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Brittany Powers / February 12, 2024

Feature Story: Needham Promotions

Needham Promotions: Products that Stand the Test of Time

 

SWAG. You’ve all heard it, you’ve all seen it, you’ve probably worn it and you’ve definitely forgotten what it really stands for. When it comes to “Stuff We All Get”, Needham Promotions takes promotional products to an entirely different level, making sure each recipient feels special even if it truly is “stuff we all get.”

Based in Aurora, Ontario, Needham Promotions has stood as a pillar of reliability in the promotional products and corporate branding industry for over three decades. Established back in December of 1993 by David Needham, the company has flourished under the leadership of its current owner, Ashleigh Eldridge, who took the reins in 2014. Ashleigh is the beating heart of Needham Promotions, keeping vital operations efficient through her commitment to organizational excellence and her amazing sense of urgency. This attitude sets the tone for the entire team, and that, coupled with the industry experience from other seasoned employees, allows Needham Promotions to stand out as a reliable player in the corporate branding space.

“Immediacy. That’s one thing that I’m known for in life. If you don’t hear back from me with only half an hour left in the day, you know something’s wrong. I always shut down my computer at the end of the day with my inbox empty. It’s one of the things that I’m known for and I’m extremely proud of,” Eldridge said.

As a member of the Promotional Product Professionals of Canada (PPPC), Needham Promotions adheres to the highest professional standards when curating custom products, so much so, that it was selected as the Distributor of the Year by the PPPC. By boasting a broad selection of products, whether it be uniforms, office supplies, or even trophies, Needham can apply logos using a vast array of application options ensuring companies are represented exactly as envisioned. From traditional silk screening to cutting-edge techniques like 3D HXD, the team is dedicated to delivering unique and lasting impressions.

Of course, it isn’t just the large selection of products and competitive pricing that makes them stand out, Needham Promotions is extremely thoughtful when it comes to its suppliers and clients, investing the time and effort to maintain a strong relationship at each end.

“It’s not so much what we’re selling, it’s who we’re selling to and how it makes them feel. So even if it’s an office administrator’s job to order pens, if I can make those pens look good and put the product in hand promptly, at an amazing price, I’ve done my job right,” she said.

Needham Promotions is known for its proactive approach to customer service, answering questions before they even come to mind. Elizabeth Cromar-Needham does exactly that as a deeply caring customer touch point, she provides personalized solutions to maintain Needham’s strong, longstanding client relationships.

Needham Promotions isn’t just a provider of promotional products, it’s a testament to the enduring values of service, quality, and client satisfaction. With a rich history, a diverse product range, and a team committed to excellence, Needham Promotions continues to be a leader in the corporate branding industry, certainly poised for another 30 years of success down the line.

If you’re interested in leveling up your SWAG, need custom promotional products that stand the test of time, or just want to get your name out there, check out its website!

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Brittany Powers / February 12, 2024

Feature Story: Porches on the Towpath

Porches on the Towpath: Where History and Hospitality Converge

In the heart of New Hope, Pennsylvania, nestled at the end of a quiet lane and overlooking the historic Delaware Canal, lies Porches on the Towpath Bed and Breakfast, an oasis of tranquility and casual elegance. Originally built as a granary in the 1820s, this charming establishment has been meticulously renovated and preserved by the owner, Lisa Pretecrum, offering guests a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort.

As you approach Porches, walkers, and cyclists meander along the towpath right outside the garden gate, mules clip-clop past pulling barges, and the distant whistle of a steam train adds a nostalgic soundtrack to the experience. Despite this idyllic rural setting, New Hope’s bustling bistros, antique shops, and historic sites are mere steps away, providing guests with the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience.

The bed and breakfast boasts thirteen charming and comfortable guest rooms, each equipped with central air and private bathrooms.

“We want our guests to experience the warmth and charm of Bucks Country lodging,” said Lisa, the gracious host and owner. “It’s a place where you can step back in time and enjoy the tranquility of a bygone world.”

Whether you choose a room in the main house, the Gatekeeper’s Cottage, or in the Quarters, Porches on the Towpath offers a range of accommodations suited for groups, families, or those seeking a more intimate escape. Each room reflects the distinctive character and warmth that defines Porches on the Towpath, inviting guests to disconnect and unwind in a space where time seems to stand still.

A highlight of the Porches on the Towpath experience is the delicious breakfast served on the gorgeous wrap-around porch, a perfect spot to start the day while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. Local and seasonal ingredients are carefully chosen to create an unforgettable morning.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Porches has adapted seamlessly, ensuring that groups are accommodated in the dining room to adhere to social distancing guidelines. However, in three seasons of the year, guests can also enjoy breakfast outside on the porch overlooking the gardens and towpath. The gardens surrounding the bed and breakfast provide a serene backdrop, featuring a fire pit, a charming gazebo, and numerous secret spots and secluded corners.

“It’s a place where you can truly unwind and relax,” said Lisa.

The gazebo is perfect for game nights or late-night chats under the stars, creating memories that linger long after their stay.

Last, but certainly not least, Porches on the Towpath is also the perfect venue for events. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, anniversary celebration, family reunion, or a fun-filled getaway with friends, Porches on the Towpath can cater to your needs, with the option to rent the entire property or specific spaces.

Porches on the Towpath is a place where history and hospitality converge to create an experience that goes beyond the ordinary bed and breakfast stay. It’s a journey through time, a place to celebrate the past while inviting guests to savor the present in the heart of New Hope.

If you’re looking for a serene place to stay, an event venue, or just to get out of the city, visit its website and let the photos speak for themselves

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Brittany Powers / February 8, 2024

2024 Interview Series : Embracing an Entrepreneurial Challenge — Michelle Burlison’s Successful Leap into Franchise Ownership

Michelle Burlison’s journey towards franchise ownership began much like many others – with a desire for more freedom, flexibility, and control over her professional life. After working in the corporate world for many years, she was ready to take on a new challenge. And with an extensive background in accounting, and finance, and a pinch of legal and marketing experience, she was well-equipped for her next challenge. Yet, it wasn’t the allure of another corporate gig that caught her eye — it was the entrepreneurial spirit calling her name.

Embarking on a New Venture

Michelle’s journey began with a nudge from a close friend who had found success through franchising. It was through this connection that Michelle was introduced to David Omholt, CEO of The Entrepreneur Authority (TEA), a name that would soon become synonymous with her successful leap into franchise ownership. Initially, Michelle was unaware of all the options available to her in the franchise world, but with David’s guidance and expertise, she was able to narrow down her choices and find the perfect fit.

“David had all the information to help me make an informed decision,” Michelle recalls. “He also invests the time to get to know you. In fact, he went out of his way to get to know my husband as well, even though my husband was not going to be part of the business. So, we were both very impressed with that.”

Schooley Mitchell: The Unexpected Fit

Michelle found herself venturing into uncharted territory with Schooley Mitchell, a franchise specializing in cost reduction consulting — a far cry from the typical franchising models dotting the landscape. It was a franchise she, like many, had never imagined existed.

“We hear ‘franchise’, and we think of very common brands, and we think of a five million dollar investment. So, I knew there was a lot that I didn’t know.”

The Schooley Mitchell franchise, however, ticked all the boxes for Michelle. It was a B2B model that resonated with her expertise, offered the flexibility to work from anywhere, and had no geographical boundaries — a perfect fit for her love of travel. More importantly, it leveraged her financial acumen and analytical prowess, allowing her to thrive in an environment tailor-made for her skill set.

A Future of Growth and Flexibility

Now, five years into her franchise, Michelle is enjoying not just a thriving business, but an enhanced lifestyle. The flexibility afforded by her franchise allows her to manage her family and career without the constraints of corporate life’s demanding schedule.

“It really has enabled me to manage both family and career better. I’m still working hard and a lot of hours, but I work the way I want to work and, on my terms,” she shared.

Looking ahead, Michelle is committed to continued growth and exploring all avenues that may unfold over the next five years. Whether it’s renewing her franchise, passing the torch to her children, or even finding an external buyer, the possibilities are endless.

Advice for Aspiring Franchise Owners

For those standing where she once stood, Michelle has one piece of advice: work with an experienced consultant. She credits her success to David and the TEA team, who provided invaluable guidance throughout her journey. Michelle praised the process facilitated by David as educational, informative, and, above all, tailored to her needs and pace.

“Even if I never bought a franchise, I would have been better off for having known David and gone through that process for sure,” she said.

She also underscored the importance of partnering with someone who offers a vast array of options and who invests time in finding the perfect match — a franchise consultant who is the ‘eHarmony of franchises,’ as she fondly puts it.

The Entrepreneur Authority: A Guiding Hand

Michelle’s story isn’t just a testament to her success; it’s also evidence of The Entrepreneur Authority’s prowess in finding the best franchise fit for its clients. By providing personalized attention, industry connections and expertise, and a vast array of options, David and his team have helped countless individuals embark on their entrepreneurial journeys and build successful businesses.

TEA offers no-fee consultations, in addition to complimentary webinars on franchising. To schedule an appointment with a Franchise Consultant or register for a webinar, call 866-246-2884 or visit https://eAuth.com/webinars/.

Brittany Powers / January 26, 2024

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