SAUGUS — Lomas Flowers Shop in Cliftondale Square opened its doors one last time on Friday before closing permanently after 40 years in business.
Owners Paul and Marsha LaCorcia said they have been grappling with a difficult decision over the last six months.
“Over 40 years, the customers have been so good to us. We have customers who have given us gift certificates and retirement cards,” said Paul LaCorcia.
“We didn’t plan this. Our lease went up about $300 more than what we pay now and we decided we can’t afford it,” said Marsha.
The LaCorcias plan to keep inventory they can use and hope to use EBay for any extra items they want to sell. They will be keeping most of their products in storage.
While walking around the store to shuffle items in boxes, Paul added, “The square is not what it used to be. When COVID hit, small business really took a fall. A few more stores just up the street and a bank across from us had closed down. I’m 73, almost 74. I don’t have the time to wait for the town to renovate. If I was younger, for sure. Running a business is a full-time seven days a week job.”
The LaCorcias have two kids and grand kids, but they want them to have their own interests and not feel obligated to take over the business.
“Our kids don’t want to work seven days a week, which I understand. It’s not for everyone,” said Paul.
In March of 1982, the LaCorcias bought the business from the previous owner. Paul came into the business with background experience as a florist. Longtime customers have come in throughout this past week to say their goodbyes. “At least 45 people walked in here crying,” said Marsha.
This florist shop supplied floral arrangements for many weddings and funerals, but one of its most popular products were Beanie Babies.
“We had over 1,000 people at least lined up outside the door throughout the day,” said Marsha.
It was Marsha’s idea to start adding collectables to the store. The last of what’s on the shelves are Buyer’s Choice Carolers. “At one point we had the biggest collection in the Northeast,” Marsha said. “At one point we had 1,500 Carolers in the store.”
Paul and Marsha shuffled through the store to take care of any customers passing through, and they had their collectables on sale for half off on last day. All of the flowers have been cleared out by this point. While Cliftondale Square will not be the same, the couple treasures the memories they have.
“We thank all of our customers for their loyalty and support. We leave a lot of good memories. We’ve made a lot of good friends over the years.” Paul said.
Magella Cantara can be reached at [email protected].
