Ladybug’s Mew, a charming farm and gift shop located in Yellow Point, is the culmination of a life deeply rooted in a love for nature, hands-on work, and a keen understanding of business. Co-owned by a passionate couple, the story behind Ladybug’s Mew is one shaped by the experiences and values of its founders, particularly their love for the land and their dedication to creating a sustainable, meaningful business.
As the owner Carolyn shares, “Life experiences shape who we are today, the good and the not-so-good.” In the case of Ladybug’s Mew, these life experiences include joy in getting your hands dirty, nurturing plants, and reaping the rewards of flavourful, fresh produce. Growing up surrounded by nature, and spending time outdoors, has always been an energizing force for Carolyn. Watching plants grow, and harvesting beautiful fruits and vegetables, brings a sense of fulfillment.
Before starting Ladybug’s Mew, Carolyn had a successful career helping small, medium, and large businesses thrive through marketing, especially in radio advertising and the fast-evolving world of websites and social media. These skills in marketing have played a crucial role in growing Ladybug’s Mew’s visibility and reaching customers. Additionally, both Carolyn and her husband have backgrounds in banking and finance, which has allowed them to run the farm and shop with a sharp focus on ensuring it makes financial sense. “Having that financial background ensures we’re running a profitable business,” she explains, underscoring the importance of merging passion with practical business acumen.
Of course, like any farm, Ladybug’s Mew faces challenges, and in this case, nature itself is often the biggest barrier. The weather can be unpredictable, and extreme conditions, like heat domes, warm summers, and droughts, have tested the farm’s resilience. “One summer, we actually ran out of water during an extreme heatwave,” Carolyn recalls. But water isn’t the only challenge. Elk have recently taken up residence on their 12.7 acres. At one point, the farm was home to 31 elk, and even now, they have a small group that can wreak havoc on fruit trees, hay fields, and even buildings. “These are large animals, and they can do serious damage,” she says, reflecting on how nature, while beautiful, can also present obstacles.
For the owners of Ladybug’s Mew, success is not just measured by profit but by the deeper rewards of running a business that brings happiness to themselves and their customers. “For me, success is having something to get up for each day, watching the sunrise, seeing the vegetables and fruit grow, and surpassing the previous year’s sales,” she explains. It’s also about seeing the smiles on their customers’ faces as they enjoy the produce, plants, and gifts available at the farm. “The joy we bring to others is what drives us.”
Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is full of practical wisdom: “Be patient. Listen to your heart, but take advice with a grain of salt. Many people offer advice without real experience.” She emphasizes the importance of kindness, encouraging collaboration rather than competition with other entrepreneurs. “Work together for everyone to succeed,” she says, adding that it’s crucial to stay true to your goals, avoid debt, and remember that building a business isn’t a 9-to-5 job. “It’s hard work, but it’s worth it.”
For those who missed them this summer at the Cedar Farmers’ Market, Ladybugs Mew can be found on social media via Facebook and Instagram. Their Gift, Plant, and Produce Shop is open from April to December on Saturdays and Sundays, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and by appointment throughout the year. Located at 13095 Prospect Drive, Ladysmith, visitors are encouraged to follow the charming Ladybug signs to the farm’s serene, tree-lined location.
During the 2024 BC Farmers’ Market summer season, Ladybugs Mew could be found in the Hatch + Hype tent at Cedar Farmers’ Market in Nanaimo on Sundays, from 10 am to 2 pm. You can find out more about them and where they’ll be next on their socials. We wish them continued success!