By Dave Thomas • Times of San Diego

Copyright timesofsandiego

For many small businesses, the hours and workload prove so time-consuming that promoting one’s brand can be a challenge.

That said, events such as the 52nd annual La Mesa Oktoberfest (Oct. 3-5) offer opportunities for participating businesses to be seen and heard in the local community.

One such participant at this year’s annual La Mesa Oktoberfest is Megan Loney of Gemini Twins Bakery.

Loney noted this will be her first year participating in this popular event, something she is quite excited to be a part of.

“My business, Gemini Twins Bakery, is a small, family-run cottage bakery based right here in La Mesa,” Loney said. “I started baking sourdough over five years ago for my family, and now I share it with my neighbors through artisan breads, unique cookies, and seasonal treats.

“I love the idea of bringing my community together through food, so that has been my main goal. I’ve officially been running Gemini Twins Bakery for a little over a year and love focusing on creative flavors you don’t always see at traditional bakeries.”

Given the opportunity to participate in next month’s three-day event, Loney said the connections she hopes to make can prove quite valuable.

“An event like La Mesa Oktoberfest is important for me to attend because it’s such a great opportunity to connect face-to-face with the community, share our story, and let people experience our baked goods firsthand,” Loney added.

“Being part of a local tradition like Oktoberfest means a lot, not only for growing my business but also for being woven into the fabric of La Mesa’s culture.”

ArtBeat San Diego founder and creative director Kristel Boe is also excited about the chance to meet face-to-face with potential customers.

“This will be ArtBeat San Diego’s second year as a vendor at La Mesa Oktoberfest,” Boe said. “I have attended the festival as a patron since childhood and was thrilled to participate as a vendor for the first time last year.”

As the owner of ArtBeat San Diego, Boe runs a mobile art program that brings art-themed birthday parties, art camps, and special events to the community.

“While we are based in La Mesa, we travel all over the county, offering a wide variety of creative experiences,” Boe stated. “We’ve been in business for 13 years, and each year we evolve our offerings.”

According to Boe, some of the brand’s most popular events include paint and boba parties, potion parties, and plant parties.

“This year at Oktoberfest, we are excited to offer a plant party experience where families and individuals can plant a succulent and design a ceramic pot to take home,” Boe continued. “It’s a great way to create a lasting memory and enjoy the festival. Anyone interested in taking a break and getting creative is invited to visit us at this year’s festival, with our booth located near the Kids Zone. We’ll be offering a discount for families.”

Attending is a natural thing to do

Being a lifelong resident of La Mesa, Boe sees attending and participating in the annual event as a natural thing to do.

“Participating in Oktoberfest is a meaningful way for me to connect with my community,” Boe said. “I love meeting new people and seeing familiar faces enjoying the festival and supporting local vendors.

“I’m proud that our vibrant neighborhood hosts an event that draws crowds from all over the county, and I feel honored to be a part of it.”

Another area small business owner looking forward to connecting with the public at La Mesa Oktoberfest is Haley Lesniak of Sweets By Haley.

The recent Helix Charter High School graduate said this will be her first time ever participating in this popular event, making her quite excited about the three-day weekend.

“I started Sweets By Haley as a sophomore in high school,” Lesniak said. “What began as something small that I did just for fun has grown into more than I ever imagined.

“I create delicious and beautiful customized treats that bring joy with every bite. Whether you need help celebrating a birthday or are just craving something sweet, we have something special to offer.”

As Lesniak sees it, attending the La Mesa Oktoberfest is a big milestone for her.

“I’m given the chance to connect directly with the community and meet other passionate business owners,” Lesniak said. “As a young entrepreneur, events such as these are extremely valuable, and I’m so glad to be a part of it.”