Monica Gerard went from playing in the symphony to running a wonderful bistro at Ferns and Flowers Tea House and Gardens. She shares the great story of how she made the transition—by building upon her husband’s florist business. Her success in the restaurant business has come from passion and persistence. Her story will inspire you and give you ideas on how to build your dream---one step at a time.

Listen now to Monica's interview.

How she got started
Monica left a 21-year career as a violinist in the RI Philharmonic and teacher to build a business based on her passion for cooking and baking. She joined her husband in business full-time when they bought their current property, an 1860’s farmhouse in Warwick, RI.

She was able to leverage the customer base from her husband’s retail florist business, to build up her side of the business over the first seven years. She started first with cakes and confections, then jumped in full-time with the restaurant. This started off as just one room serving tea and pastries, and grew quickly trying to meet the needs of customers – they wanted a greater menu, and to sit and linger over lunch and tea.

Monica’s Success Secrets
Not knowing anything more than a love of food – she learned important lessons as she went along.  By sticking to a bistro model, Monica is able to be careful of giving her time away; she stays balanced by being flexible, having a sense of humor, saying no, asking for help from supportive vendors and family members.

Advice can come from strangest of places, and she learned from everybody - even her toughest employees. Says Monica, “If it doesn’t feel good spiritually or mentally, then you shouldn’t be doing it.” For example, if a customer isn’t happy – then you do what it takes to make them happy, so the customer doesn’t tell ten people about a bad experience. Do what feels right, and if it doesn’t come easily, give up and try something else.

How to contact Monica:

1094 Centerville Road (117W), a mile off Rte 95, across from InSkip Motors.

Phone - 401-821-1447. Breakfast: Tues.-Sun.; Lunch Tues.-Sat.

http://www.fernsandflowers.com

She invites you to join her for afternoon tea, high tea, royal high tea, plus special events, showers, weddings, rehearsal dinners, meetings, etc. Come in, meet your friends and sit for 4 or 5 hours, having tea and enjoying this beautiful oasis, in the midst of busy Route 2!