Farmhouse 50 is raising Manitoba products

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Published on Tuesday, July 17, 2018

Photo by Kate Jackman-Atkinson

Since its grand opening last month, Farmhouse 50 has quickly turned into a gathering place for many in Minnedosa.

By Kate Jackman-Atkinson

Neepawa Banner & Press

Drawn to the building’s character, Meaghan Cann’s vision for the historic Chipperfield’s building in Minnedosa was realized last month, with the opening of her new business, Farmhouse 50. Cann, who owns the business with her husband Jamie, has created a space that’s part coffee house, part gift shop and all Manitoban.

The Canns are from Onanole, where they both operated small businesses. Meaghan makes children’s clothing under the Wild Child Supply brand, while Jamie operates a plumbing business. “We come from a long string [of entrepreneurs],” said Meaghan, “It’s in our blood.”

Meaghan said a number of factors drove their desire to purchase the shuttered coffee house, located at 50 Main St. in Minnedosa. The first was the building itself, “We loved the character and the old charm… We fell in love with the building when we saw it,” she said. Both growing up in small towns, they were attracted to Minnedosa, “It’s got a good vibe,” explained Meaghan.

Since buying it in April, the building has undergone some minor renovations and interior updates, but one of the biggest changes was opening up the patio, a space few people knew existed.  “There was lots of painting,” said Meaghan of preparing the space for its June 29 opening. She said they are planning to hold a special grand opening event at a later date.

One of the unique aspects of Farmhouse 50 is its Manitoba-focus.  Being a small business owner, Meaghan knew first-hand the challenges faced by those creating products in Manitoba and looking to get them sold. “I saw the need of small business owners,” she explains of her efforts to offer them an avenue to reach customers. “Manitoba has lots to offer that we’re not aware of,” she adds.  While some of the products are from the Winnipeg area, many come from Westman, including Minnedosa. “So many people will ask where a product is from and when I say, ‘Minnedosa’, they have no idea,” she explains.

Keeping this local focus was an important part of the businesses concept. It also offers a chance for Cann to share the products she loves and uses. “We personally own one of every product, they’re tried and true,” she explains, “We don’t like to sell what we don’t believe in”. The merchandising also reflects Cann’s personal taste and style, “To be successful, you have to be passionate,” she explains. Since all of the products are hand made, the space will be constantly changing, as new merchandise replaces what has been sold. Following a brisk first couple of days, Cann said she’s already going to have to talk to her suppliers about getting to work on new items. Cann also said she’s always keeping her eyes open for new products that compliment the existing offering.

After a busy opening weekend, Meaghan has words of appreciation for the customers she has greeted since opening her doors. “The town has been so appreciative, I’ve met so many new faces,” she said.