Woofstock Reminded Me Why Small Businesses Count!

Yesterday, I went with my husband and puppy to Woofstock. It was a great, fun-filled event, where big (and amazing) players like Milk Bone and Bullwrinkles shone with events like the Pug Dog Run, and more importantly, where small vendors had a chance to meet their target markets.

I went to this event with puppy play and free giveaways on my mind, and left thinking about a whole lot more.  The people we met at Woofstock were passionate about what they are doing. From Doggie Bakeries to the Most Stylish/ Functional of Dog Accessories to a Fascinating Collection of Doggie Doo Bags, these are people who care about their products, and their consumer.

As I write this post on this dreary Monday morning, I write it with a renewed sense of motivation about small businesses.  Each of these businesses (whether smaller or established) made an event like Woofstock possible, contributed to a great day and opened up new possibilities for many Torontonians. Just like I feel this need to make Schmooz all it can be, other business owners have taken similar risks to the ones I have taken because they just wanted to see that product or service out there. I get it- you just have to do it!

I believe that as consumers, we have a responsibility to help put the products and services of innovative and dynamic entrepreneurs on the map. Take a chance and support someone who has the courage to try something new, or someone who is creating jobs for deserving people. Yesterday, at Woofstock, I put my money where my mouth is and bought an epic Pina Colada Mix (yes, for humans...link pending) mostly because the product was delicious, but also because I saw the passion in their sales pitch. I also took the cards of various vendors, with the mission to look them up and like them on social media today, just to show my support. It's the little things that count.

As Monday morning hits 9:20 a.m., I see my to do list growing long, but I don't mind today. Woofstock helped remind me that what Schmooz does is important to small businesses, and I feel motivated to accomplish a lot.

Anyone else go to Woofstock and get inspired? Also, check out Schmooz Media! The Schmooz Team is inspired by companies with heart who need help communicating their message to internal employees and to the external community through social media, in person and online communications and through educational training.

Thanks to Victoria Schwarzl for the photograph of our dog, Fozzie.