Meet the rose of Sharon Team
ALTHEA WILES
Owner/Head Designer
AMF, PCFHello! I'm Althea, and flowers have been my passion for over three decades. As a professional florist, I've had the joy of creating stunning arrangements and designing beautiful bouquets that bring special moments to life. There's truly nothing else I'd rather be doing.
My mission is simple: to make your special occasions not only easier for you, but absolutely breathtaking. I thrive on the excitement of life's meaningful moments—whether it's a wedding, anniversary, celebration of life, or corporate event. The intricate planning, thoughtful details, and seamless coordination required to transform any space into something magical never gets old.
What drives me most is becoming part of your story. There's something deeply fulfilling about helping people express their emotions through the language of flowers, creating arrangements that capture the essence of life's most important moments.
Flowers have been woven into my life from the very beginning, starting with my name itself. Althea is the botanical name for the Rose of Sharon, a lovely flowering shrub—my personal favorite is the pure white 'Diana' variety.
Growing up at my parents' wholesale nursery, I spent summer days creating arrangements from their day lily beds. Since day lilies truly last just one day, I learned early on to embrace the ephemeral nature of fresh flowers—how they constantly evolve as blooms mature, making way for something new and beautiful each day.
My professional journey began in 1994 when I volunteered at a local flower shop during spring break. Those 40 hours of free work must have demonstrated my dedication, because I was offered a part-time position! After earning my Bachelor of Arts from Hendrix College and my Arkansas Master Florist Certification in 1996, I worked in traditional flower shops for four years. While I valued that experience, I discovered my true passion lay in event work rather than daily deliveries and houseplants.
In April 1998, I took the leap and opened Rose of Sharon, Event Florist, starting with just four events that first year. Today, we're honored to design 75-100 celebrations annually, each one unique and meaningful.
My design philosophy is rooted in enhancing nature's inherent beauty rather than forcing it into submission. Every arrangement I create is an original, reflecting both the natural character of the flowers and the special story of each occasion.
I'd love to help make your special moments as beautiful as the memories you're creating.
DIANNE, Lead Designer
Arkansas Master Florist, Dianne began her floral career in 1995 and she never fails to create stunning designs. From centerpieces to roses, Dianne brings a creative flair to everything she touches! Dianne is never afraid to take on any design challenge…and she always succeeds in creating something beautiful.
OLIVIA, Shop Manager & designer
Olivia is our all-around support person and designer in training. Whether it’s processing flowers, preparing for an event, or running deliveries, Olivia keeps things running smoothly for both Rose of Sharon Floral Designs & J Althea Creative Consulting. Originally hired as office support but quickly moved to the design bench and hasn’t looked back yet. Olivia loves to design contemporary arrangements that are bright and bold.
RYLEE, Shop Assistant
Rylee came to us via the Intro to Floral Design class taught by Althea at the University of Arkansas. Majoring in Psychology, but introduced to the world of flowers by her florist grandmother, Rylee has an eye for finding the beauty around us. Always cheerful, Rylee keeps us upbeat while she helps keep things moving at Rose of Sharon.
KATIE, Shop Puppy!
Our newest helper Katie is an absolute sweetheart! She enjoys being around people, adores cuddling, and manages to cause chaos while looking innocent.
SAM, Shop Puppy!
Sam loves children, pickled ginger and assisting with consultations. He also enjoys belly rubs and isn't shy about asking for one! (One of his favorite duties is to help pick out plants at the nursery.)