Business Chronicles

Welcome to the Business Chronicles

The Town of Gananoque and Township of Leeds and Thousand Islands are excited to introduce the Business Chronicles; an initiative that showcases local businesses through social media posts and websites. Business Chronicles allows our region to show appreciation to those individuals that have aided in the growth of the economy, our local business owners. The objective is to give local businesses an opportunity to share their story and further cultivate relationships with the community and consumer.

Check out the Business Chronicles Video!  

Business Chronicle Video

The fourth intake of Business Chronicles is now open!

The Process of Business Chronicles:

  1. After submitting your interview, the photographer will reach out to you to set up a date and time via email or phone.
  2. One professional photo will be taken with you in front of or inside your business.                                                                                                        
  3. Submitted answers and professional photo may be utilized for promotional purposes. 

    Please contact McKenna the Project Coordinator via email at redprojectcoordinator@gananoque.ca if you have any questions. 

    The project is funded by the Rural Economic Development Program administered by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and coordinated in partnership with the Township of Leeds and The Thousand Islands. Read the Township Chronicles.

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    Business Owner

    Emily Lutz

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Emily Lutz
    Business Name: Emily Lutz
    Email: emily@elutz.ca
    Website: www.elutz.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I was born and raised in the Kingston area then spent a decade away in Toronto, Halifax, and Vancouver. I love the ocean but couldn't stay so far away from my family any longer. I was a Registered Massage Therapist for many years and had my own business in downtown Halifax. I loved the work and my clients, but it was very demanding and I felt it wouldn't be sustainable for the rest of my working life. After deciding to pivot professionally, I attended a college program for design and web development in Vancouver then returned to Ontario to start my business helping other solopreneurs and small businesses with their digital needs. In addition to web design and development, I also love to create digital portraits and repeat patterns and surface design.

    Define your business in your own words.
    I create websites and brand materials/digital art for small businesses that are tailored specifically to them. My specialty is affordable bespoke portfolio websites however I also work with popular platforms like WordPress and Shopify. I can offer more flexibility and affordability than an agency and provide every client with a solution that is completely unique, no recycled themes or templates. I also provide domain and hosting support, regular maintenance, consultation, and content creation.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I feel pride every time I launch a new project, it's so rewarding to see the final product highlighting the great work of a client. I had a client who wanted to pivot from construction to sculpture receive a sculpture request through their website the day after we launched! We were both happy with the outcome already, and really thrilled to see the strategy working so quickly.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    I moved to Gan shortly after relocating back to the area because I wanted a slower pace than the "big city" Kingston life and a walkable lifestyle. I love that there is a thriving arts community here and I am so grateful to be part of such a vibrant and passionate community. The proximity to nature is a highlight of life in Gan, I love spending time near, on, and in the rivers and at Charleston Lake. The town has so many amazing amenities and businesses already with new things coming in all the time, and it's a quick trip to Kingston when city cravings hit.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Stunning, historic, welcoming, natural, creative

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Digital portraits, graphics, and surface design

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Please don't hesitate to reach out with questions—specific and vague—or projects—small and large—I am always up to chit-chat!

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Service

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    Business Owner

    Thousand Islands Playhouse

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Susie Allan, Operations Manager
    Business Name: Thousand Islands Playhouse
    Address: 185 South Street Gananoque ON K7G 1A1
    Phone: 613-382-7020
    Email: susie@1000islandsplayhouse.com
    Website: www.1000islandsplayhouse.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I joined the Playhouse team 11 years ago as the Box Office Manager and fell in love with the behind-the-scenes work that is essential in making art. Managing logistics and problem-solving on-the-fly keeps me challenged.

    Define your business in your own words.
    In 2021, we're offering an altered season for the safety of our community. Four productions will grace our Firehall Theatre stage, an open-air tent will be part of the experience, and every production run will include streamed performances. The Playhouse is both an entertainment destination in Ontario as well as a community arts hub. Each year, the theatre provides 8 professionally produced plays, many of which are built from the ground up here in Gananoque over the course of 6 months.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Coming off a year of record breaking Box Office sales and having to shutter our doors in the face of COVID-19, I am most proud of the imagination and hard work that our team has put forth to make the 2021 season and beyond a reality.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    It is one of the most beautiful places in the country, full of wonderful people and a strong sense of community pride. We are so lucky to create theatre here.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Resilient, strong-willed, entrepreneurial.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Theatre is for everyone, everywhere! Music, laughter, romance, and beautiful sets and costumes - from our airy outdoor lobby tent, our safe and intimate Firehall Theatre, to a digital experience from the comfort of home.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: IMAGINATIVE

     

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    Business Owners

    Maiden Voyage Mobile Bar Co

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Crystal Wright
    Business Name: Maiden Voyage Mobile Bar Co
    Address: 385 Charles Street South, Gananoque
    Phone Number: 613.217.3600
    Email: cheers@maidenvoyagemobilebarco.com 
    Website: www.maidenvoyagemobilebarco.com www.maidenvoyagecocktails.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Crystal and Stefanie met circa 2010 and became fast friends over a shared love of travel, food, and a good cocktail. In 2019, they started Maiden Voyage Mobile Bar Co., an event bartending business specializing in creating elevated bar experiences outside of the ordinary. Just as the two business partners were getting into the swing of things, COVID hit. But when life gives you lemons you make a cocktail and come up with a new plan! Not wanting the cocktails to stop flowing, they came up with a way to bring their favourite cocktails to you at home and Maiden Voyage Cocktail Co. was born.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Maiden Voyage Mobile Bar Co. is a travelling beverage and bartending service. We take care of everything from helping you plan the perfect drink menu to serving it up from one of our unique bars on wheels - The Mane Event, a converted horse trailer and The Drinkey Dee, a retro ice cream bike turned champagne cart. Maiden Voyage Cocktail Co. is launching in 2021. Our cocktail infusion jars are filled with flavours from our favourite cocktails: citrus, seasonal fruits, herbs, spices and bitters. Just add the alcohol of your choice, let the magic happen and you are ready to become your own personal bartender.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are especially proud of how we have pivoted and adapted our business model to thrive in the new COVID way of life.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    This is our home, and we love it here. We have been especially lucky to be surrounded by such amazing and supportive fellow business owners.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Peaceful, creative, supportive, friendly, fun!

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We have recently started to offer Virtual Cocktail Parties. We wanted to provide our customers a way to gather with friends, family and colleagues over cocktails in the safety of their own homes.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We can't wait to work with you to marry your vision and our expertise and provide you with an elevated bar experience outside of the ordinary. Let's get the party rolling!

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Unique

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    Business Owners

    Divine Expression

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Lorraine Côté,
    Business Name: Divine Expression
    Address: 150 Sydenham St, Gananoque, G7K 1C2,
    Email: miracles@divineexpression.ca 
    Website: www.divineexpression.ca  

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    This past year, I've had the opportunity to ponder and touch into my deepest yearning to connect with my divine essence and to caringly offer the same opportunity to others: Reconnecting to the divine source within.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Divine Expression is a service allowing all individuals to attain their greatest potential by embodying their divine sovereignty.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am so proud to be initiating this offering of spiritual growth as of May 2021

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gananoque means "Garden of the Great Spirit". What better place to dive deeply into your connection with your own Divine Expression and the Source. Gananoque is also, just a few hours from Toronto and Montréal, closer yet to Ottawa and even more so to Kingston.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Garden of the Great Spirit - A beautiful sanctuary. This region is blessed by the elements of Water, Wild Forest, Terrain of great geological interest and variety. It's beauty is constant during all four seasons.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    It's a pleasure to journey in community with like-minded souls, thriving to become their greatest expression and becoming empowered through the container of The Sophia Circle Journey™ (from Oracular author Kaia Ra and The Sophia Code®) as of May 2021.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Welcome to Divine Expression where the miraculous unfolding of your greatest potential unfurls.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Divine-Expression

     

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    Business Owners

    Lighthouse Provisions

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Shannon Treanor
    Business Name: Lighthouse Provisions
    Address: 5 King St. E. Gananoque, ON K7G1E7
    Email: lighthouseprovisionsltd@gmail.com
    Website: www.lighthouseprovisions.ca 

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Shannon Treanor has been a local business owner since 2010, when she helped renovate an abandoned building in downtown Gananoque, and opened a coffee shop, which grew to an 80-seat restaurant three years later, in 2013. Her business, The Socialist Pig, was very successful, both in the hearts and minds of customers over a span of 8 years. Shannon is a highly trained and knowledgeable cook, with over 30 years’ experience in the hospitality business. She has been “feeding” locals for a decade and has an excellent reputation for high standards and delicious food. Shannon is deeply committed to her community, and passionate about a positive customer experience.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Lighthouse Provisions is a carefully curated, neighbourhood delicatessen, with an emphasis on locally sourced products, including butcher-quality meats, artisan cheeses, specialty foods, deli sandwiches and picnics, as well as healthy, prepared foods to take home. Providing unrivalled customer service, with a well-respected and trusted local business owner, shopping will be both in-store and personal, as well as online for an efficient ‘click and collect’ shopping experience.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am proud of my commitment to our town, and proud of my unwavering belief in supporting, promoting, encouraging and inspiring other local small businesses.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Having been an Entrepreneur in Gananoque for a decade, I am committed to the economic revitalization of our town, and care deeply for my fellow small business owners, and our local community of artists, musicians, families, friends and neighbours.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Our little town on a big River is an inclusive community that supports, encourages and welcomes everyone. Situated in the Thousand Islands, where our surrounding natural world offers unparalleled beauty to all residents and visitors.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We love helping our customers find the perfect recipe, ingredients and flavours, and can offer cooking tips, pairing suggestions, kitchen hacks, even demonstrations, to make their meal memorable!

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    At Lighthouse Provisions, our mission is to inspire home cooks, excite food lovers, provide nourishment to our customers, and to work hard with passion and enthusiasm to feed the spirit of our community.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Beacon

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    Business Owners

    Pangea House

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Jody Lundrigan and Geoff Dennis
    Business Name: Pangea House
    Address: 112 First Street, Gananoque, ON K7G 2J1
    Phone Number: 613-463-9595
    Email: experiencepangeahouse@gmail.com
    Website: www.pangeahouse.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Jody and Geoff, who annoyingly use the moniker Jodoff, have been travelling the world together since 2013, covering all continents except Antarctica, currently scheduled for 2022. We landed in Gananoque just this year. We are turning our passion for travel into a BnB dream with Pangea House, a boutique Heritage Inn set to open in the summer of 2021.

    Define your business in your own words.
    About 175 million years ago (but who is counting?) all the present-day continents were one super continent called Pangea. Today, the world comes together at our heritage inn called Pangea House, where each room has its own continental charm. After more than 20 years in the restaurant industry, Cheoff Geoff offers a culinary program second to none - but only to our guests!

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Jody: I have worked in marketing and communications for more than 20 years, specializing in rebranding nonprofit organizations, but bringing Pangea House to life is my most proud achievement.

    Geoff: I have turned failing restaurants into thriving community hubs, but I’ve never been so excited to welcome and host people as I am with Pangea House.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Jody: I am a Newfoundlander. As soon as I set foot in Gananoque, the water made me feel at home. It felt like home immediately.

    Geoff: There is so much community pride in this town. We want to be part of a community like that.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Breathtaking
    Friendly
    Historic ...and the water!

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    I bet Cheoff Geoff could be convinced to a cooking class. Check out his YouTube channel!

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Welcome to your home away from home. We want to be your gateway to the Thousand Islands Gateway and help you explore this incredible part of the world. Peace and tranquility or action and excursions await - choose your own adventure!

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Inclusive

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    Business Owners

    Gananoque Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Jamie Hall
    Business Name: Gananoque Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac
    Address: 439 King Street East Gananoque
    Phone Number: 613-382-2168
    Email: info@ganchev.ca 
    Website: www.ganchev.ca 

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    My dad started the dealership in 1976. When I was 12/13 years old, I started out by cleaning cars and by the age of 16 I was itching to sell cars and my dad gave me the chance. I started that summer by shadowing/ being trained by Hugh McCuaig (known as the “Doc”). I worked 3 summers selling cars and just loved it. My dad’s excitement about the business was infectious and I caught on to the excitement at a young age. During my time in college, I completed work placements at Kingston Dodge and our family dealership and then returned to dealership after graduation to run the sales department. Family is the most important thing in my life, I am lucky to be a part of a close-knit family and that we have all worked at the family business throughout the years. In my spare time I love to golf, play hockey and fastball.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Our dealership is unique because of our staff. We have spent the past 15 + years hiring staff based on character. That process means we have a solid group of people who share the same mentality when it comes to customer service/ teamwork and a positive attitude. That creates such a positive atmosphere for our customers. We follow the rule that my dad always ingrained in me “If you take care of your customers, they will take care of you”. We know that no one is perfect and that mistakes are made. What matters to our team is how we deal with those mistakes and how we work to make things right. That approach has really allowed us to have a transparent relationship with our customers.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I have 2 achievements that I am proud of in my business. The first being that my dad started this business and my mom worked with him to create a successful family business here in Gananoque, and that I have been able to take that business and keep it running with success in our community. We are celebrating 45 years in business this spring and our family is so proud of that accomplishment. The second achievement goes back to my team. I am most proud of the team of staff and management that we have. As I said above, we have such faith in our team to work hard, treat our customers right and have a positive attitude, and they do an incredible job at it.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    My dad ended up as a traveling insurance salesman when I was young and that is where he really learned sales and the power of being positive while speaking to customers. After that he started in car sales and eventually ended up working in Gananoque at the local dealership. In the spring of 1976, he started his own dealership and has been going strong since then!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful! Every year thousands of people travel to Gananoque and the Thousand Islands to vacation and spend time in our town and take in the river, islands and community. How lucky are we that we get to live here, raise our families and run our businesses here year-round?!

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We come to you! We offer a great pick-up and delivery service in our sales and service department. If you are looking at a new vehicle and don’t have time to come into the dealership, we will bring the vehicle to you! You can try it and let us know what you think! We also offer a pick-up and delivery service for our service customers which means you can have service completed on your vehicle and never have to set foot in the building. We can pick up your vehicle from home, school or work, bring it in for service and then return it to you when it’s completed. How easy is that?

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    If you haven’t experienced the Gan Chev team yet, come and see what we are all about! Any dealership can offer you a vehicle, we offer you an experience. We have the best team and offer a laid-back positive car buying experience.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: GANtastic!

     

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    Business Owners

    IG Wealth Management

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Heather Caird
    Business Name: IG Wealth Management
    Address: 80 Garden St. Gananoque ON K7G 1H7
    Phone Number: 613-382-3712
    Email: heather.caird@ig.ca 
    Website: https://advisor.investorsgroup.com/en/heather_caird 

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I joined my father's financial planning practice in 2008 and took over in 2014 as he retired. I was born and raised in Gananoque and still live and work in the area. I love spending time outdoors and on the river.

    Define your business in your own words.
    We provide retirement, tax and estate planning services to families to ensure that clients can enjoy the retirement lifestyles they deserve, protect those they love and give to causes they care about. We take the time to understand what really matters to each client, then create and execute a plan that adapts to changes over the years. Success is seeing clients enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing they can provide for themselves and their families and that their wealth has made a positive impact on their world.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Achieved Certified Financial Planner designation in 2013, purchased the business from my father when he retired, now hiring an Associate Financial Planner to expand our practice.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    I saw firsthand the work-life balance that my dad enjoyed living in Gananoque and running his business here and was fortunate to be able to do the same thing.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Peaceful, quality-of-life, natural

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Insurance and Estate planning

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I am here to help you achieve your retirement dreams in the 1000 Islands!

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Peace-of-mind

     

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    Business Owner

    Klutch Therapy

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Alex Hutcheson
    Business Name: Klutch Therapy
    Phone Number: 613 – 217 – 6629
    Email: alex@klutchtherapy.ca
    Website: www.klutchtherapy.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I am the owner and founder of Klutch Therapy. I have always had a passion for fitness, health, and wellness. Throughout my years of education, I have completed a Fitness and Health Promotion diploma and an Advanced diploma of Massage Therapy. I have 7 years of personal training and 3 years of hands-on massage experience. I have found my roots back in my hometown of Gananoque and am excited to aid the community in reaching their goals.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Klutch Therapy is a mobile massage service that offers a professional massage service in the comfort of your own home. Many people are not comfortable going to busy massage clinics, so I offer a personal experience in the safety of your own space. I have also been focusing on tourism. I have multiple partnerships with bed and breakfasts, and cottage rentals in the area. This is something that adds value to the many guests of our area.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am extremely proud how quickly the business is growing in such a short amount of time. I am proud that local businesses stick together and help each other out. I could not be here if it was not from the support from the business owners in the area.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    I chose to start my business in Gananoque because I have a mobile business. I do a lot of driving to some people this is a burden, but to me I am glad that I get to drive the parkway, and scenic detours. I cannot imagine looking at the same four walls every day. I am blessed that I get to treat people where they feel most comfortable. Gananoque is a beautiful spot, and I am glad I get to help out friends, family, and people I grew up with.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    If I were to describe Gananoque in one word, it would be connected. Many businesses stay alive because other businesses share their posts online and use their services. This past winter was a prime example of this. Many businesses built new partnerships with other businesses and combined services to stay alive and even thrive. The best businesses in town, help other businesses, because we are all in this together.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    I think most people associate my business with deep tissue work, Swedish massage, relaxation massage, and sports massage but, I offer many different types of massage. Outdoor massage and pre and post-natal massage are services that make me unique. Some people do not like feeling confined inside their house. If their space outdoors is private, I allow them to reconnect with nature. Pre and post-natal massage is also important but often difficult to make time for yourself and get to a clinic. So my services are helpful for new or soon to be moms.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    If you are looking to receive a massage or are interested to know more about my services, please do not hesitate to call, text, or email me.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Adaptable

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    Business Owner

    Mavericks Restaurant

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Dwayne Fletcher
    Business Name: Mavericks Restaurant
    Address: 98 King St. East, Gananoque, ON
    Phone Number: 613 463 9011
    Email: mavericksgananoque@gmail.com 

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    A group of friends who loved this building and thought what a great location for a new restaurant and bar.

    Define your business in your own words.
    The building itself was a real draw and together we had a vision to revitalize and bring something a little different. We have a small menu with homemade and local products. As a team we are proud of what we have created, especially during these difficult times.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We began this endeavor during the onset of the pandemic and together we, as I said above are very proud of what we created. And are full of ideas for the future.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    I was born and raised in this community. Gananoque is a unique and beautiful setting, fantastic place to start a business.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Unique, beautiful, charismatic, friendly

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Welcome and thank you for your patronage. We value friendly service and great food. Can’t wait to meet.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Cheerful

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    Thousand Islands Youth Boxing Club

    Thousand Islands Youth Boxing Club

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Patrick Funnell
    Business Name: Thousand Islands Youth Boxing Club
    Address: 400 Stone Street North, Gananoque
    Phone Number: 613-530-5461
    Email: funnellpb4@gmail.com 

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Boxed nationally and internationally when I used to compete, things just fell into place theses last 6 or 7 years to coach when a place I was training in Commando Krav Maga asked me if I would like to teach boxing there. Once back in the area More things came together and here we are!

    Define your business in your own words.
    Anyone who joins our club benefits. Either physically, mentally or both. Regardless of age what we offer builds in so many ways for any age. This is a sport of character building and discovery and everyone will tell you we have a very supportive, family atmosphere. The physical training pushes you; you will move at your own pace, but you will set goals and smash them the reset them. Youth learn hard work and growth from it, self-esteem and confidence and carry that outside the club.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Seeing the health and growth we cultivate both mental and physical

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    It’s our hometown and we felt it was needed

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gorgeous, historic, inviting and very friendly

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    You do not ever have to box to train with us! You can do the workouts and never throw a punch at anyone or have one thrown back.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We know a lot of people are intimidated by a boxing club, every one of our members will tell you the same thing. Don’t Be. It’s too much fun and too much of what you want to stay away.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Growth

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    Business Owner

    Vinyl Freak Designs

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Veronica Fitzgerald
    Business Name: Vinyl Freak Designs
    Phone Number: 613 – 876 – 1611
    Email: vinylfreakdesigns@outlook.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I'm a single mother of two young teens. Very creative and enjoy painting, drawing, designing projects and DIY's. Painting has always been a passion of mine, but I decided to try something new 4 years ago. Growing up with a name you don't often see on personalized items, I was intrigued by videos I watched that explained how to do it yourself. I went out and bought a Silhouette machine, made some gifts for family and it took off from there. I have been lucky enough to have absolutely amazing repeat customers. Individuals and many businesses have put their trust in me to provide good quality custom orders and great prices. I have lots of ideas for business growth and plan on expanding. I love working with the community and hope to sponsor some events/teams in the near future.

    Define your business in your own words.
    I run a vinyl business. I'm very crafty so anything so can put vinyl on I will. I love a good challenge. I do quite a few decals for Windows, glassware and signs. It doesn't stop there though. I can make memory pillows, aprons, key chains, shirts, sweaters, duvet covers, pillowcases, party favors, etc. If you have an idea for something it never hurts to ask me. I can likely make it.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Making connections with other business owners. Last Christmas I made over 2000 Christmas ornaments for the City of Kingston, Arnprior District Family Health Team, 1000 Islands Soap Co. and a few other businesses.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    I have lived in Gananoque for 10 years now. Small home business just trying to spread my wings.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, Scenic, breath of fresh air coming from larger cities. Close community.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Decal Removal Services.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I look forward to meeting you. If you have ideas you want to see brought to life, let's talk! You can reach me on my Facebook business page, Instagram or Email vinylfreakdesigns@outlook.com.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Creative

     

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    Business Owner

    Mama Miller Doula

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Lauren Miller
    Business Name: Mama Miller Doula
    Address: 253 Arthur Street, Gananoque
    Phone Number: 416 – 220 - 7899
    Email: mama.miller.doula@gmail.com
    Website: www.mamamillerdoula.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    When I was asked in school what I would wanted to be when I grew up, I said a mom of 4. Although I’m a mom of 2 (and perfectly content) I think my life journey has always been to parenthood. I have an interest in human behaviours, child development and love social interaction. I’m also a birth nerd and a postpartum care junkie. I love long walks with a coffee, and any time spent near or on water. Most recently in life, I have certified as a Postpartum Doula.

    Define your business in your own words.
    As a Postpartum Doula, I provide in home support to individuals and families after childbirth. You know the words ‘it takes a village to raise a child’? I firmly believe that to be the case. As a doula, I empower parents by instilling confidence in their skills, educating on all the basics of infant care and giving them some much needed rest or help around the house. My umbrella of care comes in a calm, quirky package, and I’m no stranger to a good laugh-cry.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am most proud of the confidence I see in parents as they find their way past the tender newborn stage. It fills my cup to see them embracing this life-long journey.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    I started my business in Bowmanville. But having grown up in Gan, we felt like it was time for a change and coming home seemed like the right fit. I support client in Gananoque, Brockville, and Kingston areas.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Quaint and picturesque. Gananoque reminds me of Stars Hallow in Gilmore Girls.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Most people don’t realize I offer the occasional overnight support shift. What this means is that I can come after dinner and take care of baby into the night so you can achieve a solid chunk of sleep. It’s amazing what a 6 hour stretch of shut eye can do for a new parent.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    If I could turn back time (Hi Cher!) I would tell pregnant me to ditch the baby items and focus on a postpartum plan. Even if full doula support doesn’t sound like a dream, reach out and we can make a postpartum plan to set you and yours on a path of parenthood success!

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Compassionate

     

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    Business Owner

    Girl Boss Chess

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Ingrid Gayle
    Business Name: Girl Boss Chess
    Address: 113 Wellington Street, Gananoque, ON K7G 1B6
    Phone Number: 1 – 877 – 818 – 5080
    Email: ingrid@girlbosschess.com
    Website: www.girlbosschess.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I have lived in Brampton for most of my life, however being American, I was excited to explore Brooklyn NY for a summer and ended up living there for close to 13 years! It was there where I founded my first businesses, a personal training boutique and accompanying Yoga studio. Health and fitness are at the forefront of everything I do. After coming back from NY, I became a mom and worked in the baby industry for some time. I was never introduced to chess growing up. It all started when my daughter received a chessboard as a gift. At that time, I was homeschooling and found chess a wonderful compliment to her learning. I went to George Brown College and graduated as a Child and Youth Worker so working with children was something natural to me. One day I saw a job posted for a chess instructor, I applied and ended up teaching children ages 4 - 10 in the Toronto school district for many years. What I observed was that there were significantly more boys in chess than girls, boys tended to dominate the space and for myself, my working environment was male dominated. I always felt inspired by teaching the children but in my workspace, I never felt empowered. I thought to myself, perhaps those little girls are not feeling empowered either. From what I observed and understanding the misogyny in chess, I wanted to create a safe space for girls to learn so I called Girl Boss Chess. I love to travel and dance. I hope to grow my online business so I can teach from anywhere in the world.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Girl Boss Chess is a global collective of ambitious women on a mission to empower girls through the game of chess. As the only online chess collective in the world for women and girls, the company will tackle the gender gap in chess head-on by inspiring our students to discover and develop their inherent strengths. Our community brings together students and women chess professionals from all over the world who have embraced their inner Girl Bosses, both in chess and life. Girl Boss Chess is led and founded by serial entrepreneur Ingrid Gayle, who is leading the charge by creating a chess instruction style like none other in the chess industry. Ingrid’s indomitable want to inspire children, to inspire women and girls, is paralleled by few. This energy and enthusiasm are the heart of Girl Boss Chess and has reverberated throughout the business as it grows and develops. Girl Boss Chess delivers first in class level instruction by some of the best and brightest chess instructors from across the globe. The goal is to be the largest chess instructor of girls worldwide. The factors that make us unique: Girl Boss Chess is the only collective of its kind globally We have the largest collection of elite women chess players coaching in one place. In the male-dominated or patriarchal world of chess, Girl Boss Chess stands as a beacon for girls and women, allowing them to enter the game in a space cited for them

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are proud of the growth achieved during what is one of the most challenging times in modern economic history. These efforts have allowed us to create a collective of some of the best women chess players in the world, working to empower girls all over the world... All from the wonderful community of Gananoque.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    We moved to this community during the pandemic, to begin a new life. Our goal was simple when we arrived, to be involved community leaders and to be strong role models for our two girls. We felt Gananoque was the right community to allow us to do both.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Potential. Tremendous Potential. Gananoque is a community in transition, and with the major zeitgeist shift the pandemic has created, allowing more people to work from home, communities like Gananoque should be poised to thrive. Positionally, Gananoque has more potential than most communities in eastern Ontario.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We do teach boys chess, for parents who want to have their boys look up to women as role models. We also teach individual classes to boys with developmental challenges as our system of teaching is more empathetic.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Let us empower girls and women through the game of chess!

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Empowerment.

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    Business Owner

    Lindsay Keefe Yoga

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Lindsay Keefe, C-IATY
    Business Name: Lindsay Keefe Yoga
    Address: 285 River street, Gananoque, Ontario, K7G 2P9
    Phone Number: 647 – 884 – 2484
    Email: lindsay@lindsaykeefeyoga.ca
    Website: lindsaykeefeyoga.ca 
    Instagram/Facebook: @lindsaykeefeyoga

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Hi, my name is Lindsay and I’m a yoga therapist. A car accident that occurred when I was in teacher’s college led me to take up yoga while living and teaching in Hong Kong. I started teaching yoga to my students and got certified as a yoga instructor upon moving back to Canada. While teaching private and corporate yoga in Toronto, I realized that many of my students couldn’t fully participate because of pain issues. This realization led me to seek out yoga therapy training because deep down I knew something more was possible. In my first week of training, I experienced my back being pain free after 7 years of persistent pain. This approach was a game changer for me and my students. As a life-longer learner I continue to study and add to my tool kit. I love to read and have a small obsession with Earl Grey tea and chocolate. I enjoy hiking and gardening and spending time outdoors in the summer. I hibernate in the winter. I love exploring new places, meeting new people, collaborating with others and connecting people together. Hugs are always welcome.

    Define your business in your own words.
    My yoga therapy service offerings take a biopsychosocial(spiritual) approach to healing that address all aspects of your life as it relates to your health concerns. I focus primarily on pain care, stress management and mental health. Yoga therapy can address chronic pain, neurologic issues, mental health, illness support and healthy aging. I offer different ways to work with me including private sessions, group classes, workshops and free online content. Clients are usually not coming to learn yoga, but to get help with or relief from some symptoms or a health condition that is troubling them. The instruction focuses on their needs/condition and how yoga therapy techniques can help them feel better or improve their function, rather than on the technique or methods of yoga practice.

    People often come to me because they’ve tried everything to eliminate their pain, and nothing has worked for them yet. I don’t rely on templates or protocols to tell me what is right for you. Instead, we take a collaborative approach to explore how YOUR body communicates so you can understand what works and doesn’t work. It is all about working with the natural capacity of your body and mind to optimize well-being.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am often told by my clients that I create an environment that establishes feelings of trust and safety. The connections and relationships that I’ve built are what I am most proud of. And when clients express that they can now do something that couldn’t do in the past, it lights me up. When I hear the words, “you gave me my life back,” “I never thought I’d be able to do that again,” “I slept through the night,” and “working with you was the highlight of my week,” reaffirms the work that I do. Knowing that I have helped someone make a profound difference in their life is the best feeling.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    After living in big cities and renting tiny apartments for a decade and a half my husband and I longed to own our own home closer to family where we could put down roots. The pandemic afforded us the opportunity to work from home and Gananoque provided a place that is affordable and located close to downtown. We never thought we’d be able to have waterfront property, be within walking distance to a downtown and have amazing neighbors. We are so grateful to call Gananoque home.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    This place is a hidden gem. Every day that I’m here I love it more and more. A community that feels like an extended family.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    I provide customized programming on request. Examples from previous clients include special events for children, private programs for developmental disabilities and elderly populations, bachelorette parties and family picnics, corporate events, and semi-private group classes.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    You deserve to live your best life. If you haven’t found an approach that works for you, don’t give up. There will always be someone, somewhere who wants to help. With the right support anything is possible.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: Love

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    Business Owner

    MC LOVE

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Mary Catherine Love
    Business Name: MC LOVE
    Phone Number:  613 – 382 – 6107
    Email: mary.catherine.love@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I am a designer and artist. I love to paint and decorate. I design recipients and love to cook. I love fashion and draw fashion. I have designed clothing as well. I used to model and loved it I enjoy painting furniture as well. I have been in University for Fine Arts. Studied and have my Cosmetology. I am a true entrepreneur and love to buy. Have worked with an Interior decorating Firm. Love life and people. Music is a passion and is always played in my store.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Collectibles of unique items in clothing and accessories and home decor. Beautiful color and dylot Love people and service.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Working to find the best. Honorable and creative. Caring about what I do. Respecting others. Becoming a success in every way.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    It is a quaint community with the diversity of travelers from all over the world. Beautiful waterway with many Islands. Quaint adjoining towns and beautiful cities. Our Nation’s Capital is close. Right next to the gateway of USA. Culture in the Arts of Theater

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    WATER WATER WATER. The love of water, beautiful Islands and gorgeous Rock Formation. UNIQUE to Canada. An atmosphere unexplainable

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We offer custom gift baskets and containers to compliment the desires of the special occasion and the special person you are giving them to. Also, we also make custom wreathed and arrangements. Our store is very unique and filled with an assortment of beauty

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I look forward to meeting each and every one of you. I know you will enjoy the unexpected. Also, you will be looking forward to our culinary addition.

    If you could describe your business in one word, what would it be: BEAUTY

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    Trigger Point Gunsmithing

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Yuen Earle
    Business Name: Trigger Point Gunsmithing
    Website: www.triggerpointgunsmithing.com
    Address: 135 Pine Street, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-929-8536

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I enjoy hunting and fishing in my spare time. I’m also a part-time nurse that works in mental health. I started my business because I am passionate about firearms and have always found them fascinating. I am trying to bring back a long-lost trade.

    Define your business in your own words.
    I service all makes, models and types of firearms. Everything from general maintenance to repairs/refinishing, parts and custom modifications.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    The ability to serve my community and help other outdoor enthusiasts keep doing what they love.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I feel that it is a great area full of hunters with a currently untapped market.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, one of a kind, rich heritage, great place to live.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Thank you to all for your support!

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Custom paint jobs/ hydro-dipping. Custom full builds

    Trigger Point Gunsmithing described in one word: Quality

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    1000 Curry

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Ben Mukherjee
    Business Name: 1000 Curry
    Website: www.1000curry.ca
    Address: 185 King Street East, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-382-8779
    E-mail: info@1000curry.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I’m passionate about cooking and putting nourishing meals to my guest. In 2014, after being laid off as a consultant Chef for the White House, it seemed tremendously hard to find a position of the calibre that I was working for so we chose to move to Canada and start a business, from a small house by the water near Boat Line in Gananoque.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Nourishing soul by serving fresh locally sourced produce and meat.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    As a proud member of the James Beard foundation and consulting chef for the White House For 3 1/2 years

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    After being laid off from a high-profile job and not being prepared to except any lower position business seems to be the only choice where I can put my passion into plate Gananoque seems to be the perfect place since it’s center to Major metro locations. Gananoque is heavenly and the vibration of St Lawrence River is divine which flows through the Town

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    It’s the most absolute peaceful place where locals are considerate accommodative and open minded, The Town helps small businesses to grow and it is the absolute priority for them to keep things local

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Without a doubt visit Gananoque and feel the difference from the rest of the world, And when tired visit for nursing and healthy authentic Indian cuisine, In the dining room or our enclosed patio and in future our rooftop patio for the summer

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    In our menu we specify that we will make any special request by your system or provided we have the ingredients to make it, so in a nutshell it’s countless items we make based on our customer request

    1000 Curry described in one word: Authentic

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    Farlane Homes

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Wesley McFarlane
    Business Name: Farlane Homes
    Phone Number: 343-363-5626
    E-mail: Farlanehomes@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Farlane homes started 3 years ago, and quickly progressed to building beautiful houses. I don’t have much time outside family life but I love golf and hockey when I get a chance.

    Define your business in your own words.
    I build bespoke homes from start to finish in the 1000 Islands, I work closely with the homeowner to make their dreams a reality.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I’m really happy with a waterfront home I built in 2017. It’s luxurious and gave my clients the water access dream they had wanted for years.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I believe this area is a growing and beautiful area and there’s lots of opportunity for a highly qualified carpenter/business owner.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Stunning geographical features and a lovely community.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Farlane Homes....our dream is building yours.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We are capable of design build.

    Farlane Homes described in one word: Contractor

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    Business Owners

    Chrysler House

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Nathalie Robertson
    Business Name:  Chrysler House (formerly Beaver Hall Bed and Breakfast)
    Website: www.chryslerhouse.ca
    Address: 75 King Street West, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-382-4590
    E-mail: chryslerhouse@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We are a young couple who love working in hospitality! Patrick is a talented chef who has been working in kitchens since the age of 14. Now 31, with the experience of being a head chef in his back pocket, he continues to be extremely passionate about food and its preparation, as well as using locally sourced ingredients. I, Nathalie, am who you will meet when you walk through the door. I have worked in the service industry for 8 years and absolutely love meeting new people. Outside of running a bed and breakfast, my passion is painting. It is what I do in my spare time! I also studied Political Science at Queen's University. Politics was an interest of mine when I started my degree, and continues to be just that today. The combination of Patrick's experience as a professional chef and my experience in the service industry is what recently prompted us to take on the bed and breakfast world!

    Define your business in your own words.
    Beaver Hall is a unique Georgian Victorian style inn that proudly serves an almost entirely locally sourced breakfast menu. The 6800 sq ft house was built in 1826 and renovated in 1870. We want to honour the great history of the building while also providing guests with a fresh take on the traditional bed and breakfast experience. We strive to provide each and every one of our guests with a memorable stay, filled with delicious food!

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    As recent first-time business owners, we are very proud of getting started up during these difficult times. We have loved the experience so far and have particularly enjoyed becoming a part of the Gananoque community.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Gananoque is such a beautiful, community-oriented town. There are so many amazing farmers and craftsmen who enable us to shop locally, which is one of our top priorities as a business.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Picturesque, Giving, Community, Creative, Scenic, Captivating

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We are so excited to have the opportunity to welcome you to Beaver Hall, a Georgian Victorian inn built in 1826. We strive to provide every one of our guests with a relaxing and memorable stay in one of our uniquely decorated rooms. Our breakfast menu has something for everyone, and is almost entirely locally sourced. We hope to see you soon!

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We are here for our guests' every need! Whether it is a dinner reservation at a local restaurant, or a cup of tea in the afternoon, we are always here to make your stay as effortless and relaxing as possible.

    Beaver Hall Bed and Breakfast described in one word: Passion

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    Mother Hat Co.

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Kylie Bignell
    Business Name: Mother Hat Co.
    Website: www.motherhatcompany.com
    Address: 115 Wellington Street, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-809-0359
    E-mail: info@motherhatcompany.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    An obsession with building things for myself. I wanted a quality hat and began research into how they were made and fell in love with the process.

    Define your business in your own words.
    I am a bespoke hat maker, specializing in custom fur felt hats. Each hat is unique and fit exactly to your specifications.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    All the positive testimonials of my clients!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Small town community is a safe place to explore your creativity

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Friendly, close-knit, beautiful, creative

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Nothing makes me happier then providing you with the hat of your dreams, I love hearing your ideas and bringing them to life

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Custom fittings: I take an exact drawing of your head shape and steam the final hat into that exact shape so it fits all your lumps and bumps perfectly

    Mother Hat Co. described in one word: Bespoke

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    Gananoque Inn & Spa

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Mukesh & Ashvina Patel
    Business Name: Gananoque Inn & Spa
    Website: www.gananoqueinn.com
    Address: 550 Stone Street South, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-382-2165

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We enjoy spending time with friends and family. We have other hotels in Bracebridge, Stratford, Windsor, Sudbury, Kirkland Lake and loved Eastern Ontario and the 1000 Islands and thought we would love to own a business in this beautiful area.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Being Gananoque's only waterfront property with on-site restaurants, spa and wedding and conference facilities makes us unique, paired with the heritage of the property.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are proud of the renovations we have been able to do to date (in 3 years) and building relationships with our customers, community and staff.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We love the beauty of the 1000 islands and the river views. We like small communities and being able to support them as well.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Definitely a hidden gem that any traveller must see. The beauty of this small community offers great support and works so closely together.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We welcome new and previous guests to come visit the 1000 Islands and stay with us. WE are excited with the new additions and upgrades we have been able to do to this majestic property.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?

    There are a few actually, dining guests can come by boat and Dock and Dine, but also in-house guests can dock with us on our 500 ft dock as well. 

    We offer wedding and conference facilities. Also another niche we are not unfamiliar to is same sex weddings at the Gananoque Inn & Spa. We have hosted LGBT training sessions here at the Gananoque Inn & Spa and have trained our staff as well. All guests can be assured we offer an extremely safe environment in Gananoque with easy access to almost anything! The casino, golfing, kayaking, helicopter tours, brewery tours, unique shops and boutiques, hiking trails, and we are a short drive to Kingston where history can be explored at Fort Henry and many other attractions.

    Gananoque Inn & Spa described in one word: Invested

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    Chiasson Ford

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Laura-Lea and Phil Chiasson
    Business Name: Chiasson Ford
    Website: www.chiassonford.com
    Address: 655 Stone Street North, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-382-2345
    E-mail: fordgirl3939@hotmail.com
    pchiasson@chiassonford.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We Love being with our family, hanging with friends and being on the river.  We both grew up watching our fathers work for the Ford dealerships in Kingston. That is where our love for Ford began.

    Define your business in your own words.
    We are a family Ford dealership that focus on keeping a relaxed and comfortable environment for customers and staff. My husband runs the service department and I run the sales dept. We work very well together. We consider our customers our friends. We have fun but we all work very hard. We are unique because we are a low pressure environment and we want vehicle sales and service to be enjoyable. We don’t want people to not enjoy the process. It’s a huge purchase and we try to make it very relaxed and fun.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Ford of Canada’s Presidents Award Diamond Club winner for excellence in customer service and sales for multiple years.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Phil's father Arnold, had the opportunity to purchase the dealership years ago. After working for years with Arnold, my husband and I were happy to able to purchase Chiasson Ford when Arnold retired.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, strong, stunning and resilient.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Chiasson Ford is your family Ford store in beautiful Gananoque and we hope you come and experience the family difference.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We service most makes and models. We have great deals on tires too!

    Chiasson Ford described in one word: Family

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    Treaty Marshal Service Inc.

    Contact Information
    Business Name: Treaty Marshal Service Inc.
    Address: Unit 2 900 Queen Street, Gananoque ON K7G 2B6
    Phone Number: 613-382-2344
    Email: tubears@tmslocks.ca
    Website: tmslocks.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I enjoy taking old safes and locks and making them work again. I was first exposed to locksmith and law enforcement in the military.

    Define your business in your own words.
    I feel that being successful in business brings a moral obligation to be a good community citizen thus it is important to put back into the community what you take from it. Automotive, Commercial, and Residential Locksmith Services.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I like that I can use an old school skill to help my friends and neighbours feel safe.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I was asked to come to Gananoque to help an indigenous group, after arriving here I saw an opportunity to use my hobby to help my neighbours.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Inclusive, equality, welcoming.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I am happy to meet you and I look forward to working with you.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    The business is intended to grow and offer many services in the private, public security and law enforcement fields. The motto is Protect with Respect

    Treaty Marshal Service Inc. described in one word: Community

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    Synergy Massage Therapy

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Jillian Ford, RMT, BPHE
    Business Name: Synergy Massage Therapy
    Website: www.synergymassageinc.ca
    Address: 783 Windsor Lane, Gananoque ON K7G 2X8
    Phone Number: 613-449-2967
    E-mail: synergy@synergymassageinc.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Growing up in Gananoque, I was always active on a multitude of competitive sports teams. This love of sport and health lead me to pursue a degree in Physical and Health Education at the University of Toronto. While at U of T, I competed at an elite level in volleyball, representing not only the varsity team, but Team Ontario, and Ontario Canada games team, competing both nationally and internationally. After University, pursuing a diploma in Massage Therapy seemed like a natural progression to me. As an athlete, my massage treatments were always very beneficial to me, and sparked my interest to be able to help others similarly.

    Define your business in your own words.
    At Synergy, I offer the highest quality of care to my clients. I offer professional therapeutic massage in a comfortable, relaxing, fun atmosphere. The clinic name "Synergy" inspires my model of care for clients. "Synergy" defined is ultimately two people working together toward a common goal producing results; where one person alone would not be able to achieve such an outcome. At Synergy, I work with you to help you get the results you need.

    I customize each treatment to meet your specific needs by incorporating a variety of assessment and treatment techniques, and self-administered pain management techniques such as stretching, strengthening and hydrotherapy. I take great pride in making your time at my clinic a positive experience.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am so proud of how my practice has flourished over my 19 years in business. I have so many loyal clients to thank for continuing to trust me with their care. I am humbled by the opportunity. 

    This year, above any other year, has proven to be one of the biggest tests. In light of the most recent events of the COVID-19 pandemic, I am reminded of how truly lucky I am to have such wonderful clientele. The outpouring of support for me, and my business makes my heart full. My clients were eager to return for therapy, while being very respectful and understanding of all of the new protocols in place to ensure the highest quality care is maintained. This is a true testament of the amazing people I have the privilege to provide care for.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I was raised in Gananoque, and then left for Toronto to pursue my post-secondary studies. After living in Toronto for about 8 years, I realized I missed this small town and our beautiful St. Lawrence river. 

    Massage Therapy, at the time, was gaining popularity as an alternative health care option. Gananoque seemed like a great town to pursue this adventure.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gananoque is a beautiful small town with some of the most amazing views of the St. Lawrence river. Our town is emerging with some very unique shopping, arts boutiques and restaurants. We have fantastic tourism and accommodation for anyone planning a visit here.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I take pride in making your time at Synergy a positive experience. I am dedicated to improving the well-being of all of my clients and I welcome new clients to try a "Synergy" massage today!

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Some people may not be aware that I offer hot stone massage.

    Synergy Massage Therapy described in one word: Revitalize

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    Triptastica Eco Couture

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Su Halle
    Business Name: Triptastica EcoCouture
    Website: www.etsy.com/ca/shop/triptastica
    Address: 173 Garden Street, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 705-977-0912
    E-mail: sumashakti@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I am a multi-media artist with a love for funky fashion and a deep concern for environmental issues. I love to paint, design and create. I started making clothes when I discovered Creative festivals and craft fairs. I am the program director for the Gan Steampunk Festival.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Sustainable and funky fashion for free spirits of all ages, shapes and sizes. I upcycle Sweaters and jackets into one of a kind clothing and accessories. No two pieces are ever alike.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Staying the course for the last 7 years of ups and downs.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    My husband and I moved here in September 2018. We chose the area as it is a great little town and is close to family and friends in Ottawa, Kingston and Montreal

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Warm and friendly, picturesque, quiet yet interesting, filled with potential for a growing creative community

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    You can find me on-line, at local events and by appointment. I am available for custom orders and would love to see the ladies in town deck out in my creations.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    I am painting much more these days and I the future I will make my art available for sale.

     Triptastica EcoCouture described in one word: Triptastic

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    Carveth Care Centre

    Contact Information

    Full Name: Brett Gibson, Owner/Operator
    Business Name: Carveth Care Centre
    Website: www.gibsonfamilyhealthcare.com
    Address: 375 James Street, Gananoque ON K7G 2Z1
    Phone Number: 613-382-4752 ext. 102
    E-mail: brettgibson@gibsonfamilyhealthcare.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?                                         

    My sister (Lisa Burgess) and I, are the third generation of our family to own and operate nursing homes. The sister home of Carveth Care Centre is Helen Henderson Care Centre in Amherstview. For as long as I can remember, Carveth Care Centre has been a fixture in my life. I grew up with the residents. Many of the same staff still work for us.

    My hobbies include coaching hockey at all levels including Gananoque Minor Hockey and the Gananoque Royals. 

    Define your business in your own words.                                                                                               

    I truly believe we are a family business. We have employees who have loved ones in our home. We have sisters who work together. We stand by our vision statement: Our Family Caring for Your Family. We want our residents to call Carveth Care Centre their home.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?                                                                      

    Our home was quick to respond to the COVID-19 global health crisis that unfolded in Canada in early March 2020. Every precaution was taken to help prevent the spread of this deadly disease. As the pandemic ravaged parts of the world, we worked hard to keep our residents healthy, happy and connected to their families and community. Some tough protocols had to be implemented that were not easy to accept, but our staff/families quickly understood the importance of them. We are proud of our achievements to date and remain vigilant.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?

    Since 1965, Carveth Care Centre has been providing quality long-term care and assisted daily living. Our family business started in Seeley’s Bay and moved to Gananoque when the time came to expand.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?

    Breathtaking. Accepting. Welcoming. Great place to raise a family. Community that cares about each other.

    Provide a message to your future guests!                                                                                 

    Choosing a long-term care home or retirement home can be difficult for families. With more than 50 years of experience, our staff has the experience and skills to make this transition as easy as possible. We live by our vision statement and hope one-day you will call Carveth Care Centre, home.

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?                                

    We offer assisted retirement living and long-term care at an affordable rate. There are NO hidden taxes or fees in our home. The health care is EXCELLENT and our staff/volunteers create a safe environment that is compassionate and vibrant.

     Carveth Care Centre described in one word: Compassionate

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    Ferguson's Windows & Doors

    Full Name: Terry Ferguson
    Business Name: Ferguson's Windows & Doors
    Website: www.fergusonwindowsanddoors.ca
    Address: 135 Birch Street, Gananoque ON K7G 2T5
    Phone Number: 613-328-7276
    E-mail: fergusonswd@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Always loved construction work and didn’t like working for someone else.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Well we are the only locally owned and operated window and door sales and installation company in Gananoque, we keep upgrading our education in the field always staying on top of new technologies and products to give our customers quality product and workmanship.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    That the fact we have been here in operation for 30 years this year

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I was born here, it’s my home and I love it and all the people here, I often brag to out of town people we live in a place God made

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful home

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Welcome to our beautiful town

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Screen repair

    Ferguson's Windows & Doors described in one word: Authentic

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    Gan Brewing Company

    Full Name: Tikvah Mindorff
    Business Name: Gan Brewing Company
    Website: www.ganbeer.com
    Address: 9 King Street East, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-463-9131
    E-mail: tikvah@ganbeer.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    GBC started as a contract brewery in 2011. In 2018, Scott assumed majority ownership and completed extensive renovations on our facility with the generous help of extended family and close friends. In early 2019, our award-winning brewer, Eric Ross, returned to Gan Brewing Company and launched a brand new slate of beers to compliment our well-known flagship beer, the Naughty Otter Lager. Our General Manager, Tikvah Mindorff, joined the team in the late summer of 2019. We are pleased to provide a beautiful and inviting atmosphere, quality craft beer and friendly service to our community of Gananoque and the surrounding area in Eastern Ontario.

    Every piece of woodworking in our brewery has its start in Scott and his brother Dave's wood working shops, from the beautiful live edge counters to the wood-burned coasters and crates you can take home with you. We supply all of our lumber from wood produced from trees felled on family property in Eastern Ontario. Hobby welders, Dave and Scott also forge the piping for the shelving and metalwork signs visible around every corner.

    Truly a family business, the present brewery results from many family work days, coming together over the mutual enjoyment of woodworking and craft beer. You will often find Scott puttering around the brewery, always adding features that provide additional functionality and flair to the space. Scott’s son Ryan, is also a part owner, along with a couple of his Queen's University commerce classmates, Cord and Donald; all contributing in their own way.

    Define your business in your own words.
    GBC is Gananoque's only craft brewery. We are family owned and take pride in building every aspect of the brewery ourselves. We love to work with our local community to create unique beer that promotes our heritage, like the Boathouse Blonde or the Naughty Otter Lager.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    In 2019, we bought the brewery and marked our new adventure with the Revival Stout. Since then, we have a very successful partnership with the Gan Boatlines to create the Boathouse Blonde Ale. This one of our most popular beers in the summer and the exclusive beer of the boatline.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Gananoque always drew us in for the quaint downtown area, strong sense of community and the economic opportunity to have a local brewery!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Scenic, beautiful, community-driven

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Cheers!

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    We offer Home Delivery between Kingston and Brockville. This has been extremely popular lately, however this service has always been available and will continue to be available in the future. You can order online at www.ganbeer.com/shop-online.

    Gan Brewing Company described in one word: Hip

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    Thousand Islands Osteopathy & Massage

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Catherine Konopelky
    Business Name: Thousand Islands Osteopathy & Massage
    Website: www.catherinekonopelky.com
    Address: 395 Victoria Avenue, Gananoque ON, K7G 2S6
    Phone Number: 519-831-1980
    E-mail: catherinekonopelky@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I love travel & adventure. Spending time in nature. Cycling. Clean cuisine. Meditation. And learning about health and physiology. After my first Osteopathy treatment, I received more relief than I had in any other treatment; I knew I wanted to help others as much as Osteopathy helped me.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Manual Osteopaths are considered to be mechanical-engineers for the body. 

    We study anatomy and physiology in detail, we learn how parts work alone and with their neighbours. Then we help release compressed areas, re-align structures, and improve dialogue within the tissues. 

    After treatment movement feels lighter since more oxygen is moving through the volume of the tissues, we have less compression on pain sensors (nociceptors) in our nervous system, and there's an improved sense of vitality and awareness within the body. We get closer to our natural state. 

    Therapists are all unique with diverse educational backgrounds. Plus, there are no other Manual Osteopaths in Gananoque.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Living in Gananoque for only 2 years, I have become very busy and many locals have become aware of the benefits of Manual Osteopathy and Massage Therapy. Sharing knowledge and helping the community stay healthy and active is the business achievement I'm most proud of.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    My husband and I were looking for a community that was affordable, on water, and in a great location. We are both from small towns and Gananoque was a good fit.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful. Historical.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Learn something new... Try something new...

    What is one item/service in your business customers don't know you offer?
    Concussion treatment. I have competed 3 additional levels of concussion training: Level 1-physical structures. Level 2: fluid rebalancing; Level 3: grid & matrix corrections. It usually requires 4-6 treatments for a complete concussion assessment and treatment plan. Most insurance companies cover Manual Osteopathy and/or Massage Therapy.

    Thousand Islands Osteopathy & Massage described in one word: Awareness

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    Laurie Sylvester, Royal LePage Realtor

    Laurie Sylvester, Royal LePage Realtor

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Laurie Sylvester
    Business Name: Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty Brokerage
    Website: www.showandsellkingston.ca
    Address: 141 Arthur Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1B1
    Phone Number: 613-532-7212
    E-mail: laurie@showandsellkingston.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I got started in business after our 12th move. I thought, and have proven, that "I can do better than this".

    Define your business in your own words. 
    I work with families and singles who are relocating. I help to find a new home as well as come alongside to help sell residential property.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am proud of the brave individuals who come to this area as newly arrived residents and get involved in their new community. I am proud to be a part of bringing wonderful people to our wonderful area.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I began selling real estate here in Gananoque once I moved back from a 3-year military posting in the USA. I soon discovered this town is a true Ontario Gem. Previous to the USA I lived in Kingston for 9 years.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Truly one of Ontario's best kept secrets. Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands is an Ontario Gem, artistic, creative, friendly, delicious, and open for business.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I look forward to introducing you to this great area and helping you become a part of Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Island's fabric.

    Royal LePage ProAlliance described in one word: Honest

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    Sotheby's International Realty Canada- Brokerage

    Sotheby's International Realty Canada- Brokerage

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Todd Bickerton and Tony Chard
    Business Name: Sotheby’s International Realty Canada- Brokerage
    Website: www.islandhopperhomes.com
    Address: 49 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1C9
    Phone Number: 613-217-8683 or 613-540-2280
    E-mail: chardbickertongroup@sothebysrealty.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Both love the river and the area. Enjoy boating, skiing, golf and island hopping. Met through Todd's wife Julie and have been friends ever since. Started working together in 2013 after Todd's former business sold. We had talked about it for a few years to offer a niche real estate business and here we are.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Our niche is the over $1,000,000 market but we handle all sizes of real estate transactions.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Being able to open a beautiful office and both live and work in Gananoque

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Because it's the centre of the universe as far as we are concerned. You meet people from all over the world here and we all share a connection to the area.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, powerful, home.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We can't wait to meet you.

    Sotheby’s International Realty Canada described in one word: Outstanding

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    Magnolia Flowers

    Magnolia Flowers

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Natasha Lux
    Business Name: Magnolia Flowers
    Website: www.magnoliaflowers.ca
    Address: 66 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G1
    Phone Number: 613-382-8181
    E-mail: info@magnoliaflowers.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Magnolia started out of a need to save some local jobs that were being lost, but it soon turned into a passion for fine floral design, home decor, antiques & jewelry. In 2014, we became an Annie Sloan Chalk Paint ™️ Stockist. This opened up another creative avenue of refinishing and assisting customers to revive their heirloom furniture pieces as well as hosting several workshops.

    Fun facts: We don’t just sell flowers. We are not just a home decor store. 
    Hobbies: I love my family and love to spend time with them. Our favourite place to be is on the water in the summer, skiing in the winter and finding ourselves on a little red island out east.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Magnolia Flowers is a trendy floral studio in the heart of Gananoque. Offering everyday florals, wedding flowers and sympathy arrangements. We also carry a beautiful selection of antique furniture, locally made candles, jewelry, green plants and Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™️. Our uniqueness comes from our excellent customer service and quaint offerings.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    In 2020 will be celebrating the anniversary 10 years of business. In 2018, we moved our floral studio and retail space to 66 King Street and added a full workshop area and an additional 1000 square feet of retail space for our shoppers.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    The Thousand Islands was home to my husband’s family and the decision to move home to raise our children here became a no brainer. The community, the schools, and friendly neighbors made the decision to invest in the community an easy one.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Live, Play, Work.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We welcome you to the beautiful Thousand Islands where anything is possible, and possibilities are in the 1000’s!

    Magnolia Flowers described in one word: Inspirational

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    Kendra Deen Photography + Marketing

    Kendra Deen Photography + Marketing

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Kendra Deen
    Business Name: Kendra Deen Photography + Marketing
    Website: www.kendradeen.com
    E-mail: hello@kendradeen.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I started my business in Toronto but always felt at home in a small town. I grew up in and around the Thousand Islands and in 2016 after visiting family, I felt a strong pull to stay. Four months later my husband and I bought a sweet old house in Gananoque and the rest is history. 

    Fun story: Before our current house was actually for sale, while out for a walk, I looked up and said I wish THAT house was for sale. Two weeks later back in Toronto I was sitting on the streetcar and saw THAT house was for sale! That weekend we were back in Gananoque buying it. It was loved and cared for by some wonderful families before us and now we are happy to be the keepers of such a lovely home.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    I am equal parts photographer and marketing consultant. Or as I like to say: 

    My true love is photography. I am a freelance photographer who specializes in lifestyle and commercial photography. I work with everyone from brands and small businesses, to families and new couples. The intention behind my work is always to find the true beauty of the moment. My style is natural and candid. I like photography that feels effortless and fun. 

    My first love is marketing. I have over 15 years of experience marketing for small-to-large companies (not-for-profits all the way to international multi-million dollar companies.) And although those experiences gave me a solid foundation to work from, it was owning my own small business that really made me appreciate marketing. When resources (time, money, sanity) are tight, you need to be smart. There are so many podcasts, webinars, and perfect Instagram accounts telling you what you have to do, it can feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. I can help you pare back and find the best marketing for your business goals. 

    There are no silver bullets. No single marketing action will change the day but steady, intentional, efforts always work.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am most proud of any time I’ve helped someone solve a problem. Whether it’s having someone who previously felt nervous in front of the camera walk away feeling confident or helping a small business figure out the best way to reach their guests - it makes me feel good knowing I made their lives a little easier.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We chose the Thousand Islands for a few reasons. Besides having family here, I am a complete sucker for historic homes and towns. I never get tired of walking around town looking at all the historic buildings. Proximity to the water was a must for us too. Nothing beats sitting by the water.
     
    Lastly, as someone with a young business, I wanted to be in a place with potential (present and future) and Gananoque has it. There are some beautiful, established businesses here and some great ones emerging. I see so much potential in Gananoque and I’m proud of our little town.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Quaint, naturally beautiful, full of possibility.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Say hi! I’m always available to share a coffee and talk about what I can do to help.

    Kendra Deen Photography & Marketing described in one word: Vision

     

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    Gananoque Boat Line

    Gananoque Boat Line

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Neil McCarney
    Business Name: Gananoque Boat Line
    Website: www.ganboatline.com
    Address: 280 Main Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 0A1
    Phone Number: 1-888-717-4837

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Started as a Parking Lot Attendant in 1968 and worked up to a Captain. Left in 1981 and had a 32-year career with LCBO in management. Retired in 2012 and was asked to run Gananoque Boat Line as Operations Manager. Have come full circle.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Our business is to show the world Gananoque and the beautiful 1000 Islands by providing world class sight-seeing cruises that are truly the #1 attraction in the area.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am most proud of the vision and change I have brought to Gananoque Boat Line to enable it to be a truly successful, growing business and community leader.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    People before me saw the potential of Gananoque to reap the benefits of tourism.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Having traveled extensively I can proudly say this is the most beautiful place on earth and I am fortunate that my family has been here since 1886.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Seeing is believing and you will be glad you did!

    Gananoque Boat Line described in one word: Explore
     

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    Turtle Island Bed and Breakfast

    Turtle Island Bed and Breakfast

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Ted Lojko
    Business Name: Turtle Island Bed and Breakfast
    Website: www.turtleislandbb.com
    Address: 415 Stone Street South, Gananoque ON, K7G 2A6
    Phone Number: 613-382-7261
    E-mail: turtleislandbb@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    The Town of Gananoque drew us here to initially start the Gananoque Brewing Company. We bought the house at 415 Stone Street South which had been a Bed and Breakfast for many years and decided to operate the Bed and Breakfast while we set up the Brewing Company. After several years we parted ways with our brewing partner and concentrated on the Bed and Breakfast and to make our guests have the best experience possible during their stay in the Thousand Islands. Our breakfast is superb, and we are continually ranked as one of the best bed and breakfast experiences in Town.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    The Bed and Breakfast has a large collection of native art, native paintings and native pottery. All the items in the Bed and Breakfast are Canadian. Hence why we decided to name the Bed and Breakfast - Turtle Island. The natives of North America refer to North America as Turtle Island .... because of its geography. We provide insight to our guests, many of which are Europeans, the mythology of Turtle Island which is the story of creation. Our guests enjoy the peace and serenity of the house and gardens. Unlike other Bed and Breakfasts, we welcome the guests when they arrive, provide them with various opportunities on what to do, where to dine, and what to enjoy and then allow them to enjoy the house and gardens on their own with the other guests. We live at the back of the house which is separated from the guest side.... giving the guests privacy which makes us unique among the other Bed and Breakfasts in Town.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    The Koi Pond. While waiting for guests to arrive at the Bed and Breakfast we decided to do some gardening in the front of the house. The gardening led to building a Koi Pond and from there make the front of the house something that guests, neighbours and tourists could enjoy. Hundreds of children and passersbys enjoy the front gardens and koi pond.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Many of the guests at the Bed and Breakfast come from Europe, China and Middle East. They come to Ontario to visit the Thousand Islands, Niagara Falls and Algonquin Park. They come to visit the natural beauty of the area. We choose to start our business in the area because of the 1000 Islands, the uniqueness of Gananoque, as well as, that small town friendly feel. This is something that we cherish, and we need to preserve.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    A friendly community that is surrounded by natural beauty - a small town feel that needs to be preserved and protected from over development. Gananoque is surrounded by many small towns and villages that are unique and interesting to explore. We also have access to many natural wonders.... places to swim, to boat, to walk, to ride, to climb and to explore. It is a natural paradise in Eastern Ontario.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    You will enjoy the comfort and friendliness of our Bed and Breakfast, but also our made to order breakfasts that guests rave about. But aside from your stay here.... we also provide insight into things to do, places to visit, not only in the 1000 Island area but all across Ontario and Canada. We want you to have the best experiences possible during your vacation. We are here to provide you with the same friendly advice and service that we appreciate when we travel and explore.

    Turtle Island Bed and Breakfast described in one word: Oasis
     

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    Maple Leaf Restaurant

    Maple Leaf Restaurant

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Vladimir Kettner
    Business Name: Maple Leaf Restaurant
    Address: 65 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1E8
    Phone Number: 613-382-7666
    E-mail: mapleleafrestaurant@cogeco.net

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I have had this business for 30 years! I moved to Gananoque from the Czech Republic in 1986. We are a seasonal business so in the winter time my wife and I live in Belize.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We take pride in our food and family feel atmosphere. Our food is homemade with Czech origin. We are known for our schnitzel and borscht! We also have many Canadian foods and use local ground beef for our fresh hamburgers.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    To be able to have thirty years of successful experience in this business is a great accomplishment. We have wonderful customers that look forward to eating our food and we appreciate all of them.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Having just moved here from Czech Republic, Gananoque has a cozy feel to it. It can be quite the getaway with a lot of sites to see and friendly faces.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gananoque is the type of place people visit and think I want to live here. The type of place you feel safe and people say hello in passing. The incredible scenery is an obvious perk too.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We are happy to serve you with freshly made food and family feel service.

    Maple Leaf Restaurant described in one word: Friendly
     

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    Thousand Islands Veterinary Services

    Thousand Islands Veterinary Services

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Lisa Werden
    Business Name: Thousand Islands Veterinary Services
    Website: www.thousandislandsvet.ca
    Address: Unit 1 839 Stone Street North, Gananoque ON, K7G 1Z7  
    Phone Number: 613-382-2900
    E-mail: lisa@thousandislandsvet.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We are a full-service small animal veterinary clinic with a special interest in tick and Lyme disease prevention and orthopedic surgery. Dr. Scott Stevenson is known across North America as a veterinary expert in ticks and prevention of canine Lyme disease. His experience with ticks all started here in the 1000 Islands while working on a Lyme disease research project when ticks first appeared in the area. Now he teaches veterinarians across the continent about Lyme disease prevention and treatment. Everyone at the clinic has benefited from Dr. Stevenson’s expertise and we’re happy to share information to help you protect your pets and your family! 

    Dr. Willows has a special interest in a new and very successful surgical technique for cruciate ligament ruptures called the tightrope technique. This technique has helped many of our canine patients regain mobility after an injury! Our practice is growing, and we are excited to welcome a new veterinarian in the spring. We are also adding a new exam room specially designed to help nervous feline patients feel more comfortable when visiting the vet. We know many pets (especially cats!) are stressed about visiting the vet and we would like to help make vet visits as stress-free as possible for our patients and clients!

    Define your business in your own words. 
    At Thousand Islands Veterinary Services, we are dedicated to providing the best personalized medical care for your pets and excellent client service that suits your needs. We provide high-quality medicine with on-site laboratory, in-house bloodwork, digital and dental x-rays, laser therapy, ultrasound, and orthopedic surgery with highly trained and experienced staff. We care for your animals as if they were our own because we know what an important part of your family they are.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Since 2013, we have seen zero cases of clinical Lyme disease in patients who are following our recommended prevention protocol. We love to see healthy, happy animals with their families!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Dr. Brian Willows, who founded Thousand Islands Veterinary Services, grew up in this area and always wanted to work here. Both his family and his wife’s family are in this part of eastern Ontario and they raised their children here while Dr. Willows worked as a large and small animal vet. In 1995, Dr. Willows opened Thousand Islands Veterinary Services and he has been dedicated to taking care of local animals ever since!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Friendly communities in a beautiful part of the province! We are so lucky to live here!

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We welcome new clients and would love to meet you and your furry family members. We can help you with pets who are nervous about a visit to the vet – just call us to find out more! We also offer free consultations with a registered veterinary technician if you are considering adding a new furry member to your home.

    Thousand Islands Veterinary Services described in one word: Caring

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    Nature's Tonic

    Nature's Tonic

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Lisa Robichaud
    Business Name: Nature’s Tonic
    Website: Facebook and Instagram @naturestonic
    Address: 47 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1E8
    Phone Number: 613-532-2412
    E-mail: lisarobichaud1@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I am a busy mother of three, married to a local teacher. I love yoga and am a teacher and a cooperative owner in The Ledger Room. In 2016, I was looking to purchase a building in Gananoque to start my Wellness business! My own personal health experiences and learned knowledge inspired me to create a caring and natural environment to help others with their own wellness goals.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Located in a restored stone building, Nature's Tonic offers smoothies, Kombucha on tap, gluten and vegan snacks, soups, salads and other healthy lunch options. We also have a registered holistic nutritionist on staff who does complimentary instore assessments to help our customers choose the best wellness path. We sell pharmaceutical grade vitamin and mineral supplements, probiotics, workout supports, all-natural protein powders, organic teas, all-natural sugar substitutes and chemical free bath and beauty products. We also offer a gorgeous Airbnb suite above the store. https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/12985652?s=51

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am especially proud of purchasing and restoring a derelict building and joining a vital movement of entrepreneurs rejuvenating Gananoque's downtown core.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I was previously a business owner renting space in downtown Kingston for ten years. Gananoque's affordable real estate and property taxes made it possible for me to own both a commercial building, and a beautiful home, right off the 401 corridor, making this area the best choice to raise a family and for a successful small business.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Creative, community, inspiration, tenacity, entrepreneurs, grounding, magical, healing.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Be well.

    Nature’s Tonic described in one word: Wellness
     

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    1000 Islands History Museum

    1000 Islands History Museum

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Joanne van Dreumel
    Business Name: 1000 Islands History Museum
    Website: www.1000islandsheritagemuseum.com
    Address: 125 Water Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 3E3
    Phone Number: 613-382-2535

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I’ve been involved with art galleries, museums and historical sites since I was a child. Arts and Culture are my passion!

    Define your business in your own words. 
    The Museum is a heritage destination right on the waterfront. The Historic 1000 Islands Village Foundation operating as the 1000 Islands History Museum, established in 1995, is a registered charity. We provide excellent interpretation through exhibits and programming to connect, engage and inspire our community. Through a partnership with the Town of Gananoque, the Museum shares in the commitment of preserving the civic collection, and with this resource is able to design special exhibitions for the community. The Museum welcomes over 35,000 visitors per year. We create and deliver children’s educational programmes and seniors’ events and activities. We carry out research, offer services for research requests, and assist with the planning and delivery of annual special events, i.e. Family Day, Writers’ Fest, Heritage Day, Canada Day Celebrations, and Town of Gananoque community events.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    When I started, the Museum was a seasonal operation with 5 part time employees. Now we offer the community year-round services with 2 full time and 12 part time employees.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    This is such a beautiful region, rich with heritage and vibrant stories. It’s a privilege for me to help share them.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Picturesque, Authentic, Historic.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    “History is who we are and why we are the way we are.” David McCullough - Author At the Museum, you can experience 10,000 years of 1000 Islands history!

    1000 Islands History Museum described in one word: History

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    McDougall Bickerton Insurance

    McDougall Bickerton Insurance

    Contact Information
    Business Name: McDougall Bickerton Insurance 
    Website: www.mcdougallinsurance.com
    Address: 170 King Street East P.O. Box 219, Gananoque ON, K7G 2T7
    Phone Number: 613-382-2131 or 800-932-2131
    E-mail: admin@bickertonbrokers.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Bickerton Brokers insurance brokerage joined McDougall Insurance and Financial to form McDougall Bickerton Insurance Brokers in 2013. Together McDougall Bickerton Insurance Brokerage has been providing dependable insurance their clients can trust for over seven decades. We have the resources to help clients meet all their insurance needs.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    McDougall Insurance Brokerage is one of the largest insurance brokerages in Eastern Ontario with access to multiple insurance companies. We specialize in personal and commercial insurance as well as financial services, providing you with the best insurance coverage with more options, competitive prices and friendly staff.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are extremely proud to be part of our local community for over 70 years. We employ real people working for you, who live, play, volunteer and support this amazing community.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Our founders and current owners share the magical attraction to the Thousand Islands region and understand that small town Ontario is a great place to be in business.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Paradise.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    A thousand greetings from The Thousand Islands!

    McDougall Bickerton Insurance Brokers described in one word: Insurance
     

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    1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce

    1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Bill Stewart
    Business Name: 1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce
    Address: 10 King Street East Gananoque ON 
    Phone Number: 613.382.7744
    E-mail: 1000islandsgananoque@gmail.com
    Website: 1000islandsganchamber.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started? 
    Starting off in Mississauga, I was fortunate to move with my family to Gananoque when I was just 4 years old. Through school, I loved radio and news along with watching sports non-stop, although being a Toronto fan has brought years of heartache but hope too! My first career was in broadcasting and I stayed in that industry for 15 years. I then experienced a big change by joining the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce in 2008 and now find myself back home in Gan working with the people I grew up with at the local Chamber. Serving the Township and town businesses is certainly an honour and a serious yet fun endeavour. My favourite sport is soccer (football) and I am an ardent supporter of my team back in Scotland. I have an odd taste in music which centers on everything from danceable rhythm and blues to current club and soul genres. Seeing real results for our Chamber members is paramount and I am always willing to sit down and talk with them to understand concerns and come up with a viable solution to grow their success no matter the challenge.

    Define your business in your own words. Product? Service? What makes you unique? 
    A successful local Chamber must take care of its members first. After all, they “are” the Chamber. Overall, the goal is to further the interests of businesses. Business owners in towns and cities are stronger together to advocate on behalf of the business community. The Chamber is made up of all our regional businesspeople who are investing their time and money in a community development program-working together to improve the economic, civic, and cultural wellbeing of the area.

    What business achievement are you most proud of? 
    Proudest Chamber moment was being asked to Chair the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s Policy Advisory Caucus at the 2013 Canadian Chamber Annual General Meeting in Kelowna, BC.

    Why did you choose to start your business in Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands? 
    The chamber has been in business for 67 years. 

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands? 
    Alluring, renowned, inviting, captivating, attractive, productive, quaint, welcoming, striving, changing.

    Provide a message to your future guests! 
    Welcome and we’re open for business. A thousand jobs can be created in the 1000 Islands!
     
    1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce described in one word: Passionate

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    Gananoque Home Hardware Building Center

    Gananoque Home Hardware Building Center

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Ken O’Connor
    Business Name: Gananoque Home Hardware Building Center
    Website: www.homehardware.ca
    Address: 875 Stone Street North, Gananoque ON, K7E SE4
    Phone Number: 613-382-3386
    E-mail: ken@hhgan.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I started 45 years ago right out of High School in Sudbury and held various management positions with Beaver Lumber until owning my first franchise in Kingston and Brockville. 18 years ago, I purchased the Gananoque Home Hardware and today own one of the largest Home Hardware Building Centers in Canada.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We sell everything from quality premium lumber to building supplies. Our store encompasses one of the most desirable home furniture stores across Canada. We truly have a one stop shop with a complete drive thru warehouse for all your building materials in a dry environment. We are a Stihl dealer and for that gourmet person, a well-stocked pantry department. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, you probably don’t need it.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I have won many awards from the “Best Retailer” in the building supply category over 25,000 sq. ft in Canada. I have also won many “Proud of My Home Awards” for Eastern Ontario.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We felt that the Gananoque market deserved a retail environment that was modern, clean, and with a one stop assortment with amazing associates to help in every department.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    An incredible community with great local spirit and support for local business.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Come and visit Gananoque and the Thousands Islands and see what your missing!

    Gananoque Home Hardware Building Center described in one word: Unique

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    LTR Corp

    LTR Corp

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Caroline Yung
    Business Name: LTR Corp
    Website: www.ltrcorp.ca
    Address: 420 Stone Street South, Gananoque ON, K7G 2A4
    Phone Number: 613-463-9346 or 416-616-8577 (cell)
    E-mail: caroline@ltrcorp.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I was born in Ireland to an English mother and Chinese father and moved to Canada at age 4. I always thought it would be cool to be a Eurasian with an Irish accent! Growing up in Toronto and getting my degree at Ryerson in Radio and Television Arts, changed that! I joined a large company in Toronto as a producer. They were providing integrated marketing services to a mix of global corporations and I had the opportunity to travel and work on marketing stories in different languages and evolving media. I started my company in 2012 and moved to Gananoque with my husband and Chocolate Labrador, Calli.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We are an integrated marketing and communications company called LTR Corp. LTR stands for ‘Love The Results” but it could also mean ‘Love This River’. Our clients are spread across Canada, the USA and some in Europe. We provide 360-degree story-telling, using brand design, high quality video and web sites and online services. Our solutions are all designed to meet the needs of a wide range of clients, from small organizations, to some of the world’s largest companies. Our staff and associates connect primarily digitally, meaning there is usually no commute and they can live wherever they like! We have staff all over our beautiful area.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    There are many things we are proud of but our contract with Brockville’s Aquatarium Discovery Centre a few years ago, was a special one. We were engaged from the start to create their brands and logos and even their otter mascot. We created all the video storytelling for the theatre and designed, coded and built the majority of the interactive displays. Our work won a number of industry awards, but we remain most pleased by the impact on children who visit and have an amazing time. We also hand illustrated the Brockville Highway 401 sign and all the AQ marketing banners and signage in town.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Why would we not choose to start a business here? It is a stunningly beautiful, historic town situated midway between Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal. We have the 1000 Islands, the Rideau Lakes, excellent fibre connectivity and lots of creative people. Property and living costs are far below Toronto (where I lived and worked for decades), providing lots of opportunities and an exceptional work/life balance.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, historic, undiscovered, calming.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Whether you come to Gananoque to work on a project with LTR Corp or stay in our guest house (River’s Ridge) when one of our employees isn’t staying there, you must be careful. Like us, you might find yourself falling in love with the area and suddenly moving here. Frankly, we wish we had done it 10 years earlier.

    LTR Corp described in one word: Connected
     

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    Hair Facts Salon

    Hair Facts Salon

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Becki Goff
    Business Name: Hair Facts Salon
    Address: Suite 1 495 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G9
    Phone Number: 613-382-2280
    E-mail: hairfacts@hotmail.com  

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I was born and raised in Gananoque and have raised my family here. Having always had a passion for hairstyling, I began my career in 1984 in Kingston where I had the opportunity to be a platform artist for educational hair shows, showcasing cutting edge styles for a successful company. I returned to Gananoque to continue hairstyling and in 1997 I purchased Hair Facts Salon. Sitting on the Boards of Directors for multiple committees and organizations, allows me to remain involved in the community, and to give back.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    INTEGRITY + LOYALTY + EMPOWERING = Hair Facts Salon! 

    ~INTEGRITY –We care about the quality of services we provide and the quality of products we use to create our work. We take pride in choosing what is best for our clients and our environment. 

    ~LOYALTY –We care about looking after you and your specific needs. We appreciate you choosing us. You can trust us. 

    ~EMPOWERING –We don’t take you for granted. For without YOU, there would be no US. Everything we do in our salon is given careful consideration. We don’t make decisions quickly or carelessly. We don’t do what’s best for us; WE DO WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU! 

    ** Because we care about your hair we only use KEVIN.MURPHY products. They are made from renewable and sustainable resources whenever possible, using pure essential oils, plant extracts and natural antioxidants. All KEVIN.MURPHY hair products are sulphate, paraben, and cruelty free, using only 100% recycled ocean plastic for their bottles! Recently we added SeneGense cosmetics, offering products that really work, including LipSense, providing long lasting lip colour.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Having owned my own business for 22 years, with a hairstyling career over 35 years, I have met amazing clients and employees, many becoming close friends, all of whom have been an integral part of sustaining and growing my business. In 2016, we moved to our current location offering a more modern, spacious environment, where we continue to value the relationships we build.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Having lived in Gananoque all my life, there was no place that would ever feel as welcoming as home, which is the primary concept for the atmosphere we implement at Hair Facts Salon.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Friendly, Comfortable, Forward Thinking.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Whether you are looking for a completely new style, or a just a little off the top, Hair Facts Salon can do it all, and can help you feel and look like your perfect you!

    Hair Facts Salon described in one word: Empowering
     

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    Workplace Performance Consulting

    Workplace Performance Consulting

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Brett D. Christensen
    Business Name: Workplace Performance Consulting
    Website: www.workplaceperformance.ca
    Address: 737 Windsor Lane, Gananoque ON, K7G 2X8
    Phone Number: 613-331-0523
    E-mail: brett.christensen@workplaceperformance.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I'm a Canadian Armed Forces veteran (30 years). My last 10 years was focused on training and performance improvement. I was fortunate to have the military support my completion of a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management and a Masters of Science in Instructional and Performance Technology. This set me up nicely to start up my consulting practice. Outside of work I am an avid fisherman and love tinkering on projects in the garage when not attending one of my son's many sporting events!

    Define your business in your own words.
    WPC’s unique offering for Small to Medium Businesses (SMBs) is the knowledge and experience of evidence based practices that can be applied to any scale – of any problem – in any industry – to improve performance to meet organizational goals. WPC satisfies the need of SMBs for the expertise required to identify barriers to achieving organizational goals, determine options to remove those barriers and define success.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    The sponsorship of the 2017/2018 Gananoque Minor Hockey midget rep team. Giving back to the community I live in is personally and professionally rewarding

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We moved to Gananoque in 2009 and decided it would be our last move. As a consultant that is centrally located between Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto I am driving the distance to clients but come home to our little piece of paradise in the 1000 Islands.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Small town charm. Wonderful water playground. Four seasons of fun.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    What business problems are keeping you awake at night? We can help!!

    Workplace Performance Consulting described in one word: Results

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    Creative Nest

    Creative Nest

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Tanya Trombetta
    Business Name: Creative Nest
    Website: www.creativenest.ca
    Address: 3-134 Arthur Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1A9
    Phone Number: 613-650-7802
    E-mail: tanya@creativenest.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Growing up in Montreal, I was lucky to have access to lots of activities and experiences. I became acquainted with video production and photography thanks to several years of acting and modeling, and I was always more intrigued by what went on behind the camera rather than in front of it. Creative Nest started as a side hustle/ hobby in college, and eventually grew into a full-time business. I never imagined this being my career- but sometimes, your dream job chooses you!

    Define your business in your own words.
    Creative Nest is a full-service video production agency with a specialty in event capture. In addition to video, we also offer product and event photography for print and digital mediums. In addition to corporate work, we are best known for our Wedding Films, where we produce high quality, cinematic short films for our wedding clients. Our approach to capture is candid, cinematic, and romantic.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    My proudest moment is when I learn about the emotional impact our videos have on our clients and community. Our Wedding Films and special interest pieces often result in heart-warming emails and phone calls, expressing happiness and love for the final product. There are definitely a few joyful tears thrown in to the mix! I'm proud that we can create these amazing keepsakes for our clients.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    My family and I moved to Gananoque in 2010. I initially planned on heading back to Montreal after attending St. Lawrence College, but ended up falling in love with the area and decided to stay. A colleague introduced me to the Small Business Enterprise Centre, where I participated in an entrepreneurial start up program called "Starter Company". It was the kick start I needed to get my business in motion. I haven't looked back since.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    This area is stunning. We get busloads of tourists who travel from around the world to visit our backyard- it's pretty surreal. Also; location, location, location. We're in an ideal spot for the service we offer; We're within comfortable driving distance of Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We believe video is the most effective way to preserve your story and share your message. We are passionate about working with you to turn your story into a beautiful keepsake.

    Creative Nest described in one word: Storytelling

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    Seaway Manor Bed & Breakfast

    Seaway Manor Bed & Breakfast

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Peter Sweet & Colin Mears
    Business Name: Seaway Manor Bed & Breakfast
    Website: www.seawaymanor.com
    Address: 465 Stone Street South, Gananoque ON, K7G 2A7
    Phone Number: 613-463-9538
    E-mail: seaway@seawaymanor.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We are retired business professionals that were looking for a lifestyle change when we found beautiful Gananoque. We consider ourselves lovers of food and especially breakfast, so we wanted to share our enjoyment with others. We like to laugh, enjoy meeting new people and the B&B provides the venue to do that and much more.

    Define your business in your own words.
    We are a unique boutique bed and breakfast that is owner-operated only. We feel to provide a high level of quality service it has to be done by those who care about it the most. We have 6 rooms/ensuites with 2 rooms that accommodate the travelling families. We are walking distance to the water, theatres, downtown and many restaurants.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Restoration of a 130-year building into a solid state that will easily last into the next millennium.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We fell in love with the Town and its surroundings, its proximity to Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa. Our first impressions of the people we met the first few times visiting were outstanding and we knew it was where we wanted to be for the long term.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Friendly, Breath-Taking, Home, Growing.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Stay with us for a night or two and keep the memories forever!

    Seaway Manor described in one word: Welcoming

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    Life on the River Co.

    Life on the River Co.

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Pam Staples
    Business Name: Life on the River Co.
    Website: https://lifeontheriverco.com/
    Phone Number: 613-328-8357
    E-mail: pam@crackercrumbsstudios.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    #lifeontheriver was inspired from spending Sunday summer afternoons at Jillian and John Szczurek’s dock. Many laughs and conversation centered around how lucky we are to have such an amazing backyard, such a beautiful place to call home ... to live life on the river. As a graphic designer, I began to wonder how to capture the spirit of life on the river? What images would people want to wear and want to share. What image could simply capture the fun, the freedom and the spirit of life on the river. So, I decided on these 3 initial designs, and posted on Facebook to receive feedback. Every person that commented was so passionate about their river memories and stories, no matter where that river was ... it is a love that runs deep. And so, it began ... #lifeontheriver ... a place where happiness comes to play. July 19th, 2019 we will celebrate 5 years in business.

    Define your business in your own words.
    It is simple: it’s about being proud of where you’re from. #lifeontheriver co. gives everyone an opportunity to wear their heart on their sleeve wherever you are or wherever you go. Our goal is to work with this amazing community to offer new designs and high-quality clothing. Beyond grateful to all who have helped this company grow.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    There is no better feeling than seeing people wear something you have created, whether around town, out on the river, or those that snap a photo as they travel the world.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    This is where I live ... this is my home, a place that inspires me.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Where happiness comes to play.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    #lifeontheriver celebrates the spirit and love of river life.

    Life on the River Co. described in one word: Locally-Inspired

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    Stone and South Condominiums

    Stone and South Condominiums

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Mariah Hamilton
    Business Name: Stone and South Condominiums
    Website: www.stoneandsouthcondos.ca
    Address: 5 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1E7
    Phone Number: 613-929-7530
    E-mail: mariahh@royallepage.ca or info@stoneandsouthcondos.ca

    Stone and South Condominiums described in one word: Modern

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    Stonewater Gastro Pub

    Stonewater Gastro Pub

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Chelsea Owen & Mathew McNeil
    Business Name: Stonewater Gastro Pub
    Website: www.stonewaterpub.com
    Address: 490 Stone Street South, Gananoque ON, K7G 2A4
    Phone Number: 613-382-2116
    E-mail: Chelsea_owen@hotmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I (Mat) come from a culinary background while Chelsea used to work in the film industry before changing careers and completing a wine degree. We both met working in a fine dining restaurant. After advancing to a head chef job and Chelsea to manager jobs in local restaurants, we were given the opportunity to own and run one of our favorite pubs, the Stonewater. Now we get to spend all day in our favorite bar on the waterfront listening to awesome live bands and meeting great people!

    Define your business in your own words.
    Our pub is facing the waterfront in beautiful downtown Gananoque, minutes to the Playhouse, boat line, and marina. We also have a covered patio with a view of the St. Lawrence River. We hold live entertainment six, soon to be seven days a week. Drop-in paint night, trivia night, and open-mic night are where all the local artists and musicians in the community gather. Three nights a week we have live music by local and touring artists in a range of styles. The Stonewater has 12 taps, with 9 local craft beers, and we work with local breweries to brew our own house beer only available at the pub, the Stonewater Amber Lager. Our menu changes seasonally but always contains delicious and creative pub fare. We have daily specials and fun events and there's always something new going on at the pub.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are proud to support local musicians by employing four solo acts or bands a week with no cover charge to our patrons. Many of our acts are local talent, and we love supporting them and their music careers as well as showing visitors how amazing the musical talent is in Gananoque and the Thousand Islands.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    This is our home and we wouldn't want to be anywhere else :)

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, fun, unique.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    There's always a lot of love in the room at the Stonewater Pub!

    Stonewater Gastro Pub described in one word: Fun

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    Pine Street Pilates

    Pine Street Pilates

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Kate Selleck
    Business Name: Pine Street Pilates
    Website: www.pinestreetpilates.ca
    Address: 278 Pine Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1C8
    Phone Number: 416-554-0450
    E-mail: kateselleckpilates@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I was first introduced to Pilates by my mom when I was a teenager and I've been helping people move better ever since!

    Define your business in your own words.
    I am a Pilates Teacher and a Rehab Specialist. I enjoy working with diverse populations like high performance athletes, prenatal clients and older adults.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I started my business in Toronto and recently moved it to Gananoque. I chose to relaunch my business in Gananoque because it is the town I care the most about, and a community I am excited to help.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    When describing Gananoque to friends, I say that it is "a passionate, supportive, creative town".

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    When it comes to moving with efficiency, power and strength, it is weekly practice that wins every time. Keep moving!

    Pine Street Pilates described in one word: Strong

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    BBQ Tandoori

    BBQ Tandoori

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Muhammad Nasir Awan
    Business Name: BBQ Tandoori (Starting April 2019)
    Website: www.bbqtandoori.com
    Address: 846 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1H3
    Phone Number: 514-690-6786

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Masters in HR, Operating Indian food Restaurant since last 3 years in Montreal, but having over 20 years of experience in adventure tourism. Team player and skills for project and event management.

    Define your business in your own words.
    My business has roots in the hospitality industry. We are opening a classic dine in and take out restaurant in Gananoque. Our products consist of freshly prepared Indian menu. Our services will include dine in, take out , food catering services and food delivery. What makes us unique is our special focus on providing fresh and authentic Indian food to each and every table. We are committed to serve the best quality food and service in this serene location.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Charcoal BBQ is our speciality. This is my second restaurant that I will be running solo. My first restaurant is located in Montreal. To open a second one here for me is a huge achievement in itself. We have come a long way from opening a small take out place in a small town which I ran for some time with little to no help. With previous experience and knowledge, I hope to run this restaurant even better than my other one.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    My first visit to Thousand Islands was a marvelous experience. I saw great potential here. My visit around the Town and the Islands alone urged me deeply to find some work or business opportunity here. Over the course of several trips I realized a new restaurant here will benefit greatly not just as a business but also for the local communities. I'm hoping our cuisine not only attracts the visitors and tourists but also the locals.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    I would describe it as a business hub with great potential. It has serene views with a rich history. Its individuality and uniqueness have always attracted people from many different and far places. It attracts a large number of tourists that shows how much the hospitality industry has potential to grow here to new heights.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Our message to our future guests is a promise to provide the best quality service in all categories. We will always serve excellent food with a wonderful dining experience for all our guests. Making fresh food with organic Canadian grown ingredients has always been our goal. I look forward to starting a new journey here.

    BBQ Tandoori described in one word: Dedication

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    The Royal Theatre

    The Royal Theatre

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Kevin John Saylor and Frayne McCarthy
    Business Name: Royal Theatre Thousand Islands
    Website: www.RoyalTheatre.ca
    Address: 75 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1E8
    Phone Number: 613-382-5000
    E-mail: Kevin_John_Saylor@hotmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Kevin John Saylor knows Theatre! He has three University Degrees in Theatre, including two from the State University of New York, where he received his Masters, and an Associate Degree from the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. Kevin also has a Degree in Education (specializations in Theatre and English) from McGill University.

    After a performing career in New York, Kevin then came back home, to the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake near Montreal, where he founded Turtle Islands Theatre, which ran very successfully for 20 years. Kevin John Saylor's important contributions to the Arts in Canada were recognized with the Governor General's Meritorious Service Medal in 2004.

    In 1997 Kevin met Frayne McCarthy, a Montreal-based professional actor with an International bilingual career, and very soon recognized an ideal creative partner. The two went on to collaborate on many shows for performers of all ages.

    In 2013, wishing to own their own theatre (as opposed to renting an ad-hoc space), Saylor and McCarthy decided to explore options outside of Quebec. Soon, they discovered the wonderful 1930 Vaudeville House that was the Delaney Theatre. It was past its glory days, and had been retrofitted to become a bowling centre, but at its core, the two men could plainly see, the original vocation of the building as a live performance space just lay dormant. Added to the magical aura of the building itself was the charm of Gananoque's community, which sealed the pair's determination to reclaim the "old Delaney" as the Royal Theatre Thousand Islands... an exciting addition to the Performing Arts scene in Eastern Ontario!

    Define your business in your own words.
    The Royal Theatre Thousand Islands is a live performance space that makes itself available to young theatrical companies and independent performing artists of all kinds. We also have several local amateur shows every year, to involve people of all ages, and to introduce them to the joy and personal development of the Performing Arts.

    The Royal is most unique because of its presentation model which makes it possible for just about anyone to become their own producer and realize their dream of bringing their talents to life on stage in a real theatre in the beautiful Thousand Islands!

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are most proud of how we have gathered a dedicated theatre community within the Royal. The theatre thrives through the constant goodwill and hard work of so many volunteers. These wonderful friends, our "Royal Family", have loved our dream for the Performing Arts in Gananoque, and made it their own.

    Is facilitating volunteerism a business achievement, you may wonder... well, absolutely yes! Our volunteers are the lifeblood of the Royal, and so perhaps our greatest achievement was simply saying "yes" to all who so generously offered their kind support.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    There was a certain "love-at-first-sight" factor that played into our decision to buy the Royal Theatre. While we recognized that the building itself present many large challenges, the day we visited Gananoque for the very first time just happened to coincide with the annual Santa Claus Parade. We sat in a local restaurant, weighing the pros and cons of restoring a 1930 Vaudeville House that had undergone such a drastic transformation and was in a sorry state of repair, when it seemed the entire community suddenly appeared on the street and a parade rode by! The excitement of that event, the sea of smiles, the friendly attitude of everyone we met that evening just about sealed the deal then and there!

    But we also investigated the region and performed a feasibility study for our project. We were impressed to learn the Gan is the third most popular theatre destination in Ontario, only after Stratford and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Gananoque is the true Gateway to the World-famous Thousand Islands and draws innumerable tourists every year. The Town is also a geographic hub, located near two World Cities (Toronto and Montreal), the Nation's Capital (Ottawa); it is near several important satellite communities including Kingston and Brockville; and it is only a short boat-ride away from New York! Add to that the fact that Gananoque is conveniently located off Highway 401, and one recognizes that this community is the Best Located Entertainment Destination in all of Ontario! With a little vision, good will and good sense, Gananoque could become the #1 Arts and Tourism destination in Ontario.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, Artistic, Culturally Rich, Theatrical, Diverse, Breathtaking, Fun, Creative.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    The Royal Theatre Thousand Islands welcomes you to enjoy the greatest diversity of Performing Arts in Ontario! Gananoque is your perfect place for Culture and Relaxation.

    The Royal Theatre Thousand Islands described in one word: Theatrical

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    The Bulloch House

    The Bulloch House

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Michele Warton
    Business Name: The Bulloch House- 1000 Islands Bed & Breakfast
    Website: www.1000islandsbedandbreakfast.com
    Address: 199 Pine Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1C6
    Phone Number: 613-893-1333 or 416-722-5643
    E-mail: Michele@mintlogisticsinc.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I own a transportation company and my partner is an antique dealer and appraiser. We decided to purchase the beautiful and historic Bulloch House as a weekend retreat. Fell in love with Gananoque and saw the potential to open a business. Really enjoy all the tourists and give tours of our property and inform them of the history and the fun and interesting thing to do in Gananoque.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Our intimate luxury bed and breakfast hosts folks from all over the world. We take them back to the Victorian era with our richly appointed and historically preserved mansion and give them tasteful top-notch service and care. We are a short walk to everything Gananoque has to offer and we are devoted to supporting every business in our beautiful and friendly town.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    In our very first year of business we were thrilled to receive the 2018 guess True View award for hospitality and service! This award is in recognition of our quest to impress day after day, guest after guest. It shows how much our guests appreciated us and how lucky we are to have met them all! We were honoured to have excepted this award for hospitality for the Bulloch House Luxury Bed-and-Breakfast.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We wanted to purchase a large Victorian home in Ontario. After extensive research the only place that would be successful was Gananoque. It’s the consequential tourist destinations as people from all over the world gravitate to the thousand Islands.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    It truly is Canada’s gateway to the Thousand Islands. It’s uncomplicated, happy, friendly and entertaining. It has something for everyone at every price point.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Please allow us to help you make the most of your stay. There is so much to see and do. We can keep you busy and active or take it slow and relaxed.

    1000 Islands Bed & Breakfast described in one word: Luxury

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    Riverton Homes

    Riverton Homes

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Paul, Evan, Izaak Veenstra
    Business Name: Riverton Homes
    Website: www.rivertonhomes.ca
    Address: PO Box 329, 201 King Street East, K7G 2T8
    Phone Number: 613-803-7996

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Riverton Homes was founded in early 2018 as a culmination of generations of building excellence. Brothers Paul, Evan and Izaak Veenstra created Riverton Homes out of their passion for the construction of new homes. We take great pride in our responsibility to the community and demonstrate this through building quality homes and offering exceptional service.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Riverton Homes was created with the ambition of becoming an alternative to impersonal large building companies and costly custom home builders. We believe in a hands-on approach to every step of the new home building process, personally perfecting designs, constructing buildings and caring for customers throughout sales and warranty periods. Riverton Homes has grown tremendously since its inception through our constant efforts to improve our procedures and practices. We are certain the greatest developments are yet to come!

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Our greatest achievements so far have been earning our Tarion license in early 2018 and selling our fist Riverton Home later that year.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We see Gananoque as the perfect location for new home building. It’s charming nature, renown shops, restaurants, galleries, and theatre, beautiful scenery and proximity to Kingston make it an excellent place to live whether you are starting a family, searching for a community to live and work in or looking for a peaceful setting for your retirement. We recently moved to Gananoque and have never felt more at home.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gananoque is the heart of the stunning 1000 Islands. At the heart of Gananoque are its ever-inviting citizens. With its quaint majesty, it is no wonder that Gananoque is the friendliest town you are likely to find.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We would be delighted to show you why we are so passionate about our business. Feel free to call or email with any questions you may have.

    Riverton Homes described in one word: Passion

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    Silk Salon & Esthetics

    Silk Salon & Esthetics

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Laura Orr
    Business Name: Silk Salon & Esthetics
    Website: www.facebook.com/SilkSalonEsthetics/
    Address: 174 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-382-3827
    E-mail: silksalon@gmail.com 

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I'm a tried and true River Rat, being on or in the river is my happy place. After going to both college and university and still not finding my passion, I went back to school for hair as a "temporary" job. Twenty-seven years later I still love it.

    Define your business in your own words.
    At Silk, we strive to offer a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We know that sometimes going into a new salon can be intimidating so we do our best to have a full consultation to make sure we know what you are hoping to achieve from your visit with us. Our staff are continually taking education classes so that we can stay current with trends. We offer Matrix colour and styling products as well as Canadian made, vegan and cruelty free Design Me products.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are very proud to be providing great hair care at our current location for 11 years.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I am from this area and after living in Montreal and New Jersey I knew that I needed to be near the river. Raising a family and operating my business in Gananoque just made the most sense.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Stunning scenery, quality of life at a slower pace and friendly small-town vibe.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We would love to have you as our guest, so we can help you take care of all your hair care needs in a friendly and welcoming environment.

    Silk Salon & Esthetics described in one word: Welcoming

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    KRC Wellness

    KRC Wellness

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Kim Cross, RRPr
    Business Name: KRC Wellness
    Website: www.krcwellness.com
    Address: Charles Street South, Gananoque ON
    Phone Number: 613-382-5351
    E-mail: krcwellness@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I began my training in 2001 moving from a life of banking to a more authentic life of energy medicine. After successfully using natural methods to help heal myself while going through a challenging time in my own life I developed a thirst and passion for how the “energy” worked and how it could help others to improve their lives as well whether it be for something physical such as pain relief or being able to cope better with everyday life without being miserable or just being able to help someone relax, relieve stress and get grounded. It was a calling that I couldn’t ignore.

    The more I learned the more I wanted to learn, I became certified in Quantum-Touch as an Instructor/Practitioner, Reiki Master, Transformation Meditation Teacher, Relaxation Massage, EMF Balancing Technique, Personality Dimensions Facilitator, Qigong Guide and I am also a Registered Reflexologist. Plus, I am always acquiring knowledge to be able to pass on new tools, tips and techniques to help my clients improve their well-being through natural means. As I started helping my friends and family and as I became more experienced word of mouth demanded I start taking on clients and then with education and natural progression I began teaching workshops and classes which led me to where I am today.

    Define your business in your own words.
    What makes me unique is I focus and amplify energy to create balance. All the innovative holistic services I provide, the workshops I teach and the classes I give are focussed towards creating balance, using natural methods, in all areas of people’s lives on all levels, physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. A balanced person is a healthy person. Some of things people seek me out for are pain relief, stress relief, clarity and focus, relaxation, better coping skills, better sleep, health maintenance and…..overall balance. I use my vast skill set to customize and individualize each session for each person’s particular needs. 

    I open up and provide the optimal space for others to heal themselves. I do this by using and combining different approaches, Quantum-Touch and Reiki which are hands on energy healing, reflexology which is manipulating the reflexes on the feet to stimulate the clients own natural healing abilities, EMF balancing which works the energy field, massage, breath work and meditation, to name a few. I also teach workshops in Quantum-Touch, Chakras, Grounding and Reiki. I give classes in Qigong and meditation. It is best to check out my website for a full list or better yet book an appointment! Also, sessions are available in my office or the venue of my clients choosing meaning I go to the comfort of their home or into a workplace and do groups.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I’ve taken something that is not so main stream and shone a light on it, letting people know that there are alternative and complementary therapy options available to them alongside traditional medicine to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle. I’ve created a viable and rewarding career that not only helps me sustain my own health but it also allows me to enhance other people’s lives. It’s a win-win. I am truly blessed!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I've lived in this area all of my life. It's home and a beautiful one at that. I love the community and the feel of it. It was just natural that I would want to have my business here.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Scenic, serene, bustling, beautiful, soothing, fun.

    RRPr KRC Wellness described in one word: Balance

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    Thousand Islands Playhouse

    Thousand Islands Playhouse

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Brett Christopher
    Business Name: Thousand Islands Playhouse
    Website: www.1000islandsplayhouse.com
    Address: 185 South Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1A1
    Phone Number: 613-382-7020

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    No hobbies - just work! I was an actor for 15 years performing around the country and eventually after a series of administrative jobs, I landed this awesome opportunity.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    The Playhouse is both an entertainment destination in Ontario as well as a community arts hub. It provides 7 professionally produced plays a year, many of which are built from the ground up here in Gan over the course of 6 months. The company also acts as a resource for anyone looking to make a theatrical production in the region, we can provide everything from expertise to props and costumes.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Last year, the company broke the $1,000,000 ticket sales mark for the first time in a decade. This year, we broke that record...

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    It is one of the most beautiful places in the country, full of wonderful people and a strong sense of community pride. We are so lucky to create theatre here.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Resilient, strong-willed, entrepreneurial.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Theatre is for everyone! Music, laughter, romance, and beautiful sets and costumes - not to mention the view of the 1000 Islands at intermission.

    Thousand Islands Playhouse described in one word: Dockside

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    Dreams in Motion

    Dreams in Motion

    Contact Information
    Business Name: Dreams in Motion
    Website: https://dreamsinmotionsite.wordpress.com
    Address: 670 Charles Street North, Gananoque ON, K7G 2W5
    Phone Number: 613-382-6700
    E-mail: dreamsinmotionganpresident@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Dreams in Motion was created in 2004 (having evolved from Debbie's Dance Academy run by Debbie Donaldson which was in operation from 1984-2004).  In order to ensure that artistic programming continued in the area for years to come, it was decided to evolve the business into an incorporated, registered, non-profit organization. Together, with a group of dedicated parents, students and other volunteers Dreams In Motion Performing and Fine Arts School became incorporated in March 2006 and a Board of Directors was formed. In May of 2006, Dreams In Motion was granted charitable status. 

    Dreams in Motion offers an environment that is inclusive, warm and supportive to all members of the community; regardless of age, background or ability. 

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Dreams in Motion strives to foster a love of dance, performance and fine arts.  Lead by our dedicated Board of Directors and certified instructors, Dreams in Motion strives to provide an environment that promotes physical, social and creative growth.  Students achieve greater confidence, resilience and self-discipline when engaged in classes and most importantly have fun!

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Dreams in Motion encourages and celebrates a passion for dance and since 2004, we have welcomed over 1500 students through our doors.  Yet, its watching the growth of our students that makes us most proud: a little one who was afraid to leave her parent's side at the beginning of the year to then dancing alone at recital with hundreds cheering her on;  a competition team member finally land the move they were working on for months; or a child who felt like they didn't "fit in" at school find a space where they are accepted and celebrated.  These are what makes Dreams in Motion's board, instructors and parents so very proud.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Dreams in Motion has deep roots within the Gananoque / Leeds and the Thousand Islands.  Our students live and go to school in this region and we are proud to offer a program that is designed to introduce and / or explore the world of visual arts. Our Board of Directors reside in Gananoque / Leeds and the Thousand Islands and we partner with community members and organizations to showcase the arts and our local talent.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Community, picturesque, cultural, artistic, historical, family-friendly, beautiful, welcoming.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We welcome all members of our community of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.  If you have a love of the arts / dance, we encourage you to get involved in Dreams in Motion in whatever capacity suits you.  

    Dreams in Motion described in one word: Joy

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    99.9 myFM Radio Gananoque

    99.9 myFM Radio Gananoque

    Contact Information
    Business Name: 99.9 myFM Radio Gananoque
    Website: www.GananoqueNow.ca
    Address: 110 Kate Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 2M5
    Phone Number: 613-382-6936 ext. 7231

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Here at myFM are all about our AMAZING community and the people in it. We pride ourselves on focusing on our local businesses to help make them famous in their business category-- helping make all our local events successful and providing everyone in our listening area with LOCAL news, weather, sports and community events so that everyone knows what is happening and how amazing we really are. 

    My Broadcasting Corporation started over 12 years ago in the small town of Renfrew, Ontario where owners Jon Pole and Andrew Dickson perfected small town radio! We have now been on Canada's Fastest Growing Companies for the past 8 years running for the Profit 500 list and now have 21 local community radio stations across Ontario. We have been in Gananoque for just over 8 years now. We are the voice of our local communities every minute of every day and pride ourselves on being the go-to for local media in Gananoque and Leeds and the Thousand Islands! We love our communities and the people in them.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    myFM is LOCALLY FOCUSED radio with specific attention to serving adults 25 - 54 years of age. The station delivers relevant local information with "LOCAL NEWS FIRST", "3 Day Weather" and loads of audience interaction. myFM is active online with GananoqueNow.ca. The site offers daily local news headlines, pictures and audio, complete event listings, promotions and 27/7 audio streaming. myFM is owned and operated by My Broadcasting Corporation. Ontario's Local Broadcasting Company. We own and operate stations in small and midsize markets in Ontario. 

    Our main focus is providing our advertising partners with research, promotions and a product that will help their business grow. We want them all to be famous in their business categories! Our listeners are a 60/40 split of females/males. We provide them with great soft rock music, tons of contests and local news, weather and sports. Our surveys tell us that our listeners listen all day. Radio is the most personal medium; listeners wake up with their favourite radio station, choose the medium for companionship while alone or on long car trips and frequently go to sleep to their favourite radio station. This is our goal-- to serve our LOCAL community to the best of our ability and to keep everyone informed. We ARE YOUR local radio Station.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Locally we have been involved in many community efforts. The 1000 Islands Business Showcase is an annual showcase featuring and promoting all local business, the Gananoque Food Bank collections three times per year, our monthly non-profit community partner that we donate $2500 in FREE advertising to monthly to promote what they do in the community, fundraising efforts for the Gananoque Humane Society, benefits for people in need and so much more! We are our local communities and do everything in our power to support them.


    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We LOVE Gananoque and the 1000 Islands! It is our home and we are not ever leaving :)

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful-- Welcoming--- Community Oriented-- Positive-- Self Sustaining-- Business Community-- Continued Growth-- The best place to call Home.


    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Welcome to Gananoque and Leeds and the Thousand Islands! For LOCAL News, Weather, Sports, and community events please tune into 99.9 myFM or check out GananoqueNow.ca for everything LOCAL! We are your LOCAL DESTINATION.

    99.9 myFM described in one word: Community

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    Jet Electrical Contractors Inc.

    Jet Electrical Contractors Inc.

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Jeff Small
    Business Name: Jet Electrical Contractors Inc.
    Website: www.jetelectricalcontractors.com
    Address: 260 James A Brennan Road, Gananoque ON, K7G 1N7 
    Phone Number: 613-766-2807

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Hockey. Jet Electrical contractors was established in 2009 by one man, Jeff Small.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We can fix anything from a residential switch, to a traffic cabinet. We have all the equipment and knowledge to maintain and install street lights, traffic lights, pole lines, fire alarm systems, car chargers, solar panels, backup generators, residential house wiring, locates for underground utilities.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We’ve installed over 3,500 led street lights and are one of only 16 contractors used by RealTerm Energy.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Gananoque and TLTI provides a unique position between Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal to service a wide variety of businesses and municipalities.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Unique. Great. Special.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Thank you for choosing Jet Electrical Contractors Inc. for all of your electrical needs. Jet Electrical Contractors Inc. keeping the public safe.

    Jet Electrical described in one word: Safety

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    The Old English Pub

    The Old English Pub

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Darren Towriess
    Business Name: The Old English Pub
    Website: www.theoldenglishpub.ca
    Address: 124 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-561-7406  

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    Woodley's Jewellers

    Woodley’s Jewellers

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Peter Woodley
    Business Name: Woodley’s Jewellers
    Website: www.woodleysjewellers.com
    Address: 109 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G3
    Phone Number: 613-382-3202

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I'm Peter Woodley, married to Karen for 35 years. Father of two. Luc age 28 and Ashley age 21. We have been in the jewellery business since 1929. Uncle Gerald was first and my parents Earl and Marjorie were second. I play hockey twice a week and love to ski and boat. We also own 1000 Island Condo Getaway. Karen is in charge of that business. We have been running that business for 10 years.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We are a family run jewellery store. We sell diamonds, watches, gold jewellery, silver jewellery and gift ware. As well as, custom design, all kinds of repairs, engraving, jewellery appraisals and hotel rentals. My daughter Ashley is finishing her business course at St. Lawrence College and is joining the team for a fourth generation.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Next year Woodley's Jewellers turns 90 years of age. Not many things last that long!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Gananoque and the 1000 Islands is a beautiful place to live and call our home. I was born here and most likely will die here. Proud to be from Gan!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Fabulous, beautiful and breathtaking. Take a boat ride and look around. It is self-explanatory. In the fall, the colours of the trees are indescribable.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Gananoque is still somewhat undiscovered compared to a lot of other places. Our prices are still old school. That alone makes us very attractive. Hurry, don't be late. You will want to come back over and over again.

    Woodley’s Jewellers described in one word: Knowledgeable
     

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    Islandview Suites-Historic Gananoque & TPI

    Islandview Suites-Historic Gananoque & TPI

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Barbara Fisk
    Business Name: Islandview Suites-Historic Gananoque & TPI
    Website: www.tpiqualitytravel.ca
    Address: 195 Market Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 2M6
    Phone Number: 613-382-2755

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Love to travel the world and meet people. Now I enjoy hosting world travellers right here in Gananoque! I love curling and am a very avid Rotarian. Fun Facts - I've been to the Antarctica - my favourite trip ever! Also, in addition to working in Japan I was part of a hot air balloon team that flew every weekend! My love for owning a bed & breakfast started when I lived in the UK and came to fruition when I came to Gananoque. My wanderlust psyche drove me to start my travel agency upon my return to Canada.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Welcoming, knowledgeable hospitality and world travel experience to share. I really have "been there, done that" and am driven to help people have the best experiences they can!

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Virtually full occupancy in my first season and continued success with expanding my travel client base.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Gananoque is a perfect tourism destination offering numerous opportunities for travellers wishing to explore the beauty and nature of the Canadian landscape. The famous 1000 Islands is a natural draw, but the festivals, markets, boating, walking, theater, and shops keep people coming back year on year.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Welcoming! Friendly!

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    A Warm & Friendly Welcome await you! You'll be glad you stayed here!

    Islandview Suites- Historic Gananoque & TPI described in one word: Welcoming

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    The Woodview Inn

    The Woodview Inn

    Contact Information
    Full Name: John & Steve
    Business Name: The Woodview Inn
    Website: www.woodviewinn.com
    Address: 250 King Street West, Gananoque ON, K7G 2G6
    Phone Number: 613-382-1110
    E-mail: woodviewinn@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    In the fall of 2015, we came to Gananoque for a little holiday. We stayed at some lovely inns on our journey. We asked ourselves "Would we ever want to be innkeepers?" That life changing question saw us back to the Thousand Islands the next weekend looking at what was to become The Woodview Inn. After six months of extensive renovations, we opened the doors on this historic home, breathed into a lot of paper bags, and crossed fingers. Two and a half years in, and never looking back.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    The Woodview Inn is more than just a bed and breakfast - we are a boutique hotel. Presently we have 10 guest suites - five in the main house and five in the outer annex. While we serve breakfast to all our guests, our restaurant - Graydon's (named after our sheltie), is open to the public for dinner throughout the week. Open all year, we can host small weddings, parties, and people just looking for that unique little getaway or venue.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    In the short time we have been here, we have brought The Woodview Inn to life with a lot of restoration and renovation. We are the highest rated accommodation in the area, and are becoming known for some of the finest food experiences as well.. We have put together a great team who care about client comfort, and world travellers are coming back because of our hospitality.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Gananoque is a little sleeping giant - it has the potential to keep tourists coming year after year with all the amenities both it and the area have to offer. In the next few years, there will be an influx of new inhabitants as well as travellers - we feel we're in on the cusp of great development.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    A relatively undeveloped area boasting natural beauty, friendly people, and unlimited potential.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    You will enjoy our little corner of the world, and you will want to come back. And when you do, we will be here!

    The Woodview Inn described in one word: Magical

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    The Wooden Boat Shop

    The Wooden Boat Shop

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Michael Corrigan
    Business Name: The Wooden Boat Shop
    Website: www.thewoodenboatshop.com
    Address: 425 Herbert Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1R2
    Phone Number: 343-333-1569

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I’ve been passionate about board and boating since childhood- been on the river all my life. Attended the Northwest School of Wooden Boat Building in Port Townsend WA, then moved to Wolfe 
    Island to set up shop. 15 years later I was offered a job at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton NY, and after 5 years moved to Gananoque where I opened the shop in 2014.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Wooden Boat building, restoration, repair and consultation.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Being able to make a living in this business for 25 years.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    The river, the islands, the small town feel- and there is a great market for me in this area.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Scenic, a lot to explore, progress, forward thinking, welcoming

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We keep our history floating...:)

    The Wooden Boat Shop described in one word: Crafty

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    The Purple House Cafe

    The Purple House Cafe

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Kerry Coyle
    Business Name: The Purple House Cafe
    Website: www.facebook.com/thepurplehousecafe/
    Address: 165 Main Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 2M1
    Phone Number: 613-888-7640
    E-mail: thepurplehousecafe@yahoo.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I grew up in Gananoque, spent 14 years in Vancouver and abroad. Returned 10 years ago to begin working towards dream of owning a cafe here and to raise my child in a small community. I have been playing Roller Derby for the past 6 years, my break away from the Purple House during busy season.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Small family run seasonal business with focus on fresh, local ingredients, and great service. We serve wood fired pizza that is cooked in an outdoor oven. We have a licensed garden patio with inside seating as well.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Feel very proud to have community support and to have an amazing crew of staff!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Wanted to return to my roots and family and to be part of a thriving and supportive community here in the beautiful Thousand Islands.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Community, peaceful, nature, paradise.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Look forward to meeting you at the Purple House!

    The Purple House Café described in one word: Unique
     

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    Tedford Fabrication

    Tedford Fabrication

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Carrie Tedford
    Business Name: Tedford Fabrication
    Website: https://www.facebook.com/TedfordFab/
    Address: 175 Oak Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 2R3
    Phone Number: 613-217-8217
    E-mail: tedfordfabrication@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I have been drawn to colour and creating ‘anything’ from a very young age. My hobbies are all a part of my business. I graduated in 2006 from OCAD University with a BFA in Curatorial Practices and Criticism. I then obtained nine plus years in the building material retail industry specifically within the paint and coatings, and the kitchen and bath design departments. I love seeing someone’s house become their home. Or to even just help a person function more happily within their space. It’s a great feeling when you can help create solutions for a client.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Hand weaving rattan services, home decor, furniture restoration services, interior decorating and painting, metal railings and repairs. My business exhibits a number of hand crafting services which include but has not been limited to; the uses of new and used materials to create beautiful home decor items, hand woven seats and furniture repairs as well as decor creations in various natural rattan products. I offer refinishing and restoration services for furniture, spray finishing of wood and metal furniture as well as interior painting/finishing of drywall, wood and metal surfaces. My visual arts practice has included but has not been limited to personal board/canvas paintings, smaller residential wall murals to large scale theatre scenery.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Next spring I will celebrate being in business for four years! Four years happily doing what I love to do.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Minus my years in Toronto to attend OCAD, I was born and raised in Gananoque. This community and the surrounding area is absolutely beautiful, all the inspiration you could possibly need is right outside your door. Being nicely settled between two major Canadian city centres, as well as being beside the US boarder has provided our business with many great clients and work opportunities.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    A wonderous landscape that whole heartedly endorses the best of all seasons.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    How can we help you with your projects? We can make your house, your home. Ask us how.

    Tedford Fabrication described in one word: Creator
     

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    Steel Style Garage

    Steel Style Garage

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Shannon Yates & Zachary Treanor
    Business Name: Steel Style Garage
    Website: www.steelstylegarage.com
    Address: 23 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1E8
    Phone Number: 613-449-4359

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We love road trips, adventures, and new ideas! We love to support local, cook at home, and experience our 1000 Islands playground whenever we can. We both come from small towns, spent about 10 years in Toronto, made the big leap to Gan in 2010. It's true, build it and they will come. It was all very organic really.....started with a desire to leave the hustle bustle and build something beautiful. We left our Information Technology and Strategic Planning jobs and dove right into the unknown.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We call the complex AXLEWORKS - our big old limestone building was the head office for Gananoque Spring & Axle back in the day. Axleworks is a collective of smaller businesses which create a vibrant atmosphere for all ages of our community. Shop, Dine, Do Yoga - a good combination of fun. We've kept the design industrial in lieu of the history, and we've built a lot of what you see, with our own hands. Steel Style Garage is the SHOP part of the equation. We carry a wide variety of brand name clothing, fashion for life, that's what we like to call it. We focus on playful everyday apparel which you can dress up or dress down. We also carry locally made jewellery, Canadian made apparel and accessories, and other fun and quirky items that will make you smile. 

    We provide an experience - for the locals, we can tell them exactly what kind of gift a grandchild, parent or friend might like, because we know our customers. We aren't driven by sales, we are driven by your smiling faces, knowing you feel good in what you are wearing or that you've picked out the most perfect gift. When we choose our inventory for the store, we've always got our local community in mind - we've built relationships and our customers trust us to provide quality goods and attentive service.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I'm not sure there's just one. In general, we are proud to have created a space that people love, that they return to, that they bring far away friends and family to when visiting, a place that they tell other people they must see. We are proud of the community vibe, and that we contribute to what makes Gananoque such an amazing place. We won't lie, sometimes we stand across the street, stare, and think WOAH, I can't believe we actually pulled this off. We somehow managed to convert this almost 10k of vacant space into something, something awesome.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    It's on two rivers, Gananoque River and the St. Lawrence ( a river that has over 1000 islands in it!! ). We are half way between Toronto and Montreal just off the 401, and also border New York. It's a tiny community which has a lot of history, and beautiful old buildings to salvage. It's a place to escape to - water you can swim in, park islands, private islands, hiking, kayaking, biking trails. Gananoque is close enough to highways, airports and trains, you can get anywhere. Gananoque is also a hub to other surrounding towns - it's home to Home Hardware, Canadian Tire, and Shoppers Drug Mart. The Town already had major attractions like the Gananoque Boat Tours, the Casino, and the Thousand Island Playhouse. There are ample bed and breakfasts, cottage rentals, hotels - lots of beds.

    You could however see quite a few empty downtown spaces. Empty space meant opportunity to us. We saw the need for a few key things (a coffeeshop, clothing store, and yoga studio) that would appeal to the local community and tourists. Thankfully so many other creative, like-minded people also believe this town has potential and weren't afraid to fill those empty spaces!! Since we (Axleworks in its entirety) opened in 2010, Gananoque/Leeds and Thousand Islands is also now home to Gananoque Brewery, Thousand Islands Boat Museum, 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours, Skywood Eco Adventure Park, new restaurants, clothing stores, antique shops, art galleries, health and wellness spots (yes smoothies),  and a music store.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    The perfect blend of outdoor adventure, calm of cottage life, local farming, and just the right amount of urban.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Living the Dream - come along for the ride!

    Steel Style Garage described in one word: Inspirational 
     

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    Songwood Contracting

    Songwood Contracting

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Theo Graham
    Business Name: Songwood Contracting
    Website: www.songwoodcontracting.ca
    Address: 115 Wellington Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1B6
    Phone Number: 613-539-3978
    E-mail: theo@songwoodcontracting.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    The business is owned by Theo Graham. He has 12 years’ experience leading construction crews across Canada. He has project managed a wide variety of builds from multi-million dollar solar farms across Ontario to timber frame custom homes in the mountains of British Columbia. He brings a tenacious work ethic and strong communication skills to any project you may have, as well a reliable network of tradespeople to help accomplish whatever your dream may be. Theo has been married for 2 years and has an infant baby girl named Wallis. They enjoy walks around town.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    The nature of the business is a full service residential and commercial contractor offering a wide range of customizable services to fit all of our customers’ renovation needs. The Songwood Contracting vision is to create a better construction and renovation experience for people. Construction. Simplified.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    The O'Connor Gallery and the Behal - Catchpole Artists' loft would be noted as their most proud achievement. With the address 130 King Street East, or the old home of OVERSTOCK and the old Gananoque Family Gym, this 100+ years old building has been reclaimed and renovated into a fresh-faced gallery and design center with Dennis O'Connor in the main floor, a residential 3 bedroom apartment on the second floor and an entirely new 3rd floor live-in Artists Loft and workspace. Pop by sometime, the colourful front door is the brightest on King Street.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Theo moved to town because it was located roughly an hour from both parents and in-laws. Theo's brother, Leigh Graham, and his family are in Lansdowne. So Theo and his now wife Kylie moved to town and bought a house that they are renovating. The town is beautiful and growing, Theo and his company want to be part of that.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Growing.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Who has had an awful renovation construction experience? Reach out to Theo at Songwood Contracting and let him change that for you. His open communication and commitment to quality will guarantee you a phone call back and he shows up when he says he will show up.

    Songwood Contracting described in one word: Integrity.

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    Scentsy Consultant

    Scentsy Consultant

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Chantelle Trebinskie
    Business Name: Scentsy Consultant
    Website: www.fragrancefreedom.scentsy.ca
    Address: 305 River Street, Gananoque ON, 
    Phone Number: 343-989-4047

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I am a busy mom to 5 amazing children and step-children ranging from 13 years to 5 months! My hobbies revolve around my children, we love spending our free time in our beautiful town. We love playing in the parks, geocaching on the trails, visiting the public library and getting out on the river! I decided to start my own business as an independent Scentsy Consultant because it allowed me the freedom to do all the things I love with my children. Scentsy allows me the freedom to make my own hours which was everything to me! My children are very active, somebody always has a dance class or karate, or a guitar recital, as an independent consultant I have the perfect balance of work and home.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    My Scentsy business offers amazing products, I offer a wide range of scented products, warmers & wax, diffusers and 100% natural oils, cleaning supplies, bath products and so much more. I offer the service of home party planning. Pick a date, gather your friends and family and party Scentsy style! Parties consist of fun games, awesome prizes, product demonstrations, and displays themes are always a fun and festive option as well. My party host can be as little or as fully involved as they like.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    The business achievement I am most proud of is just taking the leap to get the business started. My business is brand new and I plan to achieve many great goals. I am proud to be expanding my business to local vendor events starting this November.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I chose Gananoque for my business as this is where I grew up, it's where my husband grew up, and where I knew I wanted my children to grow up. I fell in love with the Town and the community of people who reside here.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, historic, peaceful, friendly, quiet, clean

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I'd like to start off by saying thank you for supporting local businesses! When you shop local you support families instead of large corporations and I think that’s so important in a small community like ours. I look forward to providing you with exceptional customer service and products you can trust! Our products are natural, gluten and vegan free and never tested on animals! I look forward to providing you my services whether that’s product, a party or joining my team.

    Scentsy described in one word: Opportunity

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    Rapunzel Studio of Hair Design

    Rapunzel Studio of Hair Design

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Carolyn Harding
    Business Name: Rapunzel Studio of Hair Design
    Website: www.rapunzelconcept.com
    Address: 41 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1E8
    Phone Number: 613-382-8515
    E-mail: info@rapunzelconcept.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We’ll be celebrating 30 years in business in Gananoque in March 2019, carrying Aveda this whole time I opened the business knowing not a soul in town, but knowing it was where I wanted to settle. I teach yoga at the Ledger Room and sell a fabulous chocolate, Chocosol. I am active on a few boards and love my business buddies in town, my family and live music.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Since we’re an Aveda concept salon, the focus is on caring, for our staff, clients and the world we live in. I think people feel our mission, they know we care.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Staying, 30 years is a long time. It means I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with many employees, thousands of clients and contributed to fundraising efforts for many meaningful causes from social to environmental.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    It’s a beautiful area where one can find a lovely balance of life and work.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, Welcoming, Special!

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    For a personalized experience, skincare, haircare and products, give us a try, we know you’ll enjoy your time with us.

    Rapunzel Studio described in one word: Caring
     

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    Poole Woodworks

    Poole Woodworks

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Nick Poole 
    Business Name: Poole Woodworks
    Phone Number: 613-305-3281
    E-mail: nick@poolewoodworks.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I enjoy spending time with my wife and playing with our son. I have been a cabinetmaker since I finished high school 10 years ago and have always dreamed of owning my own business.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    I build high end custom cabinets and millwork entirely from scratch right here in Gananoque.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am always most proud of the quality of work I produce on every project and keeping that my main focus above anything else.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    My wife and I bought our house in Gananoque 3 years ago which had a suitable building with plans to set up shop from the beginning.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    There is a strong sense of community here in our area. Everyone is friendly and welcoming.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I very much look forward to the opportunity to sit down and talk about your cabinet or millwork project!

    Poole Woodworks described in one word: Quality
     

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    Panache Bakery & Cafe

    Panache Bakery & Cafe

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Ting Tsai
    Business Name: Panache Bakery & Cafe
    Website: www.panachebakery.net
    Address: 162 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-382-1412

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Baking, cooking, drawing, crafts. We have owned Panache Bakery and Cafe for 3 years. We started at the Kingston Market and we were looking for a place to grow our business. We found a great opportunity in Gananoque. We took over the bakery and have been proud to be a local business owner since 2015!

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We are a bakery and cafe with everything made on site from scratch: very wide selection of products from breads, cookies, squares, cakes, choux pastry, puff pastry, macaron, sandwiches, soups, chili, salads, gourmet food, specialty coffees and tea, etc.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Compliments from our customers, telling us how good our food and services are and to see all our seasonal customers come back every year!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We fall in love with the beautiful scenery and nice people here.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    A jewel of the Thousand Islands.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Come in and enjoy our delicious goodies and great hospitality!

    Panache Bakery & Café described in one word: Delicious

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    Krista Jahnke Photography & Design

    Krista Jahnke Photography & Design

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Krista Jahnke
    Business Name: Krista Jahnke Photography & Design
    Website: www.kristajahnke.com
    Address: Gananoque, ON
    E-mail: krista.jahnke@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I graduated from Carleton University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Architectural Studies then moved to Vancouver to attend Emily Carr University where I earned a BFA in Photography in 2009. After graduation I decided to start my architectural photography practice.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    I provide architectural and interior photography services for architects, interior designers, and product designers. My photography is used for marketing and publishing, most notably in design magazines, blogs and books. My photography stands out because my background in architecture helps me understand a space immediately, allowing me to recognize details worth documenting.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Starting and maintaining a business during the 2008 recession. Having my photography included in the modern architecture documentary, Coast Modern. Getting paid for work that doesn't feel like work.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I started my business in Vancouver in 2008 and this summer relocated back to Ontario to start the next chapter of my career. Gananoque stood out as a place where I could see myself establish roots and contribute to a community. My favourite part of living in Vancouver was escaping to one of the islands for a few days of serenity, now I live among a thousand of them!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Picturesque and full of possibilities.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Send an email if you have any architectural projects that need documented!

    Krista Jahnke Photography & Design described in one word: Thoughtful

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    Klips Pet Grooming & Boutique

    Klips Pet Grooming & Boutique

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Becky Mills
    Business Name: Klips Pet Grooming & Boutique
    Website: www.klipsboutique.ca
    Address: 176 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-382-9696
    E-mail: klips@bellnet.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Love of animals, have worked in the pet industry for more than 30 years. Love it!

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Klips is an open concept grooming salon with a large selection of dog and cat products including such things as food, treats, toys and much more.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I have been operating in the Gananoque area for over 13 years and looking forward to many more.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    In Gananoque the people are like family. Everyone is friendly and approachable. Have made many friends.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    A small town with big hearts and open arms.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We are always glad to see new people and pets. Come for a short visit and check us out.

    Klips Pet Grooming & Boutqieu described in one word: Caring
     

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    KEYS Job Centre

    KEYS Job Centre

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Mark Garrah
    Business Name: KEYS Job Centre
    Website: www.keys.ca
    Address: 375 William Street South, Gananoque ON, K7G 1T2
    Phone Number: 613-382-1085

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Founded in 1983, KEYS provides Kingston and communities in Eastern Ontario with a variety of dynamic employment programs and services. Our expertise in helping individuals to attain their employment goals extends to a diverse population; including: mature workers, persons with disabilities, youth, students, and newcomers to Canada. Whether our clients need support to identify a career; to learn job search techniques; to build an effective resume and cover letter; to practice interview skills or to access training funding to increase their marketability, KEYS is the Community Employment Centre.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Becoming a pillar of the community.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Communities on the verge of greatness!!

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We envision an economically and socially vibrant community in which all individuals can realize their full potential.

    KEYS Job Centre described in one word: Innovative

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    Heather Haynes Gallery

    Heather Haynes Gallery

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Heather Haynes & Jeff Montgomery
    Business Name: Heather Haynes Gallery
    Website: www.heatherhaynes.com
    Address: 27 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1E8
    Phone Number: 613-767-9090

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Jeff and Heather have been married for 23 years. Heather studied fine art at McMaster University and began her artistic career shortly thereafter. Jeff resigned from his job at Dupont's Research Department 12 years ago to help Heather manage the family and her soaring artistic career. They together opened the Heather Haynes Gallery (originally in Kingston) 6 years ago. They moved locations just over 2 years ago to Gananoque. Together they run Worlds Collide Africa and The Art of Courage. Jeff is a musician (singer songwriter) and plays locally when he can. He toured across Canada playing bass for Paul Langlois' (The Tragically Hip) Band alongside Mauro Sepe and Rob Baker (The Tragically Hip) in 2013.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Our business sells original fine art, paintings, drawings, and sculpture. We carry 3 generations of artists which makes us very unique. Jeff's father Peter Montgomery, Heather and son Whit Montgomery are all painters. We also represent a number of incredible Canadian artists. What makes us different than the rest is that you can usually find Jeff or Heather working the gallery, giving the visitor a behind the scenes experience. We host art shows and openings on average every 6 weeks. Welcoming the community and tourists alike.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    The gallery has become a hub for artists to visit, connect, and talk shop. This in turn inspiring others to open businesses and take chances. Being able to make a living as an artist is always an achievement worth celebrating. Which we could never do without the support of our clients and collectors!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We chose Gananoque because we can feel the growth happening here. It's a small enough town to create charm and intimacy. City dwellers long for a weekend away where they can eat great food, get an amazing coffee, stay at a unique hotel/B&B, and visit independently owned shops and galleries. Anything is possible here!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, charming, historic, and a creative community.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Our doors are always open for viewing, chatting, and human connection. Welcome!

    Heather Haynes Gallery described in one word: Inspiring
     

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    Gananoque Curling Club

    Gananoque Curling Club

    Contact Information
    Full Name:  Jayne Curtis
    Business Name: Gananoque Curling Club
    Website: www.gananoquecurlingclub.com
    Address: 300 William Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 2T7
    Phone Number: 613-382-3281

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Gananoque Curling Club has been an established business in Gananoque since 1949. It provides recreation for all ages from 5-95.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We are a recreational facility along with a rental facility. We are unique as curling is a sport for all ages. Our youngest is 5, our oldest member is 95. What other sport can say that?

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We were recognized through Chamber of Commerce for Business of the Year 3 years ago. We have also had Canadian and provincial champions.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    This business was established in 1949.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful area to live.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Welcome and enjoy the area we live and play.

    Gananoque Curling Club described in one word: Exceptional

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    Gan Fitness

    Gan Fitness

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Bethanie Matthews
    Business Name: Gan Fitness
    Website: www.ganfitness.com
    Address: 210 James A Brennan Road, Gananoque ON, K7G 1N7
    Phone Number: 613-929-9927
    E-mail: Ganfitness@outlook.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I've lived in the Gananoque and 1000 islands my whole life, minus the four years I went to the University of Ottawa to study Human Kinetics. When I came back to Gananoque I started my personal training career in Kingston at Goodlife Fitness. After working for a year, I realized health and wellness and coaching people to be the best they can be was something I loved and could spend my life doing. With the old Family Fitness being for sale in Gananoque, it was the perfect opportunity to purchase the business and start our own facility-- to bring the people of Gananoque a clean, friendly and welcoming fitness facility for all. I love the outdoors (hiking, running, swimming, -- you name it) so we have incorporating many things into our gym like SUP classes, outdoor Amazing Races and Golf Tournaments-- keep everyone active in and out of the gym!

    Define your business in your own words.
    We have a full facility for the public with cardio equipment, free weights, weighted machines and much more that you can get any type of workout you are looking for in. We have personal trainers to help you achieve your goals, and classes for every age and fitness level! Classes include Bootcamps, Pilates and Small Group Strength Training Classes. We have a great non-intimidating community, members and staff members are welcoming and willing to help each other achieve goals.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Over the past five years since opening our doors we have made the gym a place for everyone. Our memberships have tripled since opening our doors, with many long-time members. We offer services for those young or aging, male/female, elite athletes or for someone just getting started. The best part of our business is helping people see their health and wellness improve-- and for them to achieve results that they never thought possible.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I love Gananoque, and I love fitness. Gananoque and TLTI needed a fitness facility that was welcoming to all and affordable to allow all the members or Gananoque and the surrounding area to stay fit, happy and healthy!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Home. Our community is one of a kind. It is great to walk down the street and say hello to almost everyone. You walk in the grocery store or local coffee shop and you will know at least 5 people in there! Our community is a home that welcomes every one, and that is how I want Gan fitness to feel when you walk in the doors.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Come in and say hello! You won't regret it and neither will your health!

    Gan Fitness described in one word: Healthy
     

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    Ford Chiropractic Clinic

    Ford Chiropractic Clinic

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Dr. Tim Ford
    Business Name: Ford Chiropractic Clinic
    Address:  82 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G1
    Phone Number: 613-382-8877
    E-mail: fordchiropractic@cogeco.net

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I became interested in becoming a Chiropractor from my experiences related to hockey injuries as a teenager. I unintentionally started my practice 100 years from the original date of the first Chiropractic adjustment on September 18th, 1995. I grew up in Gananoque and I enjoy helping and serving the people in my community.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We have a family based practice, seeing patients of all ages. Our clinic hours reflect the needs of our community, with morning, afternoon and evening hours 5 days per week.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are most thankful for the continued support of our community. We have a very busy clinic with proven results that is best reflected in the continuous referrals that our patients provide us.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    It’s my hometown and there is no place like it on the planet.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Once you’re here and experience the warmth and the beauty of the area, especially in the summer months it stays with you and it’s very difficult to forget.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Everyone is welcome here!

    Ford Chiropractic Clinic described in one word: Relief

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    Farmhouse Flowers & Gifts

    Farmhouse Flowers & Gifts

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Judy Orr
    Business Name: Farmhouse Flowers & Gifts
    Website: www.facebook.com/farmhouseflowersgananoque/
    Address: 192 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-382-3336
    E-mail: info.farmhouse@primus.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    In high school, my aunt managed a flower shop in Kingston and she asked me to come and help out, that is where it all started.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Warm, inviting, fresh product. If I don't have a product a customer is looking for, I will find it for them.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Since I've opened (Feb 1, 2018) it’s been so positive, the feedback from customers has been very supportive and that was my goal in starting a business. Positive feedback.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We live outside of Gananoque and have for 15 years. I have travelled to Kingston for work and decided to start a business here close to home.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    This region is beautiful and breath taking in summer and fall.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Welcome to Farmhouse Flowers & Gifts!

    Farmhouse Flowers described in one word: Family

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    Executive Secretarial Services & Art Supplies

    Executive Secretarial Services & Art Supplies

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Sandra Wright
    Business Name: Executive Secretarial Services & Art Supplies
    Website: https://www.facebook.com/Executive-Secretarial-Services-Art-Supplies-18…
    Address: 194 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-382-1170
    E-mail: sandrawright@primus.ca

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Started in a small 18 X 22 foot room at the back of a store on King St E, Gananoque ON in 1986.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Copy Centre; Colour Copies; Laminating; Binding; Scanning to PDF & JPG; Passport Photos; Stationery; Paints - Oil - Acrylic - Water - Tempera; Canvas & Boards; Brushes; FedEx.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We have been a copy centre since 1986.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I started the business in Gananoque as it was a service that was needed in the area.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Majestically stunning.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Thank you! Please accept our sincere thanks for letting us serve you. We greatly appreciate the fact that you have chosen to do business with us, and in return, we pledge our continuing efforts to offer you the best service possible now and in the future. Please come again!

    Executive Secretarial Services described in one word: Productive

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    Esthetics by Jenny

    Esthetics by Jenny

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Jenny Wyatt
    Business Name: Esthetics by Jenny
    Address: 495 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G9
    Phone Number: 613-453-3909
    E-mail: Jennifer.c.wyatt@hotmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    My name is Jenny Wyatt I have been an esthetician since 1993 and still loving it. My family and I moved to Gananoque 6 years ago and that has been the best decision. We love the community and I love my clients. I spend my days making individuals feel better. Outside of esthetics, I spend my time with my family and have a small hobby farm.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    My business is a whole body experience where I meet the needs of all of our senses. What makes me unique is that my services are a passion and each experience is geared to my client’s needs

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I am very proud of the success that I have had in this industry and still very surprised that I have developed such a supportive clientele base in this area. I knew no one when I first moved into the community and feel so grateful for getting to know such amazing people in such a small period of time :)

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I decided that since we moved into the community it would be best to work here as well.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Kind, Supportive, Unique

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    I am looking forward to meeting you!

    Esthetics by Jenny described in one word: Professional

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    Eminence Massage Therapy

    Eminence Massage Therapy

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Beth Dunkinson 
    Business Name: Eminence Massage Therapy
    Website: www.eminencemassagetherapy.com
    Address: 186 King Street East Suite 101, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-382-7777
    E-mail: eminencemassagetherapy@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Eminence Massage Therapy was born January 2018. I noticed there was a need for a Massage Therapy focused clinic in the area. We are currently the only Registered Massage Therapy business in the immediate area where RMT is the main focus, with more than one therapist on site to meet the needs of clientele. We pride ourselves in being comfortable and welcoming. We invite our clients to make themselves at home in our cozy waiting area where we offer water, coffee, tea, and sometimes other treats. We have self-massagers, reading material and comfy seats so our clients can spend as much time before or after their treatments relaxing.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Eminence is first and foremost a Registered Massage Therapy business with some "extras" on the side. We have currently 3 RMT's on board, all with different skills and focuses to make sure we get our clients the most effective care possible. We also offer some special events from time to time such as Mindfulness Training, Zentangle, free Essential Oil workshops and more. We have some other services to offer as well such as Reiki, Neurofeedback, Fascial Stretch Therapy, Airbrush Tan and more. We are always dabbling in new services, these are always posted on our FB page :)

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We feel most grateful and proud of the amazing response and support from our loyal clients that has made our first year more successful than we ever could've imagined!!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I had been working in the area as an RMT for 7 years, with a steady increase of clients. I could never believe how much I kept hearing "I never knew you were here, there's nowhere to get a massage in Gan". At the time, I felt I was ready to grow my business and decided to venture out on my own and create a place where there was lots of availability for people to get appointments and began to put extra time into spreading the word and promoting.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, delightful, close knit, has so much potential.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We are always welcoming new clients, please come and visit us for your next massage!!

    Eminence Massage Therapy described in one word: Inviting
     

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    Eco Auto Care

    Eco Auto Care

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Joan Sayer
    Business Name: Eco Auto Care
    Website: www.eco-autocare.com
    Address: 145 Elizabeth Drive, Gananoque ON, K7G 1P4
    Phone Number: 613-328-5242 or 613-382-1748

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    I opened my home based business in 2007 and we are still going strong in 2018.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I saw a need for a local detailer and wanted to work in my own community.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gananoque has a lot of small town charm, beautiful landscape, rivers, and lakes as does the rural areas of Leeds and Grenville.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We welcome new customers and try to accommodate specific hours for customers with busy schedules.

    Eco Auto Care described in one word: Quality

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    Donevan Hardware

    Donevan Hardware

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Charles and Mary Donevan
    Business Name: Donevan Hardware
    Website: www.facebook.com/DonevansHardwareGananoque/
    Address: 135 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G3
    Phone Number: 613-382-2197
    E-mail: donevanshardware@outlook.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Business started in 1872 by James Donevan and is continued today, by his grandson, Charlie Donevan.

    Define your business in your own words.
    Dedicated to serving Gananoque and area for over 150 years, with a huge array of services and products.

    Window repairs, screen repairs, key cutting, knife & scissor sharpening, sheet metal, pipe cutting & threading, kitchenware & gadgets, lamp repairs, rope & chain, antiques, flags, tools, screws, nails & bolts, paint, adhesives, electrical supplies, plumbing supplies, cheddar cheese- mild, medium, and old, cheese curds, Mary’s jewelry & china, local jams & jellies, handmade soaps, local maple syrup, local honey, t-shirts, and much more!

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are proud of the fact that Charlie Donevan has worked in the business since he was six years old.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    James Donevan partnered with Mr. Button prior to 1872, then he purchased the business for himself, as he was enamoured with the hardware business.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Beautiful, tranquil. Garden of the Great Spirit (Native people for over 10,000 years).

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We welcome you to come in and enjoy the many benefits of the community including, extraordinary art galleries, stores, restaurants, theatres, as well as unique and interesting people. You have to book a boat tour for sure!

    Donevan’s Hardware described in one word: Terrific

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    Colonial Resort & Spa

    Colonial Resort & Spa

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Jean Cutcliffe
    Business Name: Colonial Resort & Spa
    Address:  780 King Street West, Gananoque ON, K7G 2H5
    Website: www.colonialresort.com
    Email: info@1000islandtours.com
    Phone Number: 613-382-3226 ext. 27

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Personally I enjoy walking/hiking, travelling and meeting new people, listening to music and socializing with friends. I travel home to PEI to visit family and friends every year. I began working in the tourism industry in high school, working for PEI Tourism for 4 summers, then worked for Parks Canada for 2 summers before coming to the 1000 Islands to work at Hill Island Lodge and Colonial Resort. I liked it here and with full time work available, I stayed! 25 years later, I am still here!

    Define your business in your own words. 
    The Colonial Resort & Spa is a unique property and business. Michelle and I operate it like a family business. We have many returning staff each year (many have been here for 10-18 years) so it feels like family. Most of our senior bus tours as well as family reunions have been returning year after year and they feel like family to us as well. With our tour company, 1000 Island Tours & Travel Inc., we are able to package motorcoach group tours at affordable rates for the 55+ market and provide one stop shopping for those groups.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Our biggest achievement is being able to maintain our senior group package business and continuing the tradition the Henry's began in the '70's. We enjoy that part of our business very much. Also last year, I was fortunate enough to receive the Hal McCarney Hospitality and Tourism Award!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    The business was already here. I worked for Bruce and Jennifer Henry for 15 years, many of which were as manager of the resort. When they decided to retire, Michelle Vessey and myself were excited at the opportunity of purchasing the resort and tour company from them.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Majestic, beautiful, friendly and safe are the words that first come to mind when thinking about this area.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Come as guests, leave as family! We want you to feel at home during your stay with us.

    Colonial Resort & Spa described in one word: Relaxing

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    Clarke & Wright Professional Corporation

    Clarke & Wright Professional Corporation

    Contact Information
    Full Name:  Harry Clarke and Colin Wright
    Business Name: Clarke & Wright Professional Corporation
    Website: www.clarkeandwright.com/
    Address: 280 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G5
    Phone Number: 613-382-8107
    E-mail: ppilon@cw-law.org

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    We are a lively office of four lawyers; Harry Clarke, Colin Wright, Matthew Wright and Arden Deir; our office manager Rachelle Cooper and clerks Paula Delaney and Christianne Serson.  
    All of us, lawyers and staff, love spending time on the River and within our communities.  While not all of us are originally from Gananoque, we are all now very excited to call Gananoque and the surrounding area home.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We are a full service law firm offering legal services in a broad range of practice areas including; real estate, wills, estates, family law, separation agreements, corporate law, contracts, construction, employment, and litigation. We also offer notarial services.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Our lawyers have been practicing and serving Gananoque and the 1000 Islands area for many years.  Harry Clarke was called to the bar in 1967 and Colin Wright in 1977.  Combined with Matthew & Arden, our lawyers offer combined legal experience of over 100 years. 

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Gananoque and Leeds and the Thousand Islands offer a great balance of small town living with many opportunities for growth. Practicing here helps us to better achieve the elusive work-life balance and allows us to be active members of our community. We can connect with our clients establishing and nurturing long term relationships.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Welcoming, Creative, Picturesque, Charming, Community.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    If we can be of assistance to you, please contact us with your questions or to set up an initial appointment. Please note, contacting our firm does not create a lawyer-client relationship without the express consent of our firm.

    Clarke & Wright Professional Corporation described in one word: Personable

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    big river technologies inc.

    big river technologies inc.

    Contact Information
    Full Name: John Free
    Business Name: big river technologies inc.
    Website: www.bigrivertech.com
    Address: 60 Mill Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 3A6
    Phone Number: 613-900-2291

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I’m a wall street technology veteran and I moved to Gananoque recently where I started big river to be the boutique fintech client centric consultancy I always wanted to work for.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    big river technologies inc. was founded by seasoned industry veterans with over 100 combined years of experience in capital markets technology and delivery excellence. Our leadership team created big river to be the boutique client-centric firm they always wanted to work for, truly focused on client success and valued business outcomes. We tackle today’s toughest enterprise challenges by crafting elegantly designed technology solutions that deliver measurable business value. 

    We are battle hardened developers passionate about what we do. Our business-driven development methodology underpins our three practices: FinTech, User Experience Discovery, and Enterprise Computing. Our work spans end-to-end solution ideation, architecture, design, software development, quality assurance and overall delivery. We collaborate with you to identify opportunities that will enable your business, help you build the roadmap to your future operating model, and empower you to go where you have never been able to go before. We are your trusted software development partner.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We have grown from 3 employees to 50 employees within the last two years, some international with many new people in Gananoque.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Shelley Hirstwood from the Town and Trish McNamara of KEYS rolled out the red carpet for us, helped us get established and find the bright young people we need to be successful.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gorgeous lifestyle, work life balance and an eager and proactive economic development group under the capable leadership of Shelley Hirstwood.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We are here to help, passionate about client success and making our people into heroes.

    big river technologies inc. described in one word: Creative

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    Behal & Catchpole

    Behal & Catchpole

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Steve Behal & Jeannie Catchpole
    Business Name: Behal & Catchpole
    Website: www.behalcatchpole.com
    Address: 130 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 647-234-1555
    E-mail: info@behalcatchpole.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    When Steve Behal and Jeannie Catchpole met professionally in Toronto (as Professional Photographer & Graphic Artist respectively) in 1984 they discovered that they were born and raised less than 40 miles apart and attended Sheridan College of Art at the same time. They continued working on freelance projects in Toronto until Catchpole moved to Sun Valley, Idaho. Nearly 25 years later with respective art careers, Behal & Catchpole reunited in 2008, fell in love, and spontaneously began painting on the same canvas. The result was High Desert Traffic, our first collaborative piece (shown below).

    Define your business in your own words. 
    As artists we create original works together and separately.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We have been lifelong artists in a variety of disciplines our entire lives.

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Originally born and bred in the Niagara Peninsula we have spent the past few years in the beautiful resort town of Sun Valley; but all good things must come to an end and so we searched North America to find exactly what we were looking for, 2500 miles away, in Gananoque.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Perfect.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    By Appointment Only or ... see our work displayed at THE O'CONNOR GALLERY in the heart of the village.

    Behal & Catchpole described in one word: Provocative.

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    Beggars Banquet Books

    Beggars Banquet Books

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Tom Stormonth & Alison Dunn
    Business Name: Beggars Banquet Books
    Website: https://www.beggarsbanquetbooks.com/
    Address: 126 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G2
    Phone Number: 613-463-8998
    E-mail: beggarsbanquetbooks@gmail.com

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Alison and Tom moved to the Gananoque area just over 6 years ago to get away from the grind and endless traffic and congestion of Toronto. Tom came with over 20 years experience in the book and comics trade so our original plan was to open a used bookstore; but we soon realized that the two book stores in existence at that time were as much as the Town could support. Fast forward to 3 1/2 half years ago and boom! one of the bookstores was for sale. We cut a deal with the landlord and never looked back. We now carry used books, cheaper overstock books and brand new book releases as well as vintage vinyl records, record supplies, CDs and locally made musical instruments. We love the ARTS vibe here in town and in fact are major contributors and organizers of the 1000 Islands Writers Festival which happens the end of April every year right here in Gananoque.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    What makes us unique is our hands on selling of books tailored to customer specific needs. Many times we guarantee the books we recommend to our customers. We also do a book-finding service and special order service for hard to find books, and we accept used good condition for trade against our used inventory. We also set up our store by categories with quirky names like "Nordic Noir" and "Don't Judge A Book By Its Movie". Our sections are such that if you like one book in the section the rest should be to your liking.. or be at least similar to the genre you like. Alison also makes little stick notes for the books she has read and recommends.. along with a little of what makes that book fun or unique.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We were very happy and proud to make the transition to selling new books within our first year and vintage records within our second! We also managed our business well enough that we were able to purchase our building. This means we will be right here in Downtown Gananoque selling books and records for many years to come!!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    Alison's parents have retired in the eastern Townships of Quebec and we used to stop for a break on our trips to visit them right here in Gananoque. We fell in love with this area and when it came time to move on from Toronto we knew where we were headed.. right here!

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Relaxed, beautiful, a haven for the arts, friendly, lots of cozy pubs with live music, gorgeous scenery, historic, fast paced or slow and relaxed river life.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    Come visit Beggars Banquet Books for a very friendly, personalized, relaxed shopping experience. We carry both old and new books and lots of vintage vinyl records for your browsing enjoyment.

    Beggars Banquet Books described in one word: Supersplendiferous!

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    Arts & Craft Collective

    Arts & Craft Collective

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Tikvah Mindorff & Calvin Chumbley
    Business Name: Arts & Craft Collective
    Website: www.artsandcraftcollective.com
    Address: 161 King Street East, Gananoque ON, K7G 1G3
    Phone Number: 289-696-5631

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    Tikvah: Writing, Reading, Volunteering, Family Time, Trivia. 
    Fun Facts: Moved here last August. 
    Calvin: Arts, Fine Art, Painting, Construction, Gardening. 
    Fun Facts: Went to Highschool here. We met at the Brewery because Calvin was a bartender there. We became fast friends over the fall and in the winter I helped Tikvah to build the Christmas Courtyard for the Downtown BIA. We realized we enjoyed working together so we just kept going.

    Define your business in your own words. 
    We are an artist centre for the emerging artist. We want to help people break into the art scene and be able to experience all types of art without having to leave Gananoque. We have a retail art store with over 30 artisans now, art classes starting September 25 and a print shop available for daily/monthly use with studio space. We are unique because we are the only space where you can learn, make and sell art in one location.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    We are proud of the $5000 new business grant we received in August from the Leeds and Grenville Small Business Enterprise Centre. We are using the grant to purchase high quality printing presses, a kiln and silk screening equipment!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    We both live in Gananoque and want to be able to have fun making art without having to drive 30+ minutes to do so. Gan has a great art community right here and we are proud to support it.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    Gananoque is a quaint town with great character.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    We might be a little weird, but we sure have a lot of fun.

    Arts & Craft Collective described in one word: Artist Center

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    Arrow It Forward

    Arrow It Forward

    Contact Information
    Full Name: Emily Prout
    Business Name: Arrow It Forward
    Website: www.arrowitforward.com
    Address: 479 Brock Street, Gananoque ON, K7G 1K9
    Phone Number:  613-328-9761

    Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
    I started out blogging and featuring female entrepreneurs. I feel that in telling the story behind the brand it allows for more connection with the customer and inspires others to follow their dreams. Being motivated by so many local makers I have come to know and love, I decided to make candles almost a year ago. Now I am in 26 stores across Ontario (of course including 3 in Gananoque!) and I am having a blast!

    Define your business in your own words. 
    Sometimes I'm still surprised I am having success in a category so saturated as candles. I feel people love my candles because of the quality and safety (soy), but also because of the sarcastic and inspirational names.

    What business achievement are you most proud of?
    Being able to take three months off of my day job this past summer because of the consistent growth of my "side-hustle." More time with family, friends...and more time to focus on growing my business even more! My intention is not to have two full-time jobs to bring home as much money as possible, it is a craving for a more flexible way of living and to be driven by what you spend most of your time on!

    Why did you choose Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
    I'm a small town girl, I loved growing up in Gananoque and now raising my family here. The amount of local support I have had is truly heartwarming.

    What words would you use to describe Gananoque/Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
    A magical place on the cusp of a new level of greatness.

    Provide a message to your future guests!
    You truly have no idea how much even the smallest order means to me, when you choose me for gift-giving (even if it's for yourself!) it may just be the thing I need on a day of self-doubt (all entrepreneurs have those days!). It tells me I'm doing the right thing, to keep going.

    Arrow it Forward described in one word: Believe

    Business Owner
    Emily Lutz
    Business Owner
    Thousand Islands Playhouse
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    Maiden Voyage Mobile Bar Co
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    Divine Expression
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    Lighthouse Provisions
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    Pangea House
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    Gananoque Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac
    Business Owners
    IG Wealth Management
    Business Owner
    Klutch Therapy
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    Mavericks Restaurant
    Thousand Islands Youth Boxing Club
    Thousand Islands Youth Boxing Club
    Business Owner
    Vinyl Freak Designs
    Business Owner
    Mama Miller Doula
    Business Owner
    Girl Boss Chess
    Business Owner
    Lindsay Keefe Yoga
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    MC LOVE
    ""
    Trigger Point Gunsmithing
    ""
    1000 Curry
    ""
    Farlane Homes
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    Chrysler House
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    Mother Hat Co.
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    Gananoque Inn & Spa
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    Chiasson Ford
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    Treaty Marshal Service Inc.
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    Synergy Massage Therapy
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    Triptastica Eco Couture
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    Carveth Care Centre
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    Ferguson's Windows & Doors
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    Gan Brewing Company
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    Thousand Islands Osteopathy & Massage
    Laurie Sylvester, Royal LePage Realtor
    Laurie Sylvester, Royal LePage Realtor
    Sotheby's International Realty Canada- Brokerage
    Sotheby's International Realty Canada- Brokerage
    Magnolia Flowers
    Magnolia Flowers
    Kendra Deen Photography + Marketing
    Kendra Deen Photography + Marketing
    Gananoque Boat Line
    Gananoque Boat Line
    Turtle Island Bed and Breakfast
    Turtle Island Bed and Breakfast
    Maple Leaf Restaurant
    Maple Leaf Restaurant
    Thousand Islands Veterinary Services
    Thousand Islands Veterinary Services
    Nature's Tonic
    Nature's Tonic
    1000 Islands History Museum
    1000 Islands History Museum
    McDougall Bickerton Insurance
    McDougall Bickerton Insurance
    1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce
    1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce
    Gananoque Home Hardware Building Center
    Gananoque Home Hardware Building Center
    LTR Corp
    LTR Corp
    Hair Facts Salon
    Hair Facts Salon
    Workplace Performance Consulting
    Workplace Performance Consulting
    Creative Nest
    Creative Nest
    Seaway Manor Bed & Breakfast
    Seaway Manor Bed & Breakfast
    Life on the River Co.
    Life on the River Co.
    Stone and South Condominiums
    Stone and South Condominiums
    Stonewater Gastro Pub
    Stonewater Gastro Pub
    Pine Street Pilates
    Pine Street Pilates
    BBQ Tandoori
    BBQ Tandoori
    The Royal Theatre
    The Royal Theatre
    The Bulloch House
    The Bulloch House
    Riverton Homes
    Riverton Homes
    Silk Salon & Esthetics
    Silk Salon & Esthetics
    KRC Wellness
    KRC Wellness
    Thousand Islands Playhouse
    Thousand Islands Playhouse
    Dreams in Motion
    Dreams in Motion
    99.9 myFM Radio Gananoque
    99.9 myFM Radio Gananoque
    Jet Electrical Contractors Inc.
    Jet Electrical Contractors Inc.
    The Old English Pub
    The Old English Pub
    Woodley's Jewellers
    Woodley’s Jewellers
     Islandview Suites-Historic Gananoque & TPI
    Islandview Suites-Historic Gananoque & TPI
    The Woodview Inn
    The Woodview Inn
    The Wooden Boat Shop
    The Wooden Boat Shop
    The Purple House Cafe
    The Purple House Cafe
    Tedford Fabrication
    Tedford Fabrication
    Steel Style Garage
    Steel Style Garage
    Songwood Contracting
    Songwood Contracting
    Scentsy Consultant
    Scentsy Consultant
    Rapunzel Studio of Hair Design
    Rapunzel Studio of Hair Design
    Poole Woodworks
    Poole Woodworks
    Panache Bakery & Cafe
    Panache Bakery & Cafe
    Krista Jahnke Photography & Design
    Krista Jahnke Photography & Design
    Klips Pet Grooming & Boutique
    Klips Pet Grooming & Boutique
    KEYS Job Centre
    KEYS Job Centre
    Heather Haynes Gallery
    Heather Haynes Gallery
    Gananoque Curling Club
    Gananoque Curling Club
    Gan Fitness
    Gan Fitness
    Ford Chiropractic Clinic
    Ford Chiropractic Clinic
    Farmhouse Flowers & Gifts
    Farmhouse Flowers & Gifts
    Executive Secretarial Services & Art Supplies
    Executive Secretarial Services & Art Supplies
    Esthetics by Jenny
    Esthetics by Jenny
    Eminence Massage Therapy
    Eminence Massage Therapy
    Eco Auto Care
    Eco Auto Care
    Donevan Hardware
    Donevan Hardware
    Colonial Resort & Spa
    Colonial Resort & Spa
    Clarke & Wright Professional Corporation
    Clarke & Wright Professional Corporation
    big river technologies inc.
    big river technologies inc.
    Behal & Catchpole
    Behal & Catchpole
    Beggars Banquet Books
    Beggars Banquet Books
    Arts & Craft Collective
    Arts & Craft Collective
    Arrow It Forward
    Arrow It Forward