CANFIELD, Ohio – Janice Pettola opened From the Heart Floral & Gift in 2006, just before the Great Recession. Although it began with a rocky start, Pettola says the Canfield Village Square shop has grown into a success in this community.
From the Heart Floral & Gift, 41 Lisbon St., offers a wide range of items and services that include custom flower arrangements, silk arrangements, gifts and home décor.
“The store has come a long way and now it’s to the point where we are expanding the showroom because there is a need for it,” Pettola says.
“I basically outgrew this place but wanted to stay because everyone knows I’m here.”
The showroom changes with the seasons and also houses several other themed sections.
One of the them, Pettola says, is the pet section.
“That, believe it or not, is our most popular section,” Pettola says. “We love working with animal charity. We do a lot with animal charity, too.”
Aside from the traditional décor, the pet section includes a range of mugs and handmade wooden wall art for almost all dog breeds, along with memorial pet frames and other items. Some cat breeds are available as well.
“We try to have a little bit for everybody,” Pettola says. “A lot of people love coming in, not having to go out in all of the traffic.”
Although the business began in a time when many put off buying luxury items, Pettola says the customer base she has now amazes her. During COVID-19, she says her sales continued to grow.
“They’re wonderful,” Pettola says of her customers. “They’re really supportive of me. I have a lot people come in and say they want to support local. And that’s what keeps me going.”
For more information, visit FromTheHeartFloralAndGift.com.
Pictured at top: Janice Pettola’s business has endured the Great Recession and COVID-19.