On a sensational fall day, you would be hard pressed to improve on the splendour of the village of Wellington. The Wellington Community Association’s Beautification Committee, however, has managed to do just that.

The first phase of the Distinctive Doorways Project has created a unique and warm palate of colourful entrances to Wellington Main Street businesses and restaurants.

At its root, said Peta Hall, the project was both to enhance the community and showcase its warmth and vibrancy. In total, 18 businesses took part in the first phase. A second starts in spring — and allows residences to get in on the act.

“Now just imagine these doorways in a few months when it’s so drab and cold,” she said, pointing to the lavender door at Lavender Furniture. “That’s when they will really be noticeable and be very welcome.”

Lisa Reddick said designs and colours were up to the business owners. The initiative has created a new sense of “brand awareness” among Wellington businesses. Quinte Paint & Wallpaper donated the paint and three local painters, Danielle Reddick, Dylan Tilston, and Cael Reddick, did the painting. Some businesses completed their own doors.

Take a Seat

Apart from Distinctive Doors, the Beautification Committee is starting the second round of its colourful bench program. Benches crafted by Roy Perkin and Doug Smith feature designs by Nella Casson and Suzanne Clark. Ms. Casson’s bench near Branch 160 features a blowing poppy motif while Ms. Clark’s effort near Scotiabank offers thought-provoking statements and questions.

“We’ve put out a call for two more next year,” Ms. Hall explained. “The only requirement is that you are a Prince Edward County artist. Eventually, we would like a half dozen benches from one end of the village to the other.”

Blowing in the Wind

This summer, the village was adorned with Dayna Law-designed banners that are iconically Wellington, featuring a sailboat and lighthouse. They will soon be replaced with Remembrance Day banners featuring veterans from Wellington who served their country. The banners are sponsored by local families who have the profiled Canadian veteran in their lineage.

“These banners will feature the veteran, their years of service, and there will be a booklet component that has information on each veteran,” Ms. Reddick explained.