The Leard House is returning
This time last year it was ‘a construction zone’
When July Edgcomb thinks about this time last year, she wasn’t sure her vision for the Leard House would come true.
“This time last year it was still a construction zone.”
Now Edgcomb, the owner and operator of the Lower Bedeque restaurant, is preparing for its second season.
Looking back on the first year of operation, Edgcomb recognizes how underprepared she was.
“It was crazy. It was busier than we anticipated… This year we’re going to be ready.
“Sure there were frustrations, but everything came together like it was fate. And now the little bits that are rough around the edges, people don’t even notice,” she adds.
Returning to the operation are Valerie Farquharson, Courtney Gallant and Sue Woodworth.
“I’m the community outreach facilitator and manager of the Leard House,” said Gallant.
“Last year, July and I were on the same wavelength in regard to community outreach, but because we were so busy, we didn’t have the opportunity to focus on it. But this year we will.”
Edgcomb added, “One of the things I wanted to do when I bought this house was give back to the community and now we’re entering into Phase Two.”
Some initiatives will include working with Anderson House, First Nations, and hosting more community events like potlucks and movie nights.
“We’re also hoping to open an art loft in our neighbouring barn so people can come and have a space to create as well as a lending library.”
Meanwhile, Farquharson and Woodworth are the in-house healers, reading cards and tea leaves.
Farquharson is also a Naturotherapist, Reiki master, energy medicine practitioner as well as a therapeutic touch practitioner.
“There’s a peacefulness about the house. It’s like a kindred spirit connection that people have when they come here,” said Farquharson.
Like last year, the menu for the restaurant will follow the seasons and include more baked goods, vegan, vegetarian and Mexican options. However high teas won’t be as prominent as they were last year. There will also be an expanded gift shop.
“We will have Sue and Valerie conducting readings every Saturday but must be booked in advance as well as other activities in the afternoons and evenings,” said Edgcomb, adding you never know what you’re going to get at Leard House.
“We do our best to transform the house into something different when we host events. We want people to have an extraordinary and memorable time. We’re trying to lift the spirits of Islanders not just those who come to the house.”