July 15, 2009
Originally from Brighton, Ontario , Julie Rittwage, combines her business savvy with her love for her hometown and is continuing a family tradition that began in 2001. The Apple Crate Tea Room was originally owned by Julie’s mother in 2001 and, unfortunately, had to close in 2005. Throughout the year of its closure, Julie and her mother were approached continuously by members of the community who hoped to see the business re-opened. They felt as though there was something missing from the Brighton community as they no longer had any place for a special meeting and event with quality catering and dining service.
With the help of the Northumberland Community Futures Development Corporation, in April 2007, Julie made the decision to re-open the Apple Crate Tea Room but to make some updates. The tea room itself remained a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere and she chose aspects of the old Tea Room, such as the ever popular gift baskets and catering venture, to be kept as an option as part of the new business. The gift basket option is great for major holidays, and The Tea Room caters many events within the local region and surrounding areas of Belleville, Cobourg, Peterborough and Prince Edward County. The Apple Crate Tea Room has had a direct impact with the community in the employment opportunities it provides to the Brighton and surrounding area. Another impact that the Apple Crate Tea Room has had on Brighton is its involvement in tourism. Julie has partnered with a Toronto-based bussing company that tours Eastern Ontario and offers tea and desserts to those who visit Brighton’s local Proctor House Museum.
When asked what her measure of success was for her business, Julie explained that it is her ability “to create a second home atmosphere for the people of Brighton and tourists alike.” Julie also takes pride in sharing her business with other entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the local area. She includes speciality food items from local producers, furnished her Tea Room with furniture bought locally and refuses to stock items that will take business away from other local businesses. Julie continues to think innovatively and collaboratively about the future in her creation of an online ordering option for lunches and gift baskets.
For more information, contact:
Julie Rittwage
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Wendy Curtis , Manager
Northumberland CFDC
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