Business Profiles
Do you have a great business story to tell? Let us share your success through a business profile! Connect with our Economic Development team via ecdev@greyhighlands.ca or call 519-986-1216 x 113 to find out how!
| Azure Highlands Homestead |
| Jesse and Louella are on a mission to do good. Whether it is through their farm and the wholesome food they provide, or the example they lead for their children, they make a conscious effort to find the positive in any situation. It is an important lesson in today’s uncertain times. Though Louella and Jesse have been raising animals for the past six years, owning their own farm was a long-time dream that became a brand-new undertaking in 2020. Joining them on their adventure are their two little girls, who are learning first-hand the hard work, challenges, and joys that farm life can bring. Farming requires resiliency, and the entire family has become proficient in a range of skills that include building, fencing, cleaning, collecting eggs, and caring for animals. Their love for their homestead is apparent, as they proudly proclaim the highlight of their day is evening chores as a family. Louella and Jesse are passionate about small farms and want to do their part to help foster a healthy and sustainable local food culture, believing that healthy food starts from the soil up. The way an animal is raised affects the quality of its meat and Azure Highlands Homestead tries to mimic natural cycles as much as possible. All their animals have access to lots of fresh air, plenty of room to roam, and a safe and comfortable place to stay warm (or cool). They do not use pesticides or antibiotics in their animals (unless absolutely necessary). Azure Highlands Homestead offers pasture-raised beef, pork, and chicken, as well as farm fresh eggs. It’s great food that you can feel good about. Check out their website and social media (Facebook and Instagram) pages for a glimpse behind the scenes of the homestead life (and keep in the know about all their wonderful products). Call 519-722-8821 or email azurehighlandshomestead@gmail.com to chat with Louella and place your order. #SupportLocal #SupportGreyHighlands #Homestead #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Bernard's Quality Cars and Service |
|
Archie and Pat Bernard established Bernard’s Quality Cars and Service in Flesherton in 1973, and over 45 years later (and despite a global pandemic), their family-run business remains a steady (and much loved) presence in the community. Like many businesses, it started small, but has now expanded to seven service bays (with three technicians) and is a Napa AutoPro partner.
In 1986, they handed the wheel to their son Terry and his wife Mary Lynn, who recently transitioned the business to their daughters Jessica and Stefanie. Being a family business goes far beyond ownership for the close-knit team at Bernard’s Quality Cars and Service. Three generations of Bernard’s have run the business and they have sold vehicles to three generations of several families. Many customers have been loyal to Bernard’s for many years and have themselves become extended family. Bernard’s is also a strong community champion, providing sponsorships for local sports teams and charitable donations to local non-profit groups. Recently, Bernard’s Quality Cars and Service implemented a local gift card promotion to encourage their customers to support other local businesses during these difficult times. Businesses such as The Bakery, The Bicycle Café, Flesherton Home Hardware, Highland Grounds, Leelas Villa Inn, and Maxwell Meats Ltd. (who are all customers of Bernard’s) all benefited from the promotion, which ended on June 15. Being a sales and service-oriented business during COVID-19 hasn’t been easy, but Bernard’s Quality Cars and Service didn’t miss a beat – they just found creative solutions to meet the needs of their customers while ensuring the safe and responsible operation of their business. Though their showroom and service area have reopened to the public, they continue to offer complementary vehicle pick up and delivery (vehicles are sanitized after pick up and prior to drop off) or loaner vehicles upon request (also sanitized between customers). Patrons are asked to strongly consider wearing a mask while inside the service area or showroom and when test driving a vehicle; staff will all be wearing masks as well. Plexiglass barriers have been installed indoors and a brand-new outdoor waiting area (complete with Muskoka chairs) has just been created so that customers can relax in comfort while waiting for their vehicle. If you’ve never experienced their exceptional service before, they promise you will not be disappointed. Call 519-924-2601 to book an appointment with their friendly team or check out their website and Facebook. #SupportLocal #GreyHighlands #FamilyBusiness #StrongCommunity #TogetherWeGetThroughThis
|
| Chapman's Ice Cream |
|
Since 1973, Chapman’s has made wonderfully delicious ice cream and frozen treats at their production facility in Markdale. As the largest independent ice cream manufacturer in Canada, their product lineup includes more than 280 frozen treats. Their ongoing dedication to innovation has been recognized by several health organizations and has earned Chapman’s numerous national and international awards.
Recent world events may have temporarily changed day-to-day activities in production, but that hasn’t stopped Chapman’s from stepping up (once again) to support their community by giving back, this time to front line workers. In partnership with Bruce Power and 365 Sports, Chapman’s played a critical role in securing and distributing a significant amount of much-needed personal protective equipment to first responders and other high needs services in our community.
Groups benefiting from this donation include the Grey Bruce Health Unit, Midwives of Ontario, Rockwood Terrace Long-Term Care, Country Lane Long-Term Care, Grey Gables Long-Term Care, OPP, as well as other retirement and group homes and communal living locations including shelters.
Thank you, Chapman’s, for continuing to be a strong community partner!
#SupportLocal #GreyHighlands #CanadianFood #IceCream #TogetherWeGetThroughThis
|
| Educational Games of Excellence |
|
The global pandemic continues to wreak havoc on all aspects of the business community; retail, service, and food-based enterprises have all endured the effects of COVID-19. It has been an unforgiving time for many and most would agree it is a difficult time to start a new company – but Erika Dick is doing exactly that. #SupportLocal #StrongCommunity #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Feel Festive and Support Local |
| The holiday season is fast approaching and now is the perfect time to support your favourite local business...it's also the perfect opportunity to discover a new product or service (or delicious food) in your community. Did you know that you can find just about anything for that special someone (or a furry/feathered/finned friend) in Grey Highlands? Get started by checking out our online business directory - an evolving database of local shops, services, and restaurants just waiting to be discovered! Is your business missing from our list? Email us and we will get you added right away! Grey County has also curated an excellent cross-section of local businesses in it's holiday edition of Made in Grey magazine. While Markdale and Flesherton are widely regarded as the main commercial centres, don't forget about the many (many) businesses that operate throughout our villages and hamlets. Local merchants want to make this holiday shopping season as easy as possible for their valued customers. Shopping local online is easier than ever with the help of Digital Main Street, and many of your favourite shops now offer online purchasing; many also offer curbside pickup or free/low-cost delivery. One thing is for certain, local businesses need our support now more than ever. Give the gift of a stronger community this holiday season with a present from one of Grey Highlands' hundreds of small businesses. #SupportLocal #StrongCommunity #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Flora Grey |
|
There's something amazing growing in Maxwell, and it’s not just Gillian and Guillermo’s daughter, Clementine! Flora Grey offers a wide range of sustainably grown cut flowers, ornamentals, vegetables, herbs, and select pantry goods. Nestled in the heart of Grey Highlands, Gillian and Guillermo are nurturing their business though patience and gratitude, working for the betterment of soil, community, and their livelihood.
With diverse purchasing and delivery options, you can enjoy seasonal blooms in your home for four or eight weeks (beginning in July), or if you are looking for larger scale or retail supply, they also have you covered! Their unique cut flowers and ornamentals are available for purchase to floral designers, florists, and retail establishments, locally and as far as the GTA.
Delicious varieties of vegetables and herbs are also offered in bundles to fit your needs and additional details will be available soon!
COVID-19 may have cast a grey shadow over our normal day to day, but as Gillian and Guillermo say, “Patience and gratitude will get us through, and while we get through it, let's celebrate each other and the inspiring life blooming all around us.”
Gillian and Guillermo are eager to connect with other local producers and artisans to collaborate on beautiful and delicious projects and would welcome the opportunity to chat with them! Producers, artisans, and customers alike can connect with Gillian and Guillermo directly via floragreygrows@gmail.com.
#FloraliaGrows #SpringIsHere #FloraliaInGrey #SupportLocal #GrowGreyHighlands #MadeInGrey #TogetherWeGetThroughThis
|
| Hiliary Breadner Graphics |
| Living quietly (well…maybe not entirely quietly) on her family’s farm near Rocklyn, Hiliary Breadner lives a double life. As a 7th generation farmer on the same family land, Hiliary is equally comfortable tending to fields and cattle as she is creating state-of-the-art graphic design projects, which she has done professionally for over a decade. The last five years have been extra exciting, as she has taken on farming full time in addition to running her own business. It is probably a safe assumption that Hiliary is never bored! Her creative gift, coupled with an impeccable technical ability (and a brand new 3D laser printer), allows Hiliary to create beautiful graphics and imagery, which she can turn into all manners of signage, decals, vehicle graphics, product labels, and pretty much anything else her clients can imagine. Of course, she does have a soft spot for agriculture-related designs and has helped many local farmers design (or redesign) their logo or signage to help promote their business. Passion spurs her creativity, and according to Hiliary, the best part of her work is helping clients bring a (sometimes obscure) vision to fruition. Her designs speak for themselves – and they have a lot to say! Hilary is also one of the steering members of the For the Love of Grey Barn Quilt Trail in the region – a natural fit considering her graphic design skills and love of agriculture. Designing the large wooden quilts, which can be found on farms throughout Grey County, is a labour of love, as she often works with property owners to create a pattern that reflects their own unique heritage. When asked how she felt about operating her own business in Grey Highlands, Hiliary simply replied, “Grateful.” She has received tremendous support and encouragement from farmers, businesses, and residents, especially in this year’s focus on shopping local. In an age where purchasing mass-marketed items is only a mouse click away, there is a tangible appeal to working with someone in your own community to create a perfect, one-of-a-kind present. Imagine the surprise and delight when a loved one opens a gift to find their name on a family sign, personalized stocking tag, or customized garden ornament. Try personalized wooden hangers for the newlyweds that have everything (guaranteed to be better received than a toaster). Perhaps you have a design idea scribbled on a napkin somewhere that you’ve always wanted to explore but didn’t know where to start. Hiliary’s graphic design skills and on-site production equipment usually allow her to bring projects from ideas to completion in around 1-2 weeks, depending on availability of materials. She loves a challenge and would love to work with you to create a perfect business tool, present, or statement piece. Contact Hiliary via hiliarybgraphics@gmail.com, call 519-374-9215, or check out her incredible work online and via her Facebook and Instagram pages. #SupportLocal #Grateful #GraphicDesign #Rocklyn #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Home Accents Emporium (and Tippy Canoe) |
| Coaxing a beautiful home décor business from a former service garage takes vision, imagination, and a generous helping of courage and determination. Kent and Gerry faced a daunting renovation challenge in setting up the Home Accents Emporium in Feversham, but their results have been extraordinary. After the closure of their popular shop in downtown Oakville, Kent and Gerry moved to Feversham (where Kent was born and raised) with retirement on their minds. However, despite their best efforts to step away from retail, they found themselves thinking about starting another Emporium. Opening a niche shop in a small village came with risks, but after the initial portion of the store opened in 2013, it quickly became a success. The shop expanded the following September, and again the next year to add the “Tippy Canoe on the Beaver” and coffee bar; the final touch was the addition of a large cedar deck, where customers can relax and enjoy a free coffee or tea and treat. The Emporium is filled with unique giftware, china and tableware, candles, bedding, throws, cushions, lamps, and new furniture. Upon entering, you will be warmly greeted and lead through the carefully curated selection of home décor. The contents continually evolve with the changing seasons and Kent and Gerry take great pleasure in seeking out special items to decorate your home. Each year, the entire Emporium converts into a Christmas store like no other. With four huge display windows, Kent and Gerry try to capture the true excitement of each season with inviting presentations. Next door to the Emporium is Tippy Canoe, a “cottager’s” store for customers who appreciate more casual Canadiana and cottage-style décor, giftware, and apparel. For a taste of what Home Accents Emporium and the Tippy Canoe have to offer, please visit their website, drop by 115 Wellington Street in Feversham (Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm), or call 519-922-1111. #SupportLocal #HomeDecor #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Ice River Springs |
|
Congratulations to Grey Highlands’ Ice River Springs on the recent announcement that they will be purchasing the Nestlé Pure Life bottled water business, contingent on completion of a regulatory review process.
The acquisition of the Nestlé Pure Life branded business fulfills a strategic ambition of Ice River Springs to expand the company’s offering in Canada beyond private label. The sale includes two factories located in Puslinch, Ontario and Hope, British Columbia, along with a well in Erin, Ontario.
Ice River Springs is a Canadian family-owned, private label bottled water producer for retailers and manufacturer of the Ice River Green brand of bottled water. With a diverse portfolio of companies committed to sustainability, the company runs a plastics recycling operation, BMP Recycling, that takes bottles and plastic food packaging collected by municipalities and produces food grade recycled PET plastic. Ice River Springs has been built upon values of environmental stewardship, innovation and an ethical business model that ultimately offers consumers a high quality, environmentally responsible, healthy bottled water beverage at a great value. "Our family and our teams are excited for this opportunity to acquire Pure Life, a great brand distributed across Canada. Our plan is to incorporate sustainability by transitioning to our 100% recycled plastic (RPET). We've been self manufacturing RPET at our BMP recycling plant in Shelburne using post consumer plastic packaging from Ontario's blue box program for over 10 years. This will expand the circular economy in Canada and gives us the opportunity to add a brand to our private label business," says Sandy Gott, Executive Vice-President and Co-owner of Ice River Springs. Congratulations to the Gott family and their team at Ice River Springs for their leadership in business, environmental stewardship and for being such a strong community partner! #SupportLocal #GreyHighlandsProud #TogetherWeGetThroughThis Since 1995, Ice River Springs, owned and operated by the Gott family of Grey Highlands has grown to become one of the largest water bottling companies in Canada. Understanding that by taking care of the land, the land will take care of all of us, they have built their business by respecting their company’s environmental footprint. In fact, they were the first beverage company in North America to collect blue box materials to produce 100% recycled plastic bottles, using no new plastic!
Their commitment to social responsibility is evidenced every day, but most recently they have taken this responsibility to the next level. During this COVID-19 pandemic, their staff are still hard at work every day turning our recycling materials not only into water bottles but also into hand sanitizer bottles that they are donating to manufacturers who are filling those bottles with essential products for the fight against COVID-19.
What can we do to support Ice River Springs? The answer is simple - keep recycling! They need our recycled goods so they can continue to produce the bottles that are showing up on the front lines of the battle against COVID! Thank you to the Gott family and Ice River Springs for their leadership and commitment to our environment, our community, and our health!
As per a recent social media post, the team at Ice River Springs also expressed their own gratitude for the true community effort that is helping them keep their operations running. They thanked all the food and beverage manufacturing companies and their teams that keep their grocery store supply chains fed, the truck drivers for delivering these products, and the people working from home coordinating it all.
#StrongTogether #EssentialWorkers #ThankYou #TogetherWeGetThroughThis
|
| Infinite Glassworks |
|
While the creative genius of Infinite Glassworks is housed inside the mind of Kate Civiero, the studio and shop are housed inside a 90-year-old rustic barn in beautiful Eugenia, which is owned by Kate and her husband Matthew. Their dream of owning a glassblowing facility became a reality in 2016 when they began renovations to transform their barn into a studio, taking care to maintain a simple rural vibe both inside and out.
Infinite Glassworks is so much more than a working studio or a showroom for retail sales (though it does both of those things quite well). Infinite Glassworks is a place where magic happens. It is a place where Kate transforms bits of raw glass into beautiful and functional pieces that speak to her labour of love.
The business fills a special niche in the vibrant arts and cultural community of Grey Highlands, and Grey County as a whole. Glassblowing is not a common medium in the region, and Kate saw a perfect opportunity to bring the art form to the broader community. Pre-COVID, she offered hands-on instruction to introduce people to the blown glass process, and plans to resume classes when conditions allow. These sessions not only add depth and breadth to her business, but they are also an important cultural activity and a tourism draw.
When describing how she works raw materials into art, Kate’s voice changes and takes on an edge of excitement. “It’s an adrenaline rush. You have a 2,100 ℉ furnace and a ball of molten glass; you start to work the glass (which has the consistency of molasses) but have less than a minute before it hardens and needs to be reheated.” She continued, “It’s dangerous and exciting, and it really makes you think on your feet. It is only during a brief 45 second window that you can stretch, shape, and colour the glass.” You can hear the smile in her voice as she adds, “It is truly the adventure sport of the craft world.”
With so many challenges caused by COVID, Kate also sees the positives. There has been a noticeable shift towards supporting local businesses, as people are re-evaluating how and where to spend their money. In some ways, she feels that it is an exciting time for local customers to re-connect with their local growers and makers.
Infinite Glassworks is a recent recipient of a Starter Company Plus Recovery Program Grant, which was offered through Grey County’s Business Enterprise Centre. Kate will use this funding to help pivot her business to focus on online sales and marketing. Purchasing a piece of glassware from Infinite Glassworks is often a deeply rooted tactile experience that relies heavily on making a personal connection with a piece. Shifting this experience online has been challenging, but beautiful photography, videography, and descriptions create an (almost) comparable purchasing experience.
Visit Infinite Glassworks’ website and social media (Instagram and Facebook) or make an appointment to see the studio for yourself. You’ll be happy you did.
#SupportLocal #GlassArt #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Kim's Restaurant |
|
A global pandemic might have changed the way Kim Wambolt celebrated her second business anniversary, but amid all the chaos caused by COVID-19 she has found a way to continue meaningful and important work in her community. When Kim’s Place Restaurant closed to the public, the kitchen stayed open to prepare delicious and nutritious meals for the Meals on Wheels program (in partnership with Home and Community Support Services).
#SupportLocal #GoodFood #GreyHighlands #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Lower Valley Beverage Company (Sapsucker) |
|
With a lighthearted warning that Sapsucker should only be consumed while enjoying life, the Lower Valley Beverage Company in Flesherton is upping the ante in the beverage world. As its name suggests, it is harvested from Canadian maple trees and also aims to support farmers and sustainable forest management. Full of naturally occurring benefits, Sapsucker is just the thing to keep you hydrated. It is plant-based and nutrient rich, powered by 46 naturally occurring minerals, antioxidants, prebiotics, and vitamins including calcium, potassium, and zinc. For all the great things it has, it is equally sought out for the things it doesn’t - gluten, preservatives, sodium, nuts, soy, or GMOs. |
| Markdale Golf and Curling Club |
|
In one form or another, the Markdale Golf and Curling Club has been an institution in Markdale since 1922, when Thomas H. Reburn donated property on Toronto Sydenham Road (now Highway 10) for a curling rink. |
|
Mylar and Loreta’s Restaurant |
| A friendly smile, a home-cooked meal, and a whole lot of history await you at Mylar and Loreta’s Restaurant! Operating on the location of Singhampton’s first tavern, which was built in the mid-1800s, Mylar and Loreta’s is celebrating 36 years in business this week. Their building was one of the first two hotels built in the village, housing travellers and survey crews as they ventured north. Though it has changed hands many times, it always seems to return to being a place of hospitality, comfort, and great food. The restaurant’s name is rooted in the tragic tale of the real-life Mylar and Loreta, two ill-fated lovers who were never meant to be. Mylar left Loreta behind when he set out for Singhampton, then sent for her to join him once he was settled. Tragically, Loreta's ship was lost at sea. Some say Mylar’s ghost lingers on the premises, but he doesn’t appear to mean any harm, and he has only added to the charm and mystique of this historic space. Currently closed to in-person dining due to provincial COVID-19 restrictions, Mylar and Loreta’s have taken a step beyond traditional take-out and have modified the back yard of their property for drive thru (which also happens to be conveniently located next to snowmobile trails for easy in and out service). An extensive menu features a range of dishes you’re sure to love, cooked with only fresh, quality ingredients. Drop by (take out or drive thru) for some delicious comfort food, and maybe catch a glimpse of Mylar for yourself. Check out Mylar and Loreta’s menu on their Facebook page or on Instagram. Call ahead to order via 705-445-1247 or email mylarloretas@gmail.com – your tastebuds will thank you! #SupportLocal #Takeout #DriveThru #Singhampton #GreyHighlands #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Osprey Bluffs Honey Company |
|
"High above Georgian Bay, in the Grey Highlands…”, these melodically bee-autiful words greet visitors to Osprey Bluffs Honey Company’s website and help paint a vibrant picture of the well-traveled bees of Osprey Bluffs. These tiny travelers forage and collect sweet wildflower nectar from the fields and forests of Grey, Bruce, Dufferin, and Simcoe Counties and bring essential pollen grains back to their hive, often as much as 15 mg (or half their body weight) in one trip. |
| Pineapple Sage |
| Bringing delicious, fully cooked meals to doorsteps throughout Grey Highlands (and points farther afield) on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Chef James Major and Samantha Kennedy offer simple and wholesome supper alternatives. Their mission is to make restaurant-quality products that can be enjoyed in the comfort and safety of your own home. Both James and Samantha bring a wealth of culinary knowledge to Pineapple Sage, having nearly 40 years of combined experience in the food and beverage sector, both at home and abroad. Offering a fine selection of fresh and prepared foods as well as full-service catering, Pineapple Sage provides exceptional service and a taste experience that will fill both your belly and your soul. Their Supper Club menu (which includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert) is nothing short of mouth-watering, and changes regularly. All meals come with simple reheat instructions, and they will happily accommodate all food allergies, sensitivities, and preferences. Please visit their website to view all their offerings. You can also now find their small Tamale pies, fresh Mexican chorizo, Hungarian paprika and garlic sausages, and gluten-free chicken and ricotta meatballs at Susan's Deli in Markdale (15 Main Street West). Please call 705-606-2407 or email pineapplesagefinefoods@gmail.com to order; please ensure your order is placed by 5:00 pm the day before desired delivery. E-transfers are accepted in advance for a true contact-free delivery, and cash or debit (tap only) is accepted at your door. So sit back, relax, and let Pineapple Sage deliver supper to your door! #SupportLocal #SupperClub #Eugenia #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| PJ Knickerbockers |
|
Pam Petch, owner of PJ Knickerbockers, is a familiar face in downtown Markdale. She opened her shop at 11 Main Street East in 1995 and has built a strong reputation for having an unparalleled selection of toys, games, books, dolls, and more! PJ Knickerbockers also has a selection of curriculum books, which are timelier than ever in these days of at-home learning. #SupportLocal #GreyHighlands #Puzzles #Games #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| ReLive Retreat |
|
When Johnny and Milena stumbled upon a piece of paradise in Priceville nearly eight years ago, they immediately fell in love with the land and the connection with nature they found there. Following their move from more urban areas, they often entertained friends and family in the existing cabin on the property. Their guests came to experience a haven from the chaos – to find a peaceful place that allowed them to catch their breath and feel at ease. Johnny and Milena have cultivated ReLive Retreat to share that experience and have begun to thoughtfully and respectfully develop a nature retreat on their 72-acre property.
The couple (and their two friendly pups, Happy and Boca) love to host. They currently offer one cabin and two authentic Mongolian Yurts, and plan to add several more tiny cabins throughout the property (each of which will be uniquely designed to fit within the landscape). The couple is immeasurably creative, coming from backgrounds in architecture and design, and they have big plans on an intentionally small scale.
By design, ReLive Retreat has minimal impact on the land (the majority of which is forest, meadows, wetland, and conservation areas); it encourages guests to connect with nature, with themselves, and with their partners and families.
Yurt accommodations feature the essentials: a small kitchenette (complete with a small fridge, cooktop and cooking essentials), a heater and wood burning stove, solar powered electricity, natural spring water, and Swedish composting toilets; outside, guests can enjoy a fire pit, BBQ, back decks with beautiful views, and a shared wood burning sauna. Their cabin is fully outfitted with everything, including a private hot tub and parking.
The yurts are a short 5-10-minute hike from the parking area, and Milena and Johnny can assist with transporting your items. Due to COVID-19, guests are temporarily requested to provide their own bedding and linens (in addition to the food, beverages, and clothing they would normally bring).
Milena and Johnny are nurturing their vision from the land to create a welcoming oasis from the everyday world and are nurturing themselves in the process. ReLive is a place built on the genuine experience of nature, where guests relax, rejuvenate, and cultivate their creativity within the stunning, rolling landscapes of Grey Highlands.
Visit them online via Facebook or search ReLive Retreat on any number of short-term accommodation websites to view availability and book your next getaway!
#SupportLocal #Yurts #Nature #Priceville #ReLive #GreyHighlands #TogetherWeGetThroughThis
|
| Rocklyn Inn B&B (and Ice Cream and Snack Shop) |
|
In the tiny hamlet of Rocklyn, sits the picturesque Rocklyn Inn B&B, which just celebrated its first business anniversary…and what a year it has been for owners Lesley and Michael Telfser!
Arriving in Grey Highlands in February 2019, they began extensive renovations on the unique century home built in 1891, which was previously in Michael’s family and run as the Rocklyn Inn approximately 22 years ago. In addition to the strong family connection with the property, Lesley and Michael loved the Rocklyn location for its well-defined seasons and close proximity to amenities and activities, yet it was far enough off the beaten track to provide an easy escape for their guests.
The Rocklyn Inn B&B officially opened in June 2019, with a grand opening celebration attended by Mayor McQueen, members of Council, residents, and other local businesses. Lesley and Michael wanted the entire community to be part of the event, as they recognized the importance of people coming together to support one another.
They were open just 10 months when the tourism industry was thrown into turmoil due to COVID-19. In that unprecedented challenge, Lesley and Michael searched for a silver lining, and it was then that the Rocklyn Inn Ice Cream and Snack Shop started to move from idea to reality.
With the recent closure of the nearby Rocklyn General Store and no immediate plans for its reopening, Lesley and Michael saw an opportunity to fill a niche. The addition of an ice cream and snack shop to their B&B made sense from a business point of view, but also from a community building perspective.
Sitting at the corner of Sideroad 22B and 7th Line in Rocklyn, the location is ideal for nearby farmers, travelers and tourists, and locals alike. Starting on June 27 (pending final approval from public health), it will provide a dozen or more flavours of Chapman's ice cream, assorted snacks, sandwiches and salads made in-house, baked goods from local bakeries, and coffee, teas, and cold beverages.
Plans are underway to install picnic tables with umbrellas and a portable toilet with a handwashing station. Their goal is to become a place to refresh and recharge, whether customers are grabbing a cold treat and snack as they pass through or choose to stay a little longer and take advantage of one of the Inn’s five beautifully renovated guest rooms.
The Rocklyn Inn B&B has implemented strict booking and cleaning protocols to help protect their valued guests against COVID-19. They have reduced the number of reservations they are accepting, which will help ensure that each booking party has its own private bathroom and ample space to physically distance from other guests. They have loads of availability this summer, so be sure to check out their website, Facebook, Instagram, or call 905-440-6300 for more information.
The Rocklyn Inn B&B will be a vibrant contributor to the area for many years to come, and Lesley and Michael plan on staying for a very long time, supporting one another, and supporting other businesses. They look forward to welcoming old friends and new alike to the Rocklyn Inn B&B, and the adjoining Ice Cream and Snack Shop (in just 10 days)!
#SupportLocal #GreyHighlands #Rocklyn #IceCream #TogetherWeGetThroughThis
|
| Sideroad Farm |
|
Sideroad Farm is family-run, specializing in certified organic vegetables, cut flowers, and pasture-raised chicken. This year-round operation employs 5 full-time and 4 part-time staff, plus owners Amy and Patrick Kitchen (and, of course, their children Wyatt and Norah).
Sideroad Farm has a brick and mortar store that would typically be stocked with variety of produce and wares, as well as a presence at the Collingwood Farmers’ Market, however due to COVID-19 both are operating much differently this year. The Farm also provides fresh produce, poultry, and flowers to many local retailers and restaurants, and is an active supplier for Eat Local Grey Bruce.
Farming does not stop for a pandemic, and every day brings new life, new growth, and new opportunities. At Sideroad Farm, the vegetables are sowed, the flowers are planted, and chickens of all shapes and sizes peck, grow, and lay eggs without a care about world affairs.
COVID-19 has generated a lot of chaos, but Sideroad Farm was agile and able to adapt quickly to a rapidly changing marketplace. A new online shop emerged (which has now become their main sales platform) and it has seen a 400% increase in web traffic in recent weeks. While the Sideroad Farm store is currently only accessible as a virtual space, their website showcases the best it has to offer. Orders can be placed online for farm driveway pick up, or for pick up at the Collingwood Local Food Hub; deliveries options are also available.
The last few months have not been easy, and this season is anything but normal, but the entire team at Sideroad Farm has come together in a tremendous way. Amy and Patrick are incredibly grateful for the resiliency of their team, as well as for the support and adaptability of their many loyal customers.
Check out Sideroad Farm on Instagram and Facebook for beautiful photos and a behind the scenes glimpse of life on the farm.
#SupportLocal #LocalFoodWeek #GreyHighlands #TogetherWeGetThroughThis
|
| Threads That Bind |
| Threads That Bind is a well-stocked quilt store in the village of Maxwell, nestled in the heart of Grey Highlands. The sense of potential is palpable as you walk through the shop filled with over 2,000 bolts of fabric, as well as pre-cuts, thread, needles, batting, notions, books of patterns…and things that a novice quilter hasn’t even thought of yet! Threads That Bind is also a Janome Exclusive Dealer and offers onsite support and expertise. Their friendly staff are helpful and patient - they are sewers too - and they know the value in having the right materials, tools, and support. Regardless if you are a seasoned sewer or new to the craft, Threads That Bind can provide everything you need to successfully complete your project; this also includes a range of formal classes and in-person learning opportunities, which have been temporarily put on hold due to COVID-19. Threads That Bind also sells a beautiful collection of handmade quilts and gifts if sewing is not your strong suit (yet). Since being creative comes naturally to the folks at Threads That Bind, they have pivoted their way of engaging customers. They have a robust online presence, and in September teamed up with eight other small quilting stores in southwestern Ontario to offer a limited time “Fall Shop Hop” online event. Threads That Bind has a beautifully descriptive website that offers online purchasing, and their Facebook page showcases many of the products that are featured in-store (as well as stunning completed projects from local quilters). You can also call 519-922-1010 or email info@threadsthatbind.ca to connect with a member of their team, or better yet, drop by 408016 Grey Road 4 (limit two customers at a time). #SupportLocal #Quilting #Sewing #Maxwell #TogetherWeGetThroughThis |
| Top O'The Rock |
|
There are lots of landmarks in Eugenia – Lake Eugenia of course immediately comes to mind, but very close to the top of that list has to be Top O’ The Rock. The neat and tidy building on Grey Road 13 provides just a hint of all the good things found inside! |
| Welcome Patio Season in Grey Highlands |
|
Summer has finally arrived, and with it come days spent savoring the warm sunshine and listening to birds chirping (…and perhaps chasing away thoughts of a dark and unsettled spring). Friends and families are gathering (not too closely) and restaurants are once again welcoming loyal customers and new friends with (physically distant) open arms. Traditional indoor seating is still not part of daily restaurant operations, but prospects for outdoor dining are flourishing throughout Grey Highlands. |
