After 22 years of business, The Sunflower Nook, 1923 W. Sixth Ave., soon will shut its doors.
Sharon Stewart, owner of The Sunflower Nook, said Friday that she is retiring and will be closing the store. The store has been in its currently location since 1999. No final date has been set yet, but starting Monday, merchandise will start going on sale for clearing. Progressive price cuts will occur as time progresses, Stewart said.
Stewart said she and her husband, Max, of 41 years, are ready to retire and start doing things together. Max Stewart owns Spic ’n’ Span Cleaners.
“After 30 years of teaching (at Village Elementary School) and 22 years growing The Sunflower Nook, I am ready to start checking off items on our places to see and things to do list,” Stewart said.
The Sunflower Nook is known for its unique offerings with everything from candles, cookware and baby and children’s items — something to strike nearly anybody’s fancy.
“I believe the Sunflower Nook has served the community well by offering a wide range of merchandise at varying price points,” Stewart said. “(We offer) a relaxed, friendly shopping experience...”
Stewart said the best part about having the store throughout the years has been the people.
“I am indeed indebted to the many wonderful ladies of the Nook, who, over 22 years, have shared their many talents to make The Sunflower Nook a premier gift shop...” she said. “I have so enjoyed new friendships, renewing old friendships, visits from classmates and visits from former students.”
Stewart said she has enjoyed welcoming visitors to Emporia as well.
“It’s been such fun welcoming visitors to Emporia,” she said. “Pointing out places of interest on Emporia maps and informing them about our great college, friendly people and growing community.”
Stewart said she owns the building The Sunflower Nook is housed in and nobody has approached her to purchase it.
“I think it’s very rentable,” she said.
Stewart said she and her husband are the only couple to receive the Business of the Year Award independently by the Emporia Chamber of Commerce.
“Max for Spic ‘n Span Cleaners and Sharon for The Sunflower Nook,” Stewart said.