The Davenport-based Isabel Bloom, known for its handcrafted sculptures, is closing its retail store in West Des Moines.
Isabel Bloom leaders announced on the company Facebook page on Tuesday, Jan. 2, that the store located in the Valley Junction neighborhood of West Des Moines (116 Fifth St.) would close in mid-January.
“After serving the Des Moines area for the past 25 years, we have made the difficult decision to close our Des Moines store in Valley Junction. We have loved being part of the Des Moines community and will miss seeing so many of you,” the Facebook post read.
The West Des Moines store has eight part-time employees, according to Donna Young, Isabel Bloom co-owner and artist.
“Like most small businesses, we have been faced with many challenges that go along with maintaining a retail store, and after many years of weighing the pluses and minuses, felt closing the store made the most business sense. This decision did not come easily,” Ms. Young said in an email message to the QCBJ.
She added: “By closing the (West) Des Moines store, we will have the opportunity to focus on what we do best: Design and produce beautiful, affordable handcrafted art in Iowa while continuing to contribute to our community and many charitable organizations.”
Also, company leaders have announced a store closing sale. All items in the West Des Moines store will be marked down at least 20%. Some Isabel Bloom items will be discounted up to 75%.
The Isabel Bloom store and production operations at 736 Federal St., Davenport, will remain open. Isabel Bloom officials do not anticipate any changes to that store’s operations, Ms. Young said.
The store closure comes shortly after a big year for the business. Last year was filled with several celebrations to honor Isabel Bloom’s 60th year in business.
During one of those celebrations, Ms. Young said it has been an honor to do business in the Quad Cities because “we get to be a part of everybody’s lives.”
“Most people I know have something of Isabel Bloom in their homes. … This is a Davenport thing. This is a Quad Cities thing,” said Davenport Mayor Mike Matson during one of those celebrations at the company in 2023.
