Holland Farms Spotlight: Dorothy Holmes

If you’ve ever stopped into Holland Farms in the afternoon, chances are you’ve met Dorothy Holmes. Dorothy has been serving up delicious Holland Farms coffee for more than eight years – always with a smile.

Dorothy worked in an office for 36 years before coming to Holland Farms – a departure for which she was both apprehensive and excited. “I had worked in corporate America all my life, and when I decided to look for a part-time job, I figured I’d be working in an office,” Dorothy said. She found herself applying for a position at Holland Farms, and was quickly won over by the personalities of the owners. “Marolyn and Suzanne were so friendly and nice when I applied, they won me over,” she said.

At first, working at Holland Farms was very different for Dorothy, who had limited customer contact in her previous employment. “I spoke with people mainly over the phone and by computer,” she said. Dorothy soon realized that she enjoyed the daily personal contact with the Holland Farms patrons. “We get a lot of repeat customers in the afternoon. I’ve gotten to know them and look forward to seeing them every day.”

When faced with revealing her favorite menu item from Holland Farms, Dorothy said she has too many to choose just one. “I’m a dessert person. I love chocolate, so I love the cream puffs, the brownies, the half moons… it’s a long, long list.”

Even sweeter than the baked goods, though, is the working environment, according to Dorothy. “The employers are great to work for, and I enjoy our customers. It’s very friendly here.” As an example, Dorothy mentioned the very special birthday she was surprised with last December. “When I showed up at work, Marolyn and Suzanne had a tiara and a cake for my 80th birthday, as well as signs in all the windows. It was such a surprise, and so thoughtful.”

Dorothy, who is a widow with four children and three grandsons, said that her secret for a happy life is keeping active. In her spare time, she loves travel, especially by bus. She also enjoys theater, and has seen The Phantom of the Opera three times. She is looking forward to an upcoming bus trip to NYC, where she will see Sister Act on Broadway and will visit the 9/11 Memorial.