What is your hometown and how did you end up in the Jackson area?
I was born and raised in Tupelo, MS. I came to Jackson in 1982 to attend Union University. After graduation we moved to Middle TN for six years. Jackson has been our home for the past 30 years.
What is your profession?
20 years as the owner of J. Kent Freeman Floral Design and Gift Co. I’ve always had the passion and love for floral design and creating beautiful designs from nature. I freelanced from my garage for ten years before making the jump to open a brick and mortar location.
Where have you volunteered or contributed your time in efforts to give back?
I am past president of the Jackson Exchange Club, so my early years here were spent supporting the Carl Perkins Center. I co-chaired with Mary Jane McWherter the decorating committee for the first Blue Suede Dinner and Auction. Runway for a Cure, Go Red, and The Jackson Symphony Crystal Ball are three of our annual projects. As a small business, we are always giving back to our community.
What are some of your favorite things about Jackson?
The arts, our Jackson Symphony, Jackson Theatre Guild, and the local colleges and universities — for the impact all of these have on our city and the surrounding area.
Three words that best describe you.
Creative, energetic, and Southern (My employees chose these.)
What is the last thing you Googled?
White pages or Google Maps for directions and phone
numbers.
Favorite place for dining and entertainment?
My wife, Sherry, and I love to entertain. She is a fabulous cook, so my favorite dining place is at our home with friends and family. She and I have crazy work lives. When we aren’t entertaining friends or being entertained by friends, you will find us supporting the arts. The Amp is our Friday night hangout during the summer. The Starlight Symphony is a favorite of ours kicking off the symphony season each fall.
What is one thing you do not go a day without?
Prayer and flowers (Sorry, that’s two things)
Finish this statement: I AM JACKSON because…
I am part of this wonderful community of friendly, caring, and generous people. A community that supports small businesses. One that has believed in us and supported us. Thanks Jackson and West Tennessee!
This article is from VIP Magazine, a premier publication for events and local coverage throughout Jackson and West Tennessee.
