The Story of Brandi Hewson
WAI Products and Kohara and Co
Brandi Hewson, CEO and founder of WAI Products and Kohara and Co., has redefined the entrepreneurial spirit in Haliburton Highlands by creating thriving businesses with both local roots and international reach. WAI Products serves the irrigation, landscape lighting, and water supply industry, while Kohara and Co. brings upscale interior and exterior lighting to the area, recently expanding into the fashion and bath sector.
Hewson’s journey reflects a commitment to innovation, growth, and community, paving the way for future entrepreneurs. “We have created a business opportunity here that wasn’t necessarily local,” she said, “but we’ve made it work in this beautiful community.”
Coming Home
Though she never anticipated moving back to her hometown, Brandi is now grateful to raise her children in the inspiring and safe environment of Haliburton Highlands. “I was born and raised here. Didn’t think I would come back, but here I am,” she shared, emphasizing how much the Highlands’ landscape and community matter to her young family and to her business.
While much of her work extends beyond local borders, being based in Haliburton has offered her a unique balance between business ambition and personal fulfillment.
Award winning
A Growing Vision
Over the past 14 years, Hewson’s businesses have undergone significant growth. Initially founded as WAI Products, her enterprise expanded when she created Kohara and Co., addressing local demand for high-quality interior and exterior lighting solutions.
This evolution accelerated during the pandemic, as she quickly adapted to new market needs. “We went from being home-office-based to now having a large, welcoming showroom and design center,” Brandi explained, noting how the change allowed her to focus on an enhanced customer experience.
Rooted in Resilience and Innovation
One of Brandi’s most recent additions to her business is the fashion and bath line, a venture she describes as a “full-circle” moment.
Growing up in a family with a plumbing supply business, she now finds herself embracing the industry again, incorporating plumbing products alongside high-end kitchen and bath offerings. “It’s kind of in my blood,” she reflected. In addition to her product lines, Brandi has cultivated an innovative approach to customer service and collaboration. Also, while fostering partnerships with local trades and international companies to bringing a unique solutions to the Haliburton Highlands and beyond.
WAI products
Building Community and Inspiring Women
Beyond her success as a business owner, Brandi has become a role model for local women entrepreneurs. “I didn’t see myself as a pioneer,” she admitted, “but hearing others say it really humbles me.” Known for her resilience and willingness to adapt, Brandi is driven to support other women and foster a supportive community of business leaders.
In a small town where employment can be challenging, she highlights the importance of collaboration: “We’ve found ways to collaborate with others to achieve our goals.”
Looking to the Future
Brandi’s goals for the future include expanding her local business impact and increasing local employment opportunities. She envisions building a dedicated space for Kohara and Co., creating a truly unique shopping experience.
On a broader scale, she hopes to continue her journey in business development and consulting, sharing her expertise with other companies. “We have a long way to go, but we’re finally starting to win,” she said, reflecting on her journey and the support she’s received along the way.
Lighting options
Staying True to Sustainability
Sustainability is central to WAI Products and Kohara and Co.’s operations. Brandi has made strides in minimizing environmental impact, from offering LED and low-voltage lighting solutions to water-saving plumbing products. “Most of the lighting we sell is LED or low voltage-based,” she noted. Her companies also use recyclable packaging materials, reinforcing her commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Brandi Hewson’s journey as an entrepreneur in the Haliburton Highlands is an inspiring story of resilience, growth, and community. As her business continues to flourish, she remains dedicated to empowering others, supporting sustainability, and creating opportunities for local residents. Her story showcases the best of Haliburton’s entrepreneurial spirit, paving the way for future innovators in the region.
Kitchen design
Showroom
Interior design
Award winning
Lighting options
WAI products
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