In 1989, Pat and Don Coleman realized that there were no specialty retail stores in Kansas City’s Johnson County area that offered the high-quality customer service that they felt customers deserved. Coming from banking backgrounds, where they focused on top-notch customer service, the couple committed to creating a new gift store that would not only be a friendly place to shop—but also a relaxing destination for shoppers throughout Johnson County. Past & Presents was born.
Over the years, the business grew from carrying primarily country and nostalgic collectibles and gifts to a more modern, up-to-date gift store, complete with trendy women’s fashion accessories, home décor items, seasonal décor, baby boutique, and unique gift ideas. Pat and Don also opened a second location, Touch of Faith, featuring Christian books and gifts. At the same time, daughter Melinda Gibson joined the team to focus on merchandising and marketing specialty items for a younger audience.
Today, Past & Presents is celebrating its 31st anniversary. The store now occupies 6,000 sq. ft. of space, and carries more than 10,000 separate items from over 80 different vendors. The store also employs 18 customer-friendly staff that pride themselves on providing the highest level of customer service. In 2010, a second location was opened in a newly developing area of Lenexa, Kansas. It later closed in 2015.
While the selection of merchandise changes regularly, one thing remains the same: the family’s commitment to providing Kansas City with home décor and fine gifts at an affordable price—along with the best possible service.