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In the heart of every town is a story quietly unfolding—not in the headlines or social media feeds, but in the parks, sidewalks, and plazas where people pause, linger, and, sometimes, connect. This is the story of how one community discovered the quiet magic of public spaces in battling one of the loudest silent epidemics of our time: loneliness.   It started with a bench…   A simple wooden bench, freshly painted and tucked beneath the sprawling limbs of an old oak in the town square. It wasn’t special at first glance, but someone—no one remembers exactly who—left a handwritten sign taped to it: “This is a friendship bench. Sit here if you want to talk.”   Friendship Bench The idea was disarmingly simple. People sat. Others noticed. Conversations began.   Marjorie, 74, who had lost her husband two years prior, found herself returning to that bench every Tuesday. She’d bring her knitting and sit quietly until someone stopped by. Sometimes it was just a polite smile, other times a full conversation with a stranger-turned-friend.   Then there was Malik, a college student new to the town, struggling to find a sense of belonging. One day, on a whim, he sat on the friendship bench with a book in his hand but little hope in his heart. Marjorie sat down beside him. They talked for over an hour. They now have coffee every other week.   Public spaces have always held the potential to be more than just in-between places. They can be extensions of our living rooms, places of spontaneous connection, and fertile ground for community spirit to grow.   When thoughtfully designed and purposefully activated, public spaces can become antidotes to isolation. Here’s are a few examples of how it can work:   Design That Encourages Pause Wide walkways are efficient—but small pockets with benches, shade, or interactive art invite people to linger. The longer people stay in a space, the higher the chance they’ll connect with someone else.   Community Programming Outdoor yoga, book swaps, live music, or simple community picnics can breathe life into a space. These aren’t just events—they’re excuses to show up, be present, and interact.   Inclusive, Accessible Environments When public spaces are built with accessibility in mind, they welcome people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. That mix is vital to reducing social isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.   Safe, Clean, and Welcoming Atmospheres People don’t gather where they don’t feel safe or valued. Public spaces need maintenance, lighting, and thoughtful upkeep to remain magnets for community.   Welcoming Design Back in the town with the friendship bench, things began to ripple. A local café set up an outdoor chess table. A retired teacher started a free weekly storytelling circle in the park. A group of teens painted colorful murals on the community center’s walls. None of it was formally orchestrated—it was organic, like conversation itself. People began to look up from their phones. To wave. To sit down next to someone just because the sun was shining and the bench was there.   Loneliness thrives in silence and solitude—but public spaces? They’re loud with life. When we build them with intention, care, and room for serendipity, they do something extraordinary.   They remind us that community is not just a collection of people in proximity—it's people willing to see and be seen.   And sometimes, all it takes is a bench.   If YOU have an idea on how to create more inviting spaces for downtown Kendallville, please reach out and let us know.   Or better yet—let’s brainstorm to create it together.

Now through April 18, 2025, you can enter to win a free six-month membership to 231 Main Kendallville Coworking - a $600 value! 231 Main memberships offer: Exclusive 24/7 access code Paid utilities High speed, wireless broadband connectivity Complimentary coffee, water & snacks A business mailing address Use of a scanner Conference room (reservation required) Podcast room (reservation required) How to enter to win: Submit a short video (30-60 seconds) telling us: How you would use the space How it will help you build/grow your business Submit your video, your name, business name and contact information to: kendallvilecoworking@gmail.com by no later than April 18, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. to enter! Please note, by submitting a video you give permission to 231 Main to use the video for promotional purposes on social media. A winner will be selected and announced by April 30, 2025. Questions? Contact Kristen Johnson at (260) 318-0883.

In today’s market, small businesses have to work extra hard to stand out and attract customers. As a result, it’s important for small businesses to find creative and effective ways to draw people in. Understanding the needs of your local community and using strategies that offer value and create memorable experiences can help. Below are some techniques that can help you bring customers through your door – and keep them coming back! 1. Exceed Customer Expectations:  One of the best ways to attract customers is by offering an exceptional experience from the moment they walk through your door. Personalize the customer experience by training your staff to be friendly, helpful, and attentive. A small gesture, such as remembering a customer's name or their preferences, can go a long way in fostering loyalty. Consider offering loyalty programs that reward customers for repeat visits or referrals. This also encourages customers to bring friends and family. 2. Host In-Store Events or Workshops:  Hosting events or workshops is a great way to engage your local community while showcasing your products or services. Whether it’s a product demonstration or a themed event related to your business -- events offer a fun way for customers to connect you on a more personal level. 3. Leverage Social Media:  Having a strong social media presence is essential for any business. Post about new products, behind-the-scenes looks at your business, customer testimonials, and promotions – or just ask a question that engages people in a fun or meaningful way. 4. Use Time-Sensitive Promotions or Discounts:  Offering limited-time promotions or discounts creates a sense of urgency, encouraging customers to visit your store sooner rather than later. Flash sales, holiday promotions, and "happy hour" specials can generate excitement and entice people to walk through your door. 5. Create an Inviting Atmosphere:  The physical environment of your store plays a significant role in attracting customers. A clean, organized, and visually appealing space makes customers feel comfortable and welcome, and soft background music can encourage customers to stay longer. 6. Engage in Local SEO:  Nowadays, many people search online before visiting a local business. Make sure your business is listed on Google My Business and that your website contains location-specific keywords. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on Google and other review sites. 7. Offer Personalized Experiences or Products For example, if you run a boutique, offer custom styling consultations. If you operate a café, ask regular customers for their preferences and offer them a discount for being loyal.  When customers feel like they are receiving a product or service designed specifically for them, it enhances their experience and increases the likelihood that they will return. 8. Collaborate with Other Local Businesses:  Consider collaborating with nearby stores or service providers to cross-promote each other’s offerings. For instance, a local bakery could partner with a coffee shop to offer a discount when customers buy from both. These kinds of partnerships create a win-win situation for both businesses while exposing your brand to a wider audience. 9. Give Back to the Community:  Support local charities, sponsor events, or host fundraisers to demonstrate your commitment to the well-being of the area. Not only will this create positive publicity for your business, but it will also earn you the respect and support of the community. Bringing people through your is about creating lasting relationships with your customers. Implementing even a few of these techniques will help increase foot traffic and ensure that your small business thrives in today’s competitive environment!

Just a few weeks ago, Historic Downtown Kendallville and Indiana Landmarks had the unique opportunity to present to the Northeast Indiana Strategic Development Commission about a new program being developed in the region, called the Preservation Trades Collaborative.  As a result of this presentation, the Collaborative was awarded a grant of $277,500 to develop the program.   About the Heritage Trades Program The Collaborative brings together local and statewide partners to eliminate and rehabilitate blighted properties while attracting and growing talent in the trades arena through a Heritage Trades training program. Targeting the immediate five county area around Kendallville (where the program will be launched in partnership with IMPACT Institute ), the Collaborative will be a pilot project assisting development of this approach as a model for implementation across the state of Indiana. Heritage Trades refers to specialized skills and crafts used to maintain, restore, and rehabilitate historic buildings. Heritage Trades skills are becoming increasingly scarce, despite the growing need. In fact, the need for new trades people is a well-known issue across the US, and Indiana unfortunately fits that trend. A particularly critical need in the region are trades people who understand and have skills specifically targeted to historic, older homes and buildings. With a preponderance of these structures constructed before WWII making up the target area’s building stock, the initiative seeks to begin to fill that need.   Using Kendallville as a “working lab,” this program will fill the gap by providing training and instruction in these highly sought-out skills, while also identifying and building the capacity of individuals within the target area to be future instructors and mentors in the field.   Historic Downtown Kendallville has witnessed the ongoing skills challenge through the implementation of the $2M PreservINg Main Street award in 2021. The project experienced significant delays and bidding roadblocks due to a lack of available contractors with skills to undertake the scope of services specified for the buildings located in the Kendallville National Register District. This lack of competition was partially responsible for the higher than estimated project costs. Work such as masonry repair, plaster work, window restoration, the rebuilding of cornices, cupolas, historically appropriate features, along with paint and other work that would retain or revive the historic integrity of the buildings all experienced shortages of available and qualified contractors. In fact, it took nearly two years and multiple requests for proposals before the execution of a successful bid award - and even then, it required tapping contractors from outside of Indiana. Indiana Landmarks’ experience shows a need in every county for these specialized skills.   Project Partners The Collaborative is facilitated and will be managed by Indiana Landmarks in partnership with Kendallville Restorations, Inc. , Historic Downtown Kendallville, the City of Kendallville , the Dekko Foundation , Ivy Tech , and IMPACT Institute. Each partner brings experience and passion to develop these crucial preservation skills, create a working laboratory for existing construction trades business owners, and students and recent graduates who wish to learn the art of historic preservation and start their own specialty business.

As the heart of our community, our Main Street district thrives because of each and every one of our downtown merchants. Your business plays a vital role in the vibrancy and success of our downtown; which is why – as a Main Street -- we’re always striving to support you in any way we can.   We’ve been thinking a lot about the look and feel of our district and want to share an opportunity with you that could positively impact your business—both aesthetically and economically. While the front of your store might be the first thing customers see when driving through downtown,  have you thought about how the rear of your business looks?    Source: https://moss-design.com/ The back of your building plays a significant role in shaping the overall experience of our district, especially since that is where the majority of our parking exists.  The rear of your business might be the first impression when someone arrives by car or on foot. Clean, well-maintained rear facades can provide a welcoming feeling to customers entering from this direction.   Updating the rear facade can also increase the value  of your property . Potential investors, future tenants, or buyers will see that you care about maintaining your building from all angles. A well-kept rear facade signals that your business is an attractive and professional place to invest in or visit.   Source: https://moss-design.com/   And as we have learned over the last couple of years as a recipient of the PreservINg Main Street grant -- when one business improves its exterior, it elevates the entire district . The small improvements you make have a ripple effect on neighboring businesses -- creating a stronger, more vibrant environment. Aesthetic upgrades can even attract new customers who may have previously overlooked your business or district entirely. This collective effort strengthens the local economy and makes our Main Street district a destination people want to spend time in.   To make updating your rear façade easier and more affordable, the Kendallville Historic Preservation Commission (HPC recently simplified their rear elevation guidelines.  Below are the new and revised guidelines  for updating your rear facade:   Keep It Simple Rear elevations should maintain a simple, straightforward appearance. These areas are meant to serve a functional purpose, so avoid overly ornate details that might distract from the overall look of the district. Focus on clean, minimal designs that will complement the historical architecture of the area.  Keep rear entrances minimal and functional. Basic signage and awnings for business identification are recommended -- but avoid overcrowding or adding excessive decor. The goal is to create an inviting yet simple entrance that doesn’t overpower the space.   Preserve Historic Doors & Windows If your building has a historic door at the rear entrance, it's best to preserve it. These doors add to the unique character of your building and should be maintained wherever possible. If your door is no longer functional and needs replacing, consider using historically appropriate doors such as single-lite glass-and-wood models.  Just like doors, windows are key components of your building's character. If your rear elevation features historic windows, they should be preserved. If new windows are necessary, replace them with windows that match the original size and type. Vinyl windows can be used for rear elevations as long as they are in line with the original design.   Replace with Appropriate Materials If the brick or mortar on your rear elevation is deteriorating, durable metal siding may be an option. However, make sure the new materials match the historical feel of the district. Metal siding can be an excellent solution for buildings with significant wear but should still complement the existing structure.   Screen HVAC and Service Equipment HVAC units and other service equipment are essential but can detract from the building’s appearance if visible from the street. To maintain the aesthetic of the district, screen these units using landscaping, wood, or brick enclosures. Alternatively, consider placing the units on the roof, out of view from the street.   Paint If you’re thinking of updating the paint on your rear facade, the RDC may be able to help with funding. To qualify, the paint colors must come from the Sherwin Williams pre-approved historic color palette. This can be an excellent opportunity to refresh your building while staying within the district’s aesthetic guidelines. You can find the full list of approved colors Sherwin Williams website at: https://www.sherwin-williams.com/ .   Things to Avoid While updating your rear facade, it’s important to follow the district’s recommendations to preserve the area’s historic integrity. Here are a few things that the Historic Preservation Commission generally does not approve: ·         Covering windows with plywood ·         Using vinyl siding ·         Replacing windows with a size or type that differs from the original design   By sticking to these recommendations, you can be confident that your updates will enhance your building and contribute positively to the overall feel of Main Street.   We understand that maintaining and updating a historic building can seem like a big task. That’s why we’re here to support you! If you need guidance, have questions, or are interested in funding for paint or other façade work, give us a call.  We will direct you to the appropriate resources to ensure your success!   And if you’re thinking about a rear update in collaboration with neighboring buildings , let us know that as well!  We are happy to help you coordinate the process of getting recommendations and quotes for the work, as well as applying for façade grant funding.   Let’s continue to work together to ensure that our district remains a place that businesses thrive, and customers love to visit. We look forward to seeing the improvements you make to your rear facades in 2025 and beyond!   Thank you for your continued commitment to Main Street’s success!

In the heart of every thriving downtown lies a vibrant community of local businesses—each one contributing to the area’s unique charm and character. However, despite their individual successes, many downtown merchants face the same challenges: competition from online retailers, rising costs, and the struggle to attract foot traffic. In such a competitive landscape, it's crucial for these businesses to come together and collaborate, offering a united front to draw customers into the downtown area.   One of the most effective ways to foster this sense of community is through cross-promotion. By working together, downtown businesses can not only share resources and customers but also create a stronger, more appealing destination for shoppers.   Rather than competing against one another, merchants can combine their strengths to attract more customers into the area. For example, a café might team up with a nearby bookstore to offer discounts to customers who shop at both places. A cross-promotion like this encourages people to stay longer, explore more businesses, and spend more money in the neighborhood.   By supporting each other, these businesses create a ripple effect that benefits the entire downtown area, from local shops to restaurants and service providers.    Likewise, by cross-promoting each other through social media, newsletters, and in-store signage, businesses can reach a wider audience—one that may not have been familiar with their brand before.  The more businesses that collaborate, the more robust the local economy becomes.    Not only that, but collaboration fosters relationships and makes the downtown area feel more like a neighborhood. This sense of community can be built through shared events, promotions, and collaborations (such as sidewalk sales and unique holiday offerings) between local merchants.  These types of events build a sense of camaraderie between merchants and create an atmosphere of inclusivity for shoppers, making them more likely to return.   Collaboration can also help small businesses keep the cost of marketing down. Rather than each business having to invest heavily in individual advertising, businesses can share the costs -- while amplifying their message -- thereby increasing their chances of being noticed by potential customers.  Moreover, cross-promotion helps merchants show their appreciation for their customers, fostering goodwill and encouraging word-of-mouth marketing. This customer loyalty, fueled by consistent collaboration, can have a lasting impact on the success of downtown businesses.   In closing, when businesses in downtown areas collaborate, they collectively champion the "buy local" message, which tends to resonate with customers who want to support their community – and which is a win for everyone!

In small towns across the country, the potential for economic growth may be hiding in plain sight—above the bustling sidewalks of downtown streets. Upper-floor housing, often overlooked in urban planning, is increasingly recognized as a key driver for revitalizing small-town economies. By converting the underused or vacant spaces above shops into vibrant living areas, small communities can foster growth, increase foot traffic, and breathe new life into their downtown districts. In many small towns, downtown areas are struggling to compete with sprawling suburban developments and online shopping. The once-thriving "main streets" have become quieter, with empty storefronts and dwindling foot traffic. However, introducing upper-floor housing to these areas can reverse the trend. When residents live within walking distance of businesses, they naturally help sustain local shops, restaurants, and services. "People living downtown tend to become loyal customers to businesses within walking distance," says Kristen Johnson, Kendallville’s Main Street Executive Director.  "They grab coffee at the local café, shop at the local boutique, and enjoy meals at nearby restaurants. It's a win-win for the community." But the benefits of upper-floor housing goes beyond increased foot traffic.  With more people living downtown, tax revenue grows and property values increase as buildings are renovated, leading to higher tax revenues for local governments. In addition, renovating older buildings creates construction jobs, while a bustling downtown attracts entrepreneurs and business owners, as well as tourists seeking new experiences. Of course, converting upper floors into housing often has roadblocks. Many small-town buildings require significant investment to meet modern safety codes and accessibility standards. Property owners may be hesitant to take on the risk without the help of local incentives.  To address these challenges, the following incentives are available to downtown Kendallville property owners who wish to renovate their buildings: ·           Kendallville Redevelopment Commission (RDC) Façade Grants:  The RDC offers a variety of grants to improve the look and integrity of your building, including grants for windows, tuckpointing, awnings, and other exterior aesthetics of the building, as well as grants for roof repair/replacement, signage, and parking lot repairs.  ·         Vacant Tax Abatements:  This incentive offers a tax break to individuals who purchase a building within the economic development target area that has been vacant for more than one year. ·         Historic Tax Credits:   The Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA) offers a 20% income tax credit on qualified expenses for the rehabilitation of historic, income-producing buildings. Several of Kendallville’s downtown building owners have recently taken on the challenge of creating 2nd floor living spaces – both in the form of apartments, as well as short- and long-term stay AirBNB rentals.  While the upfront costs may require taking out a loan, the benefits over time can be substantial. For small towns looking to thrive in an increasingly urbanized world, the path forward may be upward. By embracing the potential of upper-floor housing, communities can create a mutually beneficial relationship between residents and businesses, ensuring downtown areas remain the heart and hub of Kendallville’s social and economic life. The formula is simple but powerful: more people downtown equals more business, more vibrancy, and more opportunities for growth—one floor at a time.

One of the most common complaints I hear about downtown Kendallville is the perceived lack of parking. How often have you heard someone say, "I don’t go downtown because there’s nowhere to park”? While this is a common belief, it’s not necessarily true. In fact, it often stems from a misunderstanding of what we expect from parking in certain areas versus others. There are currently around 75 businesses within Kendallville’s downtown district – and 438  public parking spaces.  I know, because I counted.  That’s enough parking to accommodate almost 6 cars per business and doesn’t even take into consideration the private parking that is also available for some of these businesses. What’s fascinating to me is that most people will willingly walk a considerable distance to get from their parking spot to a store in a mall or a Walmart, but for some reason -- downtown businesses are often held to a much higher standard. While it may be rare to find a spot directly in front of the store or restaurant you want to visit, there are still plenty of parking options—whether it’s on the street a block or two away or in nearby lots. So, the problem isn’t always the availability of parking, but rather the expectation that parking should be easy, fast, and right in front of the destination. Think about the last time you visited a Walmart or a large shopping center. You park in a sprawling lot and start the trek to the entrance. On average, you’re walking 200-300 feet from your car to the front doors. Once inside, the walking continues. A store like Walmart, for example, has around 150,000 square feet of retail space, and you’re likely covering hundreds of feet just getting to the section you need. So, why does walking a few blocks in downtown feel so different?  The difference (in my opinion) is largely psychological. In a shopping mall, you expect to walk. The parking lot is big, and the stores are spread out, but the experience is designed to make walking part of the journey.  It’s a package deal, and your mind is ready for it. In a downtown setting, however, people expect a different experience. If they can’t find a spot directly in front of their destination, it feels like a hassle. Yet, the actual distance from a parking spot on a side street to that favorite café or boutique is more than likely less  than the walk you’d make from the far end of a Walmart parking lot to the store’s front door. The difference in perception might also stem from the nature of the walk itself. Walking from a parking lot to a store in a mall is smoot and uninterrupted (predictable). On the other hand, downtown walks might involve crossing streets, navigating crowds, or dealing with weather conditions. However, these are minor inconveniences that, when put in perspective, aren’t much more demanding than walking through a giant retail store. And keep in mind that walking in downtown Kendallville takes you past beautiful architecture, unique storefronts, public art, and green spaces—none of which you get while walking through an asphalt parking lot.  And when you park a few blocks away, you might stumble upon a cool shop you didn’t know existed or spot a new restaurant to try. Don’t be afraid to allow yourself a slower, more enjoyable experience. Embrace the walk!

As the holiday season approaches, the internet has made it almost too easy to jump online in search of the perfect gift for your loved one(s). But this year, before you do that, consider this: your holiday shopping choices have the power to make a BIG difference in your local community. Here's why . . . When you buy from a local business, a significant portion of that money STAYS in your community. In fact, studies show that for every dollar spent at a small business, around 68 cents stay in the local economy, as compared to only 14 cents at large retailers. These dollars contribute to the livelihoods of our neighbors, fund local projects and non-profits, and help build a stronger community. In other words . . . shopping local is like investing in our community’s success and vitality. Locally-owned stores bring personality and diversity to our neighborhoods. From cozy coffee shops and bakeries (like WhatchamaCAKES and Jen’s Bistro), to artisan markets and specialty boutiques (like the new Misty Meadows Marketplace and On the Main Boutique) -- these businesses offer unique products and services you can’t find anywhere else.  Shopping locally helps to maintain the charm and character that makes our hometown feel like home. One of the most satisfying aspects of shopping local is the experience itself. When you enter a small, locally-owned shop, you’re often greeted with a smile from someone who genuinely cares about what they do. Small business owners have a vested interest in their customers, and it shows in the thoughtful service they provide. If you’re looking for a unique or customized gift, these shops are often more than willing to go the extra mile to help you find just the right item. It’s a level of care and personalization that simply can’t be matched by the online and big box stores. Small businesses also create local jobs. They employ your neighbors, friends, and family members, contribute to lower unemployment rates, and provide opportunities for meaningful work in the community. Also, small businesses often contribute to higher job satisfaction and stronger connections between employees and customers. That sense of pride can translate into an extra-special holiday shopping experience. Shopping small during the holidays isn’t just about the items we purchase . . . but the experiences we create. Walking down Main Street, browsing through small shops, and chatting with store owners create moments that stay with us far longer than any material gift. These experiences are what make the holiday season feel rich and full. Still not convinced?   Here are a few ways that Historic Downtown Kendallville hopes to encourage YOU to shop local this holiday season. ·         Our Shop Small/Win Big Contest:   For every $25 you spend at locally owned Main Street businesses between November 16th and December 15th, you’ll have a chance to win a $500 shopping spree.  All you have to do is turn your receipts in to Historic Downtown Kendallville by the December 16th deadline, along with your name and contact information, to be entered to win.  Participants may enter multiple times, and every $25 spent at a local downtown merchant is counted as one entry.  This annual contest is sponsored by Hosler Realty, and has generated thousands of dollars in local commerce over the past several years.  To further encourage shopping local, the $500 prize is given in the form of a Shop Noble Gift Card, valid at locally owned small businesses all over Noble County. ·         Purchase Shop Noble gift cards :  Shop Noble Gift Cards are a GREAT way to make sure your dollars stay local this holiday season.  Whether you buy them for yourself, use them as employee incentives, or even as a special stocking stuffer, Shop Noble cards are a great way to shop local!  Shop Noble cards are available online at shopnoblein.com , and can be used at any small business in Noble County that accepts credit cards. ·         Use the “Show Her Your Love" Christmas Wish List :  New this year, we are providing ready-made wish lists at several of our downtown shops, so that women can pick one up and take it around town with them, filling in the items she’d like to find under the tree from her “significant other.”  When her window shopping is done, the list can be left with any participating merchant, who will then share the list with the appropriate person (spouse or significant other).  Contact information must be provided. ·         Spread the word:  Share your unique finds and local gift ideas on social media, leave a positive review, or recommend local businesses to friends and family. Word of mouth is one of the most powerful ways to support local. As the holidays approach, let’s remember that every gift we buy has an impact far greater than what’s wrapped inside. This year, make it a point to shop small, support local, and create a ripple of goodwill that can help sustain our communities long after the season ends. After all, the joy of giving becomes that much sweeter when we know our gifts are also giving back to this wonderful community we call home.

I was asked recently whether or not I think there is value in hosting events downtown – especially when there are parks and a Community Center mere blocks away that might accommodate more people and more vendors.  My answer to that question is YES  – there is immense value in hosting events in the heart of our downtown! In fact, downtown events play a crucial role in promoting and supporting Main Street businesses, create vibrant experiences for local communities, and also serve as an engine for commerce. By drawing crowds to the heart of the city, downtown events benefit small businesses in multiple ways, from increased foot traffic to fostering brand awareness -- ultimately driving sales and growth. One of the primary benefits of downtown events is their ability to bring people together. Whether it's a children’s festival, a car show, or a holiday parade, these gatherings attract a diverse group of visitors, many of whom may not typically visit the area.  Restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and specialty shops lining Main Street benefit from the influx of potential customers, as attendees are often looking for food, drinks, souvenirs, or just a place to relax during the event. Businesses that may otherwise struggle to capture new customers can see a significant increase in revenue on event days. In addition to driving sales, these events create long-term promotional opportunities for local businesses who choose to participate -- by hosting a booth, offering samples and/or special offers, or showcasing their products in a more engaging, casual atmosphere – they are creating a sense of community around the businesses, and deepening the connection between customers and local merchants. Downtown events also generate positive word-of-mouth and free advertising. People who attend them often share their experiences on social media, amplifying exposure for businesses within the area. A well-timed Instagram post featuring a delicious meal from a local restaurant -- or a unique piece of jewelry from a downtown shop can inspire others to visit. And finally, downtown events also promote a sense of pride in local culture. By encouraging people to shop small and support local entrepreneurs, events help keep money circulating within the community. Instead of funneling revenue to large corporations or online retailers, commerce remains in the hands of small business owners who are directly invested in the community’s wellbeing.  In fact, studies show that for every dollar spent at a locally owned business, 68% of that dollar STAYS  in the community. Recently, one of Kendallville’s downtown merchants, Arkham City Oddities, took it upon themselves to host an event that drew thousands of visitors and patrons to the district.  The event, titled “Fright Night,” featured over 50 craft and food vendors, as well as a variety of unique entertainment; such as a spooky car show, a vampire queen pageant, and flame-throwers after dark.  Arkham’s owner (Sammy Phipps) and her team poured their hearts into the event – and the community responded in kind by showing up, dressing up, and opening their own hearts (and their wallets) to support the many local businesses who participated.

Historic Downtown Kendallville invites the community to an event on Thursday, September 19 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. An Open House will be the setting for this year's Art on Main benefit auction, featuring 13 custom-designed Bistro Sets seen setting along Main Street's sidewalks this summer. The 231 Main Kendallville Co-Working Open House will also feature more than forty artworks by East Noble High School students and several gourmet desserts. This event takes place at the newly renovated and repurposed former automotive garage located across from City Hall at 231 S Main Street. See the new space and bid to win a unique Bistro Set work of art! All proceeds of the auction benefit Kendallville's nationally accredited Main Street organization. For more information, contact our office - newly relocated to 231 S Main Street - at (260) 318-0883.

The new Kendallville Co-working space is now open, and our Historic Downtown Kendallville (Main Street) office has relocated into one of three private offices located there. 231 Main Kendallville Co-Working is a flexible, affordable form of office space designed specifically for entrepreneurs, small business owners, work-from-home professionals, and larger businesses looking to provide remote offices for employees. Historic Downtown Kendallville is excited to be relocated to this new space and looks forward to meeting and supporting more tenants and users! For more information, check out the flier below and click it download it for reference.