Big Response Extends Lake Forest 'Shop and Dine' Deadline

So many businesses have expressed interest in Lake Forest's inaugural Shop and Dine Week that the city is extending the deadline to participate.

Local companies and organizations now have until June 27 to contact the city's economic development staff and sign up for the week of citywide promotions, Aug. 7 through Aug. 14.

At the city's Fourth of July parade, 1,000 Shop and Dine Lake Forest reusable tote bags with discounts and promotional fliers from participating businesses will be distributed.

According to Jessica Gonzales, an economic development specialist with the city, the Shop and Dine float will include an Outback Steakhouse Hummer, Frostings Cupcakes restored antique vehicle, Fresh & Easy smart car, Corner Bakery van, Comic Quest vehicle (complete with superheroes) and the Jersey Mike’s truck.

The kickoff to Shop and Dine week, a celebration with entertainment and prizes, is noon to 3 p.m. Aug. 7 at Foothill Ranch Towne Centre, at Bake Parkway and Towne Center Drive.

A concluding celebration, with more entertainment and prizes, is from noon to 3 p.m. Aug. 14 at the Orchard shopping center, at El Toro Road and Rockfield Boulevard.

Cheers Unique Floral & Gifts has been in town for more than 21 years and has already signed up for Shop and Dine Lake Forest Week. According to business owners Shannon and Alan Chou, they are participating "so that we can get to know more of the community." It's also a way for the community to see the business' selection of flowers.

Family-owned Olamendi’s Mexican Grill has two of its Southern California locations in Lake Forest.

"We opened our first location on El Toro Road in Lake Forest three years ago and a second location in Foothill Ranch over a year ago," according to owner Segio Olamendi. "During the past three years, we have been greatly impressed with Lake Forest as a business location and with how supportive it is for businesses."

The local Olamendi's restaurants are participating in Shop and Dine Lake Forest Week because Olamendi believes "it is a great way to help local businesses gain more exposure to the community.”

Family-owned clothing store Valencia Girl is also on board.

"We live in Lake Forest and loved the area, so we decided to open our business in Lake Forest in January 2010," said Christal Milanes, the store's co-owner. Like the Chous, Milanes said Shop and Dine Lake Forest Week will give potential customers a chance to check out the clothing the store carries.

To sign up your business, e-mail economicdevelopment@lakeforestca.gov or call 949-461-3567.

Visit the city's business-specific website for more information.