Feb 7, 2009

Floral shop adds new dimension: Tuxedo rentalsBy Sherie SmithChronicle-Tribune.com

When Don Howlett became the third owner of Kelly’s Flowers & Gifts he decided to keep the original name.

“The name came from Stuart and Marsha Kelly, who were the original owners,” Howlett said. “Don’s Floral didn’t sound good and we already had the name recognition.”

Ironically, even though he is the third owner of the business, Howlett has had it the longest. He will have been in business 11 years this April.

The florist, located at 1320 W. Factory Ave., is open Monday through Saturday. Howlett may expand those hours during prom season because of a new addition to the business, tuxedo rentals.

For Howlett, owning a florist shop seemed natural.

“Floral arranging has always been a natural gift for me,” he said. “I worked for Marriott, was Director of Food Services at IWU and then decided it was time for a change. I managed a flower shop in Gas City and then decided to go in business for myself and brought this store.”

When he purchased the store he had a decision to make.

“There was always flowers and gifts when Mrs. Kelly had it, china and things like that. We still do gift things, but when I bought it, I had to decide whether I wanted to be a flower shop that sells gifts or a gift shop that sells flowers. I decided to be a flower shop that sells gifts.”

Howlett said he made that decision because there are plenty of gift stores in Marion. He decided to concentrate on floral design and accent the shop with gift items.

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