Springfield Floral changes hands
Char Frank of Wabasso has purchased Springfield Floral from Barb Jones, who owned and operated the business on Central Street for 30 years.
Frank comes to Springfield Floral with several decades of experience in the decorating business.
She began 32 years ago as a consultant for Home Interiors and Gifts, a direct sales company that distributed decorating accessories that included artificial flowers, candles, framed artwork, mirrors, sconces, small furniture and shelves. She participated in many training sessions that included working with florals at the company’s headquarters in Dallas, Texas.
She found her way into the wedding decorating business. “It started with my daughter’s wedding,” and then I decorated for families, and it mushroomed into a business,” she said during a recent interview. She named her business, Décor by Char.
With the purchase of Springfield Floral, “I have a heart’s desire that has been met. I’m excited,” Frank said Friday when the change of ownership took effect.
“I always wondered what it would be like to own my own business and have a gift shop,” Frank commented. “I pondered that.” She came to Springfield quite often in the past several years to visit her husband’s mother at the nursing home. “I was drawn to Barb’s windows and designs and when I learned that Barb was interested in selling the business, I came to talk to her.”
Frank likes the opportunities offered by the business, she likes its location, the spaciousness of the building, and the large windows that allow the sunlight to flow into the “It’s very inviting,” she said.
Jones started business in the old opera house and moved to the 1 East Central Street location after the closing of the “Corner Drug Store” that had been the site of a pharmacy for more than 70 years. Jones, too, liked having a spacious building with big windows.
Jones owned and operated Springfield Floral since 1984. She worked at a flower shop during high school and college.
Jones has enjoyed the business, but after more than 30 years, its time for a change,” she said.
She has nurtured and grown the business and it has been satisfying to see how the business has grown through the years. “I always enjoyed going to work,” she said. When she decided to sell the business, she wanted to ensure that it remain a viable part of the Springfield business community.
Frank and Jones both agree that a florist’s job is interesting and fun. It is a hands-on job that provides a sense of satisfaction. They enjoy being involved with some of the most significant moments in peoples’ lives. No matter what the occasion, there are flowers to go with it.
The aspect Jones likes best about the business is the changing of seasons. “It’s never boring. It’s always changing and there’s always new products, new flowers and new plans for each season.”
Frank says she always looks for new ideas to keep up trends, and looks forward to provide a full service floral, decorating and gift shop.
The change of ownership took effect Friday afternoon, January 2.
Frank plans to retain the store name, Springfield Floral, retain the present staff, and is glad to work with former owner Jones during the transition. “I’m so glad to have Barb as a mentor,” Frank said. “This is a big position to fill.”
Jones said she appreciates the strong support she has received from the community through the years and that she hopes for that continued support for the new owner.