10/12/2026
Cat Tales Celebrates New Ownership with Ribbon Cutting in Downtown Elkhart
New owners Mica Ratzlaff McKinley and Antonio McKinley bring fresh ideas, expanded offerings, and a passion for small businesses to a longtime Elkhart favorite.
The Morton County Chamber of Commerce celebrated an exciting new chapter for a familiar downtown business on Friday, October 9, with a ribbon cutting ceremony welcoming Mica Ratzlaff McKinley and Antonio McKinley as the new owners of Cat Tales.
A longtime staple in the Elkhart community, Cat Tales has built a reputation as a destination for flowers, gifts, and unique finds. Now, under new ownership, the business is building on that foundation with fresh ideas, expanded inventory, and exciting new services.
“I’ve always had a passion for small businesses, design, creativity, and bringing new opportunities to rural communities,” Mica shared. “When the opportunity came along to purchase Cat Tales, I saw so much potential to build on a business that has been a part of Elkhart for years.”
Having grown up in Southwest Kansas, Mica understands the important role locally owned businesses play in rural communities.
“I loved the idea of preserving something special in our community while bringing in some fresh ideas, new products, and a little of my own personality,” she explained. “I want to help make our downtown a place people are excited to visit, shop, and spend time.”
The McKinleys have already been busy introducing new inventory and expanding the store's offerings. Customers can expect an even greater selection of gifts, home décor, seasonal decorations, plants, gourmet foods, clothing, accessories, and unique items for all ages.
Floral services are also growing, with an emphasis on creative, custom arrangements for weddings, sympathy flowers, special events, and everyday deliveries.
One of the most exciting additions is event decorating, custom balloon installations, and event planning assistance. From birthday parties and baby showers to weddings, corporate gatherings, and community celebrations, Cat Tales is expanding its services to help customers bring their ideas to life.
“From florals and balloons to décor and the little details that make an event special, we’re excited to offer more ways to celebrate life’s big and small moments,” Mica said.
Looking ahead, the new owners also hope to introduce additional workshops, seasonal activities, shopping events, and other opportunities to bring people together downtown.
“Ultimately, we want Cat Tales to be more than just a gift shop or florist,” Mica explained. “We want to be a creative resource for our community, a place to find something unique, celebrate special occasions, and feel inspired every time you walk through the door!”
When asked what excites her most about this new adventure, Mica's answer was simple: “Honestly, the possibilities!”
She enjoys every aspect of the creative process, from designing floral arrangements and decorating Christmas trees to discovering unique merchandise and planning events. However, the community's response has been especially meaningful.
“The support we’ve received has been incredible, and it’s exciting to see people genuinely enthusiastic about what we’re doing,” she shared. “I also love getting to work alongside our wonderful team and watching their creativity grow.”
While the McKinleys have big plans for the future, they are equally committed to honoring the business's history and the people who helped make it successful.
“We’re so thankful for the foundation that was built at Cat Tales long before we took ownership, and we’re excited to continue that legacy while creating something new,” Mica said.
That appreciation for the past, paired with enthusiasm for the future, reflects the importance of small business ownership in communities like Elkhart. When established businesses find new owners who are willing to invest, innovate, and carry on their legacy, it helps preserve the character of the community while creating opportunities for continued growth.
Mica and Antonio encourage residents to stop in, explore the new merchandise, and share ideas for products or services they would like to see offered.
“We have big dreams for Cat Tales, but at the heart of everything we do is a love for our community. We want to give people more reasons to shop locally, support other small businesses, and keep our downtown thriving.”
The Morton County Chamber of Commerce congratulates Mica and Antonio on their new venture and looks forward to seeing Cat Tales continue to grow. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and investment in downtown Elkhart are wonderful examples of the entrepreneurial spirit that keeps rural communities moving forward.
As Mica shared in her message to the community, “Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far. We couldn’t do this without you, and we’re just getting started!”
