Lauren Nolan is the owner and publisher of POND Trade magazine, a role that perfectly blends her expertise in writing with her deep-rooted passion for the pond industry. A graduate of The College of New Jersey, Lauren began her career as an English teacher at Bridgewater Raritan Regional High School, where she dedicated ten years to educating and inspiring students. During this time, she also earned a Master’s degree in English and a Supervisor’s Certificate, further honing her skills in communication and leadership. In 2021, Lauren transitioned into the pond industry as a brand content manager for Fitz’s Fish Ponds. Over the past three years, she played a pivotal role in expanding the company through strategic marketing initiatives, events, and innovative brand development. Her dedication and vision propelled her into the role of vice president at Fitz’s Fish Ponds, where she continues to drive growth and excellence. Today, as the owner and publisher of POND Trade magazine, Lauren brings a fresh perspective and unwavering enthusiasm to the industry. Her extensive background in writing, combined with her experience in the pond world, allows her to craft engaging content, foster industry connections, and elevate the publication to new heights.

January / February 2026

By Lauren Nolan / December 29, 2025 / 0 Comments

As I worked through January / February 2026 issue, one theme surfaced again and again: creativity in its most expansive form. Not just creativity as artistry—but creativity as problem-solving, adaptability, passion and perseverance. From massive adventure pond builds and refined presentation techniques, to breeding koi, curating bonsai and sustaining multi-generational businesses, creativity runs in the […]

Built to Rock: Inside the 2025 Atlantic Oase Professional Conference 

By Lauren Nolan / December 28, 2025 / 0 Comments

From the moment attendees arrived, there was a buzz of anticipation. Contractors, distributors, retailers, manufacturers, and educators converged with a shared mission—learn something new, strengthen relationships, and leave inspired to build bigger, smarter, and better than ever.  An Inspiring Start: Andy Core’s Message on Community  The conference opened with a powerful keynote from Andy Core, […]

The 2025 Atlantic Oase Awards 

By Lauren Nolan / December 28, 2025 / 0 Comments

Honoring those who raise the bar. One of the most powerful traditions of the Atlantic Oase Conference is celebrating individuals and companies whose work makes a lasting impact on our trade. This year’s award recipients exemplified the passion, leadership, and dedication that define the pond and water-feature community. The AO Pro Contractor of the Year […]

November / December 2025

By Lauren Nolan / October 30, 2025 / 0 Comments

Every so often, an issue of POND Trade comes together with such synergy that it reminds meexactly why I fell in love with this industry — and the November / December 2025 issue is a perfect example. Across every story — from monumental pond builds to quiet moments of aquatic artistry— the common thread is […]

Gary Vee’s Social Media Playbook for Pond Builders

By Lauren Nolan / October 30, 2025 / 0 Comments

When Gary Vaynerchuk showed up at his father Sasha’s 400,000-gallon pond build in New Jersey, he didn’t just watch the machines and marvel at the boulders. He spent time with a circle of pond professionals and manufacturers, answering questions and dropping actionable advice. The impromptu Q&A ended up being less about koi and more about […]

Koi Fest 2025: A Celebration Four Years in the Making

By Lauren Nolan / October 27, 2025 / 0 Comments

Now in its fourth year, Koi Fest has grown from a simple idea into the largest koi event in the United States. What began as Fitz’s vision for a blowout end-of-season sale has transformed into a one-of-a-kind festival bringing together every corner of the koi and pond community. His dream was simple yet ambitious: take […]

Contractor’s Corner Winners Announced

By Lauren Nolan / October 1, 2025 / 0 Comments

Pondliner is excited to announce the latest winners of our Contractor’s Corner competition. POND Trade’s Contractor’s Corner was created to spotlight the incredible work of pond and water feature professionals around the world. Contractors are invited to submit their standout projects for a chance to be featured on our website, with one project selected each […]

POND Trade Magazine Announces 2025 Water Artisans of the Year Contest and Esteemed Panel of Judges

By Lauren Nolan / September 12, 2025 / 0 Comments

POND Trade Magazine is proud to announce the return of its Water Artisans of the Year (WATY) contest for 2025. This annual celebration of innovative and artistic water-feature creations is known as the “Academy Awards of the Pond Industry.” Through this prestigious competition, we showcase the talent, creativity, and craftsmanship of pond builders and designers. […]

September / October 2025

By Lauren Nolan / August 29, 2025 / 0 Comments

As cool breezes roll in and the leaves change, our industry enters one of its most vibrant and inspiring seasons. Fall may be the time when ponds start their seasonal rest, but for pond professionals, it is when ideas flourish, connections deepen and the groundwork is laid for the year ahead. This issue captures that […]

July / August 2025

By Lauren Nolan / June 30, 2025 / 0 Comments

Sweet Summertime There’s something magical about summer pond season. Whether it’s the hum of a well-running pump, the flicker of landscape lights on a warm night, or the quiet joy of watching koi glide through still water, this is the time when all your hard work comes to life. You’re the creators of these moments—the […]

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