In honor of Women’s History Month, and throughout Spring, we’re celebrating women-owned and operated businesses that are enriching their communities with beauty and inspiration. Join us as we highlight their unique stories, expertise, and impact.

With a 75-year legacy, Kennedy’s Flowers and Gifts has been a cornerstone of the Grand Rapids, Michigan community. Originally founded as a floral and landscape business, it has evolved into a thriving enterprise known for its commitment to quality, design and community connection.

Lori Haveman, Owner, started her journey with Kennedy’s at just 15 years old, where she honed her floral and management skills. After 13 years, she purchased the company, transforming it from a small operation of four employees into a flourishing business with a team of 35. As Kennedy’s continued to grow, Lori’s children, Holly and Nick Haveman, became co-owners, solidifying its legacy as a family-run business dedicated to sharing beauty with the world.

Kennedy’s embodies its commitment to “fun living, creative giving” by actively supporting the local community, including the Grand Rapids Ballet, Civic Theatre, Broadway Grand Rapids, and various school and community organizations. Co-owner & Brand Ambassador, Holly Haveman, thoughtfully shared, “art and beauty are the center of our spiritual solar system.” Today, Kennedy’s Flowers and Gifts stands as a five thousand square foot florist and gift shop featuring clothing and unique home decor.

The team continually innovates, keeping their customer community engaged and making Kennedy’s a trusted go-to time and time again. As a women-owned and family-operated business, their journey has been shaped by the unique challenges and triumphs that come with female leadership in the floral industry.

The Challenges and Rewards of Women-Led Entrepreneurship
A major milestone in Kennedy’s journey was overcoming the difficulties of leasing under landlords who did not support women-owned businesses. Securing ownership of their location was transformative, allowing the team to create a space that truly reflects their vision. “We’re so proud when customers tell us, ‘Kennedy’s is my happy place,'” shared Holly.

Empowering Future Women Entrepreneurs
Building and nurturing a team requires significant time and effort, and personnel departures are an inevitable part of the process. Holly shared that a fulfilling aspect of running Kennedy’s has been watching employees grow and succeed. Over the years, five of their top team members have gone on to start their own businesses. “On more than one occasion, they’ve approached Lori to express gratitude for the years of learning directly from her,” shared Holly. “It’s a proud moment and a high compliment.” Now, with Holly and Nick leading the business, Holly continues to champion the philosophy that “business should be art” to live a creative and connected life. 

Honoring Women’s History Month at Kennedy’s
Kennedy’s commitment to celebrating and uplifting women extends beyond their team and into the community. One of our most exciting initiatives has been embracing International Women’s Day, a tradition they discovered through the World Flower Council. While visiting flower farms around the world, Holly and Lori brought invaluable ideas and inspiration from international summits back home. While attending a 2014 summit in Croatia, they learned about the global significance of March 8^th, International Women’s Day, and they were inspired to introduce it to their customers. This year, Kennedy’s hosted their first-ever Women’s Day Party, complete with a DIY floral vase activity, delicious treats from local women-owned bakeries, and an uplifting atmosphere that truly honored the spirit of the day.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy
The mission driving Kennedy’s is simple, yet meaningful: to make the world a more beautiful and inspiring place. Through stunning floral arrangements, a warm and welcoming store atmosphere, and a commitment to strengthening community connections, they strive to create a legacy that brings joy and inspiration to everyone who walks through their doors.

Stay up-to-date with Kennedy’s Flowers and Gifts via their website  and @kennedyfloral. To shop Accent Decor’s wholesale decor and wholesale floral vases along with new and flower, plant and home products, visit accentdecor.com. 

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