Mimi’s Treasures, Florals and Gifts in Annawan sets grand opening

ANNAWAN — A longtime Annawan business has a new name and owner.

Deann Crosby opened Mimi’s Treasures, Florals and Gifts at 303 W. Front St. on Feb. 1 in downtown Annawan in the former Emma’s Bloomers location.

A few weeks after taking over ownership of the 20-year-old store, Crosby’s daughter, Kimberli, died suddenly on Feb. 13.

“We closed the store for two weeks,” she said. “I decided to sell it because of her death, but then decided later to keep the store and reopen it.”

A grand opening for the store is set for April 4-6 in tribute of Crosby’s daughter, whose birthday would have been April 4.

“My husband, Bruce, has been a rock for me and been with me every step of the way. My two other daughters, Heidi and Misti, have been tremendous support to me here.”

After deciding to keep ownership of the store, Crosby said it has been a whirlwind of activity to get the store ready for the grand opening.

“This is something I always wanted to do and decided I would never do it if I didn’t do it very soon,” she said. “We decided to expand from the previous store’s merchandise, which was mostly country primitive items, to floral arrangements and fresh flowers for weddings, funerals, and gifts. We also will keep the country primitive items and add spring items, jewelry and modern items like flowers, hanging baskets and pillows.”

The “Mimi” part of the store’s name came from Crosby’s granddaughter, Torri, calling her that name when she was 1 year old.

“Now 16 years later, all of my friends and family call me Mimi,” she added. “We have a very close, tight family. I consider them my treasures.”

Two of the owners of Emma’s Bloomers, Maureen Hasbrook and Pam Meier, are working part-time at the store.

“They will help mainly in design because my retail experience comes from working at Good’s in Kewanee,” added Crosby. “I am a people person and love to be around people. I love to talk to people.”

Crosby plans to serve wine, chocolates and coffee in the future after the grand opening when she is able to get a liquor license. She also will have a website and Facebook presence.

Her hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. She is closed on Sundays. Her phone number is 309-935-6777.

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