LEETON'S Manuela and Matt Gatt have felt the full range of emotions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The husband and wife duo own company The Hungry Fox.
It's a hospitality business that has offered a range of services over the years.
In more recent times, the pair took over the running of the Mia Function Centre, hosting weddings, community events, birthdays, Christmas parties and the like - all while providing catering options for not just these, but other external gatherings.
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So, when the coronavirus struck and restrictions were imposed, The Hungry Fox business was affected in many ways.
Functions were cancelled, catering jobs were no longer available and everything seemed to grind to a halt.
To work through the mess the pandemic had created, the couple first decided to offer delivery and takeaway meals.
But, their biggest and best idea was to come soon after.
After spending time researching, participating in several webinars and online meetings to expand their skills and knowledge, the pair came up with a brilliant idea to turn things around.
The Gatts were also leasing a building in Kurrajong Avenue and it is here they decided to try their latest innovation - a dessert cafe.
The cafe has been open for several weeks for breakfast, lunch and late-night catch ups.
Their menu is different to most others in town and its point of difference is offering late night dessert options on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
"The idea for that part of it is if you're going out to dinner at a restaurant, we'd love for you to then come here and have dessert and finish your wine (it's BYOB) here with us," Matt said.
With restrictions easing, but many regulations still in place, the cafe can only offer certain seating options, so it's important to book no matter the time of day.
However, takeaway options are also available.
The Hungry Fox still operates for any catering jobs and is looking forward to re-opening its function centre as soon as it is possible.
The Gatts said their landlords at both venues had been shining lights during the pandemic.
"They've been really helpful with things like our rent and even just advice when we've needed it," Manela said.
"We've really appreciated it."
The pair said juggling the impacts of the pandemic with their business and their young family had been tough at first, but now they were starting to adapt.
They would also like to thank those who have supported them throughout, as well as Sarah Cleathero who started the takeaway and delivery Facebook page for businesses.