CORNWALL, Ontario – There’s no buyer’s remorse when the money supports a new local company, especially when the 11-year-old CEO donates portions of the sale to both the SD&G SPCA and MS Society of Cornwall & District.
Through the flurry of activity at the sixth annual Trunk Sale hosted by W3G & Co. at Marlin Orchards on Oct. 31 & Nov. 1, AW Scare ’em head honcho Alyssa Wensink’s handmade fleece monsters grabbed the attention of thousands of shoppers.
“This is only my second show,” said a wide-eyed Wensink, acknowledging the high level of brand exposure.
The plush toys sport a cheerful smile and come with an adoption certificate, but each creation is one-of-a-kind, sketched by Wensink, and brought to life by her silent (but proud) partner, Valerie Tinkess, otherwise referred to as mom.
“She has an anxiety disorder, and part of her therapy is being creative,” said Tinkess.
The Avonmore residents launched AW (the CEO’s initials) Scare ’em in spring 2015. With a modest local following, the new business is already receiving custom orders, including monsters for raising autism awareness, and another with a cleft lip.
Wensink’s inspiration stems from a young boy who made spooky creatures with socks during a stay at CHEO in Ottawa.
Cornwall’s Lisa Boyle couldn’t resist picking up a monster that bears a striking resemblance to a character in her grandson’s favourite book. She described her first experience at the Trunk Sale as “a way to buy unique gifts you wouldn’t normally see and a great way to support local charities.”
Each $5 admission fee at the gate went directly towards the local MS Society of Canada. In addition, vendors also donated 10 per cent of their earnings.
W3G & Co. members Debbie Burns and Julie Hickman gave Seaway News the scoop on this year’s numbers. A total of 2,820 shoppers (up 20 per cent from last year) helped raise $24,091.79 for the MS Society of Canada – Cornwall & District chapter.
The 2014 Trunk Sale raised $20,000.
More than 200 vendors offered visitors everything from gluten-free desserts and artistic creations to healthy lifestyle products.
The Trunk Sale included some delicious table fare from five culinary arts programs from area high schools, including Holy Trinity, L’Heritage, St. Joseph’s, CCVS, and St. Lawrence, as well as delectable treats prepared by Cornwall eateries, including Love Love Food and Schnitzels.
For mroe information, visit www.we3girls.ca.
