Green-ish Iowa at Outlets Williamsburg shares the joy of plants

Green-ish Iowa, in the Outlets Williamsburg shopping center, is "basically all of my favorite things in one spot,” said its owner, Kendra Knopf, who opened the plant and gift boutique last year.

“You'll find unique and common houseplants, plant supplies, locally made crafts, unique gifts, Iowa wines, CBG (and) CBD hemp products, antiques, rustic decor, local photography nature prints and so much more. I add new items every week.

“Everything for sale is handpicked by me to be one-of-a-kind, fun, and beautiful,” she added.

“These are not items you will easily find anywhere else.”

When asked about how she got the idea for the store, Knopf chuckled.

“I joke that I ran out of room for plants at my home but that isn't too far from the truth,” she said.

“I wanted to share the joy and excitement of plants with my community. It felt like people were really craving the nurturing and rewarding aspects that plants can bring.”

Knopf said that her degrees in business along with several professional financial licenses and coupled with her retail experience have been a huge help. With no employees yet, Knopf — sometimes with a youngster in tow — will be the one to greet shoppers when they stop in.

Some might consider its location in the Outlets Williamsburg shopping center to be an unusual choice, but Knopf said it’s a big plus especially with more locally owned boutiques opening up there.

“I really appreciate the sense of community among the local retailer stores and the diversity of customers that come to shop here,” she said.

While the past several months have been challenging for businesses in many ways, Knopf said Green-ish Iowa has been a bright spot for her and she hopes it is for others as well.

“Between shipping issues with plants and less foot traffic in the colder weather, these winter months are the most challenging for small businesses like Green-ish Iowa,” she said.

“Shopping local is so important, but especially in the slower times.”

Know a business in the Corridor that has the makings to be a nifty “My Biz” feature? Tell us via michaelchevy.castranova@thegazette.com.