A special store in Blue Grass: Just Because

Why would a woman who built a reputation on crafts and flower arrangements she made in her home decide to open a gift shop in Blue Grass, Iowa?

Just Because.

Just Because is the name of the gift shop Bev Thumann opened about 10 months ago at 102 N. Neisse, and it's an answer to many of the questions people might ask about the business.

The first question could be "Why Blue Grass?" Just Because it's been home to the Thumanns since 1969, and it seemed the right place when Ms. Thumann decided to broaden her horizons.

"We moved west of Blue Grass in 1969, then a few years later, we moved to Rustic Oaks, south of town, where we've been ever since," said Ms. Thumann.

For more than 20 years, she sold crafts and silk flower arrangements at craft shows.

"I had space in a number of shows inside buildings, and I had a little space during the holidays in the Muscatine Mall in the late '80s," Ms. Thumann said.

Starting out very small, selling her creations in small spaces, she learned little by little how to run a business and what it takes to succeed.

After her first year at the Muscatine Mall, she received an invitation to expand her space.

Over the years, Ms. Thumann received similar encouragement. That encouragement, support from a loving family, loyal customers and the perfect spot came together at just the right time for Just Because to become a reality.

The shop has proven to be everything a new business owner could ask.

The location, a house leased from Blue Grass Savings Bank, is vital to the atmosphere Ms. Thumann wanted to create for Just Because.

"It's really a home, with a lot of heritage, and it's a wonderful showplace for the things I carry," she said. "When I come to the store, it's kind of like leaving one home for another.

"People can see the items in this 'home,' and it's easier for them to picture just how it'll look in their own homes."

The inventory at Just Because includes a wide variety of items from $2 to $200 and appeals to customers of all ages.

Ms. Thumann said one of her goals is to keep things fresh.

"I'm always changing what's available and thinking about what people are interested in, trying to stay on top of new and exciting things for decorating. And I'm always looking for new companies that will appeal to my customers."

It's really Blue Grass's store -- a store for people, Ms. Thumann said. "If I had to move out of Blue Grass or to a mall, it would end."

And she's reaped her own unexpected rewards, too.

"You know what they say about it being better to give than to receive? It's more fun for me to give people something new and exciting, something that awes them. That's the real pleasure of the store," she said. "That's the real fun for me."

Part of the fun is that Just Because is a family affair. Ms. Thumann's daughters-in-law sometimes work in the shop, and Larry, her husband of 39 years is a constant source of support, help and inspiration.

"He does the bookkeeping, he built the ramp to make the store handicapped accessible, he does whatever it takes to help, so he's really important to making it work," said Ms. Thumann, adding that she's been blessed in many ways since Just Because opened.

"One example is finding Sheri Colvin to work here," she said. "Her enthusiasm and positivity and concern for the customers are just what we needed."

Most people seem pleasantly surprised to find such a shop in Blue Grass. Maybe that's why customers come from all over the area and many bring family members and friends from out of town to the unique store.

"I'm zeroing in on new things for kids, too," Ms. Thumann said, "so they'll have a wider range to choose from if they're buying gifts."

"In the year 2000, I want give the store everything it needs to be more than it was in 1999."

Just Because is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

For more information, call 381-3790.