Brookfield's Cathy and Melissa McCulloch spent their Saturday morning at the event that showcased local businesses.
"There are businesses here that I didn't even know existed," said Cathy, while she and Melissa sampled a drink from the Nova Scotia Emporium's new Sodastream machine.
"There are so many places I've never been to, but I'll be able to shop more now."
The expo, held at the Best Western Plus Glengarry, featured more than 40 exhibitors ranging from massage clinics to artists to financial organizations.
"I'm really enjoying myself," said Melissa. "There are some free seminars that I'd like to go to."
Many of the exhibitors were giving away samples of products, including food, pens and reusable bags. There were a number of giveaways and people could purchase products from some of the vendors.
"It makes you want to go to the farmers' market," added Cathy, adding the new indoor space at the old fire hall will make it even nicer to visit the market.
Katie Levy, a registered nutritionist and certified practitioner, was stationed behind the table for Prince Street's Sun Spun Natural Foods.
"The health food business is booming," she said while in between talking to passersby about popular products such as Savi Seeds and Holy Crap supplements.
What Levy loves about the Holy Crap product is that it's a supplement, but food at the same time. The supplement is high in protein, fiber and Omega 3.
"It's made with dried fruit and cinnamon, so it's a hormone booster, a blood sugar booster and metabolism booster. It's a win-win no matter what you add it to," said Levy.
"You can stick your tablespoon in there and put a tablespoon or two on top of whatever you're having for breakfast - whether you're having oatmeal, a smoothie, or even a salad for breakfast."
Many passersby have heard about the product thanks to Dragons Den, a popular television show on CBC that has entrepreneurs trying to get business ‘dragons' to back their product both financially and with knowledge of the industry.
Aside from the business's product, Levy said it was important for Sun Spun to have a presence at the expo as it's been in the community for 35 years.
"This store is an icon. We represent continuity. We show that business is sustainable in this town."
Having only moved to the area in November, Saturday's event was a first for Levy and she was impressed with the turnout.
"People are quite interested in the businesses and I'm impressed at how much they care about their town," she said, adding the vendors at the expo were a good representation as to what's available in the downtown core.
"Everything is represented here. You don't have to go to Halifax for anything."
rtetanish@trurodaily.com
