John Mark Enterprises
For John Mark Sharpe, founder of John Mark Enterprises, the holiday season is a whirlwind of creativity and client connection. While many are just beginning to think about festive décor, Sharpe is already immersed in transforming homes and businesses into winter wonderlands. His days are a dynamic mix of hands-on decorating, business management, and nurturing the relationships that are the bedrock of John Mark Enterprises. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Sharpe juggles two thriving retail stores specializing in floral and gifts, a bustling warehouse operation, and a sought-after floral design service. Recently, we gained a glimpse into a typical 24-hour period for Sharpe, witnessing firsthand the energy and dedication he pours into John Mark Enterprises, from installing elaborate holiday displays to consulting with будущие brides and crafting his signature bows.
Early Start, Strategic Planning (5:30 AM – 7:00 AM):
Sharpe’s day begins before the sun rises, driven by an internal clock that only rests on Sundays. His iPad becomes his command center, as he tackles essential administrative tasks for John Mark Enterprises: managing invoices, processing orders, and strategically planning for the day and the weddings on the horizon. This quiet morning routine is crucial for Sharpe. “I find that the morning is the calmest time; once I leave the house it just gets crazier and crazier throughout the day, so I’m never able to sit down and focus,” he explains. This dedication to early planning sets the tone for a productive day at John Mark Enterprises.
Fitness and Team Communication (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM):
Physical fitness is clearly a priority for Sharpe, who dedicates an hour to a gym session with his trainer. Refreshed and energized, he then shifts focus to his team. Before heading out to various John Mark Enterprises locations, he communicates with his 20 employees, who span retail, design, warehouse, and operational roles. Using a mix of text messages and sticky notes, Sharpe ensures everyone is aligned on the day’s objectives. He acknowledges his communication style might be unconventional, but emphasizes, “It’s probably not the best way to do things, but it works!” This personal touch and direct communication are hallmarks of John Mark Enterprises‘ operational style.
Client Connection and Christmas Transformations (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM):
The heart of John Mark Enterprises lies in its client relationships, some spanning nearly a decade. Arriving at a client’s home with a team member, Sharpe dives into transforming the space for Christmas. This particular project includes decorating two trees, mantels, a dining room, and the front door, all with a signature lavish touch of ribbons, ornaments, and fresh garland. The design process is collaborative; Sharpe typically meets with clients months in advance to establish a color palette and overall aesthetic. This pre-planning ensures a smooth and efficient installation day.
Beyond the décor, these installations are opportunities to strengthen client bonds. “…while I’m decorating their trees or mantels they ask me about what I’m up to, how the business is doing, what’s next,” Sharpe shares. This conversational approach builds trust and loyalty. Clients of John Mark Enterprises appreciate not only the beautiful results but also the personal connection with Sharpe. Documenting their work is also key; photos are taken for internal records and a detail shot for the John Mark Enterprises Instagram, showcasing their festive creations to a wider audience.
Commercial Décor and Community Spirit (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM):
The scope of John Mark Enterprises extends beyond residential clients to large-scale commercial projects, such as Trezevant Manor, a prominent assisted living facility in Memphis. For the past six years, John Mark Enterprises has been responsible for bringing holiday cheer to this expansive property. The scale of the Trezevant project is impressive: approximately 10 trees, 15 mantels, and nearly 100 wreaths and garlands are installed annually. Sharpe and his team have become part of the Trezevant community, engaging with residents who eagerly anticipate the holiday decorations. This project highlights the versatility of John Mark Enterprises, demonstrating their capability to handle both intimate home décor and large commercial installations. Even amidst a busy day, Sharpe prioritizes a quick lunch with his team, showcasing a down-to-earth approach to business.
Bow-Making and Bridal Consultations (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM):
Returning to his Germantown store, Sharpe transitions from installation to retail and design consultations. Bow-making becomes the focus as he prepares for a bridal consultation. The demand for bows, a signature element in John Mark Enterprises’ designs, is particularly high during the holiday season. “Everyone puts a bow on everything here— mailboxes, lampposts, everything. There’s just never enough bows,” Sharpe quips. This hands-on approach, even with high demand, underscores Sharpe’s dedication to quality and detail. Evening bridal appointments cater to busy professionals, reflecting John Mark Enterprises‘ commitment to client convenience and personalized service.
De-stress and Recharge (7:00 PM – 10:30 PM):
The day concludes with simple pleasures: pizza from a local spot and relaxation at home. A hot shower and Netflix provide a well-deserved opportunity to de-stress after a demanding day. Evenings are for unwinding before another early start, ready to tackle the diverse demands of John Mark Enterprises.
John Mark Sharpe’s 24 hours offer a compelling snapshot of the dedication, creativity, and client-focused approach that define John Mark Enterprises. From early morning planning to late evening bridal consultations, every aspect of his day is geared towards delivering exceptional service and beautiful designs, solidifying John Mark Enterprises‘ reputation in Memphis and beyond.
Photography by Sarah Bell with Sélavie Photography. John Mark Enterprises is featured in The Scout Guide Memphis & Oxford.
