Article by: Stephanie Lawson
A Touch of Charm, located on the Main Street of Blooming Prairie, MN, has been a main stay since 1988 when it was opened by Leanne Hanson and two others. Throughout the years the shop has seen change, but one thing has remained constant, Leanne’s ownership. After 30 years of operation Leanne decided that it was time to work towards retirement.
In the Spring of 2018 Leanne met Jackie Reiter-Vorlicek, who at the time was an assistant principal looking to relocate from the Twin Cities to the Blooming Prairie Area with her husband. When introduced, Jackie, who had dreamed of the day that she would operate a shop of her own, immediately took to the idea of one day following in Leanne’s footsteps.
Through hard work, research and community support that one day has come! Over the past several months Jackie has worked diligently with Leanne, her lenders, and CEDA team member Stephanie Lawson to make her dream become a reality. Utilizing Lawson’s expertise enabled Jackie to create a business plan and determine what it would take to make her vision successful.
In addition to utilizing Lawson’s business assistance services, the two worked together on a proposal to access additional funding through Blooming Prairie’s Economic Development Authority. Through their efforts Jackie was able to access the remaining $23,000 that she needed to close the deal.
“It is our job [as an EDA] to do all that we can to ensure that our Main Street businesses are successful. Having the ability to keep a piece of our towns history in its place, just with a new name, is exciting for us and we can’t wait to watch Jackie grow and flourish!” said Lawson.
Prairie Home held its grand opening, and is ready for a successful 2019!
