Economic Development eNews | September 3, 2024 | |
Committed to Unique Customer Experiences | |
Photos: top, Jackie Taylor and daughter Lyndsay; side-from top, the new Merrickville location; fall apparel, home decor and autumn accessories. | |
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MERRICKVILLE / KEMPTVILLE - Integrity is everything. “We appreciate the little things; the people in the community and the details we offer matter,” says Lyndsay.
Jackie Taylor and her daughter, interior designer Lyndsay, procure quality home decor, family apparel, and gifts for Jac’s Boutique in Kemptville and Merrickville. “It's about the experience. Jac’s offers a no-pressure shopping environment,” says Lyndsay. Jackie adds, “Right down to the packaging, it’s part of the whole gift, and we add our touch there too." Reflecting on her past experience managing at Tanda Shoes, Jackie adds, “I learned a lot working for others, but it was time for my own venture.”
"We began building our brand community in 2016 and noticed that people connected with us for retail therapy." says Jackie, adding “Customers would visit to share personal challenges; some as they shopped and unwound. They still do.”
“It's a privilege to serve and create friendships. We’re more than just a clothing store,” says Lyndsay. “This is a store with community impact at its core.” Jackie appreciates her fantastic staff, supportive family, and friends who contribute to the positive word-of-mouth marketing that benefits the business.
Jackie humbly shares customer care stories, like the client who lost everything in a fire and left the shop with a kindly donated outfit, or the gentleman who entrusted Jackie to help his wife, who had dementia, choose and wear fancy clothing for a same-day occasion. Jac's has raised over $35,000 by hosting fashion shows in support of the Kemptville Hospital CT Scanner campaign.
This June, an opportunity arose for a Merrickville location, which Jackie embraced after ensuring it would fit among the well-established village retail scene. She reached out to other shop owners to avoid carrying the same brands and focused on offering something unique.
Mindful of sourcing domestic products, both boutiques carry Canadian brands such as sympli, Dot & Lil, Echo Verde, French Dressing, I Love Tyler Madison, Hanky Panky, Lyla & Luxe, Pink Martini, Saxx, Tofino Towel Co., and Ink + Alloy. Local products from The Floating Farm Girl, Fox and Fern Farm, and Olive & Co. are also featured.
Jac’s Style Rewards offers loyalty program members points to earn and redeem, with special promotions offering additional gifts. “We’re always looking to make improvements,” Jackie says, emphasizing the importance of feedback. The pandemic pushed them to develop their online store presence, which continues today. “We’re just being ourselves and learning as we go,” says Lyndsay.
With custom fittings and alterations available to make each experience special, Jac’s Boutique is truly a 'Taylor-made' experience after eight successful years.
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Ready for the Future, James Ross Ltd. Expands | |
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ELIZABETHTOWN-KITLEY - On August 14th, James Ross Ltd. broke ground on a new state-of-the-art office building, set to expand their current facility. The company, a global leader in metal manufacturing that specializes in processing chrome-nickel stainless steel, special alloys, aluminum, and plastics, welcomed this cutting-edge development that will significantly enhance engineering and manufacturing capabilities, all while emphasizing sustainability and the well-being of employees.
The groundbreaking ceremony was a momentous occasion, with General Manager Michael Mortsch leading the celebrations alongside over 50 enthusiastic employees. The event was further distinguished by the presence of esteemed guests, including Michael Barrett, MP and Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, and Brant Burrow, Mayor of Elizabethtown-Kitley.
Key figures from the IBS Paper Performance Group also attended, including Mark Bartelmuss, CEO of Papertech Inc., and Verena Rischawy, HR Director. Additionally, Brandon Campbell from Eastern Engineering and Kevin Selleck from R.D. Steele Construction, the company’s valued partners in design and construction, were on hand to mark the occasion.
This $3.5 million investment is a testament to James Ross Ltd.’s unwavering commitment to the Elizabethtown and Brockville communities, as the company continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the metal manufacturing industry.
For more information, visit James Ross Ltd. website.
Article source
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Kemptville Health Hub Opens for Business
The new Kemptville Health Hub focuses on evidence-based patient-centred care through multiple modes of treatment. Contact the clinic to learn more about muscle release therapy, exercise prescription, joint manipulation, acupuncture, custom orthotics and more. Visit Dr. Mike McGahey and associate Dr. Heather Jones at the new business at 148 Prescott St. Unit A in Kemptville.
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Changes for Seasons of Westport
Having offered high quality women's wear and accessories for years, Lori Reynen returns with a pop-up store located adjacent to The Cove at 2 Bedford Street with a solid calendar of dates open to the public. Find Seasons trusted brands both online and in-store to see, feel and try. Check Season's of Westport's Facebook page for dates and times.
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New Leeds Grenville
Small Business Website
Conveniently get the information you are looking for on the new Small Business website. Programs and resources are available at the click of a mouse.
You'll find more on:
- Starting, growing and registering a business
- Free consultations with a professional
- Learning opportunities
- Programs and funding
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Summer Company Wraps with Celebration for 5 Young Entrepreneurs | |
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Five intrepid young Leeds Grenville entrepreneurs have graduated from the Summer Company program. They gained valuable experience being their own boss and solved business challenges by accessing their creativity, practicing perseverance and soliciting community support.
The end goal was to successfully operate their businesses throughout the season. In its 24th year, the Summer Company program continues to provide hands-on business training and mentoring to youth entrepreneurs.
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Participating students receive education on all things pertaining to operating a small business and the opportunity to work with local mentors who provide support and advice. They also receive a financial grant to help with start-up costs, and another upon successful completion of the program.
Funded in part by the Province of Ontario. To find out more about the Summer Company program visit our website.
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In photo: Back row: Carol Hardy, Small Business Program Assistant, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville; Mayor Gauri Shenkar, Town of Prescott; Mayor Matt Wren, City of Brockville; Mayor Brant Burrow, Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley; Deputy Mayor John Barclay, Municipality of North Grenville; Mayor Jeff Shaver, Township of Augusta; MPP Steve Clark and MP Michael Barrett, both representing the riding of Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes; Jeanette Johnston, Small Business Development Officer. Front row: Summer Company program graduates Karsen Noe; Rane Gibbs; Taylor Brumwell; River Irvine; and Evan Trower. | |
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Township of Augusta (2)
River Irvine of Prize Pursuits Gaming creates online tournaments, allowing gaming hobbyists the opportunity to show off their skills. Games include Guitar Hero, first person shooter games, and more. Reach River via DM @prizepursuitgaming on Instagram and Facebook.
Karsen Noe of Noe Woodworks creates hand-sculpted wooden decor, ornaments, jewellery and more in his workshop at home. Karsen sold his products at local summer markets, and continues to create custom pieces by request.
noewoodworks@gmail.com
613-243-0838.
City of Brockville (2)
Rane Gibbs of RGB Industry Décor creates hand-made home and kitchen décor, and provides customization options for particular designs. Rane attended local markets as a vendor and also sells online. Rane intends to continue her entrepreneurial journey.
ranegibbs@rpgindustrydecor.com
613-213-2876.
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Evan Trower of Trower Mobile Detailing delivers mobile car detailing that includes interior and exterior cleaning services. Services ranged from basic to advanced care based on need. Evan is keen to continue his entrepreneurial dreams.
trowermobiledetailing@gmail.com
613-447-2185.
Municipality of North Grenville (1)
Taylor Brumwell of Brumwell Lawn Services
provides routine lawncare (raking, watering, cutting, weed trimming), as well as seasonal aeration, fertilizing, over-seeding, light landscaping services, and garden work in and around Kemptville. You can reach Taylor at brumwelllawnservices@gmail.com or
613-284-7886 for fall services.
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Save the Date: Bridges to Better Business Annual Conference | | |
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In celebration of October's Small Business Week, Bridges to Better Business Annual Conference presents "The Growth Series: Short Talks for Big Impact". This event features a series of 15-minute presentations covering essential strategies for successful small business growth. More information to follow.
Save the date and join us for concise and powerful insights to help propel your business forward.
Thursday, October 24, 2024
4-7 p.m.
MERC Hall, Maitland
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Need Business Help? Join Us Tomorrow
Join the Small Business Team Wednesday, September 4th and get informed on the next Starter Company Plus program. If you meet the criteria, you'll receive comprehensive training and support. You may also receive up to $5000 to invest in your business.
If you can't make this session, a recording will be made available until Friday, September 7th. Email Carol to request the recorded link. Attending an orientation session is mandatory in order to receive an application to the program.
Open to businesses in Leeds and the Thousand Islands, Gananoque, Front of Yonge, Athens, Elizabethtown-Kitley (south of Toledo), Brockville, Augusta, Prescott, Edwardsburgh Cardinal, and North Grenville.
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There is no cost to participate
Deadline September 30th
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We want to hear from you! If you operate a specialty food shop, are a bakery/café that produces baked goods on-site, or have a tourism-worthy garden, join the Adventures. There is no cost to participate and you'll be added to the promotional materials.
This will mark the third year for the popular tourism program. Through the Adventure series, residents and visitors travel to all corners of the region to visit 1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Waterways foodie shops, bakeries, cafes and gardens.
Reach out today to Shelbi McFarlane, Business Development Officer to see if your business meets the criteria.
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Nominate a Business Community Leader
Do you know a person who volunteers their time to help grow and develop your municipality's economic vitality or tourism appeal?
The Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office is asking individuals, municipal councils and economic development committees to nominate candidates for the annual Bill Thake Memorial Award for Economic Development Leadership.
The award winner will be announced prior to the Economic Development Summit and will be officially honoured at the event on November 22nd. Visit the Summit 2024 webpage for forms and more information.
If you have someone in mind within the 10-member municipalities of Leeds Grenville, consider putting their name forward. Connect with us at econdev@uclg.on.ca or call Shelbi McFarlane at 613-342-3840 ext. 5361.
Nomination submission due Friday, September 20, at 4 pm.
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Nominations Open, New Award Category
Have you nominated a business yet? Nominations are open for Augusta's Business of the Year, New Business of the Year and Agri-Sector Business of the Year Awards. This new award will be given to a business that has made a positive impact to Augusta’s agriculture industry, and has shown community involvement. Anyone can nominate a local business, you can shine a spotlight on your own business and self-nominate. Don't miss this chance to recognize a deserving business.
Nomination deadline Friday, October 11th.
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Call for Vendors: Fall Home & Trade Show
Presented by Ontario Approved Professionals, vendor inquiries contact by email.
Show Dates: Friday September 13th, 3-8 p.m.
Saturday September 14th, 9 a.m-2 p.m.
Where: Brockville Country Club
1548 King Street West, Brockville
Cost: $3.00 per person, $5.00 per couple, children under 12 are free. No charge admission for Seniors on Friday.
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Workshops, Seminars and Webinar Library | |
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Crafting Audiences with Mailchimp
Gain the knowledge and skills to harness Mailchimp's audience management capabilities. Learn about audience segmentation in email marketing and how it contributes to improved campaign performance. Learn to create and manage audience lists and how to segment audiences based on various criteria.
Host: Regional Tourism Organization 9
Presenter: Jennifer Baker, JBC Consulting
When: September 10, 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Rethinking Experience Development in Canada's Destinations
Local communities are seeking sustainable revitalization and innovative solutions to attract the right guests. In response, destinations, organizations and individuals have been crafting and offering unique storytelling-based experiences in rural areas. Share best practices in rural experience development, become informed, inspired and empowered to create regenerative travel experiences rooted in your community.
Host: Destination Canada
When: September 12, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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SEe ON Summit:
Envision Tourism Growth
Annual Tourism Summit: Thursday, Sept 12
Sustainable Tourism Summit: Friday, Sept 13
Both days feature incredible speakers, forward thinking ideas and inspiration to spark creativity and help envision tourism growth in South Eastern Ontario. Join in the evening of September 12 for a free networking reception for attendees of the SEe ON Summit.
Host: Regional Tourism Organization 9
When: September 12-13, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Double Tree Hilton, Kingston
Cost: Both days - $65.23, Either Day 1 or Day 2 - $38.61
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Social Media 101
Designed for beginners, this session covers everything from setting up profiles to strategies for engaging your audience. You will be guided through the current landscape of social media, highlighting key features, benefits, and tips for effectively navigating platforms.
Host: Regional Tourism Organization 9
Presenter: Karine Parthenais, Mellow Brew Marketing
When: September 17, 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
Also available in French - September 19, 2024.
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Create Newsletters with Mailchimp
Receive guidance through the process of creating impactful newsletters. Gain valuable insights into best practices, design techniques, and email marketing strategies. Create attractive templates that align with your brand, craft compelling content that resonates with your subscribers, and optimize newsletters for maximum engagement.
Host: Regional Tourism Organization 9
Presenter: Jennifer Baker, JBC Consulting
When: October 3, 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
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Create Engaging Content
Take your social media content to the next level. Craft compelling posts that can help you stand out. Identify your unique brand voice utilizing visuals and storytelling techniques that effectively captivate your audience. Create posts that encourage interaction and loyalty from your followers.
Host: Regional Tourism Organization 9
Presenter: Karine Parthenais, Mellow Brew Marketing
When: October 15, 10-11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: Free
Also available in French - October 17, 2024.
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| SEe ON Summit | September 12 / 13 | Double Tree Hilton, Kingston | | Bridges to Better Business | October 24, 2024 | MERC Hall, Augusta | | Brockville Tourism Symposium | November 18, 2024 | Brockville Arts Centre | | Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit | November 22, 2024 | North Grenville Municipal Centre | | |
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Leeds Grenville eNews deadlines for submitting information:
If you have an upcoming workshop, seminar, or business-related event, please email it to us in advance.
- Submissions for the September 17th edition should be received by September 9th.
- Submissions for the October 1st edition should be received by September 23rd.
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United Counties of Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office | | | | |
