I walked into Mary's Rustic Rose at 524 2nd street, Kenyon a few days ago, and was pleasantly surprised at the variety of items that were for sale. It's not just your average floral shop! There were all kinds of gift items, along with the beautiful fresh flowers. I saw all occasion cards, incense, artwork and beautiful gifts for all occasions. Mary is an artist as well as a florist, so her arrangements have a special flair. She keeps busy supplying flowers for weddings, funerals, Valentine's Day, and other special occasions. Birthdays, anniversaries, or just to say "Thank you" or "Thinking of you" are great times to say it with flowers.
Mary began her journey as a florist after her career as an art teacher was curtailed because of cutbacks at the school she was teaching at. Being a single mom in a small community, she looked for something that could support her family and give her the joy of creating something beautiful, and bring joy to others. When she saw the current floral shop was empty, she spoke to the owner who was more than happy to help her get the shop going again, and she hasn't looked back since. Being able to work in the town she lives in, and where her children go to school was top priority for Mary, and from the looks of things, she's made it a success story!
Mary contributes her success to the people in her community. She explains with heartfelt gratitude, "There is no way I could have done this without the support of my community. Not just through the Covid epidemic, but the supply chain issues that resulted after the worst was over. Sometimes I couldn't even get the basic items I needed to finish an order, and I would have to get creative." Other florists came together to support each other and share what they could, so all could survive.
While I visited with her, several people came in to drop things off, to browse her full inventory, or just to say hello and exchange hugs. It was very evident to me that she has a following of repeat customers who enjoy her changing supply of fresh flowers and gift items. I asked her what she attributes her repeat clientele to. " I always do my best to go the extra mile for my customers. I start with quality flowers that last, and I deliver them wrapped when necessary to retain that freshness." In small town America, word of mouth is the highest form of flattery and advertising. She forms relationships with the people she knows who have helped her along the way, and feels strongly that the Gloden Rule applies here. You do for others as you would have them do for you. I thought it was special how she commented to me that she feels at home in all the churches, because she has formed relationships with the people who trust her with their ceremonies, large or small, and refer her to other businesses and individuals.
With the flourish of holiday activities now upon us, Mary is offering a holiday special. Even though the price of greenery has gone up like everything else, if you order your holiday centerpieces, poinsettias and floral arrangements early, you can take 10% off your order of $30 or more. She offers delivery to the surrounding areas, and you can bet she will go the extra mile to insure you love what you get! Be sure to stop by and see all she has to offer!
