexter, and indulges in her passion for creating beautifully decorated cookies!
Claire Ladd
Sales Professional
GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional
Claire is a Franklin native and has been an admirer of Walton's Jewelry since she was a teenager. She joined the team in 2018 and brings a passion for historical gems with particular expertise in the use of symbolism found in antique jewelry, including Mememto Mori and rare designs from the Georgian period. Claire's contagious enthusiasm for antique jewelry is matched only by her extensive knowledge of its captivating history. Her commitment to providing personalized service and her genuine love for engaging with our clients make her an invaluable asset to our team. Outside of the realm of jewelry, Claire finds joy in various creative pursuits, including baking and knitting. In her leisure time, Claire treasures the company of her nieces and nephews.
Korene Pirkle
Sales Professional
GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional, GIA Diamond Graduate
Having joined us in 2023, Korene brings experience in bridal and custom jewelry design, where she honed her skills as a sylist. Her commitment to expanding her knowledge is evident through her recent achievement of obtaining the GIA Diamond Graduate diploma. Korene's passion for jewelry blossomed at a young age, inspired by her international travels. From those early days, she knew that jewelry would be calling her. She finds joy in the opportunity to connect with clients and dream up unique and personalized designs. Beyond her professional endeavors, Korene finds solace in hiking, indulging her wanderlust with exciting travels, and cherishing moments with her loved ones, including her husband, Nathan.
Rachel Leyers
Sales Assistant, Office Coordinator
Rachel graduated from the University of Georgia in 2023, where she pursued her passion for Jewelry and Metalwork, culminating in a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Her studies focused on exploring the intricate artistry of jewelry, with a special emphasis on the captivating designs from the Georgian and Victorian eras. Rachel's meticulous attention to detail is evident in her essential role at Walton's, where she plays a crucial part in ensuring the smooth and organized functioning of our day-to-day business.The allure of antique jewelry serves as a constant source of inspiration for Rachel, igniting her creativity and fueling her artistic pursuits. In her leisure time, she enjoys quality time with friends and caring for her two cats, Leo and Scout.
Meghan Johnson
Social Media Coordinator
GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional
Meghan has been an integral part of our team since November 2017. With her exceptional writing skills and genuine passion for connecting with our online community, she plays a vital role in promoting our brand and engaging with our followers. As a Nashville native, Meghan has delighted in watching the community of Downtown Franklin flourish. Beyond her professional endeavors, Meghan indulges in her love for cooking and enjoys quality time with her friends and family, including her loving husband, Brett, and their two wonderful children.
Daniel Blalock
Resident Jeweler
Daniel Blalock, our in-house jeweler since 2019, has over fifteen years experience in jewelry design, repair, and restoration. His passion for his craft is evident in the precision and attention to detail he brings to every project and his dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality ensures that each piece of jewelry he works on is transformed with impeccable artistry and skill. When Daniel is not at his jewelry bench, he finds solace in the beauty of the great outdoors and enjoys spending time with his wife, Lindsey, and their two wonderful children. His expertise, passion, and love for his work make him an invaluable asset to our team, and we are grateful for his contributions to the artistry and beauty that define our collection of jewelry.