Curiositeas Play CafΓ© Darlington to close its doors
Aimee and Richard Bland say their decision to close ‘Curiositeas’ Play CafΓ© in the Queen Street Shopping Centre is one that has not been made lightly.
Former mental health nurse Aimee and army veteran Richard set up the business in 2022 – which combines a cafΓ© for parents and play area for little ones.
But the couple, have over the past year, have struggled with the rising cost of bills, rent and food, and in May set up a GoFundMe in a desperate bid to keep the doors open.
They previously said they almost made the “soul destroying” choice to walk away in October last year, but felt “the people of Darlington don’t want us to close”.
In statement posted on Facebook they said: “We have met some amazing people, and we are so grateful to all of you for helping us achieve a dream. We have memories that really will last a lifetime.
“In the last three years, we have worked the hardest we ever have. Weβve learnt a lot, made a million mistakes, but one thing that has stuck out to us the most is that time really does go so quickly.
“And while we have loved it, especially the community feel, we have missed out on a lot as a family ourselves, and as you only get one shot at this life, we have decided it is time to move on with ours.
“We are looking forward to the future, seeing what lies ahead for us, and making time for ourselves and our family going forward.”
They added: “While this will be very sad news to many of you, we hope you will understand our decision – one which we certainly havenβt made lightly.
“We would really like to see as many of you as we can in the coming weeks so we can add more memories to the ‘Curiositeas’ memory box.
“Please come and see us and make the most of our lovely play cafΓ© before itβs no more. When we get a date for closing, we will update you before the shutters go down for the last time.
“Until then, bookings as normal. Walk-ins subject to availability.”
Customers expressed their support for the pair, adding they will be “missed so much”.
One social media user wrote: “Oh no, this is so sad to hear but totally understand. Youβve poured your heart and soul into what is a fabulous place and we will miss you both dearly.”
Another added: “This makes me so sad for you both, you are the most lovely people and you have worked so hard on this business.
“Running a business is so hard and you have so many sacrifices that people don’t see when you tell them you run your own business.
“I hear you with that. I really hope whatever the next chapter brings is just as rewarding and purposeful as all the lives you have changed running the play cafe.”