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The Nashville Home Show is thrilled to host Bravo fan-favorite Craig Conover. As the featured headliner from the hit reality series Southern Charm, Craig will discuss all things sewing with his southern-based "sewing lifestyle brand," Sewing Down South.

Rooted in downtown Charleston, Sewing Down South recently opened a new retail store in Nashville’s vibrant 12 South shopping district, offering pillows, hats, totes, T-shirts and more. We asked Craig why he chose Nashville for his Sewing Down South store.

Craig:

“I’ve always loved Nashville. Opening a store here has always been a goal of mine, and it felt like a natural extension of our store in downtown Charleston. The people, the culture, the food, the music, Nashville brings together a great mix of new ideas, and we wanted to be part of that fabric. We value what our customers say, and we’ve been listening to them when they said, come to Nashville. So, here we are!”

Host of the popular podcast “Pillows & Beer,” Conover is also the author of the top-rated memoir “Pillow Talk: What’s Wrong with My Sewing,” which will be available for purchase at the Nashville Home Show. We asked Craig how he transformed his passion for sewing into a successful business. 

Craig: 

“I’ve always believed in the idea that we should pursue our own creative endeavors. I developed a passion for sewing during home economics class in the eighth grade. I faced some ridicule from it, and it was tough at times, but I didn’t let that criticism get to me, and it inspired me to keep going. It turned into the thrill of seeing my ideas come into form through the pillows, and when I started getting attention on social media, I knew I had something here. It was the help of my business partners, Jerry and Amanda, that has turned into what Sewing Down South is today, and what it can be in the future.”

We then asked how his podcast, "Pillows & Beer," impacts Sewing Down South.

Craig:

“I started my podcast Pillows and Beer with my friend and Southern Charm castmate, Austen Kroll, because it provides us an opportunity to connect with our fans in a new way. It gives us the chance to speak more freely on what’s going on in our lives, and gives us the chance to meet so many of our fans. We’ve been able to go on tour in cities around the country and bring our live show to them. And it’s given me a chance to sample new areas and cultures and find inspiration in my travels across the country.”

Craig is excited to announce his new line, "What's Wrong with My Baking," which will be available at Kroger this fall. After being in the works for a long time, he is thrilled to finally share it with everyone.

Craig initially pursued a career in law, running his own firm before turning his passion for sewing into a thriving business. When discussing his brand's marketing strategy, Craig shared his most effective initiative for growing Sewing Down South.

Craig:

“Even with social media helping you spread your message to people around the world, we believe you can’t go wrong with good old-fashioned face-to-face interactions. That’s why we love coming to shows, so we can meet new people, have conversations, feel the different fabrics and products, and help us get inspiration from others.”

In addition to discussing his career, we asked Craig about general homeowner advice, starting with his recommendation for a must-have gadget or tool for every homeowner.

Craig:

“A cordless drill and a basic household tool kit. Those two things will help you tackle basic repairs or DIY projects around the house.”

Craig claimed his favorite HGTV or DIY Network series.

Craig:

“Breaking Bland with Mary Welch Fox. I know her personally in Charleston and it is cool to see her having her own show.”

When asked about the best home purchase for under $100, Craig recommended.

Craig:

“I’m a big believer in home organization tools like storage bins and baskets. It’ll make finding things easier and helps tidy up your home or garage. Inside the home, accent pieces like throw pillows and blankets, wall art and mirrors, plants (real or fake) are great affordable purchases.”

DIY projects can be challenging. We asked Craig which projects he believes are best left to the professionals rather than attempting them yourself.

Craig:

“I wouldn’t DIY any sort of plumbing, I definitely leave that to the professionals. I also don’t like to mess with electricity, it freaks me out. I got electrocuted once when I was younger.”

When asked about one outdoor tip for a significant impact on landscaping or curb appeal, Craig started.

Craig:

“I believe in keeping it simple with landscaping or curb appeal. So I try to not overdo it and keep space in between the plans, give them room to spread out and draw your eye when someone drives by or walks up to your home.”

One outdated home trend Craig hopes doesn’t come back.

Craig:

“Popcorn ceilings”

Finally, we asked Craig what he enjoyed about the Home Show and why he was eager to be this year’s headliner.

Craig:

“I have so much fun meeting everyone, hearing their ideas and gaining inspiration for some of my creative pursuits. There’s so much to learn from others. Plus, I like walking the show floor and seeing all the new gadgets, tips, and trends going on in the home.”

Craig will be on stage Friday, September 6 at 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, September 7 at 12:00 p.m. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable tips and insights from a renowned industry professional and beloved celebrity!