origins

Cait’s Café started in the most unexpected and organic way. After finishing a teaching contract, I suddenly found myself without work and searching for purpose. I turned to the kitchen for comfort, and soon the counters were overflowing with cookies, tarts, and squares. When Spencer joked that he couldn’t eat another bite and that I should start selling them, a spark was lit. Within a day, I had dreamed up a name, a logo, and a website—never imagining that what began as a small idea would grow into the life we have today. Nothing like a little encouragement from the hubby to get things rolling (no pun intended).

From those first holiday cookies came croissants, scones, and long days at the Goderich farmer’s market, where we often sold out before noon. The encouragement from the community was immediate and heartfelt. Regulars shared their hope for a café in town again, and their excitement fueled us to dream bigger. The combined ingredients of Spencer’s background ranging from dishwashing, to sous cheffing, to culinary management, combined with heaping cups of catering requests, we decided to take a leap together.

In 2016, we opened the doors of Cait’s Café on the Square in Goderich. Those months leading up to opening were filled with paint-splattered clothes, drywall dust, and endless trips to Toronto for used equipment—but more than anything, they were filled with people. Friends who became regulars introduced us to music stations that played in the café for many years (thank you, Greg and Nina, for Radio Paradise). Others showed up with sandpaper and paintbrushes, ready to help us bring the space to life. Neighbours walked in off the street to carry fridges that were millimeters too big for the doorway (thanks, Scott!). And so many others simply stopped by to share their excitement and encouragement. There are far too many names to list, but it’s no exaggeration to say our community was—and still is—the true heartbeat of this place.

Since then, Cait’s Café has become more than just a spot to grab a coffee or a pastry. It’s a gathering place, a hub of connection, and a reflection of the incredible people around us. Every day, we’re grateful to be able to showcase the bounty of Huron County—locally roasted coffee, farm-raised eggs, meats and cheeses, and produce from nearby farmers. The heart of what we do is anchored in fresh, local food and drink, made with love.

Looking back, starting Cait’s Café felt risky, but the truth is—it was the best leap we ever took. What began as trays of cookies in our kitchen has grown into a place we’re proud to call ours, but it truly belongs to the community that has lifted us from the very beginning.

And to this day, that’s still what it’s all about.

With love and gratitude,

The Vail Family