RECOGNIZING HEART `N HOME

On 2026-02-24, Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING HEART `N HOME" in the Senate. It referenced legislation: S644.

RECOGNIZING HEART `N HOME

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S644] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING HEART `N HOME Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Heart `n Home of Pocahontas County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 1992, Heart `n Home began with Julie Wurr's simple desire to create something beautiful that brought joy, comfort, and inspiration to others. After participating in 4 years of craft shows, this hobby soon grew into something much larger. Thanks to the enthusiastic encouragement of customers and family, Julie and her husband Bill transformed their garage into a small storefront, marking the official start of Heart `n Home's journey as a local floral and gift destination. In the early 2000s, Heart `n Home made a pivotal move to downtown Laurens, IA, where the shop continues to thrive today. The small business has evolved over the years and grown to include entertaining and home decor, silk and dried arrangements, gourmet foods, and an ever-changing selection of unique gifts. Heart `n Home's reputation bloomed as both a floral studio and a welcoming boutique filled with creativity and warmth. Most recently, Heart `n Home brought fresh floral arrangements into its lineup, further elevating the services offered. Julie specializes in couture arrangements, which are carefully crafted pieces that reflect the individual personality and story of the person receiving them. Over 33 years, Heart `n Home has expanded from a garage-based floral shop into a distinctive retail experience defined by artistic expression, innovation, and personal service. With a dedicated team of five employees, the store continues to adapt to changing trends and customer needs while remaining deeply rooted in the values on which it was built. Heart `n Home is also an active part of the local community, participating in organizations such as Pocahontas County Economic Development and Iowa State University Extension. In 2018, Heart `n Home was named the Pocahontas County Business of the Year. Julie is also the president of the Laurens Public Library Foundation and is a part of the Laurens Chamber of Commerce. Julie Wurr's vision has shaped Heart `n Home into a thriving small business that not only delivers flowers and gifts, but has created meaningful, memorable experiences. Today, Heart `n Home stands as a shining example of how creativity, dedication, and heartfelt service can transform a small, homegrown idea into a longstanding community treasure. It is my honor to recognize Julie Wurr and the entire Heart `n Home team for their outstanding work and dedication to their community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________