A Sweet Night Downtown: Beckman Gallery & Gifts Sets the Mood for the Sweet Stroll

Beckman Gallery & Gifts is setting the mood for the Sweet Stroll with plans for warm lighting, music, and a Valentine’s Day atmosphere that invites people to slow down and enjoy the evening. “Last year was awesome, and we’re excited for Friday night!” shares Ryan Beckman.

Building on the strong response from last year’s inaugural Sweet Stroll, the shop will transform with mood lighting softened by red film, wine samples for guests over age 21, and music to set an inviting tone. The store will also host an art and maker show highlighting four artists with ties to Grinnell: ceramicist Jess Lease; two-dimensional artist Kai McGee, who works in ink and fine-line markers; crochet artist Destynee Johnson; and painter Jennifer Grinnell.

That attention to experience reflects the care Beckman Gallery and Gifts brings to the store year-round. This year marks Beckman Gallery and Gifts’ 35th anniversary. Founded in 1991 by his late father, Jim, Ryan continues the business today with thoughtful and curated updates. The space has been opened up to improve flow and browsing, with a cohesive look featuring black, brown, and wood tones. Store inventory includes a blend of new products alongside familiar favorites, with options at a wide range of price points. Popular brands include Jellycats plush, Fishwife tinned fish, Inis fragrance, P.F. Candle Co. home fragrance, Stonewall Kitchen, Michel Design Works soaps, and Moglea stationery. Ryan plans inventory well in advance, often sourcing items months ahead to keep the selection timely and well curated.

Another recent addition showcases a ‘frame bar’. Built from frame offcuts assembled into standard sizes, it allows customers to bring in artwork and try different frame and mat combinations in person. The option has been well received as a flexible and economical framing choice. The frame area has also been refreshed with new carpet and barn-door displays that make browsing easier. Customers are encouraged to call ahead for framing needs, with Mondays through Thursdays typically being the best times to visit.

“The store has also seen steady growth in online sales in the past year, with shoppers finding the store from across the country,” says Ryan. The website now makes up a meaningful portion of the store’s revenue, with many customers discovering Beckman through online product searches and advertising, along with social media.

Beckman Gallery and Gifts is one of several downtown businesses participating in the Sweet Stroll this Friday, February 6. Hosted by the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce, the Sweet Stroll is a great opportunity to gather friends or a sweetie and enjoy an evening downtown. Participating retailers and restaurants will offer Valentine’s sweets, refreshments, and special deals, followed by dinner specials at local restaurants. Find more information on the Chamber’s website — https://www.grinnellchamber.org/events/the_sweet_stroll/.

To learn more about Beckman Gallery and Gifts, including their latest product offerings, visit their website — https://beckmangallery.com/, give them a call at 641-236-3344 or stop in the store at 912 Main Street.

Chamber Ambassadors from left to right:

• Becky Broadston — Country Inn & Suites
• Donna Fischer — UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center Foundation
• Donnette Ellis — Grinnell College Community Connections
• Fran Conn
• Jennifer McAlexander — JM Consulting & Hawkeye Lock & Security
• Brandy Virchow — B. Nicole Salon
• Desiree Strayer — German Plumbing Heating and Cooling
• Ryan Beckman — Beckman Gallery & Gifts
• Nicolle Donnelly — Poweshiek Insurance Agency
• Brad German — GreenState Credit Union
• Lisa Cirks — Cirks Financial Services
• Jess Dawson — REMAX Partners Realty- Grinnell
• Monica St. Angelo — Grinnell Area Arts Council
• Nikki Armstead — Grinnell Chamber