The Cottage and Castle – Christina Kemp

Christina Kemp from Witset, BC (formerly Moricetown a Wet’suwet’en Village) started her business, The Cottage and Castle in 2020 in Chemainus, BC. She initially started a salon in her home before buying a Bed and Breakfast and moving her salon into the Castle portion of it. The Cottage and Castle, a location which supports both businesses is truly unique with a medieval-themed atmosphere. Built in 1910, the Cottage and Castle is in the heart of Chemainus, nestled between the mountains and the ocean.

Christina took one year of education in business and then acquired business sense through trial and error in her own venture. She faced challenges when applying to traditional financing companies when she was repeatedly denied. Turning to NEDC, she found support for her business plan and was approved for financing. While it was difficult to do this independently, and she realized it was okay to ask for help and has the support of her family in her ventures.

Christina Kemp

Christina’s success came from her desire to create unique things, it had no limits. She enjoys having the freedom and control of her own life. In the future, she hopes to incorporate an art studio into the Bed & Breakfast. Christina enjoys her business and would like to do this forever. Her advice to other entrepreneurs is to keep moving forward, don’t give up and don’t be afraid to ask for help.