[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 71 (Thursday, April 27, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S1415]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                      RECOGNIZING SIMPLY BLOOMING

 Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as ranking member of the Senate 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize 
an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American 
entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize 
Simply Blooming of Traer, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
  Simply Blooming was founded in 2006 by Lisa Eikamp as a one-stop shop 
for all of your floral needs. Simply Blooming has flowers from all over 
the world in store. As an experienced floral designer, Eikamp is able 
to design and accessorize an arrangement for a variety of events and 
occasions. Simply Blooming's website boasts a broad portfolio of floral 
designs including prom corsages, wedding bouquets, and sympathy 
flowers. In addition to flowers, you can also find a variety of plants, 
home decor, stylish clothing, and even boots for sale.
  This year has been a momentous one for Simply Blooming. They opened a 
new location in Vinton on the exact day of their 17th anniversary of 
the flagship store opening in Traer. The second store is called Simply 
Blooming, Too, and has already become an integral part of the Vinton 
community. They had a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the 
occasion, and an Elvis Presley impersonator even stopped by for the 
festivities.
  Part of what makes Simply Blooming special is their attention to 
customer service. They maintain active social media profiles updating 
customers on the arrangements they design, community events hosted at 
Simply Blooming, and information on all of their new products.
  Simply Blooming's commitment to providing flower arrangements for 
every occasion is clear. In 17 years, Ms. Eikamp has been able to 
provide quality customer service by treating her customers like family. 
I want to commend Lisa Eikamp and the entire team at Simply Blooming 
for their work. This business exemplifies the innovative spirit and 
leadership skills of the Iowa entrepreneur. I look forward to seeing 
your continued growth and success in Iowa.

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