During August’s rodeo weekend, young entrepreneurs set up lemonade stands and other treats for residents and visitors to enjoy in the Pincher Creek and District Chamber of Commerce Lemonade Day competition. This year’s overall winner was nine-year-old entrepreneur Tanya Du Plessis of Tanya’s Lemonade.

Posted on Main Street under a brightly painted stand, Tanya sold scrumptious snacks and three flavours of lemonade: original lemon, raspberry and blueberry-apple. She also became a vendor at the farmers market this year, and said her secret ingredient is lots of sugar.

Although she started off shy, Tanya persevered.

“I thought that if I tried and worked hard, I could win,” she said.

Setting an example for upcoming entrepreneurs, this young lady demonstrated how a little customer service, creativity, courage and effort can go a long way. When asked to share tips to other young entrepreneurs, Tanya said to work hard and be patient.

Tanya DuPlessis and her mother Christine pose at her cheerful lemonade stand outside Pincher Office Products on Lemonade Day in August. | Photo by Mia Parker

If Tanya could serve one celebrity her famous raspberry lemonade, it would be Taylor Swift.

Tanya said, “I feel really good” about winning the Young Business Award.

Her mother, Christine Du Plessis, said she is proud of her daughter’s courage to start up her business endeavours.

“Since her lemonade was so successful, we are working on getting her started with a handmade bracelet line as well,” Christine said.

Pincher Creek has seen only the beginning of what this little lady can do. You can find Tanya’s other creations on social media in the coming months!

Tanya received the Young Business of the Year award at the Pincher Creek and District Chamber of Commerce’s 28th annual Awards of Excellence, held Oct. 20.

Mallory Nelson was also nominated in this category. Read the nominations here.

See all category winners here.

Tanya beams with pride at Pincher Creek Chamber of Commerce’s 28th annual Awards of Excellence. | Photo by William Cockerell