Now officially in the summer season, sidewalk stands with youngsters selling lemonade, ice tea and sunny-drinks will be on display in many area neighbourhoods. The kids who are out there in the coming weeks are all part of a national movement that was officially celebrated recently with National Lemonade Day. Although the official date was June 18 ... every summer day is Lemonade Day, says eight-year old Lac La Biche lemonade stand entrepreneur Oakley Brownlie.
Brownlie recently set up her lemonade stand just outside Omar’s Barber Shop in Lac La Biche County, for her the event was about more than just garnering profits; it was about showcasing the drive and dedication of the younger generations.
Brownlie won the Entrepreneur of the Year award in the area through the Lemonade Day program for displaying good character, staying on top of the rules and for being a devout business owner, said her mother, Marlee who helped her daughter's lemonade stand with initial startup costs.
With the support of customers purchasing lemonade and snacks throughout the weekend, the eight-year-old made $280. After paying back a small loan from her mother for start-up costs and paying her younger brother Axton who worked alongside her, she took home $200, said her mother.
“She ended up with approximately $200 — $100 she is saving and $100 she is allowed to spend.” The young business-girl also won a $100 VISA gift card from the Lemonade organization for winning the entrepreneur award.
While getting some support from Omar’s Barbershop customers and owners throughout the day, the award, profits and becoming a business owner has been a rewarding and great learning experience, the eight-year-old said.
“I felt excited about receiving the award. It was fun to see the customers enjoy my lemonade—they loved the magic. I did lemonade day to learn to be an entrepreneur like Omar. He works hard and donates lots of money,” the youngster said.
With all the success from generous customers and experiencing the business world — one cold, summer drink at a time — Brownlie made sure to give back to a cause that is very important to her.
“I’m donating $25 to the humane society,” she said eagerly.
