A Moment With Nicky @ The Secret Garden

Nicky and her husband, Kevin, made the big move from the UK to Australia 14 years ago and launched into their first experience in hospitality: a cafe in Sawtell, NSW (south of Coffs Harbour).

When they found their current location in Boambee 11 years ago, they thought it would be the perfect location for a traditional-style English cafe, so they jumped right in. Their customers have come to love the experience of using fine bone china for their afternoon tea as they sit on the veranda overlooking the gardens, enjoying the relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, and Nicky wouldn't have it any other way.

How do you separate your personal life from your life at The Secret Garden?

Working as a husband and wife team it’s hard to separate our work and personal life, but that’s just how it is. We love to take short breaks away together and enjoy relaxing on the weekends here on the Coffs coast. Even away from work you still get inspiration from places you visit and can use your experiences to enhance your own business.

What’s your favourite ‘me time’ thing to do to relax?

Coming from the UK I’d have to say the beach. Being able to enjoy the outdoors all year round is an absolute luxury, and an hour-long beach walk can wash away most daily stresses.

What nice surprises have you found in running The Secret Garden?

Moving to the other side of the world involves a lot of sacrifices, the biggest one for me being family and friends. Opening a cafe has given us the opportunity to meet so many wonderful locals and travellers, but more so it has enabled us to turn some of those into the most incredible friends.

Have there been any not-so-nice surprises?

The biggest challenge we faced was operating through the Covid pandemic. But we used the time to refurbish the kitchen and cafe and grow the takeaway side of the business which never existed before. Every cloud…

Do you have any advice for someone contemplating opening or buying a café?

Be prepared to work hard and be consistent. But most of all be friendly, having a five-minute chat with someone can make their day and will give you a return customer.

What personal touches did you put into The Secret Garden that make it unique and set it apart from others?

I think finding a cafe with a very British feel here in Coffs Harbour delights a lot of our customers. So many of our customers get greeted by their names which makes them feel at home and we have a book swap for them that they love.

Do you have any funny or favourite customer stories?

After 14 years in the business probably a few too many!!! But I do say to my lovely customers “What happens at The Secret Garden, stays at The Secret Garden”, which always gives them a laugh.

The Secret Garden

Boambee, New South Wales, Australia