Rick Froats and Daphne Evans enjoy a cup of coffee on a sunny Sunday. Thompson Goddard Photo

CHESTERVILLE – If you are searching for something special for either yourself or someone else or wish to enjoy some freshly brewed coffee coupled with some delicious treats then a shopping trip to 10A King Street.

One of the businesses located at 10A King Street is That Cute Little Shop on King Street which is operated by Daphne Evans in May of this year. Evans explained the store has a wonderful selection of handcrafted gifts and treasures which were created by local artisans. The store provides the public with the opportunity to support local artisans who have a venue to display their work.

The response to That Cute Little Shop on King Street was described by Daphne as “overwhelmingly positive”, mentioning there are now close to 25 artisans displaying their creations in the store. The selection includes some home-made preserves as well as jewellery, paintings, 3D printed gift ideas and skin care products to name just a few of the products available to clients.

The other business located adjacent to the store is the newly opened Chesterville Coffee Shop operated by Rick Froats and had its official opening on Aug. 30. He mentioned how just as he opened the coffee shop at 10 a.m., there were already people waiting to enjoy a cup of coffee accompanied by treats created by Rick’s Bakery.

The Chesterville Coffee Shop grew out of an idea of Rick’s, who is slowly retiring from his renovation business and felt a business would be a way to combine his entrepreneurial talents, baking skills and interacting with people.

Planning to return to Chesterville, the couple developed a business plan and purchasing the building at 10 King Street. After purchasing the building, which had been built in the 1940’s and an addition added in the 1990’s, there were permits to be obtained, successful inspections completed and work to renovate and rejuvenate the building. Both Rick and Daphne express their thanks for the assistance provided by the Township of North Dundas and the Eastern Ontario Health Unit.

When asked for suggestions to assist other prospective entrepreneurs, Daphne and Rick both agreed that people are never too old to start a business. Daphne mentioned throughout the process there is a need to remain positive and a need for not giving up. Rick suggested that slow and steady will get the job done.

Looking ahead, there are plans to incorporate seasonal holidays in both the store and the café. Currently both businesses are open between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday as well as 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

More information on That Cute Little Shop on King Street can be found on its Facebook page or by calling Daphne at 613-213-2343.

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