Oct 9, 2009

ArKay is right at home with floral, gift customersBy Cleveland.com

ArKay Floral and Gifts in Brunswick is a good example of how you can be surprised by what you find in small area shops. It’s also a good example of how we sometimes overlook what is in our local communities.

Located at 4231 Center Road, the store encompasses the concept of a gift shop combined with flowers, said Sherry Eyssen, ArKay’s general manager.

The store first arrived in Brunswick many years ago when Art and Kathy Haas bought a small home and turned it into one of the most renowned floral shops in the area.

When Kathy died in 2002, Art decided to close the business. So when it reopened with the same name and spirit, the community responded. The building required a total remodel, and a staff of creative florists was hired. Eyssen came on board to manage. She brings a long career in the gift industry.

Eyssen said people often come in and just say “Wow!” For years locals may have driven far away to purchase similar things.

Mike Burianek is head designer, and the behind-the-scenes design crew includes Laura Mizisin and Yvonne Allar. Roseanne Pontious is the office person, and delivery is done by Max Ricker and Glenn Yost.

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