Franklin resident and public relations executive Cathy Cardenas wears many hats. In addition to making waves in her industry, the Idaho native is a mother of two, host of a faith-based podcast, and owner of an inspirational clothing line. After graduating high school, Cardenas entered the entertainment industry by landing a role with a local television station.
While she had always dreamed of a career in broadcasting and production, she began to truly appreciate the success that can come from working behind-the-scenes. Launching her sales career with a job in radio and television, she impressed her peers and soon received offers from companies nationwide. After a brief pause from the entertainment field, Cardenas leveraged her sales experience by opening her own company - a real estate firm specializing in foreclosure properties and properties that had been on the market for at least two years.
Executing her own PR for the business, Cardenas earned coverage from radio stations, news outlets, and shows such as Good Morning America. Later, she sold the business and decided to do something she never thought she would - open her own public relations company.
“My friend, who was an entertainment attorney, approached me [and asked] if I could help with PR for Lucha Libre - the Mexican masked wrestlers,” she says. “I ended up saying yes and it was the highest paid and highest attended event ever in the history of Lucha Libre! They said if I started my own PR firm, they would be my first client. So I did!”
Fourteen years later and working primarily off of referrals and returning clients, Cathy Cardenas PR has worked with some of the world’s top athletes, brands, businesses, and celebrities. In addition to her excellent writing and marketing skills, Cardenas brings a unique and creative perspective to events and has had a hand in hosting several elevated, star-studded gatherings.
After visiting Chattanooga for the first time several years ago for a client event, Cardenas was in awe of the rolling hills and Southern charm Tennessee had to offer. She was soon introduced to Franklin and knew immediately that was the place she was meant to land. In June of 2023, Cardenas found herself heading south, a choice she prayed long and hard about. “I absolutely fell in love with Tennessee,” Cardenas says of her decision to make the cross-country move. “I felt like God was leading me to a land of milk and honey; it was the best decision I ever made.”
In addition to listening to live music and shopping on Main Street, Cardenas enjoys taking in the beautiful views of the Volunteer State and hiking on trails around Franklin. Often traveling to her clients all around the country, Cardenas wanted to find a home base that would bring her calmness and peace. She believes Franklin has done exactly that.
“I love downtown Franklin,” she says. “I have never lived anywhere where people are so kind and so loving - somewhere where people want to pray for you - it doesn’t matter if you're in the grocery store! The kindness of the people in this town is absolutely amazing to me.”
No day is ever the same for Cathy Cardenas. Whether it be flying to New York City on a whim, attending or hosting a client event, or exploring the beauty of Franklin, she loves that each day is a new adventure. CathyCardenas.com @cathycardenaspr
Be on the lookout for new Hope Wear Clothing drops and catch up on season one of Grace Begins podcast, streaming on all platforms.