Hovis Country Florist LLC is more than a flower shop — it’s a continuation of a family legacy.

My grandmother, Thelma P. Hovis, began her career in the floral industry when she owned and operated Phillips Flowers on Elk Street, after selling Phillips flowers it was later relocated to Liberty Street by the new owner. Where it thrived for many years. My grandmother went on to open Hovis Country Florist in Sandy Lake, which she lovingly ran until her retirement.

As a teenager and young adult, I spent countless hours working alongside my grandmother, aunts, and other family members, learning not only the craft of floral design but also the joy of serving others through flowers.

In 2003, when my husband joined the United States Air Force, we began a 20-year journey across the country. During our first duty station in Cheyenne, WY, I worked at one of the city’s finest shops, The Prairie Rose, where I created everything from simple bouquets to elaborate arrangements for weddings, government events, and much more. Each day brought something new, and I cherished the opportunity to grow my skills.

Throughout our travels, whenever we returned home to Pennsylvania, I was often asked to design arrangements for family gatherings, weddings, and funerals. Even when scrambling for flowers and containers, I loved every moment of creating something meaningful.

In 2022, after my father’s passing, I designed the flowers for his memorial service. That experience planted the seed of opening my own shop. Three years later, while creating arrangements for a very close family friend’s memorial service, I realized I was ready to share my artistry beyond moments of grief. “I told my husband, I was tired of only doing this when someone close passes away. Many friends and family encouraged me, saying repeatedly that I needed to open a flower shop.

Now, I am stepping away from the corporate world of emails, meetings, and conference calls to follow in my grandmother’s footsteps. With faith in God, the support of family and friends, and a deep love for floral artistry, I am proud to bring Hovis Country Florist LLC to Franklin, PA.

This shop is built on legacy, love, and the belief that flowers can make every occasion — joyful or solemn — more meaningful. I am humbled and excited to share this journey with my community.