UNION — Meriah Williams can tell you a thing or two about flowers, and she’s especially eloquent about dahlias.

“They’re drama queens when it comes to growing them, but they’re worth all the blood, sweat and tears. There’s so many varieties and colors,” Williams, soon to open a shop on South Main Street called Catherine Creek Gardens and Gifts, said.

Williams was raised on a ranch near Prineville and learned the fine art of flower gardening from her mother and grandmother. After she and her husband, Jeff, moved to Union from Central Oregon, she continued with it, starting a flower farm and selling her wares at a roadside stand.

“I’ve always been interested in interior design, and I’ve always loved flowers and helping people with special occasions,” Williams said. “The flower stand just took off. I had no clue I would be that busy. I actually saved enough money for the inventory to start the store.”

That store will be situated in a building the Williamses recently purchased at 265 South Main St., Union. The building had been used for storage, a situation the community-minded couple wanted to change.

As president of Main Street Union — a group supporting local economic development — Meriah Willams is happy to be creating some active retail space.

“I hope it’s something fun, something people can be excited about,” she said.

At present the building is in the throes of a deep remodel, but everything seems to be going according to schedule. When Catherine Creek Gardens and Gifts has its grand opening Nov. 24, it will offer floral items like bouquets and centerpieces, plus house plants and pots, home décor gifts, a candle line, picture frames, greeting cards, toys and candy.

Williams said she also intends for her shop to be an outlet for local craftspeople.

“There will be handmade products,” she said. “We’ve already got some jewelry and crochet items. I’m always interested in bringing in more like those.”

Williams said she will be shipping flowers in during the cold fall and winter months, and selling flowers she grows herself during the spring and summer. Customers will be able to special-order centerpieces and bouquets for holidays and special occasions.

Jeff Williams, who operates an auto transport company, is originally from Union. He and Meriah moved to Union from the Prineville area in 2019.

Meriah has worked for Court Appointed Special Advocates of Central Oregon, a non-profit entity that advocates for children and youth in foster care, since 2010. She serves that organization as a program coordinator, working from home.

As she takes her first steps toward becoming a Main Street shop owner, her goals are modest.

“I’d like to be a good resource for the community. I think people get tired of having to run 15 miles for a birthday card or a gift,” she said.

Getting a retail business in shape for a grand opening is always a major undertaking. Williams said she appreciates support she has received from her family, the local community, and, especially, from her good friend Katelyn Smith.

“I’d give a shout-out to Katelyn. She’s my bestie. She’s been a lot of support in the practical matters,” Williams said.

Catherine Creek Gardens and Gifts will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 24 and Saturday, Nov. 25. After that, regular hours will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.

The grand opening will feature giveaways and drawings.