A celebration of education, innovation, and industry legacy
The 2025 Water Garden Expo (WGE) in Shawnee, Oklahoma, was nothing short of exceptional. Spanning from March 5 to March 7, this year’s event brought together pond and water feature professionals from across the country for a dynamic blend of educational seminars, hands-on workshops, and powerful networking opportunities. From business growth strategies to cutting-edge construction techniques, the Expo once again proved itself as a cornerstone event for the industry.
Empowering Education and Expert Insights
One of the most impactful presentations came from Steve Rozenberg, who opened the Expo with his seminar, “You May Be the Problem in Your Business.” With a captivating delivery, Steve challenged attendees to examine the self-imposed obstacles that often hinder business growth. His practical strategies for boosting profitability while working smarter—not harder—offered attendees valuable takeaways to implement in their own operations.
Later, Steve returned with “Close the Deal: Mastering Objection Handling,” a powerful session focused on refining sales techniques. He shared expert insights on customer behavior, offering practical tips to overcome objections and convert more leads into loyal clients. The session resonated with pond professionals seeking to elevate their sales game.
Rick Weidman also delivered a standout presentation with “Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions by Pond & Lake Owners.” His session addressed common challenges and misconceptions faced by industry professionals, equipping them with clear, practical solutions to better serve their clients.
In a two-part seminar, Stacy Pruitt explored the nuances of working with Elevate PondGard EPDM liners. Covering everything from proper installation methods to troubleshooting potential pitfalls, Stacy’s expertise provided attendees with valuable technical knowledge to help them avoid costly mistakes and improve project outcomes.
An Inspiring Fireside Chat on Growth and Self-Awareness
A true highlight of the Expo was the fireside chat between Brian Fitzsimmons, CEO and owner of Fitz’s Fish Ponds, and industry icon Eric Triplett. In front of a packed room, the two conducted a live podcast that peeled back the curtain on the realities of business growth.
Brian shared candid insights from his own journey, underscoring that “the way I am doing it may not be right for you.” His message emphasized the importance of self-awareness in business—knowing your strengths, identifying your weaknesses, and surrounding yourself with team members who complement your skill set. His honesty and humility struck a chord with fellow business owners, offering a refreshing perspective on scaling a company sustainably.
PPA’s Impact and the Power of Collaboration
The Pond Professionals Alliance (PPA) also took center stage at this year’s Expo. Craig McBride and Ana Arntson introduced attendees to the organization, outlining its mission to empower and support industry professionals through education, networking, and collaboration. Their presentation highlighted how PPA fosters growth by bringing together pond builders, suppliers, and service providers to share knowledge and resources.
The event also featured the PPA Build Recap, where Larry Carnes and Craig McBride reflected on the impressive water feature project the organization completed just before the Expo. Their detailed breakdown of the build process showcased the skill, creativity, and teamwork that defined the project, inspiring others to take on their own ambitious installations.
Water Artisans of the Year: Celebrating the Industry’s Best
One of the most anticipated moments of the Expo was the announcement of the 2024 Water Artisans of the Year. This year, Eric Arntson of Stonebridge Landscape made history by securing his third win, earning him a place in the prestigious Triple Crown Club—a distinction reserved for elite water feature builders. Eric’s achievement was met with enthusiastic applause, celebrating his remarkable creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication to the industry.
A Bittersweet Farewell and an Exciting New Chapter
A particularly emotional moment came with the announcement of Lora Lee Gelles’ retirement. As the longtime publisher of POND Trade Magazine, Lora Lee has been a pillar of the pond and water feature industry for years. Her unwavering dedication and passion have helped elevate the industry, giving professionals a platform to share their expertise and celebrate their artistry. Read “A Heartfelt Thank You from the POND Trade Community.”
More Than an Expo—A Community of Connection
Beyond the exceptional seminars and major announcements, the Water Garden Expo once again proved itself to be more than just an educational event—it was a celebration of community. The connections made during these few days will have a lasting impact, fostering partnerships, friendships, and future collaborations.
For anyone in the pond and water feature industry—whether a seasoned professional or an emerging contractor—WGE is an event that should not be missed. The insights gained, the skills learned, and the relationships built at this Expo have the power to reshape and strengthen any business in the field.
As I reflect on this year’s Expo, I am filled with excitement for the future of the industry and the role POND Trade Magazine will continue to play in sharing the stories, innovations, and triumphs of water feature professionals. Here’s to the next chapter—and to seeing you at WGE 2026!
