Member Spotlight: Nooks & Crannies Floral
The McPherson community came together on September 10th to celebrate a milestone moment for Nooks & Crannies Floral. A Chamber Ribbon Cutting marked the shop’s transition in ownership to Deseri Orlanzzini and Tonya Robertson, while also honoring the retirement of its original owners, sisters Linda Allen and Susan Hawley.
For nearly three decades, Linda and Susan have brightened countless celebrations and comforted families during life’s most difficult moments with their floral artistry and heartfelt service. Their retirement brought both gratitude and nostalgia, as many reflected on the store’s lasting presence in the community.
Chamber ambassador Casey Justus (Ad Astra Radio) shared how deeply the floral shop has been woven into the lives of McPherson families—from Valentine’s Day roses to prom corsages. Chamber board president Kayla Moritz (McPherson Center for Health) echoed that sentiment, recognizing the sisters for their many contributions and the comfort and joy they provided through their arrangements. “You’ve blessed us with amazing, beautiful arrangements for various occasions,” Moritz said, thanking the sisters for their decades of service.
For Susan and Linda, the ribbon cutting was both bittersweet and hopeful. Susan reflected on the challenges they had weathered, including the recession and COVID-19, but emphasized that their loyal customers made it worthwhile. “We’ve been there for your joys and your sorrows, and you’ve become great friends,” she said. Passing the reins to Deseri and Tonya, Susan expressed confidence in their creativity and customer service. “They’re very creative—like us. I know these gals are going to carry on and make it better.”
The new owners accepted the symbolic First Dollar of Profit and shared their gratitude for the mentorship they’ve received. “If we do make things better, it’s because we had amazing teachers,” Deseri said. Tonya added that while they plan to bring fresh ideas, their top priority is to maintain the same great service that Nooks & Crannies has been known for. Already, they’re looking at expanding the shop’s rental offerings for weddings, birthdays, and other events. With the support of a $50,000 McPherson County eCommunity loan and the encouragement of city leaders and customers alike, the future looks bright. As City Commissioner Larry Wiens put it, “It’s good for McPherson to have something like Nooks & Crannies Floral, and I hope it will continue for another 30 years.”
See pictures of the Chamber Ribbon Cutting and retirement celebration here.
Left to right: Susan Hawley, Linda Allen, Deseri Orlanzzini and Tonya Robertson