Photo frame project continues to boost tourism across Perth County

Marty Klomp of Klomp's Home and Garden, Meredith Forget, director of economic development and tourism, Casey Howanyk of The Perth Farmhouse, Perth County Warden Dean Trentowsky, Justin Dias, economic development officer for Perth County, Steve Howanyk of The Perth Farmhouse and others pose in front of one of the 10 picture frame signs funded through the Rural Ontario Development program. Amanda Nelson photo

By Amanda Nelson

Perth County is celebrating the first anniversary of its "Shareworthy Moments" project, which has encouraged visitors and residents to capture and share photos at destinations across the county.

The project was supported by $30,000 through the Province of Ontario's Rural Economic Development (RED) program. Last year, 10 photo frames, two custom photo installations and 10 custom farm stands were installed throughout Perth County to create photo opportunities for visitors while showcasing local businesses and attractions.

Designed to enhance the visitor experience, the frames provide shareable social media moments for families and tourists while encouraging them to support local businesses and farms.

"It's more about enhancing the experience, giving people an opportunity to take a photo while still having the business name in the background," said Meredith Forget, director of economic development and tourism.

Experiential tourism continues to play an important role in attracting visitors and encouraging longer stays. The installations encourage people to travel throughout the county, discover local businesses, support the agricultural community and share their experiences online.

"A lot of our attractions don't have a sign other than the road sign, and that's not exactly something people are going to post on Instagram," Forget said. "But now they have the frame, and visitors can stand behind it and get a picture with a beautiful background. So, I think it's less about creating an attraction and more about enhancing the experience that's already being offered."

The initiative has encouraged visitors to explore Perth County's diverse landscapes and agricultural heritage while creating memorable, shareable experiences.

"Since the frame was installed, we've noticed many visitors stopping to take photos and spending time chatting around the frame and enjoying the moment," said Sarah Tkaczuk, owner of River Valley Golf Course and Winter Tube Slide. "It's been wonderful to see families, golfers, wedding guests and visitors sharing their experiences on social media and discovering River Valley through the project."

Tkaczuk said the frames have added value to the guest experience by giving visitors another reason to stop, stay a little longer and share their visit with others. She added every photo shared online helps introduce River Valley and Perth County to new audiences.

"The frame has become more than just a photo opportunity," said Tkaczuk. "It has created a destination within our property. It encourages people to pause, appreciate the landscape and create memories with family and friends. We've seen people of all ages use it, from children having fun to groups of golfers, couples and families."

Each frame has been placed to showcase a unique view of Perth County, from farmland and conservation areas to bustling farm markets, family attractions and local culinary destinations.

"Overall, we've been very pleased with the project," Tkaczuk said. "It's simple, interactive and creates lasting memories while encouraging people to explore everything our community has to offer."

Frame locations include:

• Anna Mae's Bakery & Restaurant

• Apple Bottom Orchards

• Hoover's Maple Syrup

• Lynn River Farm

• Pootcorners

• River Valley Golf & Tube Slide

• Perth Farmhouse

• TNT Berries

• West Perth Wetlands

• Wildwood Conservation Area