By Kathy Oswalt-Forsythe
While the last year brought many challenges, it also opened new ways of thinking and pivoting to adapt to the challenges. Kim Critz, owner of Wrapped in Gratitude in downtown Vicksburg, began selling online after her store closed from March to July due to COVID.
She knew offering gifts and inspiring resources online would be a help to pay bills, and she hoped that stores could re-open and get back to normal quickly. The workshops she had begun before the pandemic restrictions stopped, and things were stressful for her small gift shop.
Meanwhile, another Vicksburg-based business struggled: the Oopsy Daisy Flower Truck. Tory Hollister, owner of the mobile business, found herself with challenges of her own. Her flower truck business was halted, with all events being canceled. She planned to store her flower truck indefinitely, unsure of future events and restrictions.
This time was discouraging for both owners, but the restrictions forced the two into brainstorming how they could operate differently.
Near the end of February, Critz sent Hollister a message, asking if she would be interested in meeting to talk about a business collaboration.
“Flowers and gifts go together like peanut butter and jelly,” the two decided. But Critz’s storefront could not hold both businesses. That led to their decision: combine forces and move to a larger location. This happened quickly; On April 1, the two received keys to 105 South Main Street, and within 17 days the two had moved Critz, hung a giant chandelier, installed display features, ordered and received signage, and hosted an open house.
Oopsy Daisy’s space includes fresh cut flowers, house plants, a make-your-own terrarium bar, and special event custom orders. Wrapped in Gratitude’s offerings range from unique gifts, self-care products and books to a variety of workshops.