28 December, 2022
Big plans for Woodford Gardens
AFTER two years in wedding and event management, Samantha McMillan - the new owner of Woodford Gardens – with the help of her mum Kim Easten is hoping to put the licensed café venue on the map for functions.
With plans to host family days, bring a puppy days, weekly trivia and game nights and more weddings, Samantha hopes to take advantage of the “beautiful property” whilst still providing the same usual café service.
Based in Brisbane, the owner of House of S Events said she had been looking for the opportunity for a “home base” to hone in on the skills she had developed over a lifetime of working in hospitality.
“Everything I’ve learnt over the last two years has led me to this,” she said.
Taking over the reins from previous owners Karen and Chris Dutton in early December, Samantha said the transition has been smooth sailing thanks to the support from customers and staff members.
Keeping all the original staff was the “most important thing” to Samantha.
“All the kids have been so supportive and adaptive.
“The community loves them and so do we.”
In addition to hosting more functions, the new Woodford Gardens owner also hopes to engage with local businesses, particularly other women in business.
Samantha said there will be some changes made to the menu, including season specials as well as a supply of baked goods from Libby at Delicious Decorating, who is based in Wamuran.
Whilst opening days and hours will remain the same, Samantha said she does plan to stay open for extended hours on special occasions, such as Christmas Eve.
On January 15, Samantha also attended the Wedding Expo in Brisbane, where she marketed Woodford Gardens as a wedding venue for the first time.
Boasting numerous service locations and three accommodation units with discounted rates for wedding guests, Samantha is excited to see couples come far and wide to tie the knot at Woodford Gardens.
