The backstory
Since 1984—when Martinez’s parents opened the business—Flowers of Kingwood has provided locals with a selection of fresh bouquets, home decor and gift items. The business also offers floral arrangements for events such as weddings.
“I'm just as happy to do a bouquet and a boutonniere for two happy people as I am to do [it] for 2,000 people,” Martinez said.
In 1987, Martinez took over the store, and in 2000, Martinez opened the current location on Northpark Drive. When Flowers of Kingwood was established, Martinez said Kingwood was a young community to which people mostly commuted for jobs at local businesses and left after the workday ended.
Since then, she said she’s seen the area blossom into a community with deep roots—people buy homes and raise their families in Kingwood, allowing her to get to know her customers well.
“I've seen Kingwood change, and that's enabled us to have an ongoing relationship with people,” Martinez said.
How it’s going
Martinez has also served as president for the South Texas Education District of Teleflora since 2015. The volunteer organization partners with schools and Future Farmers of America programs to help students earn certifications in floral design, horticulture and plant life green housing, she said. The group also hosts shows where florists can attend design and business seminars, and their first in-person show since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020 will take place Sept. 12.
Sharing floral design knowledge with others is a common practice among florists, Martinez said, as other florists offered advice to her when she took over Flowers of Kingwood.
“I learned everything on the job," Martinez said. “Our industry is good about education and having classes, seminars, just [sharing] inspiration. Most of the designers in our industry are very giving with their knowledge.”
Flowers of Kingwood
1962 Northpark Drive, Kingwood
www.flowersofkingwood.com
