This issue kicks off 2025 as we spotlight some phenomenal Atlantic Canadian tourism and hospitality brands. Plus many more articles on business and industry and the people behind the scenes making it all happen!
VOL 25 ISSUE 1
EXPERIENCE CAPE BRETON ISLAND’S STUNNING LANDSCAPES TRAILSIDE ACCOMMODATIONS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IS YOUR YEAR-ROUND COZY COTTAGE GETAWAY ON THE CABOT TRAIL THE VIEW FROM THE TOP
VALLEY VIEW CHALETS IS WHERE NATURE MEETS ADVENTURE
DESTINATION NEW BRUNSWICK KEEPING ACTIVE IN THE PICTURE PROVINCE THIS WINTER
STAR-GAZING GLAMPING, LUXURY & PAMPERING A ZEN ESCAPE TO RELAX IN NATURE AT CREEKSIDE RNR
EMERGING ARTIST SPOTLIGHT ELYSE AERYN CAPE BRETON-BORN ARTIST AMPLIFYING ROCK, COUNTRY, POP & SOUL TO CREATE HER OWN BRAND OF ROCK & ROLL
An AIDACA MEDIA Publication
MANAGING DIRECTOR Rod Gregg
A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR
EDITOR Lee Ann Atwater
ACCOUNTS & ADMIN Calli Gregg COMMUNICATION, RESEARCH & ADMIN Tristyn Gaudette EDITORIAL & PROJECT MANAGER
It has been a crazy start to 2025, with a prorogation effectively allowing the prime minister to hit pause on Parliament as threats come from south of the border for imposing tariffs on Canadian products being imported into the U.S. and daily comments to annex Canada as the 51st state. We are not a policial magazine and are not looking to become one, but regardless of the reason for the prorogation, it has become apparent that the Trump administration will continue to use these economic bullying attempts to strike a better deal on imports to promote “Made in America” prodects to grow the U.S. economy by any ways necessary. Trump’s job as the American President is to do that, like our Prime Minister’s job is to do the same for Canada. But it is the Trump Administration’s lack of concern for Canada- U.S. Relations, that are at a all-time low, and continued tariffs and annexation threats that Canadians must start thinking about the products we buy, the trips that we take and festivals and events that we attending and adapt to a“Canada First”philosophy when spending your hard earned cash over the next four years and beyond. We have spent over a decade spotlighting small and medium-sized businesses from all regions in Canada and the United States, helping entrepreneurs get the word out about their brands, products, and services. That being said, we feel now it is important for us to focus on “Made and Manufactured in Canada” brands and spotlight their products and services along with their journeys as entrepreneurs. We know that some of our U.S. readers may not be happy with our choice, but we feel that, at this time, it is the right thing to do. In this issue to kick off 2025, we are excited to spotlight some phenomenal Atlantic Canadian tourism and hospitality brands as we continue our Heading to the Highland Series in Wreck Cove to experience Cape Breton Island’s stunning landscapes at Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures, a year-round cozy cottage getaway on the Cabot Trail. We get a view from the top of Fraser’s mountain in Margaree Valley at Valley View Chalets, where Nature meets Adventure before making our way between the cedars and pines while discovering coastal island bliss at Mira Riverfront Getaway. Then head to New Brunswick for a little Star-Gazing Glamping, Luxury, and Pampering with a Zen escape to relax in nature at Creekside RNR and plan our next adventure to Newfoundland and Labrador. New for 2025 is our Emerging Artist Spotlight Series, which will feature Atlantic Canadian signer-songwriters, and first up is Elyse Aeryn, a Cape Breton-born artist amplifying Rock, Country, Pop, and soul to create her own brand of Rock & Roll. My team and I want to thank everyone who made this issue possible. We look forward to sharing more stories about growing industries, successful businesses, brands, events, and the entrepreneurs making it all happen.
Ashley Davis Kate Lindsay
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amanda Stellisano Darryll Gillard
Deborah Jaremko Grady Semmens
Lauren Reid Ryan Myson
Shannon Ferguson Taylor Evans Hendrix
WEB DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT Joe Uttaro
GRAPHIC DESIGN TEAM Ashley Tatlock Brittany Pickrem Sara Kay
SOCIAL MEDIA Troy Gregg
PUBLISHER AIDACA Media
Lee Ann Atwater Editor
P.O. Box 25028, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada B2N 7B8 E: info@spotlightbizmag.com spotlightonbusinessmagazine.com
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Spotlight What’s in the ON THE COVER
03 A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR 04 WHAT’S IN THE SPOTLIGHT 08 UPCOMINGEVENTS 10 Q&A WITH GABRIEL GIGUÈRE Quebecers starting to understand the need for Canadian pipelines 26 ENGAGINGCUSTOMERS Magazines Still Matter 32 ABF INC’S EDMONTON CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Transforming Edmonton from the Oil to Beer Capital of Canada 38 FUSION FEST United by the Pour 44 CANADIAN ENERGY REVIEW Top 10 Good News Energy Stories of 2024 52 PREPARING FOR GROWTH It’s time for your first Sales hire 56 CANADIAN OIL Why it’s so important to the United States 60 HEADING BACK TO THEHIGHLANDS Cape Breton’s Top Winter Activities 86 FROM CEDAR TO PINE Discovering Coastal Island Bliss at Mira Riverfront Getaway 95 ESCAPE TO NEWFOUNDLAND ANDLABRADOR Trip Planning 101 100 THE ART OF MANIFESTING 3 Ways to Manifest Success for Your Business 106 CANADA’S ENERGY SECTOR WAKE-UPCALL U.S. Tariffs or Not, Canada Needs to Build New Oil & Gas Pipeline Space Fast 112 LIFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT Live, Love & Laugh!
STAR-GAZING GLAMPING, LUXURY AND PAMPERING A Zen Escape to Relax in Nature at Creekside RNR In the heart of New Brunswick, the charming town of Cocagne is home to Creekside RNR, a luxury glamping retreat where an unforgettable experience awaits. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, the resort’s geodesic domes offer guests the perfect opportunity to unwind under the stars or relax in the soothing Nordic spa. This peaceful escape provides an ideal setting to reconnect with nature and prioritize self-care.
EXPERIENCE CAPE BRETON ISLAND’S STUNNING LANDSCAPES Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures is your Year-Round cozy cottage getaway on the Cabot Trail What happens when you combine an environmental educator, a professional trail builder, and a love and passion for the outdoors? We sat down with Adam and Ruth Shore to get the answer to that question and to learn how Adam and Ruth’s entrepreneurial journey brought their education and expertise to Cape Breton to create a year-round oasis for nature lovers called Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures THE VIEW FROM THE TOP Valley View Chalets is where Nature meets Adventure Chiseled into the mountainside with breathtaking views of the Margaree Valley, Valley View Chalets offers a unique mix of natural beauty, comfort, and adventure. What was once Malcolm Fraser’s farmstead in the 1800s has been reimagined by generations of his family into a year-round retreat where visitors can roam the Highlands, explore the vast trail system, paddle the riverbank, or just unwind in nature for the perfect Cape Breton escape.
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EMERGING ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
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ELYSE AERYN Cape Breton-Born Artist amplifying Rock, Country, Pop & Soul to Create her own Brand of Rock & Roll We caught up with Elyse Aeryn, a Cape Breton-born artist whose unique blend of rock, country, pop, and soul is carving out
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a distinctive sound in the music scene. Known for her powerful live shows, rich voice, and soulful songwriting, Elyse has quickly earned recognition in the industry. Her journey of following her true passion for music has been nothing short of inspiring. Elyse opened up about the challenges she’s overcome, how her music resonates with the community, her“this is it”moments, and what’s next in her evolving career.
DESTINATION NEW BRUNSWICK
Keeping active in the Picture Province this Winter For some, winter is for hibernating or heading south; for many others, winter is the season for getting outside in the brisk air and exploring New Brunswick’s pristine woods, beautiful parks, and cool urban centres, with countless kilometres of trails winding through the snow-draped landscape. These are a few of the many activities to keep you busy this winter in the picture province.
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Visit us online www.spotlightonbusinessmagazine.com
Follow us on our socials at @spotlightbizmag
information at your finger tips
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UPCOMING EVENTS
MARI-TECH CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2025 APRIL 22ND TO 24TH, 2025
ENERGY SAFETY CONFERENCE 2025
AGRI TECH VENTURE FORUM 2025 MAY 7TH & 8TH, 2025 SHERATON CENTRE TORONTO HOTEL TORONTO, ON CANADA
APRIL 28TH TO MAY 1ST, 2025 FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS HOTEL BANFF, AB CANADA
HOTEL BONAVENTURE MONTREAL, QC CANADA
Mari-Tech Conference & Exhibition theme will be Powering Ships into the Future. It is the premier event for the marine engineering community in Canada. The conference has earned a respected position as a neutral, non-political event devoted to engaging the private sector, government, and academia. This year’s theme is Navigating Sustainable Marine Transportation. Just as mariners use navigation as a safe means of direction, we too as a larger marine community must ascertain where we are and where we are going in terms of ever-changing challenges facing maritime professionals. The rocks and shoals of increasing competition for diminishing supplies are a challenge we all face, and we have no choice but to navigate. Sustainable solutions are needed to meet the current realities and challenges we face globally in ship construction, vessel operation, and maintenance. For more information on this event go to https://mari-techconference.ca/
Canada’s Energy Safety Conference is a leading event that showcases emerging sectors in the industry. It features two days of programming, networking, and a popular trade show, making it a valuable platform for sharing health and safety knowledge. This event is not just a conference, it’s a dynamic gathering of the best and brightest in energy safety! Allowing you to interact with world-renowned safety leaders and learn hands-on practices you can apply in your daily work. For more information on this event go to https://www.energysafetycanada.com/ News-Events/Conference/
The AGRI Tech Venture Forum is an annual event that serves as a converging point for the global ag-tech elite. Industry giants, investors, accelerators, and innovators provide insight into the latest sector headwinds, technology milestones, and key challenges facing the future of ag-tech. This event offers Premium Networking with Ag Tech Executives, Entrepreneurs, Investors, Corporate Strategics, and more. Plus, a Start- Up Showcase featuring outstanding growth and early-stage ag tech companies. Plus, you get the opportunity to learn about the latest investment and innovation trends directly from industry experts. For more information on this event, go to https://agritechventureforum.com/ WANT TO HAVE YOUR EVENT IN THE SPOTLIGHT? Send an email 4 weeks in advance to production@spotlightbizmag.com with all the details of your event.
CONSTRUCTION EXPO 2025 APRIL 5TH & 6TH, 2025 CLOVERDALE AGRIPLEX BUILDING SURREY, BC CANADA
CANADIAN FINTECH SUMMIT 2025 APRIL 8TH & 9TH, 2025 MARS DISCOVERY DISTRICT TORONTO, ON CANADA The Canadian Fintech Summit is a platform to connect with speakers, industry experts, and influential startups to provide new opportunities. Learn from experts in growth who have been there and done it. With growth, we can reenergize our ecosystem and importantly take advantage of an extraordinary change in consumer and business behavior. Powerful founders, CEOs, and industry leaders take the stage to share relevant experience, knowledge, and facts. These engaging speakers provide critical insights into the current challenges and expose extraordinary opportunities. For more information on this event, go to https://fintechsummit.ca/
TORONTO FOOD AND DRINK FEST APRIL 11TH TO 13TH, 2025 METRO TORONTO CONVENTION CENTRE TORONTO, ON CANADA The Toronto Food and Drink Fest is Canada’s Largest Food & Drink Festival and offers an amazing experience with delicious food, drinks, culinary demonstrations, shopping, music, and more. Discover the finest offerings from local chefs, restaurants, winemakers, spirits, beer, and cider companies, as well as get all the latest food & drink trends. So, grab your friends and prepare your tastebuds for three epic days of tastings, classes, pairings, and music. For more information on this event, go to https://tofoodanddrinkfest.com/
The Construction Expo has developed a new concept for expositions, an interactive and dynamic show where all the players in the construction industry will come together. It is the leading global event that connects buyers and suppliers – planners and contractors – companies and designers – all in the construction industry. The event will focus on innovation, trends, quality materials, contemporary architecture, green technologies, and solutions. The two days of the fair represent an opportunity to exchange ideas for all those interested in supplying quality products and services. This year’s tradeshow offers the latest innovations in homebuilding that will inspire you with dozens of new ideas. For more information on this event, go to https://theconstructionexpo.com/
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Q&A
WITH GABRIEL GIGUÈRE Quebecers starting to understand the need for Canadian pipelines
by Canadian Energy Centre
“
it will help Canadians diversify their trading partners ”
10 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 25 ISSUE 1 Gabriel Giguère. Photo courtesy Montreal Economic Institute
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A new poll from Angus Reid shows significant support from people in Quebec for Canada to build sea-to-sea oil and gas pipelines. Gabriel Giguère, a senior policy analyst with the Montreal Economic Institute, says it’s support like he has never seen before.
“ It’s not possible to tell me there’s no social
Here’s what he had to say.
acceptability when you have twice as many people who want a pipeline than those who don’t. There is clearly social acceptability.
CEC: Where does Quebec get its energy from? Giguère: Quebec’s electricity comes from local hydroelectric power, while oil and gas primarily come from Canada and the United States. This is a major shift from 2005, when oil was sourced from Algeria, the UK, Norway, Mexico and Venezuela and only a small amount from Canada. Today, it’s almost entirely from Canada and the United States. CEC: How would an oil pipeline from Alberta benefit the people of Quebec? Giguère: It’s clear it will help Canadians diversify their trading partners. A pipeline will also create jobs, benefiting Quebec workers. Quebec is a part of Canada, and unity is essential. The good news is we all seem to agree on that. According to the latest poll from Angus Reid, it’s unanimous. There is
broad support for new pipelines to expand our trade relationships. The United States has been a strong trading partner, but there is ongoing uncertainty that has made diversification essential. We all know that investors don’t like uncertainty. To achieve certainty, we need the right infrastructure to be able to diversify. In Quebec, twice as many people support a new pipeline than oppose it. I don’t remember having data like that before. This is a clear and significant shift, especially for the oil and gas sector, which is one of Canada’s most vital economic sectors. This is very good news. CEC: What has changed that is making Quebecers more supportive of a project like this? Giguère: I believe the tariff threat was the spark. People are now starting to
”
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understand that our trade relationship with the United States isn’t what it once was. It’s as simple as that. We need to diversify our trading partners. The million-dollar question is: how? I don’t think It’s possible without a pipeline. I believe Quebecers are starting to understand that. There is the pipeline, but I strongly believe that GNL Quebec [proposed LNG project in the Saguenay Region to transport Alberta natural gas to Europe] could have even stronger public support, as it offers a direct way to diversify our trading partners. This wouldn’t only benefit our European allies but would open doors to other countries also. CEC: What do you see happening next? Giguère: It will depend on political leadership in Quebec. When we are talking about pipelines here, the discussion always
circles back to Energy East, which was scrapped because there was “no social acceptability.” Nobody can say that today. It’s not possible to tell me there’s no social acceptability when you have twice as many people who want a pipeline than those who don’t. There is clearly social acceptability. The real issue is heavy regulation, such as the Impact Assessment Act. To be clear, I’m not saying we should not have any environmental impact assessment, but we need to make sure that the current regulatory framework allows the construction of big energy infrastructure projects. Political leaders need to recognize that diversifying our trading partners is their responsibility and requires facilitating the projects to make that possible.
Escape to Creekside RNR
Quebec is a part of canada, and unity is essential. ”
A True Atlantic Canada Glamping Four Season Luxury Resort Experience Welcome to Creekside RnR Glamping, Our award- winning resort in southeastern NB has become a global destination, attracting visitors from all corners of the world. What sets us apart? It’s not just the luxurious accommodations or the Nordic spa experience – it’s the unique blend of culture, good food, and everything you need to enjoy nature and have a unique and unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the local seafood delicacies, savor the rich cultural experiences, and let the world-class Geodesic Domes, Tree House, and Atlantic Canada’s only Mirror Cabins redefine your perception of glamping. At Creekside RnR, we’ve crafted more than an escape; we’ve created a destination that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
Where Nature Meets Luxury
INDUSTRY • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 15 www.creeksidernr.com Cocagne, New Brunswick | Contact us at 506-312-0294 or info@creeksidernr.com
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EMERGING ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
Cape Breton-Born Artist amplifying Rock, Country, Pop & Soul to Create her Brand of Rock & Roll
by Lauren Reid
“
INDUSTRY • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 17 Stay true to yourself whether in your songwriting, the opportunities you pursue, or the risks you take ”
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We caught up with Elyse Aeryn, a Cape Breton-born artist whose unique blend of rock, country, pop, and soul is carving out a distinctive sound in the music scene. Known for her powerful live shows, rich voice, and soulful songwriting, Elyse has quickly earned recognition in the industry with an East Coast Music Award (ECMA) nomination and two Music Nova Scotia award wins. Her journey, about leaving her career as a chemical engineer to
pursue her true passion for music, has been nothing short of inspiring. Elyse opened up about the challenges she’s overcome, how her music resonates with the community, her “this is it” moment, and what’s next in her evolving career.
C
M
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CM
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CMY
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18 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 25 ISSUE 1 It’s definitely a journey. ” “
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Is this all there is? Wake up, go to work, come home - what am I doing? ” “
Spotlight on Business: Tell us a little about yourself and your ties to Nova Scotia. Elyse Aeryn: I was born and raised on Cape Breton Island. I went to school here, but as soon as I had the chance to leave, I moved to Halifax. I thought I’d never want to come back. I went to university, got a degree in chemical engineering, then quickly moved to New Brunswick. From there, I ended up in Toronto and eventually in the U.S., working in the pulp and paper industry. Some time after that, I figured out who I really was and surprisingly, found myself back where I started - on Cape Breton Island. It’s a place I never thought I’d return to, doing something I never thought I’d do - and here I am! Spotlight on Business: What do you like to do in your spare time when you are not writing music or on stage? EA: That’s a funny question for me because when music was just a hobby, it took up every second of my life outside of work - I was always writing, booking shows, performing, or playing with friends. But now that music is my work, I make time for other things too - life can’t be all about one thing. A few years ago, I got my motorcycle license and bought a Honda Shadow 750, and it’s become my favourite summertime hobby. Living on Cape Breton Island, I only get a few months a year to ride, but my partner and I make the most of it - it’s one of our favourite things to do together. I also love going to live music shows and concerts whenever I can, and when I’m home, I’m a bit of a homebody who loves to read - especially biographies and memoirs about musicians and artists.
Spotlight on Business: When did your passion for music begin? EA: I always loved music. I’ve always felt like I knew I loved it in a way that was different from the average person - it was something I connected with deeply, one of my favourite things. I joined the school band in fourth grade and stayed in it until grade 12. I played the clarinet, but I didn’t get my first guitar until I was 16, after begging my parents for one. When I finally got it, I absolutely fell in love. I wanted to play every single day, every chance I could get. But when I went off to university and had to support myself, music fell by the wayside. It felt like a hobby, something fun, and I think society can lead us to believe that something we enjoy that much can’t possibly be the thing we do all the time. So I pushed it aside, but that didn’t last - music eventually made its way back into my life as it was always there, always a central part of who I am. Spotlight on Business: What made you decide to leave your job as a chemical engineer and head back to Cape Breton to pursue music? EA: When I started off in the engineering world, I knew it was just for now. I didn’t see myself doing it forever, but I didn’t know what I saw myself doing instead. Eventually, I found myself in a place where I was asking, “Is this all there is? Wake up, go to work, come home - what am I doing?” I didn’t feel fulfilled. I didn’t feel lit up. It got to the point where I realized I couldn’t just keep going through the motions of life - I felt like life was passing me by. So, I did a lot of soul- searching. I read books, listened to podcasts and looked for examples of people who had
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changed their lives or found their passion. How did they do it? At the time, I was with someone who asked me, “If you could do anything you wanted and it didn’t matter how old you were or what money or opportunity you had, what would you do just for you?” I said, “I would play music.”And he said,“Why don’t you play, just because you love it? It doesn’t have to be your everything.” So, I bought a new guitar. He helped me make my first video and post it to YouTube. And it was like a switch flipped - I knew in my heart I was going to go for it. I knew it wouldn’t happen instantly, but I knew I would start. When I decided to leave my job, I went home to CB to stay with my mom for a few months to reset. With each passing day, it became harder and harder for me to imagine leaving. So I didn’t. I decided to stay in Cape Breton and pursue music to the best of my ability, right here at home. And now, here we are - still here, and it’s going pretty well!! Spotlight on Business: Tell us about the first time you heard one of your songs on the radio. EA: I still remember it clearly. It was here in Cape Breton, and I had entered CBC Searchlight in 2020. I made the top 100, and Wendy Bergfeld played my first single, Forever, on CBC Main Street. I thought I had made it. That feeling is one I’ve never stopped experiencing - every milestone, every show, every time something happens, I feel like “This is it.” And I think that’s what it’s all about. If you’re doing what you love, it always feels like “this is it.” Spotlight on Business: What is it like to be nominated for the Music Nova Scotia Awards and the East Coast Music Association (ECMA) Awards? Tell us about winning Country Recording of the Year and what that achievement means to you. EA: It was incredibly exciting to be nominated for both the Music Nova Scotia and ECMA Awards in different categories. For me, it was reassuring. My music straddles the rock-country line. As a songwriter first, I can hear my country influences in my music, but if you see my live show, you’ll know I aim to deliver a rock performance on stage. So, being nominated and then
winning Country Recording of the Year with Music Nova Scotia in 2023 - followed by a nomination for Rock Recording of the Year at the ECMA’s in 2024, felt like a big win. It made me think, “Okay, people get it.” I was proud to see that you don’t have to fit into one genre. You can be influenced by various artists, genres, and sounds, all filtered through my own experiences. That’s who I am. Winning with Music Nova Scotia felt validating - it was confirmation that I’m doing something that resonates with people and connecting with my audience. Spotlight on Business: What is the biggest lesson you have learned along the way in your artistic journey? EA: It’s definitely a journey. I’m someone who likes to move fast, but I’ve learned that you can’t control everything, and things won’t happen on the timeline you expect. It’s a long game. There will be days, even weeks or months, when it feels like nothing’s happening. That’s when you must hold on. I’ve said many times that I get why some people quit. You start to panic a little, asking “Did I make the right choice? Can I keep going?” But that’s when you need to hang on because as they say, it’s always darkest before the dawn. Spotlight on Business: What was one thing that you wish you would have done differently? EA: I would have slowed down a little bit. Things don’t always happen on your timeline - and I like to move fast. In the early days, I probably wasted money, time, and energy on things that didn’t matter. Looking back, I see that everything unfolded on its rightful timeline. There were opportunities I wanted that I’ve since gotten, and I realize that if they’d come sooner - I wouldn’t have been ready for them. Spotlight on Business: What has been one of your biggest surprises? EA: Winning Music Nova Scotia’s 2024 Entertainer of the Year was a huge surprise - I felt too new for that! It’s a voted category and the support from the community was incredible. Just getting the nomination and seeing the list of fellow nominees, it was an
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Winning Music Nova Scotia’s 2024 Entertainer of the Year was a huge surprise - I felt too new for that! ”
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something tangible, sharing it with someone, and hearing them say, “I felt that, too,” or “You made me feel seen.” Even if it’s as simple as someone saying they had the best time at my show, there’s no comparison to how that makes me feel. It’s all about doing what I love and expressing myself authentically, and for that to connect with someone – that’s what it’s all about. Again, it’s that “this is it” feeling! Spotlight on Business What advice do you have for anyone wanting to follow their dreams and make the jump into the music industry? EA: First, it’s going to be difficult, and no one can truly prepare you for the challenges you’ll face. There will be times when it feels like nothing’s happening, but you just have to hold on. Another key piece of advice I’d offer is that authenticity will always trump everything. Stay true to yourself whether
in your songwriting, the opportunities you pursue, or the risks you take. When you do, the right people will find you and things will unfold at their own pace. It won’t always be easy, but it will be worth it. Spotlight on Business: What genres and artists do you listen to? If you could do a duet with another artist, who would it be? EA: Rock is my favourite and most listened- to genre, but I also enjoy a mix of classic rock, which you can hear in my music. I love Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, Journey, The Guess Who - there’s so many I could list. I also listen to a lot of indie, alternative rock, and pop. My absolute favorite artist is Stevie Nicks, and my dream duet would be with her! Right behind her is Maggie Rogers. She’s a pop artist, but her music has this energy - big driving guitars, big production - I’m completely obsessed with it. If I’m driving to work or on a road trip, you can bet that’s what’s playing. I also listen to a lot of R&B and soul-influenced rock. I’m a big Chris Stapleton fan and that’s the type of country music I enjoy: country rock, southern rock and outlaw country. Spotlight on Business: Any new music that fans can look forward to? Where can they learn more about you and upcoming shows? EA: I’m currently working on a record, having spent the last few months in the studio, and we’re getting close. It’ll be released this summer, with the first single dropping in May - I’m really excited! The new record is definitely a rock album, but it reflects all of my influences. Some songs have that classic rock, gritty country-rock vibe, like my latest single, Cowboy, while others lean more pop-rock. The whole record is packed with energy, and from the writing to the production, I’ve kept live shows in mind. I can’t wait to take these songs to the stage! I’m lining up a summer tour, aiming to get as far as Ontario this time. I’ll be taking my band on the road to promote the album, which I’m thrilled about! I’ll keep everyone updated at
honour. To win it was unbelievable. If you had asked me when I moved back here if I thought that would happen five years later, I would have said no way!
Spotlight on Business: What has been your favourite part of being a singer- songwriter? What is the best part of performing live? EA: EA: I love writing songs and creating something out of nothing. There’s this feeling I get when an idea or emotion won’t leave me alone until I put it on paper as a song. Then, bringing that song to life in the studio is amazing. But I always say I’m not sure if it’s more thrilling to create the song or to perform it live, because both bring a rush. The onstage rush lasts a little longer, and that connection with the audience is powerful. I don’t think there’s a better feeling than taking a thought or emotion, turning it into
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The new record is definitely a rock album, but it reflects all of my influences. ”
SHANIA TWAIN Thursday, July 10 JOSH ROSS BRYAN MARTIN SACHA TONY STEVENS THE WILD PALOMINOS
TYLER HUBBARD
LAINEY WILSON Saturday, July 12 WYATT FLORES BAYKER BLAKENSHIP TIM & THE GLORY BOYS ABBY ANDERSON JUSTIN FANCY
Friday, July 11
STEPHEN WILSON JR. MEGHAN PATRICK ADRIEN NUNEZ NATE HALLER AMANDA RHEAUME
MORE INFO
www.ElyseAeryn.com and you can find me @ElyseAeryn on all social media platforms.
CavendishBeachMusic.com
JULY 10-12, 2025
INDUSTRY • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 25 CAVENDISH, PEI
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ENGAGING CUSTOMERS Magazines Still Matter
by Ryan Myson
Given the growth of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly known as Twitter), one might assume that this is coming at the expense of decreasing magazine audiences; however, that could not be further from the truth and in fact, it might even be contributing to the continued success of magazine as readers look to flip the page on fake news.
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Magazines are Inspiring and Motivating People turn to TV for entertainment and to the web for everything from shopping to homework to self-help. Magazine readers, on the other hand, turn to their favorite publications to be inspired and motivated and to get valuable information from a source they can trust. When looking to learn about a new product or service, more people choose magazines than TV or the web. When people want to connect emotionally or indulge in a relaxing bit of “alone time,” away from the kids or the hustle and bustle of life, and are choosing magazines to do this. More people reported that magazines give them something positive to talk about with others, and we already know that a lot of conversations are happening online via social media, but these can quickly become negative. When you want to reach consumers with emotional content that inspires them to act — whether that is to purchase a product or service, start a conversation, or simply feel good about what they are reading about, then print and digital magazines are the best channels for you and your brand to achieving those goals. Magazine Readers Bring the Conversation Online Most business owners think social media is replacing traditional print and digital magazine outlets; however, the numbers show it is augmenting it. Magazine readers are just bringing their conversations online and talking about the brands and businesses they support and like. Further, findings have shown that after reading an article on a brand or seeing a product or service advert in a magazine, 44 percent of Canadian magazine readers and buyers visited the advertiser’s website, and 46 percent have used or planned to use the coupon or promotion listed in the advert.
M agazines, like all traditional media, have faced many challenges in the digital age. It has become increasingly difficult for magazines to keep their readers, but, contrary to newspapers, and despite fierce competition from free online outlets, print and digital magazines continue to perform comparatively well in today’s market. If you look at the data around 65 percent of Canadians read print and or digital magazines at least once a month with more than a third of Canadians setting aside time specifically to read magazines. The most common way to access digital magazines is on smartphones at 22 percent. The portion is higher among Canadians under 35 at 44 percent and those new to reading digital magazines through platforms like Magzter, the world’s largest digital newsstand, at 57 percent. Our magazine and the industry, continue to enjoy year-over-year readership growth. Magazine features and
advertising continue to prove an effective tool to boost brand awareness and trust. Feature articles and advertorials help readers connect and get a better understanding of the entrepreneur, their journey, and their brand vision. Readers who understand the brand vision and mission make an emotional connection with the entrepreneur. They take an interest in the success of the brand which promotes the purchase of products and services with readers. Print and digital magazine exposure and advertising are now some of the best ways to boost the effectiveness of your other marketing efforts to keep your brand top of mind with customers. By utilizing all media channels, you will receive unlimited brand exposure to stand out from the crowd. In other words, if you want the best returns on all your advertising and branding investments, then it is a must to add magazine exposure to your marketing media mix.
readers look to flip the page on fake news.
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percent increase in brand awareness. What happened when print was added to the marketing mix? Online campaigns that added print averaged a 10 percent increase in brand awareness; TV campaigns that added print averaged a 13 percent increase. However, a“Rule of Three”marketing campaign shows the best results. What is a “Rule of Three” marketing campaign, well it is a true cross- channel approach, data from combining print, online, and TV advertising and exposure shows that together they can increase brand awareness by 15 percent or more. combining print, online, and TV advertising and exposure shows that together they can increase brand awareness by 15 percent or more.
Magazine Readers Stay Connected and Engaged Longer
Television and internet advertising might be great ways to get quick and direct messages to your consumers. However, if you’re looking to deliver a more meaningful message that tells the reader your story and gives them all the information, they need to trust your brand and products, then magazines are the right channel. The average amount of time a reader spends viewing print and digital edition magazine issues is almost one hour per issue. Compare that to the fact that more than half of all web surfers spend less than 15 seconds on a website, and the choice should be clear on where you need to be focusing your marketing budget socially if you are a start-up. As you can see print advertising is not a fad or a result of current social media platforms or new technology that will soon be obsolete or replaced. Magazine advertising and exposure have proven themselves a durable and effective exposure medium for over a century. The number of magazine readers continues to grow, and the influence that magazine advertising has on every other medium like TV, radio, newspapers, and online shows that it is an effective tool for building brand and product awareness. When it comes to setting aside special time for an activity, magazines are more popular than other media. 79 percent of Canadians say they have set time aside to read magazines, compared to 59 percent who have done so to read newspapers. 35 percent have set time aside for using the internet, 17 percent for listening to the radio, and 15 percent for watching television. What does this mean for advertisers? Not only should print advertising remain a staple in your media mix and budget, but also every time you’re considering a single media channel for an ad campaign, reconsider the boost you will get from simply adding a complementary magazine ad to your campaign to maximize your messages reach and return on marketing investment.
the readers at a higher level than social media ads or TV advertising. Especially now that most streaming platforms offer ad-free subscription levels to these services. Plus, data shows that magazine ads generate stronger brand engagement and build trust with consumers more than any other media channel. In addition, when watching television or browsing the internet, Canadians are also more likely to multi-task than when reading magazines. For example, 38 percent of Canadians say they often surf the net while watching television, and 26 percent of people using the internet use their mobile phones at the same time.
Plus, with magazines the content is available again and again, keeping people of all ages engaged and looking for the next issues, while being able to look at previous issues, especially if the publication is open like Spotlight on Businesses Magazine.
Readership and Engagement
Magazine Advertising Will Boost All Your Other Efforts When measuring brand awareness across channels, the biggest increases were seen when print was added to an online or television campaign. You might think this is due simply to the added exposure, but the data shows that magazine campaigns have the most positive impact on brand awareness. Online advertising alone provided, on average, a 4 percent increase in brand awareness; television alone provided a 5 percent increase. Combining online and TV together did a little better averaging a 6
Research shows that reading traditional and digital magazines stimulates a reader’s emotions, drives sensory involvement, provides more focused attention, and most importantly is preferred by the majority of people or other information platforms Data also shows that 95% of people under 25 are reading magazines, which goes against the common belief that today’s younger generation is tossing magazines aside and that it is the dying medium.
Magazine Advertising Campaigns are more Successful
The intent of the advertising is to drive brand awareness, brand engagement, and revenue. When advertising in magazines you engage
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ABF’s Edmonton Craft Beer Festival
Transforming Edmonton from the Oil to Beer Capital of Canada
by Ryan Myson
Our 2025 Craft Brewing and Distilling Series will spotlight independent craft brewers, cideries, distillers, meaderies, and wineries coast to coast to coast giving them a platform to share their stories, passions, and products with readers who are beer and spirits enthusiasts and industry events Edmonton Craft Beer Festival that transforms Edmonton from the Oil Capital to the Beer Capital of Canada.
Remember, great things happen at #YEGBeerfest
INDUSTRY • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 33 Photo courtesy ABF Inc
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N othing brings people together like good food and great beverages. No one has done it better for the last two decades than Alberta Beer Festival with events like the Edmonton Craft Beer Festival and After Party. Hundreds of beer and spirits enthusiasts make their way to Edmonton Craft Beer Festival to sample over 150 breweries, distilleries, cideries, meaderies, and RTDs (ready-to-drink beverages) made from local ingredients by local producers, like Grande Prairie’s Broken Oak Distilling Co, which offers a craft smooth character for the spirit enthusiast with its Award Winning Alberta-Made spirits that are carefully handcrafted and distilled in small batches to ensure premium quality by overseeing every detail from grain selection to your glass. Also at this year’s festival will be Fox Hills Cider, a family-owned & operated, small-batch hard apple cider company based out of Ardrossan, Alberta, that will be offering samples of its crisp, smooth, and refreshing hard cider. This year’s event will also spotlight many of the amazing craft breweries in Alberta, like Medicine Hat Brewing Company, that will be bringing their best, so whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing, dark and rich, or fruity and unexpected, they have the perfect beer for you to sample. Then you have Snake Lake Brewing Company, which
Photo courtesy ABF Inc
Festivals are where unforgettable moments can happen.
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truly offers something for every craft enthusiast from its award-winning craft beers and EASY RTDs to its Sylvan Craft Spirits all made from the finest quality ingredients, inspired by Sylvan Lake’s rich history of work and play that will share the floor at the Edmonton Expo Centre along with many, many more including over twenty that have been featured in Spotlight on Business magazine over the past decade, showing that these are the best of the best brands making this events one not to miss. Plus, you’ll also be able to taste delicious food from over 20 fantastic local pubs, restaurants, and eateries. Nothing goes better with food and drink than music, and Beerfest will keep the vibe going in every corner of the Edmonton Expo Centre with live music lounges and DJs bumping tunes the whole weekend so you can move like you mean it! ABF’s Edmonton Craft Beer Festival offers three amazing sample sessions over two days. Your ticket gets you entry into the Edmonton Craft Beer Festival at the Edmonton Expo Centre, plus
a commemorative sample ABF mug. As you can see below, there are many General Admission and VIP Package options to select from. Festivals are where unforgettable moments can happen. The atmosphere, everyone having a great time, the chance for shared experiences with friends that can bond you together for life. Beerfest can open your mind to new tastes and new experiences. Maybe you’ll find a new favourite food or drink, find a new love, or take a new path that will lead to the adventure of a lifetime. Remember, great things happen at #YEGBeerfest – so gather your team and make every moment count! Stay tuned as we continue our 2025 Craft Brewing and Distilling Series, spotlighting amazing Canadian industry events, brewers, cideries, distillers, meaderies, and wineries that are working every day to keep this industry moving in a positive direction as we share their stories, passions, and products with readers and craft beer and spirits enthusiasts.
This is an 18+ event; be sure to bring a government- issued ID.
Family-Owned & Operated for over 20 years! Good, Fair or Great Credit, We Can Work with Anyone!
232 Pictou Rd, Bible Hill NS • 902-843-3313 or 902-986-1519 • scammellauto@gmail.com
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exciting activities like the Fusion Paint
Wall (featuring Country Roads
Rustic Decor), Boozy Mini Golf and Giant Beer Pong
AD
by Ryan Myson FUSION FEST United by the Pour! It’s time for a collaboration that brings TAPPED Truro Craft Beer Fest and BOTTLED Truro Wine & Spirits Festival into one event, allowing connoisseurs to sample some of the best Nova Scotian craft beer, spirits, and ready-to-drinks, plus interactive engagement with the brewers and distillers themselves for an unforgettable night of fun.
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There are three ticket options for this year’s inaugural Fusion Fest: General Admission, VIP, and Designated Driver.
160 Robie St, Truro, NS (902) 897-7482
“ fresh thinking, healthy eating”
T he inaugural Fusion Fest, United by the pour blends the best of TAPPED Truro Craft Beer Fest with the best of BOTTLED Truro Wine & Spirits Festival . Mixing these two events into the perfect Nova Scotian independent Craft Brewing and Distilling Festival Concoction on Saturday, May 3rd. This event takes place in the beautiful hub town of Truro at the at the recently renovated Colchester Legion Stadium for an evening sampling the best Nova Scotian adult beverages while enjoying delicious food, great entertainment, and lots of exciting activities like the Fusion Paint Wall (featuring Country Roads Rustic Decor), Boozy Mini Golf and Giant Beer Pong. Make it a weekend and stay at the at the Inn on Prince. Say that you are attending Fusion Fest when you call and receive a special rate of $137 and enjoy all the nearby attractions.
You’ll find many unique treasures from independent retailers all around Truro, like Inglis Jewellers, where Paul, Charlene, and the rest of the team will be happy to show you their amazing Canadian Diamond Collection. Or you can experience the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy or immerse yourself in the town’s rich history at engaging museums, and cultural centres and Truro’s amazing Victoria Park, a natural woodland park that spans 3,000 acres and located only minutes from downtown. Victoria Park’s extensive trail system winds through natural gorges, waterfalls, tall trees, and inspiring look-offs. There are three ticket options for this year’s inaugural Fusion Fest: General Admission, VIP, and Designated Driver. General Admission tickets are $45 (plus tax and fees) and include access to the
event, 10 samples, and a take-home sampling glass. Don’t like waiting in long line ups? Then why not purchase a VIP ticket? VIP tickets are $60 (plus tax and fees) and get you into the event an hour early and you get three extra sample tickets! The VIP options is a great way to get a few samples into you before the rest of the crowd joins in! New this year are some added VIP perks, including a VIP only seating area and a free taco voucher from Taco Bros. Still want to enjoy a fun night out with your friends, but aren’t all that into drinking? No problem! We have a Designated Driver tickets available for $25. These include five sample tickets for non-alcoholic beverages and a sample glass. When does the action get started? Well, for VIP ticket holders, sampling starts
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at 6pm, and for General Admission ticket holders, doors open at 7pm with sampling and fun going until 10pm. Take the Truro Toyota Shuttle home. The shuttle is free and will travel within the greater Truro area. We recommend you get your shuttle tickets early as there are only a limited number of tickets available, and they go quickly. Remember, you must be 19+ to attend, so be sure to bring a government-issued ID. Tickets are available at fusionfest2025.eventbrite.ca Stay tuned as we continue our 2025 Craft Brewing and Distilling Series, spotlighting amazing Canadian industry events, brewers, cideries, distillers, meaderies, and wineries that are working every day to keep this industry moving in a positive direction as we share their stories, passions, and products with readers and craft beer and spirits enthusiasts.
Remember, you must be 19+ to attend, so be sure to bring a government- issued ID.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES JUST WEREN’T MEANT FOR EVERYONE. BOOK OUR FAMILY FUN PACKAGE INSTEAD. VISIT INNONPRINCE.COM/OFFERS or call 902.895.1651 - 437 PRINCE ST., TRURO, NS
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