Welcome back to another edition of The Creative Hub of Elgin County.

Sponsored by Mortgage with Brad

More mortgage options. Less stress. Helping everyone home and proud to support the local voices that make this community thrive.

This newsletter exists for one reason: to keep Elgin County connected.

Each week, it highlights what’s happening locally from events and small businesses to creative projects and big ideas and helps them find the people who’ll appreciate them most. Because when we support what’s happening around us, momentum builds fast.

Have an event coming up? Launching something new? Running a local business or passion project you want more eyes on? My inbox is always open.

And if you know someone who loves discovering what’s happening locally, pass this along. The more people involved, the stronger the ripple effect.

Here’s what’s on tap for this week 👇

Get ready for the sweetest tradition of the season! The Springwater Conservation Area, in partnership with the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority, is hosting its annual Maple Syrup Festival. This family-friendly celebration offers a deep dive into Canadian tradition, nature, and community spirit.

Whether you're looking for a nature hike, a delicious breakfast, or a unique shopping experience, the Springwater Maple Syrup Festival is the perfect way to welcome spring.

Get ready to add a touch of spring to your home! Join us for a hands-on workshop where you will learn to craft a stunning floral arrangement, perfect for your Easter table or as a thoughtful gift for a holiday host.

Ready to create something beautiful? Call 519-859-3953 today to secure your registration!

Looking for a little inspiration or a unique piece to brighten up your home? Our local arts scene is incredibly vibrant, and the St. Thomas Art Guild is putting their best work on display later this month.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or just looking for something special for that empty wall, this show features an amazing range of original, one-of-a-kind pieces from local artists. You'll find everything from oils and watercolours to glasswork, sculpture, and photography.

Pro Tip: If you can make it on Friday night, it’s a great chance to be the first to see the "Judge’s Choice" winners and chat with the artists in a relaxed atmosphere.

For more details on the artists involved, you can check out their website at stthomasartguild.com.

New Business Spotlight: Bex Styles

There is a stylish new reason to stroll down Talbot Street! We are thrilled to welcome Bex Styles to the neighborhood, officially opening its doors at 578 Talbot St. on March 1st.

Owned and operated by Rebecca, Bex Styles focuses on the philosophy that it’s the "Small Details" that make a "Big Impact." The shop specializes in a curated selection of fashion accessories designed to help you level up your look with ease. Whether you’re looking for that perfect statement piece or a subtle addition to your daily wardrobe, Rebecca has you covered.

You can also find more about Bex Styles in the March edition of the Life In Elgin eZine and the April issue of Hometown St. Thomas. Let’s give Rebecca a warm St. Thomas welcome!

If you take pride in what you drive, you’ll want to get to know Todd Shepherd over at Shepherds Shine Shop. Located right here at 41519 Shorlea Line, Todd has been perfecting the art of detailing for over a decade.

He isn't just about a quick wash and wax. Todd is a certified pro in high-end services like paint correction and ceramic coating, which are game-changers for protecting your vehicle's finish against our Ontario seasons.

Starting April 1st, Todd is expanding his shop’s lineup to include:

Whether you have a daily driver that needs some love or a weekend cruiser that needs a showroom shine, Todd’s the guy to call. He’s all about quality work and making sure your car looks its absolute best.

Get in touch with Todd:

The Mortgage Corner: Facing a 2026 Renewal? Don’t Just Sign the Paper.

If you bought or renewed your home back in 2021, you’re likely coming up on your 5-year renewal window soon. I know there’s a lot of "rate talk" in the news right now—discussions about the Bank of Canada holding steady and plenty of speculation about what’s next.

It’s easy to feel like you’re at the mercy of whatever letter your bank sends in the mail. But here is the one thing most people don't realize: Your renewal is actually your biggest opportunity to renegotiate everything.

Radical Honesty Time: If your current bank offers you a deal that is truly unbeatable, I will be the first person to tell you to stay put and sign it. My job isn't to move your mortgage for the sake of moving it—it’s to make sure you aren’t overpaying for the roof over your head.

If your renewal is coming up in the next 6 to 12 months, let’s grab a coffee and just look at the numbers. No pressure, no sales pitch—just a clear look at where you stand.

Brad Lister Level 1 Mortgage Agent, Tango Financial #13691 Email: [email protected]

mortgagewithbrad.ca