FRISCO, Texas — Casual furnishings retailer Sunnyland Outdoor Living recently hosted a new community service event born of a conversation at last year’s International Casual Furnishings Association’s Elevate Conference. The event — the Slice of Hope Pie Auction — benefited Independence Gardens, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering children through hands-on nutrition and gardening programs.
Sunnyland worked with local bakeries, cottage bakers and community members who donated a total of 16 pies for the event, led by local news host Amy Vanderoef, who served as auctioneer and emcee. Additional support came from local businesses such as Saint Arnold Brewing and 12 Cuts Brazilian Steakhouse. Proceeds from pie sales went to Independence Gardens.
Brad Schweig, vice president of operations for Sunnyland Outdoor Living, said a conversation at the ICFA conference’s roundtable sessions with Sissy Blanchard of Porch + Patio inspired the event. Blanchard shared with fellow conference attendees how the Georgia retailer found success hosting a pie auction at their store.
“ICFA events are great for discovering what other retailers are trying,” Schweig said. “Sometimes a single conversation gives you something you can take home and test in your own market.”
Sunnyland has long focused on serving its community through events such as the annual North Texas EggFest, as well as supporting everything from charity auctions to local school career days. Schweig said the Sunnyland team was excited to add a fun new event to their community engagement schedule, and he’s grateful for conversations with fellow retailers that helped make it possible.
“I’m looking forward to the next Elevate Conference in New Orleans in 2026,” he said. “It’s always worthwhile to hear what other retailers are doing and to contribute where I can.”
