By Sharon Jackson
KAGAWONG—There are now three more reasons to visit Ontario’s prettiest village. The brightly coloured kiosks painted in the township’s heritage colours of yellow, blue and red are a welcome addition to the existing year round and seasonal businesses.
The Relax Shack, Cabana North and Artisan Connection, located at the Park Centre (south end of the Cedar Maze), are centrally located in the downtown core within walking and biking distance to Bridal Veil Falls.
Cabana North and Artisan Connection opened their doors during the Victoria Day weekend while The Relax Shack will start up in mid-June.
Debbie Graham, owner of Bridal Veil Variety and now Cabana North, wanted to offer something different in the village. Her kiosk (the blue one in the middle) specializing in ladies wear and accessories including sandals, leggings, brightly coloured beach wear, stylish cover ups, sun hats, pastel-hued scarves and jewellery. Sizes range from small to XXL. The building features a private change area to try items on before purchasing.
Cabana North is currently open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. After June 22, they will be open Wednesday to Sunday (same hours).
Feedback has been very positive with customers commenting the kiosks are a “great idea” with “a lot of nice things.”
Sharon Alkenbrack, Suzanne Darlaston and Gail Zavitz (in the red kiosk), aka The Artisan Connection, offer ‘funky outdoor decor,’ hand knitted socks, loose leaf teas, jewellery containing semi precious stones, stained glass ornaments and other unique gift items for sale.
Ms. Alkenbrack encourages visitors and residents alike to “come check us out” and is thrilled that everyone has been so receptive. Hours are weekends from 11 am to 4 pm with extended hours to come for the summer months.
Ardiss Fenske, owner of Just Relax, has expanded to include her new location called The Relax Shack (in the yellow building). Her services include reflexology, massage, facials, ear candling, access bars, head and hand massage all in the privacy of an essential oils scented space.
When Ms. Fenske was asked how she feels about the work she does, she responded, “It’s all about attitude and choosing to have great love for what I call my work, but what I do is not work but creative expression…for every body that lays (nearly naked) upon by massage table is but canvas upon which I finger paint with aromatic oils. And though no painted picture reveals itself, the true portrait is the relaxed energy that emerges as a smile on the face of the body that has given itself to me as my canvas.”
Ms. Fenske will welcome clients by appointment and walk-ins after June 18.
While taking in a little retail therapy, shoppers can enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk and grab a bite to eat at Hawg Eaters food truck, which is also located (during weekends) at the Park Centre.
