New market at popular Vernon nursery aims to help it thrive in cooler months | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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New market at popular Vernon nursery aims to help it thrive in cooler months

A new Christmas market is happening Dec. 3 and 4.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Jordan Hammermeister

With roughly 75 vendors, the new owners of a popular Vernon nursery are holding fall and winter markets to connect with the community.

Last year, Swan Lake Market & Garden changed ownership and the new owners are looking for ways to keep the garden centre and grocer going in the winter months, said manager Colin Laidlaw.

Up to 75 vendors have been participating in these fall and winter markets and 20 will be on site for the special Christmas market being held for the first time, Dec. 3 and 4.

The Christmas market will have photos with Santa for children and pets, as well as fire pits to keep people warm. Depending on how things go, other dates may be added throughout the week. For more information, visit Swan Lake’s website.

They have everything from inventors, seasonal goods, artisans and more.

READ MORE: Kamloops, Okanagan gearing up for holiday market season

“The business went through an extensive renovation as well as a rebrand to move from Swan Lake Nursery Land to Swan Lake Market and Garden,” Laidlaw said, adding they wanted to make community events a focal point of the market.

“It’s a competitive advantage, it’s more of that trust as a community retailer rather than a big box corporation,” he said.

Previous ownership had closed the nursery for the winter months but they wanted to keep the market open year round. Renovations included a new health and wellness department and fall and winter markets will make good use of the space, he said.

“We have quite significant space and trying to use it wisely.”

In the new year, they’ll consider running the market longer but it depends on the success and feedback from the markets.

READ MORE: Small businesses, and shoppers, return to holiday markets

“So far it’s been excellent, everyone loves the community idea,” he said. “Getting the word out is the next big step so hopefully everyone comes down and enjoys the market.

Swan Lake will remain open throughout the winter season with their grocer options.

 


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