S amantha and Phil Hughes’ story began with a shared love for Prince Edward Island, where the couple first envisioned a place that wasn’t just about providing accommodation but a retreat for people to reconnect with nature and themselves. The Birches Cottages, previously owned by Samantha’s parents, is an easy place to fall in love with - think evening sunsets, incredible water views, and peaceful quiet among the birch trees. Just one kilometre from Tea Hill Beach on the South Shore of Prince Edward Island, the property features eight cottages spread across 8.5 scenic acres overlooking the Northumberland Strait. As Samantha describes it, “When you stay with us, you’re not just booking a cottage; you’re stepping into a place that values connection, comfort, and the simple joys of Island life.” The Birches Cottages has become a symbol of the couple’s dedication to the Island and their family’s future. “We are so grateful to be able to carry on the legacy of the Birches Cottages and share this special place with others,” she says. “It’s
part of our family story.” Samantha and Phil purchased the business in 2022, and like any major transition, it came with a learning curve. “We started that first season in August, which is right smack dab in the middle of the busy season, so we had to learn the ropes very quickly,” Samantha recalls. With guests already booked and operations in full swing, they had little time to adjust. Fortunately, her parents were there to help guide them through the first season. But just as they were finding their footing, Hurricane Fiona hit in late September 2022. “We had to close for 19 days due to Island-wide power outages, which was especially tough since we were fully booked at the time,” she says. Juggling the aftermath of the storm, managing their other businesses, and raising a young family only added to the pressure. “I think the biggest challenge was probably adjusting to the busy summer pace of a tourism business,” Samantha reflects. Despite it all, their resilience helped lay a
160 Robie St, Truro, NS (902) 897-7482
“ fresh thinking, healthy eating”
“
We want our guests to feel like they’re walking into a space that has been thoughtfully curated just for them. ”
80 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 25 ISSUE 2
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 81
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting