Emily O’Connor fell in love with Stratford as a child coming to theatre and exploring the gardens, and moved to town in 2002, when she quickly realized it is equally lovely to be a life-long Stratford tourist. Moving six doors down from The Caversham House in 2013 with her son Emerson and mother Catherine, she often enjoyed seeing the front porch of the nearby B&B full of happy guests. When the opportunity emerged to purchase the charming Caversham House, she knew it was a perfect way to share her passions for the city, the Festival, hosting and cooking.

Growing up in Niagara, Emily moved to Kansas City with her family as a young teen and later attained a degree in English Literature from University of Kansas. After a year of panicked indecision, she graduated from massage therapy school in Atlanta and enjoyed that career for several years. Eventually deciding it was time to “come home”, she returned to Ontario and earned her Bachelor of Education from the University of Western Ontario. Emily continues to supply teach Kindergarten through Grade 12 in the winters.

Throughout the B&B, you will discover treasures brought home from Emily’s travels. An avid watcher of period dramas and a historical fiction reader, Emily loves to learn about the domestic arts and decorating movements through history. You will find much evidence of Emily’s passion for the works of William Morris. She visits England regularly to keep up with her father’s family and feels this is another of her “homes”. Her heart rate climbs dangerously high at National Trust gift shops!

Since the age of 10, Emily could be found in the kitchen, cooking and preparing for guests. With her father holding corporate jobs, Emily grew up helping to host numerous events and people from around the world alongside her family. Friends in high school and university grew accustomed to the multi-course dinner parties with the Limoges china and starched tablecloths. She continues to struggle with a china and linen addiction!

Emily is thrilled to continue her adventure as host of The Caversham House and is looking forward to welcoming all guests to her favourite city.