Behind the Business: The Mount Dora CPA Bringing Bookkeeping and Tax Strategy Under One Roof
For many small-business owners, bookkeeping and taxes operate in two separate worlds. Transactions are categorized throughout the year—sometimes by the owner, sometimes by a bookkeeper—and then handed to a tax professional months later. By the time problems are discovered, the year is already over and many opportunities to make better financial or tax decisions have passed. Timothy LeGendre built his Mount Dora accounting practice to close that gap. Through Timothy LeGendre CPA LLC, he provides
Behind the Business: Riley Hoffer Helps Buyers Understand Mount Dora Before They Make the Move
For Riley Hoffer, helping someone relocate to the Mount Dora area starts long before the first home tour. Many buyers begin their search from another city or state, comparing listings, prices and square footage without fully understanding how the area’s communities differ or what everyday life will actually feel like once they arrive. Riley built her real estate business around closing that information gap. As a REALTOR® with Orange Slice Properties, she helps buyers navigate the homebuying process
Behind the Business: Merch Tent Media Helps Local Businesses Launch With More Impact
A business launch is more than a ribbon cutting. It is often the first big moment where a business introduces itself to the community, welcomes people in, and starts building visibility beyond its own walls. For Merch Tent Media, those moments matter — and they are working to help local businesses make the most of them. Based in Mount Dora, Merch Tent Media helps businesses tell their story through professional video, social media content, podcasts, branding, and branded merchandise. Their work is
Behind the Business: Sean and Shannon Murphy Take the Helm of Dora Queen
For Sean and Shannon Murphy, Dora Queen was not part of a long business plan. It was not something they set out to buy. It was not a carefully mapped-out next step. It was something Sean came across, felt drawn to, and could not stop thinking about. “I just stumbled across it and fell in love with it,” Sean said. Now, Sean and Shannon are the owners of Dora Queen, the 80-foot New Orleans-style paddlewheel boat that cruises across Lake Dora from Tavares Marina. Known for sunset cruises, afternoon rides,
Behind the Business: Halff and the Infrastructure Behind Everyday Life in Mount Dora
From clean water and wastewater treatment to stormwater solutions, surveying and landscape architecture, Halff’s local team helps turn complex engineering work into everyday community improvements.Business Snapshot Business: HalffFeatured Leader: Brett Tobias, Operations ManagerIndustry: Infrastructure Consulting / EngineeringLocal Focus: Water, sewer and stormwater projects; surveying; topographic mapping; landscape architectureWebsite: Halff.comSocial Media: LinkedIn, Instagram @wearehalff,
Behind The Business: eSportsPhoto Helping Events Get Seen, Shared, and Remembered
For Byron Faudie, photography has never been only about taking a picture. It is about catching the moment an athlete crosses a finish line. The expression on someone’s face when they see their photo seconds after it was taken. The laughter inside a photo booth. The energy of a red-carpet-style event. The sign that helps people find where they are going. The banner that makes a sponsor, team, organization, or business stand out. That is the work behind eSportsPhoto, Byron’s sports, event, photo
Mount Dora Area Chamber Announces First-Ever Mount Dora Area Restaurant Week
Initial lineup features 26 local restaurants, cafes, breweries, and dining destinations offering special Restaurant Week menus, combos, tasting experiences, brunch features, dessert specials, and limited-time offers from July 25 through August 2, with more participants and menus to be announcedMenus and reservation details are available on www.MountDoraEats.Info. MOUNT DORA, Fla. —The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce is launching the first-ever Mount Dora Area Restaurant Week, a new summer
Behind The Business: Shockwave Threads Grew From A Father-Son Project Into A Mount Dora Print Studio
Before Shockwave Threads had a storefront, expanded services, or a growing list of local customers, it started at home. For two years, Dan Spohn ran the custom apparel business from his house with help from his son, Michael, who has autism. What began as a creative outlet and a way to bring Michael’s ideas to life eventually became a business built around custom shirts, hats, embroidery, apparel printing, and design work for the community around them. “We are rooted in autism,” Dan said. “It’s the
WQBQ Talk Track: Planning Ahead with Demetrius Stephanides of New York Life
The Chamber, The “Q,” and You on WQBQ is a free on-air opportunity for Chamber members to share insights, highlight their services, and connect directly with the community. In a community like Mount Dora, planning for the future often starts close to home. It may be a family thinking about a mortgage and children. A business owner wondering what would happen if they had to step away unexpectedly. A pre-retiree looking at savings and asking how much of that money will actually be available after taxes.
Donnelly Street Is Back: Mount Dora Celebrates the Comeback Tour
After months of detours, construction updates, and a whole lot of patience from residents, visitors, and local businesses, Donnelly Street is officially making its comeback. The City of Mount Dora is celebrating the completion of the Donnelly Street Reconstruction Project with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, May 21, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the north entrance of Donnelly Street near U.S. Highway 441 and the “Welcome to Mount Dora” golf cart bridge. The roadway is expected to reopen to normal
Behind the Business: Expedia Cruises Mount Dora Helps Travelers Navigate Air, Land and Sea
For many travelers, planning a vacation starts with excitement — then quickly turns into questions. Where should we go? Which cruise line is the right fit? Is the deal actually a deal? What happens if plans change? And in an increasingly complicated travel landscape, how do you know who to trust? That is where Expedia Cruises Mount Dora comes in. Located at 18778 US Hwy 441 in Mount Dora, Expedia Cruises Mount Dora is a full-service travel agency helping customers plan vacations by air, land and sea.
Behind the Business: Lewis Home & Bridal Helping Brides Feel Fantastic in Mount Dora
Behind the Business: Lewis Home & Bridal Helping Brides Feel Fantastic in Mount Dora Behind the Business: Lewis Home & BridalTailoring Wedding Days, Formal Moments, and One-of-a-Kind Fits in Mount Dora Business Name: Lewis Home & BridalOwner: Deb LewisLocation: 777 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora, FL 32757Website: lewishomeandbridal.comSocial: @LewisHomeandBridal About the Business Lewis Home & Bridal helps brides, bridal parties, and formalwear clients look and feel their best through professional
Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 25th Annual Mount Dora Taste
MOUNT DORA, Fla. — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 25th Annual Mount Dora Taste at Sunset Park, bringing together 25 participating businesses, live music from Blender Live Music, and a packed crowd for an evening highlighting the food, drinks, hospitality, and community spirit that make the Mount Dora area shine. Guests sampled their way through an incredible lineup of local flavor, from appetizers and entrées to desserts, beer, cocktails, and more, while voting for their favorites
Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Kim Varnadore Insurance Agency’s 20th Anniversary
Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Kim Varnadore Insurance Agency’s 20th Anniversary in Mount Dora Community invited to celebrate Friday, May 1, from 3:00–5:30 p.m. at Kim Varnadore State Farm, 17941 US Hwy 441 MOUNT DORA, Fla. — [DATE] — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate Kim Varnadore Insurance Agency, Inc as the agency marks 20 years of serving Mount Dora and the greater Central Florida community. To honor the milestone, the community is
Behind the Business: Waterman Village Outpatient Therapy Helping People Move Better, Feel Stronger,
Behind the Business: Waterman Village Outpatient Therapy Helping People Move Better, Feel Stronger, and Live More Independently in Mount Dora Business Name: Waterman Village Outpatient TherapyLocation: 130 Waterman Avenue, Suite B, Mount Dora, FloridaWebsite: watermanvillage.com/outpatient-therapySocial:Facebook About the BusinessWaterman Village Outpatient Therapy helps people move better, feel stronger, and live more independently through personalized outpatient therapy and specialized support
Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll & Pup Walk Draws 550+ to Downtown in Sold-Out Community Event
Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll & Pup Walk Draws 550+ to Downtown in Sold-Out Community Event MOUNT DORA, FL — Historic downtown Mount Dora was filled with foot traffic, families, and four-legged friends on Sunday, April 12, as more than 550 attendees turned out for the Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll & Pup Walk. The annual event transformed the downtown district into a self-guided tasting tour, with 25 local businesses serving 25 different ice cream flavors across a two-hour window. Guests checked in at the
Branding Basics Every Mount Dora Small Business Owner Should Know
Branding is the full experience customers have with your business — your name, visuals, voice, values, and every interaction from first impression to repeat visit. It's not a logo; it's a reputation you shape deliberately. In Mount Dora, where visitors arrive expecting boutique charm, authentic personalities, and a distinct sense of place, a clear brand identity isn't a luxury — it's the foundation your business stands on.Your Brand Is Not Your Logo This one trips up more new business owners than you'd
Behind the Business: Set In Stone Monuments Crafting Lasting Tributes with Care and Precision
Behind the Business: Set In Stone Monuments Crafting Lasting Tributes with Care and Precision in Mount Dora Business Name: Set In Stone Monuments Sales Manager: Allison Bland Location: 3001 N Hwy 19A, Mount Dora, Florida Website: https://setinstonefl.comSocial: @SetInStoneMonuments About the Business Set In Stone Monuments is a custom monument company specializing in the design, craftsmanship, and installation of granite memorials that serve as lasting tributes to loved
Behind the Business: Alexis Adapts Helping Parents Advocate for Their Children
Behind the Business: Alexis Adapts Helping Parents Advocate for Their Children Business Name: AlexisAdaptsFounder: Alexis JandreauLocation: Mount Dora, FloridaSocial:Facebook • Instagram • TikTok • LinkedIn About the Business Alexis Adapts is a Mount Dora–based advocacy and coaching service dedicated to helping parents better support their children—both in school and at home. Founder Alexis Jandreau works as an IEP Advocate and Parent Coach, guiding parents through the special
Turn Your Expertise Into Clients: How Mount Dora Business Owners Use Public Speaking to Grow
Public speaking is one of the most cost-effective growth tools available to small business owners — not because it's easy, but because it combines client acquisition, brand authority, and content creation in a single activity. In Mount Dora and the broader Orlando-Kissimmee corridor, where community relationships drive referrals, a speaking presence at chamber events and industry meetups compounds faster than most paid marketing. 43% of business leaders credit effective communication directly with winning
Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll and Pup Walk Triples Its Ice Cream Lineup This Spring
Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll and Pup Walk Triples Its Ice Cream Lineup This Spring Mystic Ice Cream, Scoops on 5th, and Waffles & Cream Join Forces for 25 Flavor Stops Across Historic Downtown Mount Dora and a First-Ever Pup Walk on April 12th March 16, 2026 – Mount Dora, FL — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that the Mount Dora Ice Cream Stroll and Pup Walk will return Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., featuring a major expansion that makes this year’s event the
Behind The Business: Ernst Financial Solutions Helping Clients Eliminate Debt and Build Financial Clarity
Behind The Business: Ernst Financial Solutions Helping Clients Build Intentional Financial Plans Financial Coaching and Speaking Focused on Habits, Accountability, and Long-Term Goals Business Name: Ernst Financial Solutions, LLCOwner: Jesse ErnstLocation: Mount Dora, FloridaWebsite: https://www.ernstfinancialsolutions.com About the Business Ernst Financial Solutions is a financial coaching and speaking practice that helps individuals, couples, and small business owners create clear
How Mount Dora Small Businesses Can Build a Professional Social Media Presence Without Paid Ads
Small businesses can build a credible, active social media presence using entirely free strategies — and most already do. Organic social ranks first among small businesses at 52%, outpacing both paid social ads (47%) and search advertising (40%). For boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants in Mount Dora — where community character drives foot traffic more than ad spend — authentic organic content often outperforms what a paid campaign can produce.The Paid Ads Assumption That's Costing You Time If
Hartford Funding Ltd Celebrates Grand Opening in Mount Dora
Hartford Funding Ltd Celebrates Grand Opening in Mount DoraExperienced Mortgage Team Brings Personalized Home Financing Solutions to the Community Mount Dora, FL — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the grand opening of Hartford Funding Ltd with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, welcoming the mortgage lender to the Mount Dora business community. Located in Mount Dora, Hartford Funding Ltd provides residential mortgage services designed to help individuals and families
Behind The Business: Karen Marshall Health Coaching – Supporting Natural Wellness in Mount Dora
Behind The Business: Karen Marshall Health Coaching – Supporting Natural Wellness in Mount Dora Business Name: Karen Marshall Health CoachingOwner & Head Carpenter: Karen Marshall Location: Mount Dora, FloridaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/karen.marshall.37201901 Email:karenm4health@gmail.com Karen Marshall Health Coaching is focused on helping individuals achieve their health goals through a blend of homeopathic and herbal-based natural products, paired with healthy eating plans
Behind the Business: Crafted In Florida Building Custom By Hand – That’s Built to Last – in Mount Dora
Behind the Business: Crafted In Florida Custom Woodwork Built by Hand — and Built to Last Business Name: Crafted In FloridaOwner & Head Carpenter: Micah Robinson Location: Mount Dora, Florida Website: https://craftedinflorida.com/Social: @Crafted_in_Florida About the Business Crafted In Florida is a custom woodworking business specializing in one-of-a-kind woodwork designed specifically for each client and space. The company creates custom cabinetry, built-ins, furniture, and detailed
Lake Cares Food Pantry Faces Critical Shortages as Demand Increases by 500 Families Per Month
Lake Cares Food Pantry Faces Critical Shortages as Demand Increases by 500 Families Per Month Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce calls on businesses and residents to rally in support of families facing food insecurity Mount Dora, FL — February 23, 2026 — Lake Cares Food Pantry is urging the community to provide immediate support as food donations decline while demand continues to rise sharply across Lake County. The pantry is currently serving more than 500 additional families each month compared to
Behind The Business: Walk in the Woods Bringing Sustainable Style to Downtown Mount Dora
Behind The Business: Walk in the Woods Bringing Sustainable Style to Downtown Mount Dora Walk in the Woods Offering Eco-Conscious Style in the Heart of Mount Dora Business Name: Walk in the WoodsOwners: Dana and Stephen RoccaLocation: 523 N Donnelly Street, Suite 112 (Historic Mardi Gras Building), Mount DoraWebsite:https://www.shopwalkinthewoods.comAbout the Business Walk in the Woods is a beloved Mount Dora outfitter specializing in eco-conscious clothing, footwear and accessories from thoughtfully
Behind The Business: Mail-Express is Mount Dora’s One-Stop Shop for Shipping, Printing, and Business
Mail-Express is Mount Dora’s One-Stop Shop for Shipping, Printing, and Business Services For Mount Dora residents and businesses looking for convenience, reliability, and personalized service, Mail-Express delivers it all in one place. Owned and operated by Lanette and Bob Scantlin, this locally owned business provides professional packing, shipping, printing, and essential business services designed to save customers time and simplify everyday tasks. Located in the Mount Dora Marketplace Plaza,
WQBQ Talk Track: Why Proactive Pest Control Matters for Mount Dora Homes and Businesses with Orkin
WQBQ Talk Track: Why Proactive Pest Control Matters for Mount Dora Homes and Businesses with Orkin The Chamber, The “Q,” and You on WQBQ is a free on-air opportunity for Chamber members to share upcoming events, highlight their services, and connect directly with the community. In Central Florida, pests aren’t just a seasonal inconvenience — they’re a year-round reality. That’s why proactive pest control is essential for protecting homes, businesses, and reputations across the Mount Dora
Mount Dora Chamber Congratulates The Spice & Tea Exchange® on 11 Years Downtown
Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce Congratulates The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Mount Dora on 11 Years in Historic Downtown February 9, 2026 -- Mount Dora, FL — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to congratulate The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Mount Dora on celebrating 11 years of business in historic downtown Mount Dora, marking more than a decade of success, community engagement, and contribution to the city’s vibrant small business landscape. Located at 439 North Donnelly Street, Mount
Behind The Business: Worthwhile Therapy Helping Mount Dora Build Healthier Lives Through Connection
Helping Mount Dora Build Healthier Lives Through ConnectionPresented by the Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce – spotlighting local businesses that strengthen our community through leadership, service, and connection. Worthwhile Therapy, LLC is a Mount Dora–based mental health and behavioral therapy practice serving individuals, couples, and families of all ages. Founded by Leslie Worth, PhD, LMFT, CST, NCC, the practice was created to provide compassionate, evidence-based care while expanding access
Oxford Advisory Group Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of New Mount Dora Office
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJan 30, 2026Oxford Advisory Group Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of New Mount Dora OfficeChamber of Commerce Welcomes Financial Planning Firm Expanding Roots in Central Florida Mount Dora, FL — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the ribbon cutting of Oxford Advisory Group’s new Mount Dora office, officially welcoming the financial planning and retirement services firm to the local business community. Oxford Advisory Group is a private, family-owned wealth
Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Grand Opening of Vanderhoof Vitality
Mount Dora, FL — January 20, 2026 — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce proudly announced the grand opening of Vanderhoof Vitality, a new personalized wellness clinic in Mount Dora, as the business held an open house on January 19th at the clinic’s new location at 330 S. Highland Street. The grand opening welcomed community members and visitors to explore the clinic’s thoughtfully designed space, meet the care team, and learn more about Vanderhoof Vitality’s personalized, science-based approach to
Sweet Bites by Beirut Bites Celebrates Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting at Mount Dora Marketplace
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJanuary 16, 2026Sweet Bites by Beirut Bites Celebrates Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting at Mount Dora Marketplace Mount Dora, FL — The Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce (MDACC) celebrated the official ribbon cutting of Sweet Bites by Beirut Bites on January 15, welcoming the new business to the Mount Dora Marketplace with Chamber ambassadors, local leaders, community members, and visitors in attendance. The ribbon cutting took place at 5:15 p.m. and was immediately followed by a
Starting a Real Estate Agency When You’re Already in the Game
Starting your own real estate agency isn’t a leap—it’s a turn in the road. You’ve already been in the trenches. You’ve handled closings, fielded client breakdowns, and survived that one summer when every deal died in escrow. But now you’re itching for autonomy. The structure, the brand, the systems—it’s all going to be yours. This isn’t starting over; it’s leveling up. But here’s the thing: experience in sales doesn’t always translate to running a business. If you want your agency to stand, earn, and
Redefine Your Reporting Experience with Smart Tech Solutions
The digital landscape is revolutionizing business reporting, driven by advancements in technology. Data can now be transformed into valuable insights that enhance decision-making processes. Tools like predictive analytics, IoT monitoring, and blockchain simplify complexities, enabling quicker and more informed choices. This exploration focuses on innovative technologies reshaping the way organizations analyze and strategize. Embracing these advancements can lead to significant opportunities for growth and
Unleashing Business Potential: Signs You Need a Coach and How to Find One
In today’s fast-paced business landscape, even the most skilled entrepreneurs can struggle to navigate challenges effectively. The complexities of growth and adaptation can make it difficult to maintain focus and direction. This is where a business coach provides crucial support, offering strategic guidance to overcome obstacles and regain clarity. Recognizing when you need external expertise is key to continued success. Here, we discuss the common indicators that signal it’s time to bring in a business
Transform Your Business with a Media Kit: A Game-Changer for PR and Visibility
Imagine having a sleek, all-encompassing toolkit that not only elevates your brand’s public image but also enhances your networking potential, credibility, and media appeal. A well-crafted media kit is precisely that—a dynamic resource capable of transforming how your business interacts with the world. By strategically compiling your company’s achievements, executive expertise, and essential metrics into one cohesive package, you pave the way for impressive media coverage and robust industry
