Kristie Firmin, the creator behind The Lake Dora Courtyard Food & Events Inn On The Green in Tavares, has put the new project on hold to regroup and preserve. Kristie worked hard to reopen The Lake Dora Courtyard in downtown Tavares after a fire, but had to shut that business down after her lease was not renewed.

(Progress was made on the new tent which has unfortunately collapsed.)

What followed was a tireless effort to get the business back up and running in some sort of way. The business not only benefited the locals looking for good food, spirits and a good time, but also the local musicians as well. Some of the best talent could be found at The Lake Dora Courtyard. When an opportunity to partner with Inn on The Green in Tavares opened up, Kristie was very excited and had made significant progress on the new venue.

(The tent collapse was unfortunate and has put and indefinite hold on the new venue.)

A new bar, seats, and stage were erected in a very short period of time. But just yesterday, Kristie took to social media to address the project.

“It is in my best interest to put this project on hold as I regroup to take better care of myself, get caught up on finances so that I can provide strength, stability, and resilience to move forward with the project at The Lake Dora Courtyard Food & Events Inn On The Green, Tavares, FL,” Kristie says.

Unfortunately, the large tent that was set up collapsed and was damaged in the process. Kristie intends to take the tent down and re-evaluate her situation. Still, she has not given up hope and had a message for all of her supporters.

“I am grateful for your support and all the new friendships made,” she says. “Knowledge is power even if it’s what not to do… I am okay, just pressing the pause button. I will be in touch!”

(This was the original venue which was closed earlier this year.)

Regardless of how this turns out, you have to give it to Kristie for giving this all a go in the first place. After the fire at the downtown Tavares location, she came back and reopened earlier this year, only to have to shut down a few months after reopening due to the rent not being renewed. Putting the project on hold once more is unfortunate, but you have to give it up for all parties who have attempted to get this to work, especially Inn On The Green whose owners graciously welcomed the idea.

While the project remains on hold, we have no doubt that Kristie will continue to work hard behind the scenes.

“I am still excited about the future but its timing and finances right now,” she says. “I will pause, regroup, and get back with you.”

We will update this story when we hear further information.

(Photos provided by Kristie Firmin)