In 2022, Caroline Hardy discovered an opportunity to preserve an ancestral craft: fur clothing and accessory making. Serge Boulanger, the owner of Ruelle Fourrure in Saint-Siméon-de-Bonaventure, was seeking a successor to continue his legacy. Already co-owner of Serres Cascabella in Cascapédia-Saint-Jules, Caroline and her friend and colleague, Édith Dubuc, decided to embrace the challenge, embarking on a journey to carry forward this traditional know-how.
About the Company
Winter Otters specializes in creating a variety of items from recovered fur. Products include coats, mittens, scarves, hand warmers, teddy bears, cushions, and other fashion accessories. They also offer fur coat transformation services to breathe new life into old garments.
“We receive many coats as gifts or through exchanges. Transforming them is especially meaningful because it makes them a memory,” explains Caroline. “We can turn a coat into a jacket, a cushion, or even a teddy bear. When customers bring in their own items for transformation, it’s even more rewarding.”
How Did the Opportunity Arise?
Caroline and Édith’s succession journey began with a shared friendship and curiosity. During a visit to the Ruelle Fourrure workshop, Édith was introduced to fur crafting, a profession she had never encountered before. “It’s a project that started with an idea in the flower beds!” recalls Caroline with a smile.
Serge offered to teach Édith in exchange for her help in the workshop. Over time, aware that Serge was looking for a successor, Édith began to consider taking over the business. However, she felt the need for a partner with entrepreneurial experience.
Caroline, having embarked on a similar project 15 years prior, was the perfect fit. “Édith loved doing this but told me, ‘I don’t feel strong enough to run the business alone.’ I said, ‘I can do that—I’ve done it before!’” Caroline recalls with a laugh.
In the fall of 2022, the pair officially purchased the business. This marked the beginning of an intense four-month knowledge transfer process, during which Serge worked full-time with them.
“I had a sewing machine at home but only for utilitarian projects—I never thought I’d be doing this. I spent a lot of time in front of the machines, learning,” Caroline admits. “Serge was amazing, mentoring us and helping with production. Even now, he remains a part of our journey. He’s retired but still keeps an eye out for opportunities and ideas for us. You can feel how much he wants us to succeed.”
What Makes Winter Otters Stand Out?
Caroline and Édith realized their strength lay in teamwork. Édith specializes in working with raw fur, while Caroline handles finishing touches, enabling them to complete the creative process in-house.
Their focus on utilitarian designs also sets them apart. “Our mittens are reversible, with inner and outer fur. You can wear them either way, so it’s like having three pairs of mittens in one. Why keep it simple?” Caroline shares with a laugh.
Changes and Future Vision
While the first months were dedicated to learning the craft, Caroline and Édith quickly infused the business with their values. They adopted a new name, Winter Otters – Recovered Fur, reflecting their eco-conscious focus on reusing materials.
“We wanted a name that resonated with us, and ‘Otters’ clicked. They’re industrious, creative, and eco-conscious, just like we aim to be,” explains Caroline.
Their goal is to preserve the seasonal, small-scale nature of the business while innovating with designs. “We developed a reversible sleeveless jacket pattern and are considering creating one for men,” Caroline shares.
SADC Support
Caroline was already familiar with the SADC through her first business, so sought their assistance with the succession project. Thanks to her efforts, Caroline obtained financial assistance through the Youth Strategy Fund, which allowed her to benefit from a 24-month interest-free period.
Advice for Future Entrepreneurs
Caroline’s key advice for anyone considering a succession project is patience. “At the start, enthusiasm makes you want to move quickly. But I learned that knowledge transfer takes time. On the machines, I realized you can’t go faster than they’ll allow. My advice is to give yourself and the process the time it needs.”
About Caroline Hardy
Originally from Boucherville, Caroline moved to the Gaspé Peninsula with her husband in 2007, acquiring Serres Cascabella in Cascapédia-Saint-Jules. In 2022, she brought her entrepreneurial experience and artistic talent to Ruelle Fourrure, transforming it into Winter Otters – Recovered Fur.
