Feel the Love: New Lake Erie Love sign debuts on Kelleys Island

What is it: Kelleys Island is the latest location to spot a Lake Erie Love sign. Situated by the West Bay Inn’s marina, the sign, which debuted in late July, is a perfect place for a sunset photo-op.

The 4’6” x 12 ½” sign, a collaboration between the owners of West Bay Inn and Shores & Islands Ohio, was built and installed by Brady Sign Co. It is the third of its kind, with two other Lake Erie Love signs at Nickel Plate Beach in Huron and Waterworks Park in Port Clinton.

Shores & Islands Ohio invested about $24,000 from its Destination Development funds to pay for the sign, according to a release from Shores & Islands Ohio.

“The Kelleys Island Chamber of Commerce and its residents and visitors thank Shores & Islands Ohio for the placement of one of their Lake Erie Love signs on our beautiful Kelleys Island,” says Jackie Finger, representative for the Kelleys Island Chamber of Commerce. “We hope everyone takes the opportunity for a picturesque photo of amazing sunsets! Thank you again to Shores & Islands Ohio for making this happen.”

Why is it important: The sign gives locals and visitors alike another fun photo-op spot on the island.

“We are thrilled to offer this opportunity for guests of the region to share the Lake Erie Love by posting their vacation photos and promoting our love for the lake and the region as a whole,” said Amanda Smith Rasnick, Destination Development Director for Shores & Islands Ohio via the press release. 

How to get involved: Shores & Islands Ohio plans to bring a sign to Middle Bass Island and would like to add signs in other locations in the area. Interested communities can contact Smith Rasnick at amanda@shoresandislands.com to discuss opportunities.

The best way to get involved? Share the love with the hashtag #LakeErieLove, just like Ted Klonaris, general manager of West Bay Tiki Bar & Grill.

“#LakeErieLove is a group of boaters joining us for dinner after fun on the lake, a Veteran firing our Sunset Salute Cannon, an engagement on our docks, or a family vacation tradition,” says Klonaris. “#LakeErieLove is our Kelleys Island Community that we share with our guests.”