Tami Chrest, owner of Peony Petals, stands in her floral and gift shop March 30. Jill Schramm/MDN

KENMARE – More than flowers are blossoming at Peony Petals Floral & Gifts in Kenmare. The 100-year-old building housing the floral and gift shop has been getting new life as well under owner Tami Chrest.

Chrest established Peony Petals – named for her mother’s favorite flower and one of hers – four years ago after purchasing an existing flower shop.

The building had many previous uses, including as a drug store, pool hall and furniture store. One of Chrest’s first steps as owner was to put her own mark on it.

The building’s interior received new paint and a new look, as did the exterior with its eye-catching pink trim. Chrest decided last fall, with the help of her brother and fiance, to remove the existing carpet and tar paper, which revealed an original 1910 hardwood floor, which she refinished.

“It was a lot of work but it was well worth it,” she said. “I love old buildings.”

She also loves antiques, and the store’s new decor reflects that love. Several antiques from her parents and family farm that have special meaning to her have combined with other antiques she’s acquired to find service in the shop – from old doors and cabinets to a repurposed chicken roost. An original stained glass window at the front of the store is another of the historical aspects of the building that Chrest seeks to give exposure to as well.

Chrest is planning another project to remove the drop ceiling to expose the high, ornamental metal-tiled ceiling. She expects that project to be largely do-it-yourself with the help of family, although electrical work will require outside help.

Chrest was a social worker for 21 years before opening Peony Petals.

“A huge change of pace but I love it,” Chrest said. “I’ve always liked interior decorating.”

As a sole proprietor, Chrest stays busy with special holidays, proms, funerals, weddings and other events on the floral side of the business. However, she has several people she relies on for temporary help during busy times or when she needs to be away. Both of her daughters and her son also help at the shop at times.

Her gift shop sells plants, jewelry, clothing, candles and various decor items. Chrest holds a liquor license, which enables her to include beer or wine in some of the gift baskets she creates.

The store is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends by appointment. However, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Peony Petals offered curbside delivery to customers who would call in or email their orders. It also had to rely more heavily on its website and social media to reach customers.

Chrest said the Kenmare community has been supportive of the local business. She contributed in return in having served on the Kenmare Chamber of Commerce board.

Completing four years in business on April 1, Chrest said the floral and gift shop has been a perfect fit for her.

“This is my business and I can make it my own, and I enjoy people and flowers and plants. It’s just fun,” she said.