Hope White is distinguished in the field of floristry for her commitment to excellent customer service and innovative ideas that have propelled her forward in business management. Since 2014, she has served as the owner of Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts, a business that offers unique, beautiful flower arrangements and handmade, eco-friendly products from both local and regional artists, individuals who serve at the helm of women-owned businesses, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Notably, in January 2015, Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts relocated to a new location in Maryville, Tennessee, where it has since flourished due to Ms. White’s dedication to innovating the business to remain relevant in contemporary times.
Ms. White joined the business in 2004 when it was known as Hartman’s Flowers, during which time she excelled in wedding flower arrangements. In May 2024, she rebranded it into Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts to represent its diverse array of floral arrangements, gifts and products. Hartman’s Flowers was first established in 1964 by Ms. White’s grandfather as Clark’s Floral Shop. Ms. White then joined the family business at the age of 26, innovating the business to remain abreast of the latest trends while honoring her family’s legacy.
As the owner of Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts, Ms. White oversees all daily business operations, including human resources, financing, shop maintenance and computer systems. She also creates floral arrangements and mentors the business’ lead designer. Her leadership prowess has extended to new heights as she maintained the business’ success during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier in her career, Ms. White served as a store manager with the Cato Corporation and worked in multiple roles in the banking industry. She also pursued a formal education at Tennessee Tech University, completing coursework in hotel and restaurant management.
As a testament to its success, Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts was named among the Top 500 and 1,000 Shops by Florists’ Transworld Delivery and Teleflora. Ms. White was also recognized by Cambridge Who’s Who in 2009 and was honored in Who’s Who of Professional Women by Marquis Who’s Who in 2024. Looking toward the future, Ms. White intends to further expand the scope of services and community reach of Hartman’s Flowers and Gifts. To this end, she endeavors to create a lasting legacy that will be passed down from generation to generation.