Frances M
Step into Frances M, a premier luxury gift and home boutique housed within a fully restored Victorian landmark in the heart of Lexington, KY. Founded and curated by mother-daughter duo, Julie & Margaret Cashman, their passion goes beyond simple home goods; they champion the art of thoughtful living and the creation of inspired spaces. Frances M invites you to explore their refined collection, where every piece—from elegant home furnishings to unique, gallery-worthy art—is chosen for its beauty, craftsmanship, and ability to transform a house into a truly beautiful home.
In their words... get to know Julie and Margaret!
What do you love most about including original art in your spaces?
We love including original art in our space because our shop is designed to feel like a home. Displaying each piece as it would appear in a residential setting makes it easier to appreciate its details and personality. In traditional galleries, artworks can sometimes get lost among many others, but our home-like layout allows each piece to stand out on its own.
What inspires you today? Who are your design "crushes" or favorite instagram accounts for inspiration?
One of our biggest interior design crushes on Instagram is Charlotte Lucas. We’re drawn to her fearless use of color and the way she pairs unexpected fabrics and furnishings to create spaces that feel both playful and refined. When it comes to inspiration for our home store, we’re endlessly inspired by Shop Manse in Washington, D.C. Their mix of lush greenery, one-of-a-kind vintage finds, and everyday pieces that feel both practical and beautiful perfectly captures the vibe we aim for at Frances M. Both accounts push us to think creatively and curate a space that feels inviting, thoughtfully layered, and uniquely ours.
What are your three "must haves" in order to create an inviting space?
Our three must-haves for creating an inviting space are layers of texture, thoughtful lighting, and personal touches. Texture is what brings a room to life—mixing materials like different woods & metal as well as different fabrics such as velvet, linen, and chenille adds warmth and dimension that make a space feel lived-in. Lighting is equally important; a blend of natural light, soft ambient lighting, and a few well-placed lamps creates a cozy atmosphere that shifts beautifully throughout the day. And finally, personal touches are what truly transform a house into a home. Incorporating meaningful objects, family photos, collected pieces from travels, or items that reflect the homeowner’s stories and personality makes the space feel authentic, welcoming, and uniquely theirs.
Favorite thing about living in the south?
What we love most about living in the South the genuine sense of hospitality here, a pace that invites you to slow down, and a deep appreciation for community, tradition, and good food. In Lexington specifically, that charm is paired with the beauty of rolling hills and horse country and the pride of a strong SEC school community. The combination of scenic landscapes, vibrant local culture, and the welcoming nature of the people creates a feeling of rootedness that’s hard to find anywhere else.
How to contact Frances M...
instagram: @shopfrancesm
email: shop@shopfrancesm.com
phone: 859-374-7461
address: 631 E Main St Lexington, KY 40508
