After 35 years of meticulous stitching and fitting, Edelweiss Tailoring & Cleaners is closing its doors in Orinda, leaving loyal patrons to bid farewell to a cherished local institution. Owner Kilja Kim, at 85 years old, has decided that the time has come to retire and focus on her family and health. According to a KTVU report, customers have been stopping by in droves, delivering tokens of gratitude such as thank you cards and flowers for the service and community connection that Edelweiss has provided over the years.
Marking an end to a business that has stood the test of time, Edelweiss has been a fixture in the city's bustling Theater District. The shop witnessed the area's evolution, enduring the comings and goings of other businesses and establishments, including the beloved Nation's Giant Hamburgers. Its presence offered a sense of continuity amidst change, as highlighted by KTVU.
The origin of the shop's name, Edelweiss, takes root in Kilja Kim's past experiences. After living abroad in Switzerland and becoming a fan of "The Sound of Music," the edelweiss - a symbol of nobility and purity - was chosen to represent her establishment. This sentiment was mirrored in the service and customer care that Kim devoted herself to. Kim's daughter, Peggy, shared with KRON4, a touching anecdote about a child mistaking another woman for Kim due to her recognizable blue jean dress.
Before the final closure, Orinda's mayor presented Kim with a certificate of recognition, a nod to her long-standing contribution to the town. Despite this honor, Kim humbly stated, "I don’t deserve all that, it’s too much. I just did my best for them and they did so much for me," according to KRON4. Missed by the community, Edelweiss Tailoring & Cleaners opened its doors one last time today from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing customers a final chance to express their gratitude and say their goodbyes.
