Many businesses in this area chose their location because they seen a community that they wanted to be a part of and wanted to help this area flourish within the city of Brantford. This area sits close to all the amenities of downtown but it is also a growing neighbourhood within itself and has much to offer. You could easily spend an afternoon strolling the area with a coffee and treat from Three Blind Mice perusing the shops, with 2 hour parking along the street!

So what does a florist, coffee & specialty goods, thrift store, heath shop and bridal shop all have in common? They are all working on strengthening the image of these few blocks between Clarence and Murray on Colborne.

Why here?

Emelines Cashe has only been open a month but the owner, Lesley, had wanted to open a store in the downtown area for some time. Lesley enjoys this area a lot and pointed out the food, art and churches as some of her favorite aspects. Lesley was sitting at Maria’s Pizza, when she looked across the street and decided she wanted to see something beautiful there too. Like the other business owners I spoke with, she wanted to add to the neighbourhood something good. Olga, owner of Brantford Blooms, also noticed something missing from the area and started a floral business that really brightens up the street. Olga believes the “town will grow someday into a better place” and that this area could still use some improvements and support before it will fully bloom. When the Source closed down Taryn opened Tip Top Health Shoppe for “a whole population who no longer had access to healthy food or vitamins. Taryn also noticed that, “downtown is starting to revitalize and I wanted to be part of that turning downtown, wanted to be part of the process.

Although these three businesses decided to open their stores here, Lily, from Bridal Boutiques, explains that several years into business they decided to move to their current location on Colborne. With the traffic coming in for the Casino and events, it brings many people by their shop and she is happy with the new location. She also enjoys the student population being so close by and believes that being a destination shop makes location a little less relevant because people will come to you for their occasion.

Lindsay, owner of Three Blind Mice, also chose to relocate her business to this neighbourhood, but for more personal reasons. They established the shop in Paris but moved to their current location to be closer to home. They had watched the changes start to spread around the area in the last 8 years and they wanted to “make improvements on area we live in (and) do something for our neighbourhood.”

What next?

With uncertainty a big part of any small business, most businesses simply plan on making it to next year and, hopefully, with an increase in profit. Some businesses are definitely planning to stay in the area and maintain, such as Bridal Boutique, which bought the building to show they weren’t kidding about staying. Tip Top Health Shop would like to keep growing, informing the community about healthy alternatives through classes and products. Three Blind Mice is also looking to stay in the area and expand their services. They would like to create a small outdoor café to create more seating and be able to hire from the surrounding area. Emelines Cashe sees their location as the “birthplace of this business” but also feel that it would like to “go on to help people that are unemployed or non-skilled.” Although they have only been open 3 weeks, Lesley is hoping to get involved in using her business as a step for training and skills for those who need it most.

With a number of thoughtful community-oriented businesses in the area it will be exciting to see who comes into the area in the future and how they will fit into the current dynamics, values and directions these business owners have envisioned. Although there are a variety of services in this area, there are also a number of empty lots and broken links that could be improved upon. I asked these business owners what they thought the area needed most and they offered several interesting and noteworthy ideas.

Everyone agreed that the area could use more attention on aesthetics. Trees along the road, more flowerpots, and garbage cans were just some of the ideas to “beautify” the area. Emelines Cashe’s owner also thought the railroads could be made more attractive if we highlighted them as an important aspect of Brantford and created “signs bigger than life, think Disney.” Although already running a thrift store, Lesley would like to see more thrift stores in the area. She pointed out that “everyone is carrying something different” and “it is good to have options.” A museum or mini-museums could also enhance the good Brantford already has to offer.

There were also a couple concerns about the types of businesses in the area and the perception the general public has about these locations. As Olga from Brantford Blooms points out, we need “more decent small businesses that are public oriented.” She would like to see more families enjoy the area but there needs to be an attraction for them to do so. There are a number of specialty stores such as, a florist, bridal store, specialty gifts, sports equipment, music center and hairstylists, but, the area could still use more general goods and services. Lindsay would like to see “more eateries and artisans.” Most businesses in the area are happy with the amount of parking but also realize that if there were the desired increase in business they would certainly need more. Taryn is
already feeling the need for more parking, although she also notes that most her current customers are pedestrians who live close by.

They have certainly noticed the increase in attention already beginning here and they hope to keep the momentum going. A few business owners mentioned that they felt the city of Brantford had confidence in the area as they have already improved the roads and added some street parking along the side roads. Supporting one another has been key for many of these owners and they know that public support and shopping locally could ensure their business lives in the area.

Becca Godbout
Metro Interactive Agency
a Brantford marketing company[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The post Brantford Vibrant City – Brantford Business appeared first on MiAgency Digital Marketing Agency - Hamilton.

I recently attended a trade show just outside Toronto.  It was bustling with small and medium sized companies displaying their products and offering incentives on their services.  It seemed everyone there was selling.  Not just the vendors that paid four hundred dollars  and more for a display booth, but also the attendees that paid twenty dollars to get in.  Standing back and watching the back and forth I was reminded that business isn’t necessarily easy.  If you build it, they wont necessarily come.

Forbes Magazine in January 2014 posted an article, “7 Big Things a Startup Must Have To Succeed.”  Of course most people in business can recite these off the top of our heads; a sense of timing, simple budget, money, great social skills, follow-through (Stick-to-it-iveness), self discipline and flexibility.   Although these make sense and are a must for just starting, many business owners and sales people are struggling to compete.

At the trade show, the conversation seemed to go like this:

Vendor: “Hello, would you like to try our service?”
Visitor: “Sure maybe but why don’t you try my service?”

Then cards are exchanged and perhaps there is a connection, but perhaps not.

So I have put together my list of 5 Musts for Business Success in 2017.

1. Remember The Basics:  Sometimes the pressures of business make you forget the basics.  You are in business to make your customers happy and to earn a living.  So strive to be the best.  It is ok to want to be the best.  Keep your service offering simple.  Charge enough so you can always provide the best service to your customers.  Remember you are running a business. Hire the right staff.  Lastly, it is ok to use old technology.  Sometimes people love getting mail.  Yup, just regular mail that is not an invoice or an ad.  A simple thank you letter or card.
2. Attitude of Gratitude:  Most in business can think of one customer we took for granted and realized the relationship was deteriorating in the background.  Show appreciation to your clients and staff.  Remember, no-one has to do business with you.  There are other companies like yours so have an attitude or appreciation and see how your relationships in business are strengthened.  Try this – Next time you go to a trade show or networking event, walk around smiling as if you appreciate and love being there and see how magnetic it is.
3. Grow as a leader:  Businesses grow and evolve and so should you.  This may require skills training or learning certain aspects of your business at a higher level.  Do not put it off in 2017.  Remain your businesses greatest asset and stay ahead of technology and trends.  Remember your mentors and reach out to them.  Grow or die is my favorite saying. If you are not growing, your competition is in the process of taking you out.  So grow as a leader as if your business life depends on it.
4. Build an EcoSystem:  A business can only scale if there is more than just you.  Many people start businesses as single entrepreneurs or with a small group of partners.   At some point, inspiration lags and the business may start to sputter.  Especially if you see areas of desired growth but you put off that step until you or your existing partners have time to allocate to rolling out the new service.  Inevitably this gets pushed until the energy for the project is gone.   Consider accomplishing your goals using third party partners.  This may allow you to offer services to your customers that are delivered through your partner company.
5. Understand Money:  A question I had when starting out in business is how do I best manage my money?  How do I pay myself?  What is the best way to depreciate an asset?  Are there grants available for me and my company?  Does the government have technology and innovation grants?  What about right-offs and taxes?  It may not be necessary for you to know what an accountant knows, but it can’t hurt to know more than you know now.  When an accountant explains something to you, be sure to know fully what they are talking about.

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Brantford Downtown: The place to be for Opportunity

Born, raised and schooled here, I have developed a special relationship with Brantford. I was excited when my boss asked me to go into the heart of Brantford, the downtown core, and ask some of the local business owners a couple questions. With so many changes, especially in the last decade, there is no doubt an array of opinions. Some positive and, yes, a couple negative too! Overall though, one thing stood out; Brantford downtown is a place of opportunity.

After brief discussions with three of the local business owners, I gained some insights about the past and future of this great city and I would like to share it with you. Bob Warmington, of Warmington’s Bistro, offered some of his opinions; Bob being the owner of the established and respected Bistro for 11 years now. Cobby’s owner, Trevor, also spent a quick few moments detailing his views on Brantford while juggling a handful of hungry customers. Lastly, I was off to Sophia’s Bakery to have a heartfelt discussion with owner Laure Duguid while her Husband “Mr, Downtown” dished out coffees and delicious treats for all. So what did I get the chance to talk about with these three local business owners?

What made you choose this spot? Why downtown Brantford?

There are many reasons a business might choose a particular location over another. Warmington’s Bistro, having been established for 11 years, started their business before the upswing began in the downtown district. Owner, Bob Warmington said that his business has “been through the downfalls of downtown and the rejuvenation of the downtown with the universities.” He chose this location simply because him and his wife, the cook Jolene, liked it. Good enough reason as any and we are happy they chose it!

Cobby’s and Sophia’s Bakery, both being more recently established, chose their locations based on timing and opportunity. Cobby’s located on the Market street walkway, seen this location as a “good opportunity to get in and get started.” With so much being built up around this location, he felt it was the perfect timing to start a fast-paced diner with a large variety of items to choose from. Now, three years into business, Trevor is excited to see what will happen next with the Laurier Brantford purchase of the Market Square mall.

Laura Duguid, owner of Sophia’s Bakery, also expressed similar reasoning for her corner location where King street meets Colborne. In her words, “downtown is on an upswing and can only get better. (We) want to be on the ground floor when it happens.” Of course, downtown has a variety of currently unused building looking for life and rejuvenation and they certainly had their pick. However, this corner location has family history and fond memories for Duguid and her husband.  When they found out the Ford Plant was closing its doors everything started to fall into place. Hard work and much research went into the 18-month renovations and the result is outstanding.

What do you think has made you successful, not successful?

Since students predominantly populate the downtown core for two-thirds of the year, it is hard to ignore their presence when considering economic development and future city planning. However, where does that leave business for the other four months?

For Warmington’s Bistro, success has been two-fold. For one, lasting 11 years has allowed them to build a return client relationship, especially with professionals and workers looking for a filling and delicious homemade lunch. On the other hand, the universities bring business for seven to eight months of the years, but, he believes, they also take their business with them when they leave for summers and vacations. Luckily, the businesses remain and the workers need lunch.

Cobby’s decided to offer a wide variety of items to reach a wide variety of people, and it works! As one of the only places students and professors can run into on their 10-minute break and grab a wrap and some fries, it is conveniently located, competitively priced and downright delicious.  Although summers can become tough on business, owner Trevor still has a positive outlook for the future of his business.

Laura Duguid and her husband certainly did their research before moving their bakery in and it seems to have paid off. Spending 2 years shadowing, 18 months renovating and taking the time to build a strong social media connection with clients, Sophia’s Bakery brings in business from all over Brantford and enjoys connecting with people from all over Southern Ontario. This allows them a little less concern when the summer months come around. Duguid adds that “students aren’t leaving, they’re staying” and they “bring (a) huge populous of intelligent” workers. By connecting with students through the school year, they create return clients for the summer months as well.

Where do you see the future of downtown? What does Brantford downtown need next?

There appears to be a consensus that the rebirth of the downtown core is far from over, and there were a couple suggestions these owners were more than happy to share. All agree that the students bring business and there are things these students would not only like, but could benefit from. All three felt there was a need for more diverse restaurants and clothing stores. There have been attempts to establish such places in the last decade and with proper research into what people want there is certainly room for growth here.

Two interesting suggestions came from Laura Duguid: a hotel and a cinema. A hotel would be able to house out-of-town guests that are coming for entertainment. With the Sanderson Center, Brantford Casino, and multiple talented local bands, people need a place to rest their head at the end of the night and an affordable hotel could provide such services. A cinema would also be great for economic development. As the universities continue to increase enrollment rates we now have enough of a client base to ask for such entertainment facilities. Students need a break too and a theatre would provide such downtime.

There are, of course, two big changes already in the works: the building of the new YMCA and Laurier’s new ownership of the Market Square mall. Although not everyone was happy to see the heritage buildings demolished, the business owners do feel that this brings new opportunity and excitement. Duguid pointed out that she seen how “people came to watch the demolition of Colborne” and believes that “3 times as many are going to be interested in the rebirth”

What do you think?

• Whether you are from Brantford, just visiting or looking to come by for a visit there appears to be a lot of opportunity and room for development. What do you think about the rejuvenation of the downtown core?
• Of course, here we have only represented a very small sample size of business owners with specks of my own opinion so, what do you think? Do you think these three local businesses have it right?
• What are your favorite local businesses?

Becca Godbout
Metro Interactive Agency
a Brantford marketing company

The post Downtown Brantford Flourishes appeared first on MiAgency Digital Marketing Agency - Hamilton.

Nothing beats the enthusiasm of entrepreneurs when they first start their business.  Over the past few months, I have been blessed to meet people, young and old that have recently started their businesses.  You can almost spot them a mile away.  The laser sharp eye contact, the fluidity of the pitch, dare I say, the “swaggar”.  There is something magical about their child-like optimism and the “if you create it, they will flock” mentality.

For many entrepreneurs, this energy is sufficient to ignite everyone they meet and to propel their start-up to success.  But for some, other circumstances make a predicted rise to success difficult.

I was at a networking event in Burlington recently and had a chance to discuss the challenges of start-ups with some of the attendees.  One point that struck me that came up over and over was that the message or advertisement, no matter how well crafted, disintegrates into white noise quickly after being deployed.  Furthermore, if you don’t keep shouting the same message over and over, louder than all of the others that are shouting at the same market, your message is lost and your results are lackluster at best.

So, I have come up with some suggestions for entrepreneurs on how to increase your chances of success for your business.  Most of the ideas are focused on widening your warm market.

1. Move your online social strategy to the front burner.  Many businesses do not use available social networks like Facebook or LinkedIn to gain maximum benefit.  A client of mine told me at the beginning of January that 80 percent of his new business comes from either LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

2. Be friends with your friends.  We all have them, the friends that contact us when they need something or are selling something.  Part of your social strategy should be to deliberately carve out time in your month to spend with friends.  Recently, I started a guys cook off every other Sunday.  It has now grown to include wives and partners, but originally, the guys would meet at my place and bring all the ingredients for their favorite dish, or experimental dishes and we would spend the entire afternoon cooking and sharing a drink.  At 5:30 we would all sit at the table and have a wonderful feast.  Many times we sit and chat till after 9pm.  My friends are often now the first to support me if I need support and I am eager to assist them as often as needed.

3. Its time to Meetup.  I am surprised to hear people still unaware of the Meetups in their area.  It doesn’t matter what your business is.  We all have hobbies.  Visit www.meetup.com, create an account and join meetups in your area that appeal to you.  For instance, a friend of mine loves photography although she admits she is not good at it.  But she joined a photography Meetup in Calgary and enjoys the time she gets to apply to her hobby, but also appreciates the ease in which she is meeting new people who are interested in what she does for a living.  For me, I joined three business networking meetups; two in in Brantford and the Business In Burlington Meetup.  I also joined a Vegetarian/Vegan meetup and an active social group Meetup.  The caution is that these meetups are NOT for you to use as a business pitch session, it IS to meet new people and widen your warm market.  Balance your day-to-day business conversation with non-business social interactions.  The results will surprise you.

4. Exercise your body.  Starting and operating a business is mentally challenging.  To have balance in your life, you must also challenge your body.  I am not talking about a daily walk around the neighborhood, or the hours you spend on the golf course, although these too are good to do often.  I suggest that you commit to a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day.  This exercise should make you sweat and you should be sweating for at least 30 minutes daily.  So 30 sweaty minutes on the treadmill, or bike, or weights.  Just 30 minutes or 150 minutes a week.  Guaranteed, in 2 weeks, you will feel great, and more focused.  I always remind entrepreneurs that more than their product or service, they are the most important element in their success.  Therefore dedicate time for mind, body and spirit growth and strengthening.

5.  Lastly, always be learning.  Specifically, always be learning about business.  Sign up for business or marketing newsletters.  Read them daily.  Grow in your understanding of how business works, new social marketing strategies and options, marketing.  Here are a few suggestions for your reading pleasure:

• Social Media Today – This can be found at http://socialmediatoday.com.  Be sure to sign up for their newsletter
• EMarketer – This is full of interesting current marketing news and facts including reports and demographic info. https://www.emarketer.com/Newsletter
• Inc.com Small Business Success Newsletter.  Nuff said.  http://www.inc.com/newsletter

I hope you find this helpful.  Please send me your feedback to the contact email on this website.

The post Start-Up Tips – Successful Entrepreneurs appeared first on MiAgency Digital Marketing Agency - Hamilton.