Simply Golden Designs is Simply Awesome

Main Street has a new business that I’d like to introduce to everyone. It is in the old Journal building that has been transformed into a smart looking shop that beckons shoppers to come take a look. It is Simply Golden Designs.

But first you need to meet the owners. Renae and Greg Goldensoph have lived in New London for five years. They fell in love with New London and the people who were friendly and welcoming. Knowing they wanted to raise their kids here, Renae decided the time was right to pursue her dream of opening a floral/gift shop.

As she looked around for a building to house her dream, the old Journal office was available.

“I fell in love with the windows and the brick of the building and I had a vision that my amazingly talented husband brought to life for me,” she said. “We believe it really brings some new life to the downtown area of New London.”

I certainly agree … it looks great!

The shop has much to offer. Along with fresh flower arrangements and flowers, she also stocks artificial arrangements and stems of artificial flowers, plus candles, lotions, jewelry, and other gift options. She has a big memorial selection of lanterns, plants, stones, and more. She offers wedding and event services. Included are classes throughout the year that she will advertise on her Facebook page and website.

Goldensoph wants people to know that they offer gifts from other small businesses. She tries to keep it that way, instead of purchasing from big companies. Her lotion is from Charlie Cheeks in Muscatine; the jewelry is from Rusty Arrows in Yarmouth; the metal home decor and gifts are from Sawdust & Sparks in Mediapolis; and the candles are from Savannah, Missouri. Another small business will be bringing some exciting new items soon as well.

Renae and her husband love antique shops so customers will always find something unique and different. She looks for vintage vases and other antique finds to sell at the store. She will also do a lot of crafts along with her husband who is usually a big part of those as well. They do a lot in the fall and winter months so customers should be sure to stop in and check out the newest creations!

The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. She offers 24/7 service for funeral needs. She accepts debit and credit cards and Apple Pay. They deliver to New London free of charge. They will also deliver to surrounding towns that include Mt. Pleasant to Burlington to Fort Madison and towns in-between.

Renae is happy to announce Mercedes’ Sweet Treats will be joining her. Mercedes Burkhart will hopefully be opening sometime in September. Renae can’t hide her enthusiasm, “I am very excited to help bring this to the community and have some fun collaborative ideas to offer the community as well.”

Renae is pleased with how things are going.

“Business has been doing good so far,” she said. “I am very appreciative of everyone who has stopped in, ordered flowers, or bought gifts. All the support means so much to me and my family. I encourage people to come get some flowers to brighten peoples’ days or for special occasions. Everyone that has purchased flowers from me has raved about how long lasting they are. I take a great deal of pride in the longevity of my flowers. There is a lot of behind the scenes that goes into making them have a long life.”

Renae hails from Wapello and developed a love for floral design during her time in FFA. She received her schooling in floral design and event planning at Kirkwood Community College and has been doing flowers for 11 years. She is mom to three kids: Hayden, Grant, and Paisley, and dog-mom to Kinnick and Lexi. (Do I detect Iowa fans?)

Renae sums up their experience so far, “We are so excited to be a part of the community and bring a new business to downtown New London. The best part of starting this flower shop is showing my children to chase any dreams they have. I’ve had a lot of people tell me I’m crazy for opening a business with three young children but that honestly just motivates me more to succeed … nothing compares to the kind of happiness when you truly know you are doing your dream job.”

Need flowers or a gift, give Simply Golden Designs a look. There is nothing better than having a place to buy locally. Hey New London, let’s support this wonderful new business addition to Main Street!