Humans Of The Coast | S1 E6 “Sleep Out Bed + Breakfast”
What happens when you move from the bustling streets of Toronto to the sun-soaked shores of the Sunshine Coast? Just ask Rebecca and Gord, who moved to The Coast 13 years ago and never looked back.
While the pair opened up their Roberts Creek Airbnb, The Sleep Out Bed and Breakfast, in July 2016, the dream of having a B&B came long before. The seed was planted when they first bought the property 10 years ago. But, great ideas take time to percolate – especially when you’re living the coastal life!
Before The Sleep Out transformed into the rustic-chic haven it is now, the space served as an indoor skate ramp for Rebecca and Gord. Their kids even used it sometimes too.
After saving and planning for years, they began renovations and proudly opened the doors to their Airbnb just over a year ago.
The Sleep Out, which is a stone’s throw from Roberts Creek, sleeps four and has a bright and rustic feel. Careful attention to detail is paid in every nook and cranny of the space, from the rustic kitchen island, hand-crafted from reclaimed wood by Gord, to the eclectic finishings curated by Rebecca from garage sales and thrift shops.
One of the most gorgeous features of the space – formerly a woodworking shop – is the french doors separating the bedroom from living room. The window hanging above the doors is actually Rebecca and Gord’s first vintage purchase from their time in Toronto. They transported it all the way to BC and kept it for a rainy day.
One of the most unique aspects of the Sleep Out is the lovely welcome baskets, which Rebecca customizes for each guest. The vintage gift box includes yummy bubbly, eggs from chickens who live on the property, as well as organic chocolates and other delicious local treats.
“I think it’s more of a traditional bed and breakfast, which is what I’m going for,” Rebecca says. “I’m trying to give a more authentic experience.”
When the two are not running their Airbnb, Gord is a broker for vinyl pressing, has a record label and is an account manager for an employee assistance program. Rebecca manages the home, which includes three children (15, 10 and 2), a french mastiff, a cat, a flock of chickens and a garden full of vegetables & fruits. And, with her keen eye for home design, I wouldn’t be surprised if a new side hustle is on her horizon too.
I asked Rebecca what advice she had when it comes to starting a venture here in our community.
“Just be authentic and don’t take yourself too seriously. Especially coming from the city. This is your chance to be the real you,” she says.
And for this lovely family in Roberts Creek, ‘being the real you’ means living a life that allows for morning swims at low tide, a constant reminder that you made the right decision all those years ago.
Do you want to experience the Sleep Out for yourself? Enter my Coastal Life Contest for a chance to win a 2 night stay, a $50 gift certificate to Kube Studios, plus a growler and $25 gift certificate to Highway 101 Distillery and Brewery
