Introducing The New Silk Worm

Maybe you've been to , but if you haven't shopped there lately, you need to stop by.

With two new owners, Mary Ann Victor and Kerri Vizena, the 25-year Rochester tradition has been renovated and revitalized. 

While maintaining the silk offerings and the unique flower preservation system, The Silk Worm is now also offering fresh flowers and event planning as well as an expanded selection of gifts.

"We believe there's not another store in Rochester like us," Vizena said.

A pooling of talents

What started out as a friendship — Victor and Vizena met when Victor worked on a project with Vizena's husband — turned to a business opportunity when Victor's company was acquired and she decided to take a break from her legal career.

Vizena is a master gardener with experience in sales, management, design and event planning.

"Kerri and I started looking around and asking 'what can we do that's fun, exciting and a use of our talents,' " said Victor. "Then in January we saw the release that ."

As a Rochester native, Vizena was well-aware of The Silk Worm's wonderful reputation.

"We came in and talked to (previous owner) Stan (Surratt) and decided to grab the opportunity," Vizena said. 

After the purchase the store was briefly closed to paint, change out the lighting and remodel the bathroom. They reopened on April 21.

Bringing the 'wow factor'

The store is now full of lovely home decor items. Part of the customer service offered by the staff is in-home or in-office visits to help customers spend their dollars wisely.

"We're here to help bring beauty and joy into people's homes," Vizena said.

They also offer event-planning services, including wedding and corporate events, that can include every element from flowers and entertainment to gown preservation.

Finally, there's a ton of fabulous and fun merchandise with new stuff always coming in. Floral umbrellas, colorful vases, kitchen linens, cookbooks and dishes, along with Michigan-made candles and wooden bowls are just a sampling of what is available in the store.

"I love to shop," Victor said. "And this is the perfect excuse."

The Silk Worm makes it easy for the rest of Rochester to agree.