Meet The French Magnolia

PBS – Enter Stage Left

In January of 2022, a cinematographer-producer from PBS Appalachia called Chef Missy to see if she would be interested in doing a culinary tv show. Chef Missy unfolded her detailed vision of telling the cinematic story of food from hunt and harvest to the table and French Magnolia Cooks, the TV show was born. Together, Chef Missy & Thomas wrote & produced 22 episodes which are now showing on both the PBS streaming app and PBS broadcast in 650 markets nationwide. Chef Missy & Thomas now have 3 Emmy awards sitting on their desk – most recently for BEST SHOW.

Distributed by PBS Appalachia, French Magnolia Cooks captures the heartbeat of food in season one now streaming on PBS in over 650 markets and broadcast nationwide. Chef Missy is joined by husband, wine expert & hospitality veteran, Thomas Fraley. Together, they inspire and educate audiences on food culture, wine pairing, unpretentious recipe, and entertaining with an ingredient that can only be described as authentic hospitality and heart.

From farm, field, garden, and stream – to chef and sommelier – to the table – all in one day, Chef Missy, Thomas and a cast of experts take you on an epicurean journey of American grit and grace. With warmth, humor and world-class cinematography, French Magnolia Cooks conveys a love letter to the American farmer.

Together, Chef Missy & Thomas Fraley create a dynamic duo that captivates viewers with their culinary prowess, infectious passion, and genuine chemistry. Whether you are a food enthusiast, home cook or just looking to be transported into the beautiful countryside, the Emmy Award winning French Magnolia Cooks will capture your heart, uplift your Spirits and leave you wanting more.

Who is The French Magnolia?

Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Chef Missy moved to New York City at the age of 23 without financial support from her parents. Armed with an Interior Design degree she drew upon her talent and passion for cooking and swiftly carved a niche for herself in the culinary world. From prep cook to executive chef with every kitchen role & duty in-between.

Due to her love of design and art, Missy decided to take a break from the pressure and long hours of the professional kitchen. She founded an interior design business, MC interiors LLC. For 10 years, she had clients in New York City, Atlanta and Charleston.

In addition to her design work, Missy also planned and executed many soires, weddings and high-profile culinary events for her clients. In 2007 Chef Missy returned to school for a degree in
holistic nutrition and soon after, began cheffing again full-time.

Once again, Chef Missy quickly rose through the ranks in several fine dining restaurants in Charleston before accepting an Executive Chef position at a 5-star Relais & Chateaux restaurant
& property in Blowing Rock, NC.

Throughout Chef Missy’s career there have been both hills and valleys, but one thing remained the same – her lifelong obsessed with all things French. With an obvious emphasis on country French cuisine, her passion for French decor, design and culture is captured on her beautiful pates and in her uniquely creative culinary experiences & intimate weddings.

Two is Better Than One – Enter Thomas Fraley

Thomas Fraley – long-time restaurant & hospitality veteran was a serious wine guy…and confirmed bachelor. At 45 years old, he finally met the woman who was worth him giving up the single life. They had everything in common including their passion for each other. A match made in Heaven, Thomas & Missy were quickly engaged and married (in Charleston, SC) on the one-year anniversary of their first date.

After spending his childhood in Arkansas and Tennessee, Thomas moved to Atlanta at the age of 18 to study electronic engineering. However after a year, he joined the United States Army Reserves where he served for 8 years. After the military Thomas entered hospitality. Much to his surprise, he enjoyed it and was good at it!

Through the hospitality business, Thomas was exposed to the art of fine dining. And in a short time, Thomas understood and appreciated how award-winning food, old world wine, thoughtful service and ambiance can make lasting memories.

After a few years, Thomas was recruited by The Four Seasons in Atlanta to run the service and wine program for the intimate Chef’s Table in the kitchen with the Executive Chef. For 30 years, Thomas served and managed fine dining establishments in Atlanta, Charleston & High Country North Carolina. He has served global leaders & Presidents and carries a reputation of excellence in the restaurant & hospitality industry.

Throughout the decades Thomas has continued his own wine & management training as well as hired, trained & managed staff for the ‘front of the house’ in a variety of fine dining establishments including several Relais & Chateau affiliated restaurants. Over the last half of his career, Thomas has helped develop wine programs for several restaurants as well as consult on the designing and implementing of new restaurant concepts and operations including developing beverage and wine programs.

Thomas is the General Manager and runs the wine program for the French Magnolia. He can always be found pouring world class wines & telling chateaux tales along-side his chef-wife at the very memorable culinary & wine experiences at the French Magnolia.

Additionally, Thomas shares his wine knowledge on the Emmy Award winning PBS television series, French Magnolia Cooks.