Barry and Kim Hooper first met at the Chick-fil-A in the Hickory Hollow Mall in the early 80s. Barry and Kim were both attending college at Middle Tennessee State University at the time, with Barry working at Chick-fil-A and Kim joining the team later after graduating. Both from Smyrna, they are now the owners of the community favorite: the Brentwood Chick-fil-A.
The restaurant cut the ribbon on Oct. 6, 2005, and this fall, they celebrated the location’s 20th anniversary as well as their wedding anniversary.
Back in October 2005, there were 100 people camped outside the location waiting for its doors to open for the first time, where the first 100 customers received free Chick-fil-A for a whole year. There was only one drive-through lane, and it was packed. At the time, there was a Kroger grocery store across the parking lot, where traveling musicians would park their tour vans. It just so happened that country music singer Jo Dee Messina was parked across the street. An impromptu concert for those in line kicked off the launch.
Kim and Barry had friends and family present as they celebrated the opening with party games, DJs, good food, drinks, the mascot, and other fun activities. Now, after 20 successful years, they are celebrating again. This year’s anniversary party welcomed past employees and guests. There was a prize wheel where you could win restaurant swag, ice cream, and digital offer cards for free meals. There was a cherished cow appearance as well. Cake was served to the workers in appreciation.
Chick-fil-A hosts all categories of people. There are the regulars, the early morning Bible-study goers, the “raving fans” loyal and dedicated, and a men’s group called “The Liars Club” that meets every day in the morning, popping in from 6 to 9 a.m. They all gather to share a good time, make memories, and make use of the scrumptious menu and hospitality.
Kids’ night is also a buzzing time. Chick-fil-A hosts a “Kid’s Activity Night” once a month with mascot Cow and Kid Cow being present. Kids can enjoy a great meal with their families and share in the excitement of the “Eat Mor Chikin” cows.
Be on the lookout because this Nov. 8 will be the last day you can get the pretzel cheddar bacon club or the four different versions of their cherry berry drinks. Grab the treats while you can! On Nov. 10, some of your favorite seasonal classics are returning. The peppermint milkshake will be available, along with the cozy tortilla soup.
Chick-fil-A employs numerous high school and college-aged students. They look for employees who are active, with high character, caring, and with a willingness to grow. All employees can apply for the yearly Chick-fil-A college scholarship that awards anywhere from $1,000 to $25,000 toward school—and you can reapply every year. Some working students have received the scholarship three years in a row. Barry and Kim encourage college-age workers to apply.
“We go the extra mile with our staff, giving them training and skills to succeed,” said Kim. Barry and Kim work alongside their staff and seek to create a kind environment with great people. The Hoopers love seeing customers and serving them.
Chick-fil-A supports and collaborates with other businesses. They have partnered with The Oher Foundation, which helps school-age youth and was started by Michael Oher, the football player whose story was told in the movie The Blind Side. The foundation helps local churches, schools, and organizations. They also support local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts by giving them patio space to sell their goodies.
What is the secret sauce that is so popular at Chick-fil-A? It’s the people and the community they have built. Where is Chick-fil-A crossing the road in the future? The company will hopefully be expanding globally. With locations already in Canada and the United Kingdom, Chick-fil-A is appearing in fresh new places. Barry and Kim hope their Brentwood restaurant will continue to “evolve and change as the business climate changes,” said Barry.
The Hoopers would like to return the favor to all their well-wishers, employees, friends, and family. They thank them for their contribution and support.
For the Thanksgiving season, the restaurant will have a family night, and for a Christmas celebration, there will be Christmas with the Santa Cow. Make sure you participate in the holiday merriment. To find more details, check out Chick-fil-A’s social media pages.