MUSCATINE, Iowa – Business should bloom with the spring flowers, or at least that’s what Kerry Keller of Party HQ is hoping will happen with his latest venture.

The party store owner purchased K&D Formalwear and merged both businesses at 223 E. Second St. The opportunity came about after Dennis Cockshoot, former owner of K&D Clothiers and K&D Formalwear, decided to quit the clothing business late last year.

Keller is operating the stores separately under the names K&D Formalwear and Celebration Shoppe and Party HQ.

“The party supply business and formal clothing rental go together perfectly and I am able to expand on what he used to offer, which is much needed in Muscatine,” Keller said.

An expansion on formal wear rentals includes wedding dresses and bridesmaids’ gowns. Measurements are done at K&D and alterations are done at the factory. Dresses arrive at the store 10 days prior to the event so customers can try them on. Wedding gown rentals vary and bridesmaid’s dresses start at $79, alterations included.

Keller and his wife, Patti, are operating the business. He said the selection of tuxedos cannot be matched in eastern Iowa. He offers the same lines as area tuxedo stores, Skeffington’s Formal Wear and Nedrebo’s Formal Wear, plus the selection of four other vendors. Tuxedo rentals start at $79.

The selection of formal wear in conjunction with the color-coordinated decorations such as balloons and napkins make it a one-stop shop. Keller can help give the finishing touch to birthday, anniversary, quinceanera and graduation parties.

Keller ran the seasonal Clam Shell Diner on the corner of Mississippi Drive and Chestnut, but has decided to focus on the formal wear and party business as the wedding and prom season approaches.

He hopes that those who are planning events will choose to shop Muscatine and save time.

“With prom season coming up they’ll need to get in as soon as possible while the selection is best,” Keller said, adding that he’s ready for the rush and believes people will be surprised at what’s available.

Reporter contact information

Melissa Regennitter 563-262-0526 or mregennitter@muscatinejournal.com

Party HQ and K&D Formalwear

What: Party HQ and K&D Formalwear and Celebration Shoppe

Where: 223 E. Second St., Muscatine

Hours: 9:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Saturday; Sunday hours will be set this spring

Phone: 563-263-3084