MARY WELCH FOX

Meet Mary Welch Fox: a Tennessee native and interior designer known for her bold, thoughtful spaces – and the creative mind we partnered with to bring HART Nashville to life.

Inspired by her surroundings and the belief that a well-curated environment fosters creativity, Mary Welch blends eclectic finds with intentional design to create spaces that feel personal yet cohesive. Think antique cowhides from 12 South’s Savant Vintage paired with modern touches of abstract wallpaper designs.

Between her design firm, two little girls, and life with her bassist husband, Mary Welch finds balance through yoga and keeping her playful spirit alive. Step into her office, and you’ll spot a mini-trampoline as proof. 

Mary Welch Fox

Where did your love of design come from? 

I’m deeply inspired by the spaces around me. For my mental well-being, I need my environment to feel cohesive and intentional, and I’d say my love for design sparked from that. There’s something about a well-composed space that makes me feel creative and at ease.

What’s been one of your favorite projects you've ever worked on?

That’s a tough one! My favorite projects are always when clients are truly inspired by their spaces. When both sides collaborate and express themselves, that’s when the magic happens. I just finished a house in the Old Village [Charleston] where the clients were willing to take bold risks—that was a dream.

If you could describe the HART Nashville store in three words, what would they be?

Cozy, collected, and inspired 

HART is in a 1940s cottage that feels cozy and residential. What’s your favorite room and why?

The back sitting room. It’s filled with natural light, and from there, you can see the entire space. It’s the heart of the store.

Charm Jewelry on coffee table book

You’re a Tennessee girl yourself. How does HART Nashville reflect the local spirit? 

The store is a beautiful blend of inspiring elements, filled with unique pieces. Tennessee's landscape is breathtaking, and the people are warm and vibrant, especially in Nashville, where the city's dynamic energy mirrors the store’s diverse and captivating mix.

Where’s your favorite spot to treasure hunt in Nashville and/or Charleston?  

In Nashville, I love the vintage shop right across from HART on 12 South - Savant Vintage. The owner is always there, and both her stories and the pieces she curates are incredible. In Charleston, I love shopping at the Mt. Pleasant Mall.

Where do you turn for design inspiration? 

Everywhere—music, travel, the people I’m designing for, and the objects in the space. Any texture or detail can spark an idea. Inspiration is truly all around.

You’re a mom of two young girls, married to the bassist of American jam band Umphrey’s Mcgee, with your own interior design company plus appearances on tv shows…do you have a spiritual/mindfulness practice that helps keep you centered? How do you stay in flow?

Mushrooms…just kidding! I love yoga, sweating it out in the sauna, and carving out at least 30 minutes a day for myself. I need that time to clear my head.

What's the "why" behind the charms you chose for your necklace?

Each charm on this necklace feels like a little mantra for me. The Shroomy reminds me to embrace my playful side; Rock On speaks to my creative spirit and inner wild child; and the Hamsa Helping Hand feels like carrying a symbol of strength and good energy wherever I go. Together they make my necklace feel like a personal talisman that's both grounding and empowering.

THE GOOD STUFF

Favorite Quote?

“Find out who you are and do it on purpose.” — Dolly Parton

What’s on your nightstand? A Himalayan salt lamp and an Owen table lamp

Worth the splurge? Eclectic art 

Favorite book? May Cause Miracles by Gabrielle Bernstein

Favorite podcast? I’m all over the place—true crime, health and wellness, comedy, business. I love True Crime Obsessed.

Go-to concert venue in Charleston? The Windjammer. The Jammer is my jam!

“Design hack” if you have one? Incorporating vintage — a good mix of old and new is key.

Must-have makeup product? Mascara—Thrive Cosmetics is my go-to.

Favorite workout? Hot yoga at The Works 

Favorite album to play while hanging out with friends for brunch, dinner party, or beach day...? It depends on the vibe, but lately, Franc Moody has been on repeat.