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We had the chance to go to Fiesta Fort Wayne, an immersive cultural festival. It was a blast for all ages and was a true spectacle of the Latino spirit today at Headwaters Park! Vibrant live music, dancing, and some of the most authentic Latino cuisine in Northeast Indiana was all part of the experience. Browsing items from handmade jewelry and clothing to Hispanic candy and deserts it was an engaging and fun event for all who came. While booths offered a range of enticing Latino goods, the heart and soul of Fiesta Fort Wayne laid in its lively performances and flavorsome food offerings. After ordering an array of fresh authentic dishes, it was relaxing to sit back, and enjoy the rhythmic music and truly feel embraced in the moment. Engaging with the vendors at Fiesta Fort Wayne added a personal touch to the experience, unveiling the stories behind each creation. Conversations flowed effortlessly as these individuals shared their craftsmanship and traditions. These interactions turned each booth into a doorway to the heart of Fort Wayne’s Latino culture, making the festival not just a mere event but a journey of connection and understanding. After agreeing on a mutually fair price, I walked away with a smile on my face, and a sombrero on my head. As the sun set on Headwaters Park, I left with a satisfied palate, full of delicious food, long-lasting memories, and a deeper understanding of the vibrant Latino spirit that thrives in the heart of Fort Wayne For more information for next year follow Fiesta Fort Wayne on Facebook: Let us know if your business has an event coming up by emailing us at: Fort Wayne Business Journal fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com

Fort Wayne has a rich history when it comes to the world of baseball, and with the help of Logan Wiening, owner of Old Fort Baseball Co, we now have a way to preserve, support, and represent the teams that have called Fort Wayne home throughout the years. When we asked Logan what the word business meant to him, he said, “It’s the ability and justification to live out a hobby. As a designer, I’ve been looking for a while to find something I could do to fill a niche and provide a creative outlet for. I wanted to do something different and not what everyone else was doing; copying something you see online and slapping it on a sticker is easy. I wanted to create something original, and a brand people would want to support, and I found that with Old Fort Baseball Co.” Logan Wiening was born in Fort Wayne and graduated from Bishop Dwenger High School in 2013. When he talked about what it was like growing up in Fort Wayne, he said something that we believe many of us felt ten years ago, everyone he knew wanted to leave the city and go elsewhere. He said, “There wasn’t much to do back then; downtown didn’t have much going on, nothing really happened at the coliseum, and the events around town were not that exciting. Throughout the last decade, that isn’t the case anymore; with all the growth happening in our city, we don’t want to leave. Fort Wayne is a great place to be, and when I talk with people that didn’t grow up here, they talk about how we have so many exciting things happening here, and it’s so easy to fall in love with the town and call it home.” Looking back at Wiening’s childhood, he remembers always liking the concept of being a business owner. He told us about how whenever he would play video games about various professional sports leagues, he always wanted to play as the general manager or other roles that required more of a business outlook on the game rather than just the athlete’s perspective. During his senior year of high school, he had an opportunity to experience the business side of sports when he accepted a position with the Mad Ants. He went on to work with the Mad Ants for six seasons. Throughout this time, Logan realized he enjoyed the business side of things, so he began thinking of ways to create his own company. Logan is a creative; he enjoys making designs and graphics for various things, so he knew he wanted to do something within that realm to ensure he followed his passions. He knew he didn’t want to be like other companies that see an overused design, recreate it, and throw it on apparel. Knowing what he didn’t want for his company, he needed to figure out what he did want. What he came up with came down to three main things; a unique idea, quality products, and to fill a void in an industry. Now that he knew what he wanted, he began sketching out a few different ideas. After several dead ends, he started on a very different concept, creating a logo for The Kekionga's, Fort Wayne’s first and only professional men’s baseball team formed in 1871. After this, he recreated the logo for the Fort Wayne Daisies, a female professional baseball team that played from 1945-1954. During this process, he realized he had a great idea here, and the concept for Old Fort Baseball Co was born. When Logan described what the company is today, he said “The main goal and focus is to celebrate and reinvigorate the love, support, and history of Fort Wayne baseball. Sport is an important part of our community, so we highlight teams people may not know about through our apparel and merchandise to bring more awareness and new life to old teams. Bringing back the nostalgia for people is a lot of fun too.” When we discussed the hardships Logan has been through since the creation of the business, he told us the most challenging part was really in the beginning, when he needed to turn his designs into quality apparel items. He knew he didn’t want to be the person that printed the shirts because that wasn’t his specialty, he was the designer. He wanted to ensure from the beginning that the brand was only providing customers with the best quality products. So, to do that, he needed to use a company with experience in creating quality apparel. After much research, what made the most sense for Wiening and the company was to use a third-party, print-on-demand service. This allowed Logan the ability not to have to invest a ton of money in inventory and gave him the ability to use that money in different areas of the company. Using a print-on-demand service meant that a third-party company would instantly print the item and send it directly to the customer whenever a client purchased an item from his website. After figuring out how the products would get to his clients, the next challenge was establishing the best pricing, deciding what to offer, and thinking through every detail of how the shirt would look and feel. Today, many of the early choices Logan made are still in effect but he has had the opportunity to create a relationship with Nick Morken, owner of Pulled & Pressed, which has given him the ability to screen print more designs locally. Aside from purchasing items on the website, people can also find Old Fort Baseball Co at the YLNI marketplace downtown once a month. Soon they hope to have a small display within a new baseball facility that is currently being built here in Fort Wayne. As for the future of Old Fort Baseball Co, Logan wants to continue expanding into other areas with the help of his Support Local Baseball initiative. This program was Wiening’s first go at a more national approach. Through this process, he’s created partnerships with companies nationwide, helping design and produce apparel for their baseball teams. Wiening enjoys building new relationships with people and hopes to expand on this as the company continues to grow. He has plans to expand the products and teams they offer and has hopes to expand into other local sports industries to help bring more awareness to the Fort Wayne sports community as a whole. Currently, Logan is the only person working for the company, but he can see himself hiring another person part-time when the timing is right. Logan has big visions for the company, and with the ongoing support of the community, he can continue to make them happen. Logan Wiening is an excellent example of what it’s like to be an entrepreneur. He had the itch to start a company and took the time to follow that and create something new and unique to Fort Wayne. When we asked him if he had any advice for other entrepreneurs hoping to start their own business, he said, “You need to be willing to work hard for your company, but don’t get too deep into what you’re doing. You have to be able to notice your shortcomings and be ready to adjust as needed. Most importantly, you need to build your brand because that is what will set you apart from other companies, especially in a town like Fort Wayne. Creating a brand gives the community something to stand behind and want to support. Word of mouth is what will really help your company grow.” If you would like to see more of what Logan is doing at Old Fort Baseball Co, follow them on Instagram @oldfortbaseballco or check out their website at www.oldfortbaseballco.com. We want to send a huge thank you to Logan Wiening for his time and sharing his story with us. We also want to thank Nikeshia Young owner of Creative Roots Media for capturing these photos. If you enjoy reading these stories about the people helping shape Fort Wayne, subscribe to our free newsletter to stay in the loop with what's happening here at the Fort Wayne Business Journal.

If you have nothing to do this weekend in Fort Wayne, check out these local events! Check in every Wednesday to find out what is happening in the Fort Wayne area for the coming weekend. I If you have any events you would like mentioned or highlighted, please email us at fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com

Every Wednesday, Fort Wayne Business Journal is going to start posting Fort Wayne To-do, Events, and Happenings that will be taking place on the weekends hosted by our Local Businesses, Entrepreneurs, and the City of Fort Wayne! Fort Wayne Happenings this Weekend August 4th-6th 2023 YMCA Summer Shindig| Friday Dragon Boat Races| Friday, Saturday FWCS Block Party| Saturday Sunday Makebreak: Fidget Bugs| Sunday If you have a weekend event and would like to share it, email us! fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com

As many have noticed on sites and applications like Nextdoor, Facebook, and even communal bulletin boards the gig economy is experiencing a remarkable surge during the summer season. From lawn care and pressure washing to pet and house sitting, as well as food and grocery delivery services, the gig economy thrives during this time as individuals seize opportunities to capitalize on the opportunities of the summer season. Opportunities in Landscaping Landscaping, gardening, and other related services are in high demand as homeowners and businesses seek to maintain and enhance appeal to their property. This surge in demand has created opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds, especially students on summer break, to take advantage of this need by providing lawn care services. These entrepreneurs possess the enthusiasm, energy, and attention to detail required for running a lawn care business. Their commitment to delivering quality service often attracts a loyal customer base. Care Providers for Homes, Pets, and Children Families and pet owners often find themselves in need of dependable individuals who can provide trustworthy care for their homes, beloved animals, and children when they are away. The gig economy accommodates this need by providing platforms and networks that connect gig workers with those seeking reliable and responsible care providers. This arrangement benefits both parties, as homeowners and parents can enjoy their vacations with peace of mind, while gig workers gain income and valuable experience. Convenient Food and Grocery Delivery The convenience of food and grocery delivery has experienced a surge in popularity, particularly during the summer months. With the rise of online ordering platforms and mobile apps, individuals can easily access a variety of local favorites without having to leave their home. Gig workers embrace this opportunity by joining delivery service platforms such as DoorDash, GrubHub, and Instacart, offering flexible hours and the chance to earn income based on the number of deliveries completed. By joining delivery service platforms, these gig workers contribute to the growing sector, satisfying the desire for convenient and fast food and grocery delivery. Gig Economy's Appeal The gig economy's expansion can also be attributed to evolving work culture and preferences. Many individuals now seek more autonomy and flexibility in their professional lives, preferring to work on their own terms rather than traditional employment schedules. The gig economy allows them to control their schedules, choose the type of work they prefer, and balance work-life commitments more effectively. Moreover, gig jobs often provide opportunities for individuals to explore their passions, develop entrepreneurial skills, and gain valuable experience in various industries. The gig economy is undergoing a huge seasonal growth spurt, with outdoor work, pet and house sitting/child care, and food delivery services playing pivotal roles in its expansion. The summer season, with its unique demands and changing consumer behaviors, offers a perfect environment for gig workers to seek employment. As the gig economy continues to evolve, it presents a promising landscape for both workers and customers, reshaping traditional notions of employment and empowering individuals to forge their own paths towards professional fulfillment.

The highly anticipated 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup is just around the corner, and soccer enthusiasts all over the globe are eagerly awaiting the start of this prestigious tournament. Jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand, this ninth edition of the Women's World Cup promises to be a memorable event for both players and fans alike. The tournament, eagerly anticipated by soccer fans worldwide, is scheduled to take place from July 20th to August 20th, 2023. An exciting development is the expansion of the tournament. Previously featuring 24 teams, the 2023 edition will witness the participation of 32 teams, mirroring the format of the Men's World Cup in 2022. This expansion offers an opportunity for more nations to showcase their talent on the global stage, making the tournament even more competitive and thrilling. For fans supporting the United States, there are several exciting matches to look forward to. The USA team will face Vietnam on Friday , July 21st at 9 pm. This will be followed by a highly anticipated clash against the Netherlands on Wednesday , July 26th also at 9 pm. The final group stage match for the USA team will be against Portugal on Tuesday August 1st, at the early hour of 3 am. These matches will be crucial for the USA as they aim to showcase their dominance on the world stage. The second round will be announced at the end of the first round! Throughout the tournament, several bars in the vicinity will be broadcasting the games, providing fans with a lively atmosphere to enjoy the action with fellow supporters. Whether you prefer a sports bar, a cozy pub, or a trendy lounge, there will be plenty of options available to suit your preferences. Make sure to check with local establishments or visit their websites to find out which venues will be showing the Women's World Cup matches and plan your viewing accordingly. The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup promises to be an unforgettable event, celebrating the passion and skill of female soccer players from around the world. As fans eagerly await the kick-off, the joint hosting by Australia and New Zealand and the highly competitive matches ensure that this tournament will captivate audiences and inspire a new generation of players. Get ready to be amazed by the world's best female soccer athletes as they showcase their talents on the grandest stage of all! Fort Wayne Business Journal fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com for any questions or suggestions. Let us know how we can improve on our articles or service. Local business owners' stories are coming soon. You won't want to miss it. Stay tuned to find out.

Chelsea Vona is a Fort Wayne entrepreneur making a name for herself in the yoga world. The owner of Discover Yoga, a popular yoga studio downtown, Chelsea has helped countless individuals find balance, focus, and inner peace through yoga. With her passion for success and dedication to yoga, Chelsea has become a tremendous role model for aspiring business owners, entrepreneurs, and yogis alike. We will explore Chelsea's journey as an entrepreneur and how her love for yoga has significantly impacted her success. Chelsea Vona was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan; when she was six months old, her family decided to move to Fort Wayne. As a child, she attended Wars Elementary, the Fort Wayne Community School districts Theatre Arts Magnet School, a part of the Summit Arts Program. In kindergarten, Chelsea was in her school's ballet class. Unfortunately, the school was shut down due to funding issues, and all the students, including Chelsea, were transferred to Weisser Park. She continued to dance throughout her school years, primarily with LA Dance Studio, with her favorite dance styles being Jazz and Hip Hop. She graduated from Homestead High School but went to South Side High School for most of her high school years. She was so proud to talk to us about how wonderful going to South Side was and how grateful she was to be a part of such a diversified community. After high school, Chelsea went to Columbia College in Chicago for a year before making the difficult decision to move back to Fort Wayne. Chelsea was struggling with finding her place in this world; she didn't exactly know what she wanted to do for a career or who she wanted to be just yet, so she did a lot of soul-searching for the next six years. She was a waitress at a few different restaurants throughout this time until one day, in 2010, during a vacation trip at her family's home in Pensacola, Florida, she discovered yoga. When we asked Chelsea why she decided to try yoga for the first time, she told us she's always wanted to try it. When she was very young, her sister passed away, and with this trauma, her father found spirituality which over time helped him heal, and throughout the next few years, Chelsea would find her spirituality as well. Her spirituality is what guided her to try yoga. Once she discovered the wonders of yoga, she incorporated a lot more order and structure into her life and learned how to process past traumas and deal with things better when life gets a bit chaotic. Yoga helped her in so many different areas of her life that she decided to get certified in March 2015 through Prana Yoga, a local Fort Wayne yoga institution. From there, she continued to study and today holds five certifications in yoga, including; a 300-hour certificate, yoga for 12-step recovery certification, which is a modern approach to meshing the 12 steps and yoga together to help those struggling with addiction to blend their mind and body together to help with total body healing. She is also certified in barre and fitness, and all of these certifications are reflected in her classes. Chelsea also joins in on training classes to ensure she is always learning to be the best instructor to her clients. When Chelsea first got certified, she started her career teaching at Prana Yoga for five years and then taught at Rebel Yoga (now collective wellness) for two years. In June of 2021, she led her first class on her own at a pop-up location, and in March 2022, she opened her own studio, Discover Yoga, located within the historic Bell Mansion at 420 West Wayne Street. Chelsea currently has seven instructors, including herself, running classes every day of the week, primarily during the evenings and weekends. They also offer morning classes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. She is currently working at her full-time job, but every day she is working hard to be able to leave that and focus primarily on Discover Yoga full-time. She shared that the most challenging part of running her own business is learning proper time management. She has experienced extreme burnout and is trying to learn how to listen to her body and take breaks when needed. She said something to us that we believe hits home for many entrepreneurs: "As a yoga teacher, to be able to hold space for everyone else, you have to be able to hold space for yourself." As entrepreneurs, we all try to do everything, even if that means not sleeping or taking breaks when we desperately need them. Eventually, it all catches up to us, so we need to make sure we are creating space for ourselves so we can continue to give space to other things while ensuring were showing up as the best versions of ourselves." When we discussed the hopes for Discover Yoga's future, Chelsea said her dream for the business would be to stay at their home base at 420 West Wayne Street. She loves being downtown; she loves the direction DTFW is going with all the new buildings and storefronts coming up, all the local shops and restaurants, and the overall atmosphere of being in the area. So the goals now are to grow their clientele and expand their class schedule. She would love to incorporate more classes geared towards workshops and teacher training to get more into the educational side of yoga. She would also like to add classes with a heavy focus on wellness and mental health to help others experiencing hard times and needing help managing it all. She said, "My main goal is to help people find peace with life. I don't feel like joy and happiness are always consistent; hard times come and go, so it's about learning to live with the flow of life and finding balance and peace, and yoga is what has helped me with that. I really like helping people find their best selves." Chelsea is so passionate about helping people and teaching them how to really show up not only for others but primarily for themselves. She loves teaching yoga and sharing everything she has learned throughout her career in the industry. If you have ever been interested in taking a class or would like to learn more about Discover Yoga, visit their website at discoveryogafw.com for a complete list of class schedules, pricing and packages, and upcoming events. Fort Wayne Business Journal Sign up to learn more about Fort Wayne businesses mail us at 6435 W Jefferson Blvd #157 Fort Wayne, 46804

Jefferson Pointe, Fort Wayne's beloved shopping mall, was recently struck by an unfortunate incident as the iconic Jefferson Pointe Fountain suffered vandalism, leaving it in ruins. The fountain, an integral part of the mall's identity and a centerpiece of community gatherings has sparked feelings of nostalgia and excitement for years. This article delves into the history behind the Jefferson Pointe Fountain, explores the recent incident, and contemplates what the future might hold for this cherished landmark. The Jefferson Pointe Fountain has been an enduring fixture in the hearts of Fort Wayne residents since its donation and unveiling in August 2001. The fountain was not merely a water feature but a symbol of unity and entertainment. Nestled in the center of the mall, it played a vital role in the shopping experience, captivating visitors with its mesmerizing displays of water and music. However, the recent act of vandalism left the Jefferson Pointe Fountain in a state of disarray. According to Wane 15, a 15-year-old boy accompanied by a 16-year-old girl, inspired by the recent Spider-Man movie, was actively climbing the fountain when it unexpectedly collapsed. Although the incident resulted in minor injuries to the boy, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible behavior and the consequences that can arise from thoughtless actions. Learn more at: Fort Wayne News & Weather | Fort Wayne, IN | WANE 15 Looking toward the future, Jefferson Pointe Fountain remains uncertain but bright. The restoration process will require careful planning, expertise, and financial resources. While it may take time to revive the fountain to its former glory, the community is determined to see it restored. The Jefferson Pointe Fountain, once a symbol of unity and a centerpiece of entertainment, may have been wrecked by an unfortunate incident. However, its legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of the community. As Jefferson Pointe and Fort Wayne rally together to restore this cherished landmark, the future holds the promise of a renewed fountain that will continue to inspire joy, wonder, and a sense of togetherness for generations to come. Fort Wayne Business Journal New Fort Wayne Entrepreneur & Business Owner Stories are on the way! Check back in and find out who’s Local Business is next, you don't want to miss!

Promenade Park, nestled in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a vibrant and picturesque urban oasis that offers visitors a retreat from bustling city life. With its meticulously designed landscapes, enchanting waterways, and a host of engaging activities, Promenade Park has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. A Fort Wayne Riverfront Gem Situated along the banks of the St. Marys River, Promenade Park provides a stunning backdrop of natural beauty. The park spans over 4 acres and features a picturesque riverwalk that meanders through the park, offering visitors breathtaking views of the water and surrounding landscapes. The meticulous design and careful attention to detail make it an inviting space for relaxation and recreation. Promenade Park Engaging Features Promenade Park boasts a range of amenities and attractions that cater to diverse interests. One of its prominent features is a large, interactive fountain that not only captivates visitors with its displays but also serves as a splash pad during the warm summer months. Additionally, the park offers a state-of-the-art amphitheater, providing a venue for live performances, concerts, and community events. Visitors can also explore various art installations scattered throughout the park, adding an element of culture and creativity to the experience. Recreation and Entertainment For those seeking outdoor activities, Promenade Park offers an array of recreational opportunities. The park features kayak and canoe launches, enabling visitors to embark on leisurely river excursions and enjoy the scenic beauty from a different perspective. Walking and biking trails wind through the park, inviting individuals to take a stroll or bike ride while taking in the tranquil surroundings. A large park for children to play at with unique jungle gyms and musical installments. In addition, the park hosts a range of community events, including yoga classes, fitness programs, and seasonal celebrations, providing ample opportunities for socializing and engaging in healthy activities. Culinary Delights Fort Wayne's vibrant culinary scene offers an array of excellent dining options nearby. Just a short distance from the park, visitors can find charming cafes, bistros, and restaurants that cater to various tastes and preferences. Additionally, food trucks often make appearances near the park, serving up a delectable array of street food specialties. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, the surrounding area provides plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Community and Connectivity Promenade Park serves as a hub for community gatherings and events, fostering a sense of togetherness among Fort Wayne residents. Its central location in downtown Fort Wayne makes it easily accessible to both residents and visitors, creating a sense of connectivity within the city. The park's design incorporates ample seating areas, picnic spots, and open spaces, encouraging social interaction and creating a welcoming atmosphere for individuals of all ages. Promenade Park in Fort Wayne, Indiana, stands as a testament to the city's commitment to providing residents and visitors with a unique and enjoyable outdoor experience. With its scenic riverfront views, engaging features, recreational activities, delectable dining options, and community-oriented ambiance, Promenade Park has rightfully earned its reputation as a premier destination in Fort Wayne. So, whether you seek relaxation, entertainment, or a taste of the vibrant local culture, a visit to Promenade Park is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return. Next Fort Wayne Entrepreneur story Josh and Lindsey: J and L Pickin' Patch

How Josh McNeal's passion for growing vegetables, Lindsey McNeal's love for all things fall and christmas, and their beautiful wedding would inspire them to create Fort Wayne's very own picking patch on their 75-acre farm. Josh and Lindsey McNeal grew up right here in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They met in 2007, and at that time, Josh was working a full-time job as the Director of Operations for a large franchise, and Lindsey was a full-time Sales Manager. Neither ever imagined they would become farmers and start their own company, at least not until the opportunity presented itself, but we'll get there. First, we'll need to go back to when Josh was a child; he spent much of his time at his grandparent's farm in the summer months with his brother, swimming in the pool and running around the fields. The farm had been in his family for generations. Still, by the time he was old enough to start helping out and learning about everything that goes into maintaining 75 acres of land, his grandparents had started renting out space to other local farmers to grow their crops. Although Josh never had the chance to learn a lot about growing crops as a child, when he and Lindsey purchased a home with 2 acres of land, they decided to start growing a garden. Throughout that time, Josh became very interested in the concept of market gardening, which is growing fresh fruits and vegetables in a small space but still producing a lot of produce. Then in 2017, Josh and Lindsey were presented with the opportunity to purchase his grandparent's farm and become the 5th generation owner. After many discussions, they decided to make the leap from their current 2-acre micro farm to the beautiful, multigenerational, 75-acre farm off Nuttman Avenue in Fort Wayne, Indiana. After taking ownership of the property in 2017, they needed to do a total remodel on their home. Still, over the next couple of years, while their house was being renovated, they spent every weekend at the farm working in the fields, preparing it for when they moved in. Over time, they have discussed several ideas about what to do with the property, from growing a U-pick blueberry patch, showcasing their love for going to Michigan together to a local farm, bringing the berries home, and making jam together. To talking about growing apple trees, from Josh's experiences as a teen working at an apple orchard. But soon, they settled on three main things; growing pumpkins and christmas trees for Lindsey's love of Fall and Christmas and planting vegetables to continue Josh's passion for growing produce. So they planted a few acres of pumpkins, various christmas trees such as furs and scotch pines, and an array of vegetables. In the fall, even though they were not living in their home yet, they decided they wanted to start selling their pumpkins. They wanted to start gaining the experience of selling what they were producing on their farm. Since they didn't have the ability to have someone physically there to help customers, they chose to handle things based on an honor system. This method is done by trusting the honesty, honor, and integrity of others to follow the rules and regulations set by the owners without supervision. This process went well for them, so they continued to do it over the next few years until they could officially move in. In 2018, Josh and Lindsey got married at their farm, surrounded by a 2-acre sunflower field and decorated with various flower arrangements selected from the flower fields they grew that summer. On the weekends they'd spend at the farm before their wedding, they noticed that a lot of people were randomly pulling over onto their property to take pictures within the sunflower fields. Seeing this gave Josh and Lindsey the idea to add a u-pick flower arrangements experience to the business. So, over the next few years, they continued to grow and expand their flower fields to prepare for this new service once they opened to the public. In 2020, Josh and Lindsey moved into their home and officially opened J&L Pickin' Patch. When we spoke with Josh, we asked if they were ever nervous about opening their land to the public, and he told us, "Yeah, I mean, whenever you invite the general public to your property, there are certain concerns and liabilities that come with that. Thankfully Indiana is a good state for agro-tourism businesses. There are laws in place to protect us as long as we are not being negligent and we are always ensuring the safety of everyone on the property." He continued, saying, "We were also worried that word would travel too quickly, and we would become one of the horror stories you hear about in other places that open flower fields. The ones that unexpectedly have tons of people showing up and cars lining the streets, causing the police to come out and help manage the traffic. It's just Lindsey and I working the stands, so we wouldn't have been able to manage hundreds of people at once." Thankfully that didn't happen to them; they opened their business and were able to manage the steady flow of people coming to visit and pick their flowers. So far, since they've been open, their biggest challenge has been primarily due to the weather. When it is raining, they're unable to open, and if it rains too much, they have to wait for the ground to dry out a bit because it creates a risk of people getting hurt or cars getting stuck. So right now, it's all about finding a balance and developing ways to remain consistent with the public so everyone knows when they will be open. Over the last few years, Josh and Lindsey have been steadily growing, learning, and innovating. It's still just the two of them managing everything, but as they continue to grow, they hope to offer employment opportunities to the community one day. J&L Pickin' Patch is almost ready to open for the 2023 season! They hope to have their finalized hours ready by mid-July. The best way to know when they are officially open and see their hours is through their social media pages @JandLPickinPatch. At the start of the season, they will have the U-pick flower fields and some vegetables available for purchase! They will be open mostly on evenings and weekends but plan to drastically increase their hours once the pumpkins come out in September. Once the fall season hits, they will be open most weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday through the end of October for people to select pumpkins and continue taking pictures in the sunflower fields. Although the Christmas trees have been growing since 2017, They will not be ready for purchase for a few more years. They've been growing steadily at about a foot per year, but Josh is confident they'll be ready within the next 3-4 years. As for pricing, vegetables will be sold individually or by container ranging from $0.50-$5.00. The flowers are sold based on the size of the Small, Medium, and Large picking containers, ranging from $15.00 to $40.00. For those interested in walking through the flower fields, there is a $5 admission fee, but it is free for children four and under. If you would like to hire a photographer for professional photos, you will need to rent out the space. Josh and Lindsey have worked very hard to design the land to create beautiful backdrops for people to do this, so they highly encourage photographers to utilize this opportunity and contact them for dates and pricing inquiries. Pumpkins and gourds are charged by size ranging from $.50-$20, and the giant pumpkins are priced by weight on the date of purchase. They accept cash, all major credit/debit cards, and Apple, Google, and Samsung pay. As for the Future of J&L Pickin' Patch, they're excited to start offering christmas trees within the next few years and hope to one day add activities to their fall experience. Entrepreneur Josh and Lindsey have created a new Fort Wayne destination for locals and tourists visiting our city. It's only a short distance away from downtown, so it's easy to intertwine this destination into a date night or to get the family out to create new memories that'll last a lifetime. Find the time this summer and fall to go out to J&L Pickin' Patch, located at 3522 Nuttman Ave, Fort Wayne, Indiana, to experience it for yourself! Check out their website at jandlpickinpatch.com to find their hours, FAQ page, list of items for sale throughout the season, and much more. Fort Wayne Business Journal If you're an entrepreneur with a story, email us at fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com