‘Healthy’ turnout at Shelburne wellness expo, despite bad weather

Written By MARNI WALSH

The Shelburne Health and Wellness Expo, held on Jan. 18, enjoyed a good attendance despite the worst weather of the winter. 

“We were very happy with the turnout, as about 170 people from the community attended,” says organizer Amanda Phillips. “Considering the forecast was calling for heavy snowfall and strong winds, we really appreciated the visitors who came.”

Even though several vendors had to cancel due to the weather, there were still 42 vendors at the popular annual event last Saturday. Ms. Phillips says, 

“The vendors were excited because many of the attendees had questions about their services and products, and were looking for specific information.”

She says, “Some visitors commented that they were surprised by how many services were available in town.” She told the Free Press one vendor commented that this shows “how much the Health and Wellness Expo is needed in Shelburne.”

“I think the highlight of the day was bringing everyone from the health and wellness community together,” says Ms. Phillips. “Many vendors commented how great it was to be able to, not only talk with the public, but also be able to walk around and meet other practitioners, exchange information, and see how they could help each other, or each other's clients and patients.”

She added, “The workshops were well-received again, and we look forward to doing them next year as well.”

Going forward, the organizers say they would like to find a way to incorporate shorter talks back into the event, as they know there are vendors who would like the opportunity to share specific information about their services or products.

“A few people have asked to have the event twice a year, winter and summer,” says Amanda Phillips, “and we are considering the logistics of an outdoor event in the warmer weather. It all comes down to timing. With so many great activities and events happening on weekends throughout the summer, we would really need to consider which month would give us the best opportunity to reach as many Shelburnites as possible.”