Beautiful Valley Suites, Beauval, SK
By: Cassi Smith
For the northern community of Beauval, BDI Suites represents more than just a business; it’s a reflection of Beauval’s pride, potential, and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Beauval, Saskatchewan, BDI Suites is poised to address the community’s need for modern, high-quality accommodations while showcasing the rich Métis culture of the region. The journey to transform two quadplex properties into BDI Suites is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and the power of strategic partnerships.
The idea for BDI Suites was sparked by local developer John Lesmeister, who recognized a growing demand for motel-style accommodations in Beauval. “Now, we have travel suites for solo travelers, contractors and also small families to visit our community and region,” explains chairperson Nick Daigneault. With the support of Clarence Campeau Development Fund (CCDF), the units were acquired, renovated, and turned into a foundational piece of the village’s economic development strategy.
BDI’s efforts align with regional tourism initiatives led by NorthWest Communities, Sakitawak Development Corporation, and Primrose Resources Corporation, all aimed at strengthening the region’s appeal to visitors. “Tourism begins with being ready to receive tourists,” says Nick. Purchasing and renovating the units was BDI’s way of preparing for the future, ensuring Beauval could welcome visitors with comfortable and modern accommodations.
Though BDI Suites is yet to officially launch, the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. The soft online launch has already generated significant interest, particularly from former residents eager to return home for family visits. “There are already people inquiring when and how they can rent the unit,” Nick shares. “We feel investments such as these keep our community sustainable, a great place to live and raise your family, and keep us interesting enough to visit and to add to our economy.”
As a proud Métis community, Beauval’s culture is deeply woven into BDI’s operations. From strategic planning to day-to-day management, Métis values guide every decision. “Our culture is at the forefront of everything we do,” says Nick. “We always ensure our cultural values are remembered as we explore opportunities and do business in our backyards. Our store keeps our community flowing with commodities, our suites will provide lodging for families and visitors, our Blueberry Hills Water provide clean water to the community, and our BDI Gym and Office complex provides a gathering place so that we can meet, laugh, share stories, eat, and live our community culture.”
Ensuring opportunities for growth were available in Beauval meant competing with established economic development corporations which required a creative approach. “We had to think about doing something different, so we focused on the services we needed right at home,” Nick explains. Starting small and building a solid foundation has been key to Beauval’s success. Today, BDI is exploring partnerships to bring more services to the community, including expanding the Beauval Commercial Junction at the intersection of Highways 165 and 155.
Working with CCDF was a large part of BDI’s success. “Being a client of CCDF has opened doors that would have otherwise not been open or achievable,” says Nick. “The combined grant/loan programs offered by CCDF have turned risky investments into great investments that have now become the foundation of our development corporation.”
CCDF played a huge role in realizing the BDI Gym and Office Complex, which began as a far-fetched idea but became a cornerstone of the community thanks to CCDF’s guidance. “Most other organizations would have just denied it, but CCDF’s openness and support made it possible,” Nick recalls.
Looking ahead, BDI Suites plans to grow alongside Beauval. Future developments include additional suites across the existing properties and new units at the Beauval Commercial Junction within the next three to five years. “It is refreshing to know that agencies like CCDF are out there when you develop a business idea or are approached to develop a business partnership,” says Nick. With each step forward, BDI reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Beauval’s economy and preserving its cultural identity.