Downtown Cornwall merchants opened their doors to an enthusiastic gathering of shoppers on Wednesday night. Stores were brimming with sales, special offers, treats and demos. Although a light mist of rain fell, locals made their way from store to store to try food samples, browse the racks for further reduced merchandise and special items. It was a wonderful sight to see so many out and about taking part in Rock The Block. It started with a vision from a few of the businesses to open late on a Wednesday and several merchants agreed to do so as well.
I was in town for the day and stayed late to attend, it was a good opportunity to catch up with so many familiar faces. My sister Melanie joined me and took photos while I spoke to the various store owners and participants. As we weaved in and out of stores, with smiles permeating the room, I saw busy cashes, demonstrations and a festive vibe.
We visited Life’s Little Pleasures where owner Chris Munro was busy ringing though sales and talking to her clients, while Tony Lacroix set up his Love Love Food display and samples. The spectacular displays and inviting atmosphere made it hard to move on.
As I walked by Laser Advanced Spas I could see the gathering crowd, the festive balloons.
Photos by Melanie Ward
Echo Trends was filled with shoppers trying on the latest fashions, and pouring through the reduced prices selections. Studio 101 was filled with clients getting makeovers, hairstyles and tips on beauty care. Moustache Joe’s had a wine representative on hand with wine and food samples, Bar Q clients were enjoying delightful meals. We returned to Schnitzels where Trench Town Oddities were performing and delivered a stellar rendition of current music. Our evening ended on the patio at Schnitzels where we continued our evening of “Keeping up with the Bennett’s”. Throughout the time we were at Rock the Block we kept meeting up with my cousin Sherry and her husband Todd Bennett. Whether they were at the cash waiting to pay for their purchases including the most adorable little sneakers for their grandson, or sampling treats, no matter where I went I kept seeing them. We were able to share a drink with Sheri and Todd on the patio and catch up on all that is going on with the kids, work and everything in between.
Hopefully this will be a continuing trend. It was great to see the downtown sector so lively on a Wednesday Night. It was nice to see couples out strolling through the downtown, women enjoying a “Girl’s Night Out” a a comfortable pace and friends chatting while making their way along the sidewalk. Kudos to the organizers, the participants and all who rocked the block in Downtown Cornwall.