Customer service and variety could be the two traits that define the kind of store Angie and Brett Rolfs plan to maintain in downtown Ellsworth.

The pair purchased Petal Place at the end of 2019 from Kelvi and Karlton Place. Angie worked at the flower and gift shop for more than two years before she took the leap to ownership.

Brett said he saw an opportunity for his family and to support Angie.

“I knew she would be good at it,” he said. “She is really creative.

Angie enjoys making larger flower arrangements so she can use a variety of plants. The looks on the faces of customers when they receive their arrangements are especially rewarding.

“I really enjoy making something different,” Angie said.

Angie said she plans to maintain the kind of merchandise customers are used to seeing in the Petal Place. She also hopes to add items.

“I’ve got a new line of candles in from Kansas Earth and Wind Co. out of Ellinwood, Kan.,” she said. “Supporting state and local businesses is important. I’d like to get more local and state based products in the store.

“I’ve [also] got a new bath and shower product line coming in, bath bombs and things like that. Also a new jewelry line.”

The Petal Place has a long history in downtown Ellsworth. The store was originally owned by Boots and Russell Woodmansee. Mugs Kepka, who now owns the Downtown Bohemian Bakery, worked for Boots Woodmansee and became owner of the flower shop after her death. Kelvi and Karlton Place purchased the store from Mugs about five years ago.

Kelvi Place is delighted about the new ownership.

“I’m very happy and relieved the shop is in great hands,” she said. “Angie has the passion, personality, and creativity to make it succeed.”

Place said her priorities were customer care and service.

“I know she will continue great customer service,” Kelvi said of the new owner.

When the Rolfs aren’t at the Petal Place keeping up with customers, orders, and other business, they can probably be found at their home 17 miles from Ellsworth near Lorriane.

“We also farm. So when Brett is not here with me he is working the farm,” Angie said.

If the Petal Place and the farm doesn’t keep them busy enough, they also have five children ranging in age from 8 to 16.

“We have two playing school sports and one who is playing rec,” Rolfs said.“We are always at some kind of sporting event.”