In Like Flynn
GDA Staff -- Gifts and Dec, 1/1/2012 2:00:00 AM
FORGET NEW YORK AND CHICAGO. For a super chic, design-forward indulgence, how about Lincoln, NE? That's where you can find (pk)flynn, an eclectic "candy store for grownups" located in the upscale neighborhood of Williamsburg Village. (pk)flynn features some of the hippest trends in tabletop accessories, home accents, personal accessories, gourmet goods and fine arts.
The 5,000-sq.-ft. shop, organized as a "mini department store," features fresh, creative displays of Michael Aram and Jan Barboglio decoratives, Chilewich textiles, Mary Jurek tableware, Kashwere blankets, Luna Garcia ceramics, Riedel barware and paper goods from local artist JDickson Designs. Owner Paige Flynn likes to combine a mix of high-end designers, local or relatively unknown artists, and seasonal merchandise such as potted orchids or the store's famous "fancy lacquered pumpkins."
"Customers love it that they can leave (pk)flynn with a $1,000 Carlo Moretti Vase or a $5 package of cocktail napkins," Flynn says.
And she's always got her eye out for the hottest new thing.
"We are ordering and receiving new merchandise on a daily basis, so you never know what is going to show up!" says Flynn, who combined a degree in design, experience in the furniture industry and knowledge of her hometown of Lincoln to launch (pk)flynn in 2003. "I knew that a retail store was the perfect platform to share with others my passion for great product design, styling and love of entertaining," she recalls.
When Flynn reflects on the challenges of opening a business at the age of 25, having a family and managing the day-to-day operation of a retail store, it's clear one theme resonates through every part 
of her vision: adaptability. Since its conception in 2003, the store has evolved significantly in both size and scope.
"There are no rules," says the energetic and creative mind behind the store. "When I first opened, I had this image that I wanted my store to carry only sleek modern designs. I quickly learned that that wasn't necessarily what was going to sell best in Lincoln, NE." Flynn views these adjustments as opportunities.
Sometimes it's as basic as knowing your customers. "This Fall I've brought in White + Warren cashmere sweaters, and the response has been amazing." describes Flynn. "I've found that right now, most likely customers aren't going to buy themselves a $200 tray just for fun, but they don't think twice about walking in and treating themselves to a sweater."
In other instances, it might take a reassessment of the use of space. "I started out with a huge focus on Alessi products, because that's what I love," Flynn says. "Over the past few years, Alessi sales have really slowed down for me, so recently, I had to take a step back and realize t
hat it didn't make sense to devote so much floor space to a product that wasn't turning. Doing this has enabled me to expand my Michael Aram, Juliska and other wedding registry selections."
Perhaps this success is why Flynn seems undaunted by continually expanding her vision. "I have so many ideas in my head that I would love to see happen in the future," she says. "(pk)paper will be my next project. Lincoln doesn't have an invitation store, so this is a niche that definitely needs to be filled."
As Flynn keeps finding ways to grow, her customers keep finding her. This year a Gallup survey rated Lincoln, NE, the "2nd Happiest City in the US," and as pk(flynn) has become a destination shopping spot for visitors to the thriving creative community, it's clear Paige Flynn knows something about making people happy herself.
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