Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show Draws 2,500 Attendees
Rob and Marie Mitchell from Cheers were just two of the 80+ vendors who participated in the Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show, hosted by the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce over the weekend.

If you witness your neighbor dropping their pants and sitting on the ground in the upcoming weeks, don’t be alarmed. It’s likely not an indecent act, but rather a gardening technique called the “bum test,” according to gardening expert Frank Ferragine, also known as Frankie Flowers.
Ferragine, a bestselling author and frequent winner of Landscape Ontario’s Garden Communicator of the Year award, shared his insights as the guest speaker during the final day of the event held at the Aud in Simcoe.
“Gardening isn’t just a hobby; it’s a science with numerous benefits,” Ferragine emphasized. “From boosting mood and mental health to the satisfaction of watching seeds grow into edible produce, there’s a lot to gain.”
The Norfolk community demonstrated its passion for gardening, with many attendees eager to learn and engage with vendors offering various products and services.
The three-day event, held at the CIBC AUDitorium, proved successful, attracting an estimated 2,500 visitors. Among the vendors was World of Plumbing – Kitchen and Bath from Simcoe, whose representative, Jason Doyle, expressed satisfaction with the turnout.
“This weekend has been fantastic for us,” said Doyle. “As a local business, events like these are crucial for increasing our visibility and connecting with the community.”
For first-time participants like Rob and Marie Mitchell of Cheers, the show provided an opportunity to showcase their online business specializing in delivering locally produced beverages.
“With Norfolk’s abundance of wineries and breweries, there’s a high demand for local products,” Marie explained. “Our custom crates offer a convenient way for people to enjoy these offerings without the hassle of traveling across the county.”
The Mitchell’s venture, which began in November 2020, has thrived, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they fulfill orders for customers across Norfolk, Haldimand, and Brant County.
In conclusion, the Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show served as a platform for businesses to connect with the community and promote the benefits of gardening and local entrepreneurship.