Caterer, Catering, Luxury Caterer, Personal Chef, Private Chef, Abingdon VA, Bristol VA, Bristol TN, Johnson City TN, Kingsport TN, Charlotte NC, High Country NC, North Carolina Missy Fraley, Thomas Fraley, The French Magnolia, French Magnolia Cooks

Meet Thomas

French Magnolia
General Manager
& Wine Steward

Meet Thomas Fraley, a seasoned veteran in the world of hospitality and a warm-hearted fine dining service expert with a genuine passion for wine. Thomas embraced the single life until, at the age of 45, he found his heart captured by a special woman, bidding adieu to his solitary days.

United by their shared passions, Thomas and Missy formed an extraordinary bond, accentuating their love for old-world wine and the delightful expertise Thomas brings as a fine dining service expert. Their enchanting love story unfolds at The French Magnolia Cooks, where we joyfully celebrate their match made in heaven, offering a fine dining experience sprinkled with Thomas’s warmth, wine wisdom, and finesse in service. Their tale beautifully illustrates the magical power of love in crafting lasting and heartwarming connections.

Originally hailing from Arkansas and Tennessee, Thomas embarked on a journey that led him from electronic engineering studies to eight years of service in the United States Army Reserves. Surprisingly, his heart gravitated towards the hospitality industry, where he thrived as a fine dining service expert. Through his work, Thomas discovered the art of fine dining, cultivating an appreciation for award-winning food, old-world wine, thoughtful service, and ambiance – all woven together to create cherished memories in the world of the fine dining service expert.

After gaining valuable experience, Thomas was recruited by The Four Seasons in Atlanta to oversee the service and wine program at the intimate Chef’s Table, working closely with the Executive Chef. With a impressive career spanning 30 years, he has successfully managed and served in renowned fine dining establishments in Atlanta, Charleston, and High Country North Carolina. Throughout his career, Thomas has had the privilege of serving global leaders and Presidents, solidifying his reputation for excellence within the restaurant and hospitality industry.
Caterer, Catering, Luxury Caterer, Personal Chef, Private Chef, Abingdon VA, Bristol VA, Bristol TN, Johnson City TN, Kingsport TN, Charlotte NC, High Country NC, North Carolina Missy Fraley, Thomas Fraley, The French Magnolia, French Magnolia Cooks
Caterer, Catering, Luxury Caterer, Personal Chef, Private Chef, Abingdon VA, Bristol VA, Bristol TN, Johnson City TN, Kingsport TN, Charlotte NC, High Country NC, North Carolina Missy Fraley, Thomas Fraley, The French Magnolia, French Magnolia Cooks

Pouring up a Future

Throughout his career, Thomas has dedicated himself to continually expanding his knowledge and expertise in wine and management. His experience includes training and managing staff in fine dining establishments, including those affiliated with Relais & Chateau.

In addition, Thomas has played an integral role in developing wine programs for various restaurants and consulting on the design and implementation of new concepts and operations.

As General Manager of the French Magnolia, Thomas oversees the wine program, where he delights in pouring world-class wines and sharing captivating chateaux tales alongside his chef-wife. Furthermore, Thomas showcases his wine knowledge on the Emmy Award-winning PBS television series, French Magnolia Cooks.