OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The North Central Florida Outdoor Expo 2024 presented by Miller’s Marine and Jenkins Auto Group was deemed a success by planners.
Drawing thousands to the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, the event offered a unique opportunity to shop, learn, and engage with a variety of outdoor-related activities in the cool comfort of an air-conditioned venue last Saturday, Aug. 17.
According to North Central Florida Media (NCFM) Sales Manager Lisa Varner, the preparation for this year’s event began just a few weeks after the last one wrapped up.
In February, Varner says she sent out save-the-date notices to last year’s vendors and sponsors and started looking for new businesses who could benefit from participating in the event. “It’s hard to say how many hours go into the selling process because our entire team participates,” Varner stated. “But I spend hours agonizing over where to place vendors so there’s a good mix of outdoor related vendors and business advertisers.”
Emily Galka, operations manager for Black Prong Trail Riding, exhibited at the expo. “Everyone who came to our booth was super excited to learn that Black Prong Resort will be doing guided trail rides this fall,” says Galka. “We’re just about ready to saddle up and explore the Goethe (State Forest). The expo was a great place to get the word out.”
This year, more than 150 vendors showcased their products and services at the expo.
Varner says the Gobbler’s Lodge 3D Archery activity was a standout attraction, drawing around 350 people.
Another “Gobbler” shared how much they enjoyed the expo, too. “The NWTF Gator Gobblers had an absolute blast introducing the world of shooting sports to so many enthusiastic kids at our inflatable BB gun range,” the group said in a Facebook post. “It was fantastic to see so many young faces light up as they took their first shots! But the fun didn’t stop there—adults got in on the action too! We hosted some friendly shooting competitions between husbands and wives, and among friends. The spirit of fun and friendly rivalry was in the air all day!”
Another popular interactive attraction was the Certified Roofing Solutions Gobbler’s Lodge 3D Archery range. People of all ages lined up to experience virtual bow hunting.
Berrettini Feed Specialists was represented by three employees who shared that the expo was a great opportunity for them to connect with the community as well as others from all over the state.
“Being present at events like these is a good way to network not only with customers, but also other local businesses such as the Humane Society which received whatever goodies we had left over for dogs and cats,” said Kat Rankin. “It was a fantastic day meeting so many people and also seeing regular customers who decided to stop by and see us! I hope to do it again next year.”
Tara Steadman with Berrettini Feed Specialists says she enjoyed meeting new people and being able to provide product samples for pets.
Cathy Van Scoten agreed. “I love meeting new people and talking to them about our products and learning a little about their wants and needs in our area. It was also nice to meet some of our regular customers and get to speak to them in a no rush atmosphere,” she said.
This was the second time at the expo for Advanced Garage Doors & Gate Operators. Jenny and Dale Murphy say it’s an event they look forward to as a business and as a family.
“We always have the best time,” said Jenny Murphy. “Our kids even love it because there is so much to see and do. It’s a great place to be with the whole family.”
Howdy Snax reported in a Facebook post that their Biltong, Droëwors, and newly launched craft jerky was a hit at the expo and that they sold out of their product.
NCFM General Manager Howard Tuuri says that ticket sales were up 12% from last year. He added, “Congratulations to the entire team, led by Lisa (Varner), for a record-setting event!”
Editor’s Disclosure: North Central Florida Media, which organizes the expo, is the parent company of 352today.