When Miriam Andrews and Stephen Trites set out in search of a new adventure, they never imagined it would lead them to a crumbling 19th-century manor in Dorchester, New Brunswick. But what began as a dream to host vintage events blossomed into a full-scale transformation of Lady Smith Manor, a heritage home reborn as a luxurious wedding venue and vibrant community hub.

Miriam, originally from the UK, had been running a financial business in Kelowna, BC, but found herself unfulfilled. After selling the company, she launched a vintage rental business, only to discover the logistics were exhausting. That’s when she and Stephen envisioned a permanent space, one steeped in history, where they could host events without hauling furniture across town.

 

Their search led them east, to Stephen’s home province, where heritage properties were more plentiful and affordable. In February 2019, they stumbled upon a listing for Lady Smith Manor, built in 1840 and once home to New Brunswick Premier Sir Albert Smith and named after his wife. The manor had served many roles over the decades. In the 1930s the government used it as a poor house, and then it sat vacant for five years.

They visited in April, purchased it in July, and moved in, despite its dilapidated state. “There was one bathroom and a couple of rooms that were usable,” Miriam recalled. But they had a vision: to restore the manor into a space that would bring people together and offer unique experiences.

For the first year, Stephen worked full-time to keep the lights on while Miriam juggled renovations and her rental business. With nearly 10,000 square feet to restore, hiring contractors wasn’t an option. “It’s kind of a labour of love,” Miriam said.

As the manor took shape, the couple dreamed up a pub to complement the venue, a cozy gathering spot for wedding guests. But financing the project proved daunting. Miriam knocked on every bank’s door, tried credit unions, private lenders, even investors. Nothing worked.

Then came a lifeline: CBDC Westmorland Albert, in Shediac, NB. With their support, the couple secured not one but two loans and accessed advisory services to help guide the business. “It was like, oh my gosh, we’re actually going to be able to do this,” Miriam said.

In March 2024, The Thirsty Whippet Pub opened its doors. A quirky, traditional English pub that quickly became a local favorite. From silent book clubs to afternoon teas, the manor now hosts events that draw visitors from across the Maritimes. Seasonal markets showcase local entrepreneurs, while weddings and celebrations fill the calendar.

At CBDCs (Community Business Development Corporations), we know entrepreneurship takes courage—and when couples go into business together, it takes even more. It means sharing not just a home, but a vision. It means being married to the mission, through every challenge and triumph.

Here’s to couples in business across Atlantic Canada—those who build together, dream together, and grow together. Love Local.

Visit: cbdc.ca  |  1.888.303.2232

---

• For more Web Exclusives, click here.