South
Pond
Farms
Pond
Farms
In the cold of winter wood is the necessary element for warmth. Wood transforms into fire and just like it we transform too.
The
Viktualienmarkt
Timid & shy, it's time to reinvent myself. I am independent, confident, and strong, yet I honor my sensitivity. I've retreated out to the country, my private little nook. A place I can be alone with my thoughts, read, and focus on my writing. I've thought about taking up art. Throw on my favorite records and dance untamed. To lounge & slow down the pace of life, even if just for a little while. I find comfort in the presence of the animals, watching their innocence graze across pastures. Yet to be able to remember that there's peace in solitude, in centering and gaining clarity, is the secret to my escape.
Bar
Centrale
In 2006, Danielle French left Toronto with her four daughters, settling on 60 acres of fertile farmland in the Oak Ridges Moraine, traditional Anishinaabe Mississauga territory. Naming her new home "South Pond" after the pond on its southern side, Danielle envisioned it as a hidden gem where others could create cherished memories and embrace a simpler way of life.
Jodlerwirt
Built in 1865, the house and barn carried a rich history, but when Danielle acquired them, they were in disrepair. Through hard work and perseverance, she transformed the crumbling structures into a charming mini-paradise for celebrating life's milestones. South Pond embodies her journey of remarkable transformation.
Q:What did South Pond look like when you first arrived?
Danielle: When I moved in 2006, the property was in disarray. The barn was on the verge of collapse, the backyard was overgrown, and the structures were scattered differently than they are today. The drive shed sat by the bushes, and the old driveway led to the road. Where the AirBnB cottage now stands, there was a dilapidated chicken coop, nearly in ruins. One winter day, while cross-country skiing, pieces of the barn flew into the air—a clear sign that something had to change.
Q: What did you do next?
Danielle: A neighbor recommended Shawn Sutcliffe, a demolition contractor with a keen eye for potential, to assess the structures. In exchange for his help, I provided furniture from my Toronto interior design days for his new home. This collaboration grew into a meaningful partnership.
Q:
What was your vision for South Pond?
Danielle: I envisioned a space where food and nature brought people together. We transformed the barn into a stunning venue with hardwood floors, a whiskey bar, and room for 140 guests. The drive shed became a kitchen, and the old chicken coop turned into a cozy retreat for newlyweds. With farm-to-table dining, a native garden, a pizza oven, and workshops, South Pond has become a hub for connection and creativity.
Q:
What was it like to have South Pond featured on Netflix?
Danielle: A producer from Blue Ant Media approached me to feature our farm in a 13-episode series called Taste of the Country, showcasing healthy eating, weddings, and other farm activities. I had no idea it would be sold to Netflix until my daughter spotted it online, announcing its global release. The show brought visitors from across the country, the U.S., and even Europe, making South Pond a vibrant and bustling destination.
Q: What has it been like operating your business during COVID-19 ?
Danielle: COVID brought many changes to our farm and business. With wedding capacity limited to 40, I mainly hosted elopements, which was a refreshing shift. I transitioned from managing a kitchen staff to partnering with BE Catering and now focus on selling homemade jams, sauces, and baking kits online. I've also started grocery box pickups and joined a virtual farmer's market. I'm considering turning the AirBnB cottage into a retreat for young women starting their own businesses or perhaps creating a tiny cabin kingdom—just one of the many ideas I’ve been exploring lately.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories here at South Pond?
Danielle: These changes have allowed me to rethink how South Pond can evolve. I’m passionate about creating spaces that inspire connection and creativity, whether through hosting workshops, retreats, or expanding our offerings. The future feels full of possibility, and I’m excited to explore new ways to share the charm and spirit of the farm with others.
Aroma
Kaffeebar
It's incredible to see how a modest farm transformed into the paradise it is today. From a chicken coop turned honeymoon escape to a space that feels like a warm hug, South Pond's magic lies in the details. Handcrafted touches, vintage tea sets, and animal photos tell its rich story. While Iron Horse embodies competition, South Pond thrives on reinvention, their stories beautifully intertwined with those of their creators.
