Anna Page of Rose Hill Florist: FACES of Nashville

From an early age, Anna Page has always had a passion for flowers. After working at her mother’s flower shop during her early 20s, she decided it was time to become her own boss. She bought Rose Hill Florist in 1987 and, with that, a new female entrepreneur was born. Rose Hill is one of Nashville’s largest independently owned florists and has been recognized as one of the nation’s Top 250 Florists by Telaflora for the past 12 years. Her commitment to customer service, passion for perfection and exquisite taste in flowers sets Anna apart from the rest. We’re thrilled to introduce to you Anna Page, today’s FACE of Nashville.

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Are you originally from Nashville?

Although I was born in St. Louis, we moved here when I was 8, so I like to think of myself as a Nashville native.

If not, what brought you here and when?

My father accepted a new job and a 1962 Volkswagen — crammed with my mom, sister and our cat – brought me to Nashville. I was 8 years old … we’re not going to do the math.

Can you tell us the history of Rose Hill Florist? Did you have another career before opening the business?

I discovered my passion for business and flowers early on. In my early 20s, my mom and I opened a small store at Hickory Hollow Mall — and I was hooked.

I purchased Rose Hill Florist in 1987. We are a full-service florist and have been providing premium products and passionate service to all of Metropolitan Nashville and the surrounding areas ever since.

We have a staff 25 full-time and part-time staff members and the artistic talent runs deep. Our award-winning designers are known throughout the industry for their creativity and style. Personally, I am proud of our reputation of amazing arrangements and unmatched customer service.

In addition to premium florals, Rose Hill has a beautiful gift shop offering a wide selection of gifts for any occasion. If you have a “present” dilemma, I promise we can solve it.

One thing I’m proud of is our commitment to giving back to the community that has supported us for almost 30 years. We routinely combine “business with philanthropy.” Every July, Rose Hill hosts “Give Blood, Get Roses” — a mobile blood drive where each blood donor receives a complimentary dozen roses. Each November, a portion of the proceeds from our annual Holiday Open House directly supports a variety of local charities, most notably Nashville CARES and Safe Haven Family Shelter. This year’s Holiday Open House will be on Saturday, November 12, and will support Prevent Child Abuse Tennessee.

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Can you share with our readers your favorite combination of flowers (or your favorite flower)?

Personally, I gravitate toward flowers with high color saturation (bold and vivid jewel tones). Some of my very favorites include dahlias, godesia and ranunculus. But of course, I love them all.

If someone wants to entertain and not spend a fortune on flowers, what do you recommend?

Mixing trendy succulents with flowers offers “mass” without breaking the bank. And at the end of the event, they make lovely party favors!

What are some trends you are seeing in the floral business?

Succulents continue to be a hot trend. Even our brides often want to encompass succulents in their bouquets. Their natural hues beautifully complement a wide range of florals while also offering modern shapes and textures.

With regard to bridal, trends continue to range from romantic to rustic and can incorporate every color palette imaginable: from creams, blush tones and neutrals to vibrant pinks, oranges and purples.

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What is the best piece of advice you have received?

“Take care of your customers!” Regardless of industry, the most successful companies have one thing in common: an intense desire to ensure customer satisfaction. I instill this belief into every team member every day. Now, almost every business person will say that but not every business actually executes it.

We have been voted “Best Florist in Nashville” year after year and I know it is because we strive to exceed customers’ expectations. We don’t just deliver on the flowers; we also deliver customer service.

Where in town do you go when you’re looking for an inspirational boost?

My core group of friends represents a wide variety of industries and interests. Enjoying a glass of wine and stimulating conversation over dinner at a new restaurant (or one of my go-to old faithfuls) always reaps big rewards. It not only allows me to keep my finger on the pulse of what’s happening in Nashville but also pushes me out of my comfort zone, to think “bigger” and continue to be relevant — which is critical in this business.

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What is your next restaurant destination?

I have been a huge Deb Paquette fan for decades, so am looking forward to visiting her newest endeavor, etc., in the very near future.

Do you have any irrational fears?

Running out of flowers! I have an annual recurring nightmare the week before Valentine’s Day that the rented refrigerated truck breaks down overnight and we arrive at 5 a.m. on the 13th of February to discover a trailer full of frozen flowers!

What do you think distinguishes Nashville from other Southern cities?

We have become increasingly more “cosmopolitan” without losing our Southern charm.

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Do you have any good book recommendations?

Regrettably, I don’t have as much time to read as I would like. Currently on my nightstand are Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg and Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap … and Others Don’t by James C. Collins.

What are three things you can’t live without, excluding faith, family and friends?

Red lipstick, sauvignon blanc and my passport.

Thank you, Anna! And thanks to Ashley Hylbert for today’s photos.

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