The Recorder
GORE BAY—Carrie Lewis, the owner of Occasions, the newest store to open in Gore Bay, is hoping the store meets customers’ needs for any type of occasion or celebration they are having.
“I chose the name Occasions for my store as I feel that every time people get together for a celebration of a special event it is an occasion,” explained Ms. Lewis, who is the owner/operator of the new store, located at the former Twice As Nice store (and what used to be the old Stedman’s store) at 48B Meredith Street in the town of Gore Bay.
Ms. Lewis told the Recorder she had carried out a survey of people close to Gore Bay and the surrounding communities to get a little feedback of what kind of things they felt were needed. The survey included the party supply store aspect and further, a make your own wine component. The survey also polled which products and services would meet customers’ needs. “We received a good response from the random surveys as to what is needed.”
“I received feedback through the surveys that people want the convenience of having supplies and services close and accessible. I hope to provide this,” continued Ms. Lewis. “I want to provide a store for the people of our community and travellers to our community that fills the needs of their occasion: decorations and supplies for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, special events, holidays and more. There will also be some Island-made gifts featuring local artisans tucked into special spots in the store.”
“Another feature of Occasions is the opportunity of making your own wine. “We received some great assistance from Gary and Judy Middaugh who used to own and run their own make your own wine business in Evansville. They were an excellent help,” continued Ms. Lewis. In Occasions, “this service will cover everything from making a batch for your wedding or special event to making a batch for your own enjoyment as an economic option.” She noted there may be times that appointments need to be made for this.
“I plan to do wedding linen rentals and look for feedback from customers to see if I can fill any other needs they may have,” said Ms. Lewis. “I truly appreciate the warm welcome that the business owners have given me. Opening Occasions has been a desire of mine for a very long time as something I wanted to do. I like a party and occasions are fun!”
“I have to tell you, business owners in the Town of Gore Bay are so helpful, supportive and welcoming; it has made this whirlwind month of March, trying to set up for an April opening, much more manageable,” said Ms. Lewis.
“To all future customers, please visit the store and if there is something you like please tell us. If there is something you need, please tell the staff and we will make every effort to get it,” said Ms. Lewis.
Occasions will be open from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and will open this Saturday, April 6. The store phone number is 705-282-3434 and there are plans for a fax number, email and Facebook page.
