Ommmh - My Haliburton Highlands

A unique blend of Business Ventures

Ommmh & Eats Cheeserie + Cocktails

Shawn Smandych, the visionary behind Ommmh, has crafted a business model that’s as diverse and dynamic as his personal journey. Located at 8 Milne Street in downtown Minden, directly across from the township municipal parking lot, Ommmh is a hair and lifestyle store, now fully licensed, that also features a cocktail bar, a full retail section, and a versatile event space. “One portion of my business is called Ommmh, which is a hair and lifestyle store, now fully licensed. We also have a cocktail bar along with all of our hair services as well as a full retail section,” Shawn explains.

But the creativity doesn’t stop there. Smandych’s business also includes EAT Cheeserie and Cocktails, which focuses on providing a unique culinary experience centered around cheeses from Canada and around the globe. “We do a lot of charcuterie custom orders, quick come and go kind of concept food, and the focus is cheese,” Shawn adds.

Finding a Home in the Highlands

The journey that led to the establishment of Ommmh in the Haliburton Highlands is one of unexpected opportunity. Smandych didn’t initially plan to build his business in this region, but a series of events led him to Minden, where he found a community eager for his services. “Why did I choose it? It’s more like it chose me. It was more of a happenstance, actually,” he recalls. His initial visits to the area, combined with growing demand for his hair services, encouraged him to leave his city life behind and fully commit to the Highlands.

This transition allowed him to build a business that not only serves the local community but also embodies the creativity and adaptability that Smandych brings to everything he does.

Hairstyling

Diving Success through Change

The success of Ommmh is driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation and adaptability. “In business, you also need to be somewhat fluid now,” Smandych emphasizes. This forward-thinking approach has seen Ommmh evolve from a small hair studio into a multifaceted business offering a wide range of services and experiences, from cocktail tastings to themed events. “We keep adding events to one, draw people into the space, and also, to give people something to do and to give people options and variety,” he explains.

Staying ahead of trends and continuously offering fresh experiences has been key to keeping the business vibrant. “I don’t think anything has to be solid. I don’t think it has to be concrete. It doesn’t have to remain the same forever,” Smandych believes, underscoring the importance of flexibility in today’s business landscape.

Building community and Inclusivity

At the heart of Ommmh’s success is a deep commitment to inclusivity and community. The store is designed to be a safe and welcoming space for everyone, regardless of background or beliefs. “Inclusivity is exactly that—being inclusive of everyone in my business,” Smandych asserts. This dedication is evident in the store’s house rules, which prioritize acceptance and respect for all.

Ommmh also actively engages with the local community through partnerships with other businesses and support for local initiatives. The store collaborates with local businesses like The Post House and Denna Lake Spirits and supports community organizations such as Fuel for Warmth and the Heat Bank. “We have a lot of those kinds of partnerships that I’m really happy with,” Smandych shares.

Seating Area

Looking to the future

As Shawn reflects on his journey, he sees a bright future for his business and the Haliburton Highlands community. He believes that innovation and adaptability will continue to be key drivers of success. “I think this place can be unstoppable,” he says optimistically. Shawn is also encouraged by the rising involvement of younger generations in the local business scene. “We are starting to see youth stepping up to the plate… I’m really looking forward to that,” he notes.

For Shawn, Ommmh is more than just a business—it’s a testament to the power of creativity, inclusivity, and community. Through his efforts, he’s not only built a successful enterprise but also contributed to making the Haliburton Highlands a more vibrant and welcoming place for all.