Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Cron.
Hi Holly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by aviation. That passion led me to pursue two B.S. degrees, multiple certifications, and an airline internship before launching my career in Air Traffic Control. After years of intensive training — including time in Washington, D.C., Oklahoma City, and eventually Houston — I found myself thriving in a fast-paced, high-responsibility environment.
My husband, Brandon, and I moved to the Houston area in 2012, and since then, we’ve been committed to building strong roots in our community. From serving in our church youth group and worship team to volunteering on the HOA board, and even at a local animal shelter. Giving back has always been part of who we are.
In 2021, I stumbled across a Jeremiah’s Italian Ice near our home. That same night, I took Brandon on a surprise date there — and we were instantly reminded of how much we loved the brand growing up. When we noticed the “franchise opportunity” sign on the door, something just clicked. Brandon had always dreamed of owning a business, and we saw this as the perfect chance to build something fun, meaningful, and community-focused together.
Within months, we were approved as franchisees and began searching for our first location. After plenty of ups and downs, we officially assumed ownership on January 1, 2025.
Today, our Jeremiah’s isn’t just a dessert shop — it’s a place where we grow young team members, create joyful guest experiences, and actively support the community we love. In just one month, we’ve donated over 35,000 free vouchers to Conroe ISD and raised more than $1,000 for local schools and nonprofits through fundraising nights.
Owning a Jeremiah’s has been the sweetest adventure — blending our love for people, purpose, and of course, delicious frozen treats.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road definitely hasn’t been smooth — but it’s those challenges that made the journey worth it.
One of the toughest parts of launching our Jeremiah’s was securing the right location. Early on, we had our hearts set on a vibrant spot, only to have the city unexpectedly change the traffic pattern — making it completely unworkable. Then we found another location that felt perfect, and we were nearly at the finish line when another business swooped in and locked it down before we could sign.
Three years passed, and lots of conversations with God, before our “sweet spot” finally appeared. Another franchisee had decided to focus on his stores in south Houston and was selling his north Houston location. We were on the short list of interested buyers. After a few back-and-forth conversations (and a couple times walking away from the table), we finally agreed on a price and transfer terms that worked for everyone.
From there, things moved fast. We had less than two months to complete all the training, get fully up to speed on every aspect of the business, and take over operations. Looking back, I’m still not sure how we pulled it off — but we did.
The setbacks taught us patience, flexibility, and the importance of trusting the process. And in the end, the location we landed on couldn’t have been a better fit.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I actually work two full-time jobs — one as an air traffic controller and the other as a Jeremiah’s Italian Ice franchisee/owner!
Most people picture air traffic control as waving orange batons on the ramp or the busy control towers, but my role is a bit different. I work in a dark, windowless room, using radar and radios to safely guide pilots navigating arrivals, departures, and overflights within a 100-mile radius around College Station — from 8,500 feet and above. It’s a high-pressure job that demands focus, precision, and quick decision-making.
Running Jeremiah’s is a completely different kind of challenge, but just as rewarding. Every day, we have the opportunity to make our customers feel special — whether they’re celebrating a birthday, coping with a tough day, or even doing a gender reveal! We serve 24 delicious flavors of Italian Ice (or “water ice,” as some know it), plus rich soft ice cream and unique treats like our signature “Jelati,” a perfect blend of ice and ice cream. We offer free samples all day to help guests find their favorite combinations, and this summer, we launched in-store treats like Jelati Cakes and Oreo ice cream sandwiches. We also offer treats for all dietary restrictions from sugar-free to dairy-free to vegan to dye-free. We have something for everyone!
What sets us apart is not just our tasty products but our deep commitment to community. We offer discounts to military and first responders and have donated thousands of dollars to local schools and charities this year alone — with plans to do even more.
Balancing these two roles has taught me discipline, adaptability, and the importance of connecting with people — whether through guiding planes safely in the sky or brightening someone’s day with a sweet treat.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Some people collect things as a hobby. I collect hobbies, which surprises people and helps me build genuine connections. I’m a pilot, two-time Ironman finisher, scuba diver, crossfitter/athlete/sponsored athlete, knitter, crocheter, old-school gamer (table top and consoles), musician, wood worker, gardener, and world traveler — and I’ve even played rugby and roller derby.
While I’m largely an introvert, my diverse passions help me connect with nearly anyone, often making me come across as an extrovert.
Pricing:
- Tadpole Italian Ice – $3.29
- Medium Flavorite – $6.48
- Quart Jelati – $8.99
- Half Gallon Italian Ice – $11.99
- Jelati Cakes – $29.99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jeremiahsice.com/locations/east-woodlands-tx/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremiahsiceharperspreserve/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeremiahsIceofHarpersPreserveConroeTX
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jeremiahs-italian-ice-conroe-2?uid=SaU6oHk0X4b8QYfElo-hjw&utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jiiharperspreserve/
