For generations, the corner of Main Street in Lehi has been more than just a location; it’s been a cornerstone of the community, evolving with the times while retaining its heart. Where Garff Hall once stood, local pharmacist Abe Ekins envisioned a modern space for his growing business and community services. In 1962, his vision became reality, built by Melvin Anderson, marking the next chapter for what would eventually become Pioneer Party And Copy.
This location’s story began long before 1962, however. Abe Ekins wasn’t just starting a new venture; he was continuing a family tradition. He had taken over the Lehi Drug Store in 1917 from his father-in-law, Gerald Taylor, establishing the Ekins name as synonymous with local service and care. For over three decades, Abe, affectionately known as “Honest Abe,” served as the town druggist, building a reputation for friendly service and community engagement.
The legacy continued as Abe passed the torch to his son, Dale G. Ekins, after 34 years of dedicated service. Dale carried on his father’s approachability and community spirit, maintaining the drugstore as a hub for not just prescriptions but also friendly conversation and local news. By 1989, The Lehi Drug Store had grown to become the largest independently owned drugstore in northern Utah County, a testament to the family’s commitment and the community’s support.
However, the retail landscape was changing, and the Ekins family was astute enough to recognize and adapt. Karen, Dale’s wife, and their daughters noticed a growing trend: Lehi residents were looking for thoughtful, affordable ways to celebrate loved ones. Small gifts and greeting cards became increasingly popular. This insight led to a significant evolution. In 1995, Dale made the strategic decision to sell the pharmacy to K-Mart and rebranded the business as Pioneer Party and Copy.
This transformation marked a new era. Pioneer Party and Copy embraced a vibrant inventory, focusing on party supplies, unique gifts, and printing services. The shift resonated deeply with the community, and as word spread, so did their customer base. To meet the burgeoning demand, Pioneer Party and Copy established an online presence. Emily Ekins Ames, Dale’s daughter and the current owner, recalls the rapid growth: “We sometimes had more than 1500 orders a week to create and ship.”
The success of Pioneer Party and Copy wasn’t just about adapting to market trends; it was also about the people behind it. Dale acknowledged the crucial role of his creative staff, stating, “We have always had creative ladies on staff. They worked very hard and always had new ideas.” This collaborative spirit and dedication to customer satisfaction became hallmarks of the business.
As Dale considered retirement, the question of the business’s future naturally arose. The family weighed various options: keeping it within the family, selling to an outside party, or even liquidating. Fortunately, Emily and her husband, Dan Ames, stepped forward, eager to continue the family legacy and inject new energy into Pioneer Party and Copy. Sarah Barnhurst, another of Dale’s daughters, also remains involved, ensuring the store maintains its fun and fresh approach to balloons, gift baskets, and LDS-themed gifts.
Emily and Dan bring fresh perspectives and ambitious plans. Dan, a BYU professor with a background in civil engineering, is particularly excited about the historical aspect of the location. During renovations, he discovered historical artifacts in the basement, sparking the idea to create a dedicated section within Pioneer Party and Copy showcasing Lehi’s unique history. Emily envisions a space where “Lehi visitors can buy merchandise representing this amazing community,” and a nostalgic touch with “fountain drinks and bulk candies, especially gummy candy,” reminiscent of the store’s drugstore origins.
Looking to the future, Emily also plans to expand the printing services offered by Pioneer Party and Copy, building upon an already successful aspect of the business. Despite acknowledging parking challenges, a common concern in historic downtown areas, Dale expresses optimism that Lehi will find solutions to support local businesses like Pioneer Party and Copy.
While Dale steps back from day-to-day operations, his commitment to the community remains strong through Meals on Wheels and the Lehi Rotary Club. He and Karen look forward to traveling, exploring destinations like Scotland and Norway. Dale will also continue to serve as an advisor to Pioneer Party and Copy, ensuring a smooth transition and the preservation of the family’s values. The presence of his granddaughter Anna, now part of the business as the fifth generation, further solidifies the enduring legacy of the Ekins family and Pioneer Party and Copy in the heart of Lehi. The story of Pioneer Party and Copy is a testament to family, community, and the enduring spirit of adaptation and celebration.
