“When you pass by something day in and day out, you tend to forget about it if nothing changes,” said Mark Wicks, Community Development Director of Main Street Charles City in Charles City, Iowa. That's why the Design Committee of Main Street Charles City annually organizes 'WonderFall,' a business decorating contest designed to have some fun with the autumnal season as well as provide a reminder of the importance of curb appeal in attracting the public’s attention.

“This was a great opportunity for our businesses to remind folks about who they are, what they offer, and to provide something cool for people to check out," said Mark. "It’s also a good reminder to take a look at your storefront, sidewalk, yard, or driveway to see if there are things needing attention or that you could do to improve their appeal. People do take notice – of the good and the bad.”

The public voted for its favorite fall or Halloween-themed storefront decorations by scrolling through the WonderFall photo album on Main Street Charles City's Facebook page. To vote, participants simply had to click “Like” under the photos of the 11 participating businesses. In addition to the “People's Choice Award,” there was also a “Judges' Choice Award” determined by a panel of three independent judges.

This year, the People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice voting were both swept by Apple Valley Assisted Living. Apple Valley also ended up running away with the public vote, earning 80 “Likes.” Runner-up Hy-Vee earned 28 votes and third-place finisher 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home earned 27 votes. The Judges' Choice voting was closer, with Apple Valley just edging out 11th Street Chautauqua. Hy-Vee was third in that voting. Take a look at their decorations below!

Apple Valley Assisted Living | People's Choice and Judges' Choice

Hy-Vee | People's Choice Runner-Up & Third in Judges' Choice

11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home | Third in People's Choice & Judges' Choice Runner Up

Other participating businesses this year included Cardigan at 101 North Main Street (in rear); Darbe & Co. Boutique at 200 North Main Street Suite #1; First Citizens Bank at 300 North Main Street; First Security Bank & Trust at 809 Clark Street; Main Street Drug at 204 North Main Street; Pizza Hut at 1003 Blunt Street; Schiller Fine Art, Photography Framing at 105 North Main Street; and The Rustic Corner at 413 North Main Street.

Main Street Charles City is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization affiliated with Main Street Iowa and dedicated to making Charles City a great place to live, work and play. To learn more, call (641) 228-2335 or email info@charlescitychamber.com.