Turning the Page, Diving In
It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome you to this issue of POND Trade Magazine. When I first joined this vibrant, ever-evolving industry, I couldn’t have imagined the journey ahead. Today, I’m honored to step into the role of publisher, following in the footsteps of my mentor and dear friend, Lora Lee Gelles.
For years, Lora Lee has been the heart and soul of POND Trade. She shaped it into a trusted voice for pond professionals across the country. Her vision, creativity and leadership have left an a lasting mark, and I am endlessly grateful for her guidance. Thank you, Lora Lee, for believing in me — I promise to carry the torch with care, integrity and enthusiasm.
As we launch this first issue under new leadership, I’m thrilled to present a fresh lineup of stories that celebrate the craftsmanship, creativity and community that make this industry so special.
In this edition, Mike Gannon explores the artistic and functional value of driftwood. We also go behind the scenes with Marlon Ngo, who offers a rare glimpse into ” Life as a Koi Farmer & Dealer.“
Our 2025 Water Garden Expo Round-Up brings you all the action from the event. We cover eveyrthing from educational seminars and panel discussions to standout moments like the fireside chat between Brian Fitzsimmons and Eric Triplett. They discussed scaling pond businesses, leadership and staying true to your strengths. We also highlight the announcement of this year’s Water Artisans of the Year, showcasing the best in pond and water feature innovation.
Another standout is the group pond build of the Pond Professionals Alliance. This undertaking is a powerful example of collaboration, passion and perseverance coming together to create something truly inspiring.
We’re also diving into the business side of things. Are home and garden shows are still worth it ? We break down the pros, cons and strategies for making the most of your investment in this article. Plus, we’re excited to introduce a new feature: The Entrepreneur’s Angle — where business coaches and financial advisors offer insight into life as a pond business owner, helping you thrive both on the job site and behind the scenes. “The Two Most Important Days in a Business Owner’s Journey“is a must-read.
None of this would be possible without the amazing team behind the magazine. I’m thrilled to continue working with Joanne Costin, our insightful web editor who has a gift for turning complex topics into engaging content. Joining us is Rae Cauley, our new graphic designer and an award-winning fine artist. Rae brings more than a decade of experience and a passion for storytelling through various artistic mediums such as graphic design, large scale murals and handcrafted jewelry.
Thank you for reading and for allowing us to be part of your pond journey. Here’s to the next ripple.
Until the next splash!
Lauren Nolan
