Women in Business: Lana Wilt

My journey over the years has not been easy, but considering where it has brought me today, every trial has been a blessing.

When I found out I was pregnant with my fourth child in January 1999, my mother and stepfather, Sue and Sam Ferguson, asked me to run their office for the Shaker Woods Festival. Over the next 12 years I worked closely with them, taking care of the office work while helping maintain the grounds and my mom’s beautiful gardens. In 2011, she was diagnosed with dementia. My stepfather offered me the opportunity to purchase the business.

Today I own and operate, along with my husband Rob, the Shaker Woods Festival. My success comes from the guidance of my mom and Sam, and my determination to never disappoint either of them. I want to thank Sam for his continued support, and God rest my mom in peace, for she was called home Feb. 18, 2022.

Thank you to all of our wonderful crafters, artisans, concessionaires and staff. A special thank you to our visitors, old and new, for helping to make us one of the top craft shows in the country with acknowledgements from National Geographic, Travelocity and Sunshine Magazine.