PASSIONATE ABOUT LOCAL FOOD and LOCAL PRODUCTION

BY STACEY COLWELL
Desiree Gordon has some advice for anyone who’s ever thought about leaving the rat race behind and opening the business of their dreams in a quiet, close-knit community by the ocean. “I would say do it, but don’t expect to get rich,” said the 31 year old expectant mom who has a two year old son and works with
her husband, Stefan. “What we do is as much about lifestyle as it is about work.”
Desiree spent a number of years in Montreal as a baker and also tried her hand working at a sail loft, while Stefan studied fine art and also was employed as a boat builder. Then, the couple began what may be Nova Scotia’s first water buffalo farm in 2015 in the tiny coastal community of West Dublin. “I was on parental leave with our son, so we thought it was as good a time as any to become workaholics,” joked Desiree. Still, it’s been a welcome change.
“We both wanted to be able to avoid a long commute to work . and be able to be with our son and future children as much as possible during their formative years. We also like to take time off in the winters and are working towards being able to travel in the winter more.” The family always has time for lunch and dinner together, and after their son goes to bed, Desiree and Stefan usually eat ice cream and watch The Wire. Last year, they opened a bakery and dairy bar in a charming old general store that had been dormant since the 1960s. “Basically we have to work like crazy here in the summer months when the going is good. Then in the winter, we have to be careful with money, but we have much more time to relax with friends and family, said Desiree”
“I love living here,” said Desiree. “Most of my friends are entrepreneurs and artists. A lot of people balance working and pursuing many other passion projects such as farming and gardening. Also, people are highly active in working to keep where we live a sustainable and thriving place.