Flower shop opens despite tough economy

OSSIAN, Ind. (WANE) - At a time when many small businesses are forced to close, one entrepreneur is opening a new store in Ossian. After 18 years of designing floral arrangements, Rhonda Mishler opened Bloomin’ Boutique in downtown Ossian.

“I thought this was a cute town. There’s no gift shop, no flower shop and I thought it was a great opportunity to start,” Mishler said.

The store will do custom flower arrangements for wedding, funerals and special events, but there are also flowers that people can come in and buy on the spot. Grocery stores give florists a lot of competition, but Mishler hopes her customization will win.

“It will set me apart. I can custom arrange it in the container you want and in the style you want. If it’s your anniversary and your flowers were yellow roses, we can do that,” Mishler said.

There is even an interior designer who will do consultations in the store and go to customers’ homes.

"In these economic times, we're thrilled there are businesses willing to take the risks," Suzanne Huffman, the director of the Wells County Chamber of Commerce, said.

Mishler knew it was risky to open a business now, but after hearing a lot of different advice, she decided to take the plunge.

"They said it was a tough economy, but if you've got initiative and drive, you can do it. So, that's what we're going for," Mishler said. "It was worth going against all odds because of the opportunity that was here."

Bloomin' Boutique also has a gift shop, and Mishler hopes the novelty items will help keep customers coming back.

"I try to find things that are different and unique. They are mostly custom items and we'll rotate local artists," Mishler said.

Bloomin’ Boutique is located at 106 S. Jefferson St. in Ossian. It’s open 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.