Two Manitoba business owners are in shock after a fire completely destroyed their wedding venue Friday morning.
Robert and Tammy Belanger are co-owners of Hawthorn Estates, in St. Clements, Man. The barn was built in the 1940s, and in 2006 the couple restored it into a wedding venue – with two floors, a staging kitchen, chandeliers and a lounging bridal room.
At 6 a.m. Friday, Robert said he woke up to the sound of a horn honking outside his place. He was then notified the barn was completely engulfed in flames.
It’s still not known what caused the blaze.
“Our hearts are breaking from this loss,” Robert said. “We have had so many amazing memories with our couples over these past three years and every couple appreciated the love we put into our venue.”
Robert said he’s been contactiong clients all day, breaking the news about the fire. He said there was a wedding there last week and another scheduled for this week.
“It’s a tragedy, so many people losing opportunities for their social acitivites,” Ken Sim, St. Clement’s director of protective services said. “At this time of year to find alternative sites…. it’s difficult.”
“Fortunately there were no injuries, but it’s a signficant loss for the community. Hopefully the owners will find a way to rebuild,” he said.
WATCH: Video showing the estate