03/30/2024
To all the customers, former Associates and friends…
After 43 wonderfully challenging years, I am winding down Katie’s Hallmark. From a very shy 22-year old college senior opening my first store over spring break in 1981 to a somewhat more confident senior citizen, it has been an incredible retail journey that has influenced me in so many ways.
The stores…Siebenthaler, Consumer Square, Huber Heights, Lebanon, Vandalia and Springfield. All 6 were part of the Katie’s family and each had a unique and different personality.
The products! We survived the Beanie Baby craze and Yankee Candle before it was in every big box store. Cherished Teddies, Webkinz and Crocs, before they were a fashion statement. And Keepsake ornaments…yes, I love them as much as many of you do with more Christmas trees than a normal person should have!
The events! Our Midnight Ornament Premieres…those were some long nights! The Black History Month Event at the Siebenthaler location. It was so much work, but I met some of the most interesting people who participated and attended each year. Our Holiday Open House when we collected food for The Food Bank and other local food pantries…over 15 tons through the years! Our events to raise awareness and supplies and food for Clothes That Work, the Artemis House and House of Bread. I love how our customers always participated and so generously supported these local organizations.
The customers! Without you, there would be no Katie’s Hallmark. There are so many places you could have spent your time and money…thank you for choosing us. Thank you for sharing your lives with us. Thank you for letting us be a part of your special occasions…birthdays, weddings, new babies, funerals and your holidays. It has been an honor to go on these journeys with you. You are fascinating, interesting, funny and emotional people…I love that about you!
My work family! YOU ARE the BEST!!! There are so many things I could say. Please take my tears as the thanks and appreciation I have for all of you. You have been with me through so much…your support has meant everything, and I simply would not be here without you.
43 years...I can't imagine not being a part of this crazy industry! It has been the relationships with customers, my work family and some special sales reps that have made this decision very emotional. You have all contributed to the person I am today. Thank you for that. People ask me what I'm going to do now and honestly, I have no answer...I can't even think about it. But keep your eyes open…I still have to buy my cards and Keepsake ornaments. I may just be the customer standing next to you in line! Love and good wishes to you all…k
