Karen Wheeler
Lockwood Farm
Tell us about your greatest challenge and how you overcame it:
Organizing the Finger Lakes Lavender Festival has been my biggest challenge. The festival started as a U pick lavender weekend to see what kind of response we would get. With success I wanted to expand to having more of our own lavender products and adding local artists. Marketing and advertising with no budget was an issue so a year ago we started a local art poster contest to advertising the event and found Plank Road Magazine to co sponsor. And in our 5th year we have added over 30 artist and culinary delights, 8 presenters educating the public about the benefits of lavender and agriculture. Last year we welcomed over 3000 visitors to this unique event.
What advice do you have for other women entrepreneurs or aspiring entrepreneurs?
Don't Go It Alone! I found I needed someone to bounce ideas off of and remembering I don't have all the answers. Networking and making connections with other entrepreneurs is so important.
Key take-aways from your experience with the WISE Center or Symposium:
So many things! As a member of the Creative Roundtable discussion group I have found that when other entrepreneurs shared their success and failures it has helped me stay focused. And it’s ok that I can’t do it all.
Starting out in a new business with no one to turn to I found that the WISE CENTER had the answers to questions I happen thought to ask.
My experience with the WISE CENTER has made me stronger! Watch Me Grow!
Business website:
www.fingerlakeslavenderfestival.blogspot.com
Phone :
315-685-5369
