🍰 Connecting to Community As a New Business Owner

In this episode, Tara McCaulley from the Elgin Business Resource Centre and Grayden Laing from Establish Media sit down with Cindy Leon from Honey Cake Pastry Shop and Paul Jenkins from the St. Thomas Chamber of Commerce to talk about what it really takes to connect with your community as a new business owner. From market research to networking, this episode is full of practical advice for anyone starting fresh, especially if you are new to the community.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

– Cindy’s inspiration for starting Honey Cake Pastry Shop
– Why understanding your community before you open is essential
– How market research helps you find your ideal customers
– The importance of focusing on quality products
– Why what works in one community may not work in another
– How networking and local resources like chambers and BIAs can support you
– Ways to collaborate with other business owners instead of competing
– Why knowing your numbers matters
– The power of believing in yourself and planning ahead with marketing and trends

👥 About Our Guests:

Cindy Leon is the owner of Honey Cake Pastry Shop in downtown St. Thomas, known for creating cakes and pastries that bring joy to celebrations, from birthdays and weddings to specialty creations.

Paul Jenkins is the CEO of the St. Thomas Chamber of Commerce, supporting local businesses with advocacy, networking opportunities, and community resources.

Grayden Laing is the owner of Establish Media, a creative agency that helps businesses amplify their presence through photography, videography, drone footage, motion graphics, and live-streaming.

🎧 Listen in for honest insights on building connections, finding your place in a new community, and setting your business up for success.