Chrisy Trudeau, Business Features Reporter

Cartier Place Suite Hotel is one of them. Turning 40 this year, this family-owned and operated business has kept family life in mind. Every room consists of a full suite with a kitchen, dining and living room, as well as a private balcony.

Over 275 vehicles and some 30 manufacturers are involved in the 2014 Ottawa Gatineau International Auto Show taking place March 20—23.

Buying or selling a business can be risky, but it doesn’t have to be. That risk brings fear. Success rates for starting a new business are grim, but buying an established business is a safer bet—safer yet with a bit of help from some experts.

With a 10-minute commute off rush hour from downtown Ottawa, owners can be home, in shorts, and out their door to the private dock for a boat ride 20 minutes after they get off work.

This summer Richard Laplante and Brian Janna are proud to bring the first BrandSource Home Furnishings independent retailer to Ottawa, offering mostly made-in-Canada products including 40 high-end brands ranging from classic to modern. Their business model is geared toward high-quality, uniquely fashionable and functional furniture at a fair price. With 30 years combined in the furniture business, Laplante said he and his partner were committed to making the shopping experience a great one for customers.

It’s an experience to tell friends about, and now a lucky few visitors can spend the night. Omega owner Olivier Favre works to keep the rustic natural appeal of the park, but is always adding to it with new animals, shows, and now, five places to spend the night—Swiss Family Robinson style.

Volkswagen has set a bold goal to become the world’s top automotive company by 2018, selling more cars than current leaders Toyota and GM. “Since the remodelling of the Jetta, sales have increased over 130 percent around the country. They have been doing that to cars like the Passat as well, so it’s been fantastic,” said Myers Volkswagen sales manager Dan Hale.

Artistic Landscape Design has turned an industrial lot into a gardeners’ oasis, now offering free classes in a new workshop and Canadian-made artisan works.

Terrasses Gabrielle offers luxurious apartment living with the conveniences of downtown in a lovely location in Ottawa.