Written by: Cassi Smith
Having worked in the service industry since she was just 15 years old, Métis entrepreneur, Beata Klyne (now 52), developed a strong sense of customer appreciation and work ethic early on. “I love to work hard, to figure out the best way to do things. Every day has challenges, and I love figuring them out,” she says.
Now the owner of Valley Girls Catering along with her business partners Tania Fraser, Allison Sweet, and Gerda Klyne, Beata’s experience in the industry has expanded into multiple endeavours, however it wasn’t her original plan. “Prior to starting my company, I was going to school for Human Justice as a pre-law degree,” explains Beata. “I knew I loved the service industry so much – but I felt like I should go to school and get a degree. Once I let go of doing what I thought I ‘should’ do, I started living the life I absolutely loved as an entrepreneur.”
After making the leap from pre-law to business ownership, Beata started her company at Deer Valley golf course in 2002. “We opened Brickhouse Bistro in Lumsden and operated for 10 years. We also opened Fresh & Sweet in 2009 and are still operating it today.” Beata and her team also currently operate the food and beverage at Sherwood Forest and Deer Valley golf club, as well as four canteens at Mosaic Stadium in Regina. But that’s not all. “In addition to all of that, we are a catering company. So, we have a fairly large customer base and we love making food for them!”
Although the industry she loves so much has given her the life she’s always wanted, Beata says it hasn’t been without challenges. From city construction to a global pandemic, Valley Girls Catering has had to navigate its fair share of obstacles. “When Covid hit – every aspect of our business seemed to be gone in an instant.” Faced with a new reality and seemingly endless uncertainty, Beata and her team did what they do best – they took it as an opportunity. “We made funny signs, did crazy posts, and did our best to control our expenses. We reevaluated how we did everything. We pulled it all back and rebuilt it in a better way.”
That better way included a new partner, Clarence Campeau Development Fund and SaskMétis Economic Development Corporation. “I had always got loans through our bank,” says Beata. “When I learned about CCDF and SMEDCO, I immediately felt it was a perfect fit, especially as a Métis woman in business.” Through CCDF and SMEDCO, Beata and her team were able to access financial assistance and businesses development support that actually served them. “I have never enjoyed dealing with big banks. And I really feel that CCDF and SMEDCO cares about my company and our success,” says Beata. In terms of working with an organization that prioritizes Indigenous owned businesses and entrepreneurs, Beata says working with CCDF and SMEDCO has been a meaningful and fulfilling experience. “It feels like so much more than a loan. I feel like we are part of something bigger than us, as though our success is celebrated and important to the community.”
Looking to the future, Beata says Deer Valley Catering is focusing on developing their team, their business, and having plenty of fun while they do it. Building on 23 years of success and a loyal client base, the team is expanding their business by adding an event center at Deer Valley Golf Course, nestled in the scenic Qu’Appelle Valley, just 15 minutes from northwest Regina. “We absolutely adore what we do and the Valley is so magical,” says Beata. “We really want to host weddings and larger functions in a beautiful space.” The newly secured venue will position Valley Girls as a premier wedding and event destination in Saskatchewan. Armed with a wealth of experience, a phenomenal team, and the support of CCDF and SMEDCO, Beata is poised to continue the success of Valley Girls Catering for years to come.