February 2020 gave us stormy challenges unlike any we have faced so far.
Storms have recently hit the UK hard, and we have not avoided their destruction. On February 9th, the wind gusts from storm Ciara were so strong that they badly damaged the Canvas Café, leaving it out of action.
After a night of gusts of around 60mph hitting the same angle of the café, at 8 am in the morning it started to go down. The wonderful team at Waterloo Cottage Farm helped us battle the wind and make the café safer as it was coming down. There was such a flurry of activity. Everything needed to be rescued from the elements. Over the next few days, each item was ferried over to a storage container to keep it safe and dry. Then the clean-up could take place.
Thankfully, our wonderful yurts withstood the wind with ease. The circular design with a curved roof really comes into its own in the elements.
We have been so encouraged by the help and support offered by customers, friends, and fellow business owners. People have pitched in with the transport, packing and teas and coffees. The kind words have filled our social media and Lara and I have been given a much-needed boost as we make a way forward. We owe a few breakfasts when we’re open again!
So, what’s next?
Lara and I are working on plans to bring the Canvas Café back bigger and better. We’re exploring different structure options, and ways that we can maintain our ‘outdoor’ feel whilst having a more permanent building. There is an exciting element to being back at the ideas phase. It feels as if it was just yesterday that we were planning the original design, yet also like it was a lifetime ago. Our timeline isn’t set in stone yet and there are a significant number of variables to consider (including the joys of planning permission) but we will keep you updated with progress using social media.
Whilst we take a step back from using our baking and barista skills, we will also be spending more time down by the yurts – like the old days. Now is the perfect opportunity to get creative and do a few glamping site projects. We’ve been dreaming about an outdoor BBQ area for a while so now may be the time to build one. We’re also looking at alternative catering options for our guests so you may see the return of breakfast hampers and cake deliveries. Yummm.
We are deeply saddened to have lost the café but strongly believe that when one door closes, another one opens. There is always hope. Let’s see what the future holds for the Canvas Café. Thank you, again, to all of those who have supported us thus far.
Follow us on Facebook here to keep updated with our progress.
Jen and Lara xxx
