Homemade Jam

It all began in 1977, when a friend’s mom (Irene) handed Bruce McNaughton a jar of her homemade jam. “At the time I was trying to find my own path and working as a waiter,” Bruce shared. “The visitors to the island would often ask me, “Is there any food that we could take home that reminds us of Prince Edward Island?” All I could think of was a bag of potatoes or a can of frozen lobster. So, when Irene put that little jar of strawberry jam in my hand, a huge lightbulb went on.”

Jar of Joy

It is a fascinating life journey that began with a tiny seed idea and took Bruce from PEI to Toronto & back again over the next several years. There were lots of bumps in the road along the way, but that little “jar of joy” sparked a passion in Bruce to study French cooking, work with several chefs in several different restaurants, then research, experiment and refine his very own hand-made, low-sugar preserves that have become the very cornerstone of his Prince Edward Island Preserve Company.

1913 Creamery

In 1987, Bruce and his wife Shirley started a modest preserve tearoom in the former 1913 Creamery building on the banks of the River Clyde in New Glasgow. Since then, PEI Preserve Company has grown into a large restaurant, a gift shop, an online store that ships worldwide, a café with live entertainment, and a 12-acre garden with a butterfly house, and a respite cottage.

Everything in Good Taste

The kettle boils and the tea steeps - that has not changed. I know myself because I have been coming here with my husband & daughter for as long as I can remember, too. Customers like me are loyal and for good reason. The company motto, “Everything in Good Taste,” stands as true today as is did in that first tearoom in the beginning. Bruce & Shirley have honoured their mission: “to create a food destination that welcomes and treats guests to food with integrity & flavour.”

The Garden Café

PEI Preserve Co. is always evolving and offering varied, exciting experiences for visitors. The Garden Café is their latest venture. Pop by for breakfast or lunch at this pretty country bistro which was the brilliant design collaboration of Shirley McNaughton, Tracy Gallant, Cheryl Thompson, and Trudy Gilbertson. It is hands down the sweetest café on Prince Edward Island.

A Taste of PEI

PEI Preserve Co.’s "Maritime Hospitality" is enjoyed around the world through its online curated selection of artisan preserves and teas, unique teaware, and gourmet specialty foods, and yummy treats for hosting or gift giving. The restaurant, café & live entertainment, and gardens are open seasonally from spring to fall. Then the restaurant is transformed into “something that resembles Santa’s workshop,” when the shipping department kicks into high gear for the holidays. You can order any of their many offerings, including a ‘Taste of PEI’ box for yourself or to send as a gift to others.

Gardens of Hope

While visiting PEI Preserve Co, be sure to explore the serene Gardens of Hope. This 12-acre oasis was established in 2005 for visitors to enjoy solace in the natural beauty of the island along the scenic River Clyde. There are hundreds of flowering plants, grasses, and shrubs nestled beautifully among all the various walkways and gardens.

Rejuvenate Your Spirit

Pathways guide you along the shore, through woodlands, around a lily pond, along rock gardens and hillside havens, and through forest paths. There are several seating areas at various scenic lookouts and thoughtfully scattered at key points for rest and reflection. Rejuvenate your spirit. Be in the moment. Cultivate your zen.

Forest Bathing

Try a slow forest bathing walk in the wooded areas by immersing all your senses, as you breath deeply. This is food for the soul. Find harmony and tranquility here. The Gardens of Hope are awe-inspiring and wonder-full.

The Magical Forest

Children will delight in the bunnies, donkeys, and llama onsite as well as the small forest wildlife. The Magical Forest with all its whimsical sculpture creatures and mystical surprises is a highlight. The Butterfly House is filled with imported butterfly pupae from around the world, showcasing many different colourful varieties.

The Country Gardens Foundation of Hope

Admission to the Gardens of Hope & the Butterfly House is by donation. Give what you can to support The Country Gardens Foundation of Hope, Inc.

Respite Cottage

The Country Gardens Foundation of Hope, Inc. built a Respite Cottage within the Gardens of Hope as a place of rest, hope and renewed spirit. The cottage is made available for individuals, families, or caregivers coping with the effects of a life threatening illness as well as those ministering to others who themselves are experiencing compassion fatigue. The Gardens of Hope Respite Cottage is available year-round, at no cost for those who find themselves in need.

PEI Preserve Co.

So, isn’t it time you return to PEI Preserve Co. in New Glasgow and discover a little joy again? Go for the gourmet preserves - those delicious jars of joy, and browse the beautiful gift shop. Grab a bite at the restaurant with the million dollar view of the River Clyde, or in the Garden Café, a dreamy, romantic county bistro with two relaxing patios. Be sure to drop a donation at the gate then wander in wonder in The Gardens of Hope - 12 acres of heaven on earth. And tell them the Maritimes Maven sent you.

Update: In 2022, Adam & Marsha Doiron became the proud new owners of The PEI Preserve Company. They had always loved it, so much so they even chose to get married there in 2006. The Dorions are devoted to ensuring nothing breaks the magical spell that was cast over their bright red roof many years ago. They are very proud to inherit the legacy and also many loyal employees - some with over 30 years experience. They continue to make preserves and pride themselves on also making a difference by supporting local and by adding some sweetness to the world. They invite you to come visit their beautiful gardens, enjoy a delicious meal, sample small-batch artisan preserves, and take in the beautiful view of the River Clyde. 

This post was sponsored by The Prince Edward Island Preserve Company; however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Follow Maritimes Maven on FaceBook, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn & Threads. Subscribe to be the first to receive my latest articles. Share articles you love with your social media community so they, too, will discover, There’s No Place Like Home!