Home and Cottage Show a local success

The Kawartha Lakes Home and Cottage Show drew strong crowds to the Lindsay Fairgrounds recently, where more than 130 vendors showcased everything from landscaping and plumbing services to real estate offerings. Admission was free, but visitors were encouraged to bring a non‑perishable food donation for Kawartha Food Source — an effort that brought in more than $2,000 and 5,000 pounds of food for the local non‑profit.

Alexis Trunks of the Di Bello Group said attendance was up from last year when the show coincided with the ice storm. “It’s been a good turnout this year, and lots of people from far away are coming in, which we like to see it,” she said.

Part of the event is networking and making new connections, but Jenn Strat also of the Di Bello Group enjoys the opportunity to visit with old friends. “We’re always meeting new contacts, but also, seeing all the familiar faces of businesses that we do network with on a regular basis is nice. It’s just nice to all be here supporting each other.”

Trunks and Strat found the set-up of the show made it easy for potential clients to engage in conversation and ask any questions they might have. “We’re able to meet with people, one on one in a very low-pressure environment,” said Trunks.

For Pavati Plumbing and Water, Ian Batty said that the show is the only advertising they do for the entire year. With people coming and going all weekend long, for smaller businesses it’s an easy way to reach many bodies over three days.

Michelle Ward from Pura Vida Farm, a business that sells handmade soap and offers chicken coop rentals, has never been to the show before. “I’m a very big advocate of supporting local so I think it’s a great opportunity for local residents to come and see what’s available within their community.”