The Hilliard Institute

The Hilliard Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation offering sensory education programing, experiential learning, and academic research and publishing while also supporting philanthropic initiatives through fundraising and educational training and activities—all under the umbrella of the concept of Educational Wellness. 

The Hilliard Institute. 4440 Savage Pointe Drive. Franklin, TN 37064

Email Dr. K. Mark Hilliard at mark.hilliardinstitute@gmail.com

or Professor Jessa R. Sexton at thehilliardpress@gmail.com.

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Dr. David Woodfine, the retired High Steward to Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford, and a former butler to the Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace, has authored three Hilliard Press books. His cookbook is a wonderful guide for an American host or hostess to create an authentic, formal English dinner party. His first children's book, The ABCs of Etiquette for Young People, shares a few helpful pointers with illustrations to remind adults (and perhaps teach you something new) and to educate children on dining etiquette.  His second children's book delightfully explains and illustrates how to properly host the perfect afternoon tea. With tips and facts about this quintessentially British tradition, Join Me for Afternoon Tea is a must-have for tea lovers of all ages. 

This Tea and a Chat event will begin at 10:30am on May 2nd. Dr. Woodfine and other members of The Hilliard Institute will serve tea and light refreshments before the author shares stories with the crowd. Downton Abbey fans won't want to miss this chance to hear these real-life experiences with royals, the aristocracy, and celebrities. 

All three of his books shall be available, and he will gladly sign copies.

Proceeds from this event will go towards The Hilliard Institute's current charity partnerships: The Starfish Society, Cherokee Missions, and Healing Hands International. Email thehilliardpress@gmail.com with questions. 

You can read Dr. Woodfine's more detailed bio here.

Buckhorn Inn will offer its guests an unusual opportunity this May 5th—sharing afternoon tea with a very special person, Dr. David Woodfine, one of England’s most respected and experienced professional butlers.  Dr. Woodfine is an amusing and engaging speaker who will talk about how to prepare tea properly, different types of teas, and proper protocol when setting down for an afternoon “cuppa.”  He will also share a few stories from his career as a butler, including service with Princess Diana, Prince Charles, Princess Margaret, and The Duke of Marlborough and the supervision of the wedding of Andrew Lloyd Webber.


Dr. Woodfine was also High Steward of Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford, where his job was to see to the needs of dignitaries from around the world and to oversee high table dinners for the University.  He was Master of the Oxford City Guild of Chefs for four years and a Master Sommelier.   Dr. Woodfine will be happy to sign copies of his well-received cookbook, From Kitchen to High Table: the British- American Edition, which will be on hand at teatime. 

Read more about this special event on the Buckhorn Inn's website. 

Dr. David Woodfine, the retired High Steward to Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford, and a former butler to the Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace, has authored three Hilliard Press books. His cookbook is a wonderful guide for an American host or hostess to create an authentic, formal English dinner party. His first children's book, The ABCs of Etiquette for Young People, shares a few helpful pointers with illustrations to remind adults (and perhaps teach you something new) and to educate children on dining etiquette.  His second children's book delightfully explains and illustrates how to properly host the perfect afternoon tea. With tips and facts about this quintessentially British tradition, Join Me for Afternoon Tea is a must-have for tea lovers of all ages. 

This Tea and a Chat event is intended for families: children and parents can enjoy tea and light refreshments as well as meet the author and talk to him about his experiences serving royals, the aristocracy, and celebrities. With all of his incredible adventures and connections, Dr. Woodfine is warm and personable with all ages. All three of his books shall be available, and he will gladly sign copies.

Proceeds from this event will go towards The Hilliard Institute's current charity partnerships: The Starfish Society, Cherokee Missions, and Healing Hands International. Email thehilliardpress@gmail.com with questions. 

You can read Dr. Woodfine's more detailed bio here.

Dr. David Woodfine spoke for the second year in a row to The Woman's Club of Nashville on April 28th. In 2014, Dr. Woodfine's talk with this incredible group of women went over so well that his reputation made this year's luncheon even more successful: the room was packed, and a waiting list had to be created. 

We are having a multi-author book signing event this January 25th from 2-4 at the Antiques at the Factory with all of our local authors present (Alex Beene, James Byers, Lori Bumgarner, Dr. K. Mark Hilliard, Sarah Newsom and Lauren Rogers (author-illustrator team), and Jessa R. Sexton) and several illustrators as well.