Published March 19, 2024

Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

A beloved Aylmer community destination officially closed its doors on February 25 after sharing countless people’s routines for five years.

“We were more than a coffee shop. We were a place where people could catch up, play cards, read a book, and have a great meal,” said La Femme à Marier & Cie owner Alexandra Ponton-Fraser.

From its humble beginning in her parent’s kitchen to its own location on Rue Principale, the family business was born out of a communal need but quickly grew far beyond Ponton-Fraser’s dreams. What began as weekly pre-order meals transformed into a full café with prepared meals plus a catering service.

“It was a lot of factors, and it wasn’t a simple decision (to close). It kind of felt like it was out of the blue, but I was looking for solutions or ways to improve for a long time,” said Ponton-Fraser. “Behind the scenes, there’s a lot more that happens than what we can see.”

Since her sister departed from the business in 2022, Ponton-Fraser said it has been a lot for one person to handle. Within the past year, she has juggled what felt like the jobs of three people all while having her first child and never stepping away for maternity leave.

Ponton-Fraser announced the closure to Facebook on February 14 with a mixture of sadness and relief. With her daughter on the verge of turning one, Ponton-Fraser said it was time to commence another chapter in her life.

The comments flooded in with warm farewells, fond memories, and plans to make a last stop before the doors closed.

When asked what her favourite part has been, Ponton-Fraser quickly replied that it was the customers.

“Once someone walked in the door, they would come back, if not every day, every week.”

La Femme à Marier & Cie remained busy until its final day with customers stocking up and sharing a last goodbye.

“It went as far as it did because of them. If it wasn’t for them, it wouldn’t have become all this. Not to mention my family, my partner, and especially my mom who was always there to help.”

Along with a much-needed maternity leave, Ponton-Fraser said she plans to fall back in love with cooking.

“You get a little bit tired of cooking when you’re always cooking or thinking about cooking. I don’t even cook for myself at home.”

Ponton-Fraser thanked the Aylmer community for their years of support and encouraged patrons to continue to support local small businesses.

Photo caption: Alexandra Ponton-Fraser thanks the patrons of La Femme à Marier & Cie as she officially closes the doors on February 25.

Photo credit: Courtesy of La Femme à Marier & Cie

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