New home, gift and party store now open in Grinnell

​     Ryan and Mollie O’Dell are shown at the grand opening of the Lily Lou Company in mid-December. The new stories specializes in home, gift and party items include balloon creations, backdrop rentals and seasonal gifts. (submitted photo)

By J.O. Parker
 
       If you are looking for a unique gift for the person who has it all or need balloons, party supplies, games and home use items, a new Grinnell home, gift and party store may have what you need.
     The Lily Lou Company at 427 4th Ave., Grinnell, opened its doors on Dec. 15. Owners Ryan and Mollie O’Dell are excited about the future of the business, which offers a wide array of gift items.
       “There has been an overwhelming amount of support,” said Mollie of new store. “I appreciate it so much.”
The store features birthday and party supplies, backdrop rentals for weddings, birthdays and other occasions, balloon garlands, T-shirt and sweatshirts, jewelry, stationary, greeting cards, organizers, journals, meal planners, children’s books, baby items, thermal mugs, housewares such as dishtowels, oven mitts, puzzles, iceless coolers, and games such as dominos, bingo, cards and bunco. She also offers various holiday items on a seasonal basis.
      “We follow all the holidays,” said Mollie. “We switch out the items for each holiday.”
      For instance, Mollie is currently clearing out Christmas items to make way for Valentine’s Day.
      She noted that the store is a work in progress and that it will grow as items become available. Even though new items are coming in daily, Mollie said the store is about 50 percent of its inventory.
      “We hope to be 100 percent by spring,” she said.
      Mollie said coming soon will be online shopping. She is also looking at holding vision board parties.
    “Come cut, glue, drink beverage of choice and eat some yummy snacks for a few hours and take home something that will motivate you to crush all of your 2023 goals,” said Mollie.
      The business also has gifts cards available.
     After working various jobs, including at the assessor’s office at the Poweshiek County Courthouse, Mollie decided she wanted to pursue her passion of providing magical moments for people.
     “The Grinnell and surrounding communities have really cheered me on and supported me through the last couple weeks,” she said.
     Current hours are Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. The store is closed on Sunday and Monday.
     For store updates and new offerings, check out Lily Lou Company on Facebook. 
     The store number is 641-659-6070 or send Mollie an email at [email protected].