Staff Spotlight: Holland- From Half & Half Scoops to Cultivating Development🍦

At Hattie Jane’s Creamery, every member of our team brings a unique story and perspective that makes our shop so much more than just an ice cream spot. This month, we’re excited to introduce you to Holland, one of our incredible team members and Shop Apprentice whose journey is as interesting as their favorite ice cream combination. Though born in Florida, Holland considers Illinois home, having spent much of their childhood there before moving to Tennessee at age 11. “I’ve been here the longest, and it’s where my family is,” she explains, reflecting on how Tennessee has become her anchor. And while she doesn’t claim a traditional Southern accent, their love for this community runs deep. 

Long before joining the Hattie Jane’s team in 2023, Holland was already a loyal customer—and possibly even a trendsetter. “I’m pretty sure I created the ‘half & half’ single scoop,” she says with a smile. “I would always get half Cookie Jar Supreme and half Nana Puddin’.” This creative flair and love for ice cream made the leap to working behind the counter a natural one.

When she started at Hattie Jane’s, Holland was looking for a fun summer job during college—and what’s more fun than serving ice cream during those sunny months? Here at Hattie Jane’s we believe in not just hiring talent, but in cultivating it. Graduating with two degrees from Middle Tennessee State University with a B.S in Interdisciplinary Media and Psychology. Curious about her expertise, we invited her to bid on some updates for our website, and quickly brought her on board to help. We have continued to work with her on several projects, and each time, her skills and insights have impressed us more. It’s a win-win, and we’re excited to see where her journey takes her next!

Outside of work, her summers are filled with adventure. Last year, she embarked on a European cruise, visiting eight countries and even trying Germany’s take on ice cream with “Stracciatella,” a creamy milk-based flavor with dark chocolate swirls. “I love experiencing new people, places, and food,” she says, recounting her travels with excitement.

One of Holland’s favorite parts of working at Hattie Jane’s is the opportunity to connect with customers from all over. “I love asking people where they’re from. It always sparks the most interesting conversations,” she states. Whether it’s a family visiting from across the country or locals stopping by for a treat, these moments make each day unique.As for the future, Holland is dreaming big. “I’d love to find a place where I can work with books professionally and travel out west,” she shares. With a camping trip to Colorado on the horizon, her passion for exploration and learning shows no signs of slowing down.

From scooping up inventive combinations to sharing stories with customers, Holland brings heart, curiosity, and a love for adventure to everything they do. Next time you visit Hattie Jane’s in Columbia, be sure to say hello—you might just end up in a sweet conversation or discover your new favorite flavor combo! We would like to wish her a very Happy 22nd Birthday today as well. Cheers to you, Holland!