Inn-Consideration

As promised, I began reading one of the 'How To' books I purchased.  This one entitled "How to Open a Financially Successful Bed & Breakfast or Small Hotel" by Lora Arduser and Douglas R. Brown.  I learned quite a few important things in the first several pages alone.  Firstly, that technically speaking an "Inn" (which is what I wanted to call my place) is usually comprised of 6 or more guest rooms.  It didn't appear to be a hard and fast rule though, so I think breaking it for the purposes of what I'd call my establishment wouldn't be a terrible violation in the Innkeepers' World.

Second, Innkeeping seems to suit my personality quite nicely.  The book had a loose checklist of what traits one should possess to be not just the Proprietor of an Inn or B&B, but to be a happy one while doing so.   Some of those characteristics included someone who exhibited entrepreneurial, organizational and communication skills.  Also important were hospitality and customer service.  Seeing as I enjoy chatting with people, resolving conflicts, keeping an updated calendar and am good at writing memos/letters...I was off to a handy start.  However, my customer service qualities (did I get frustrated easily or did I lose my temper easily?) needed some work.  Hey, no one's perfect, right?

Third, I once again faced the reality (based on this book) that Innkeeping isn't necessarily so profitable off the bat.  This was a primary concern for me on Day Two...but upon further research I learned that wasn't always the case.  Although this book was published several years ago in 2004...the numbers didn't look too promising.  It appeared as though this dream of mine might better serve as a Hobby or source of Extra Income rather than a full-time gig.  

I wasn't discouraged though.  Not altogether, at least.  I had received an email back from one of the Innkeepers I'd contacted - who was more than willing to share their knowledge with me.  This was fantastic news!  No one better to hear the cold, hard facts from than a so-called "successful" Keeper of an Inn.  It's a Holiday today, so I'll call back tomorrow.  I'd also gotten a return call from the PIA (Professional Innkeepers Association) - who could guide me toward tons of valuable information as well.

All hope was not lost.  If there were successful, profitable B&B's out there, mine would surely be one of them.  Besides, I always have my Bakery idea. :)  

Knowledge is power and I was determined to collect as much of it as I could.  :)

Sweet Dreams, 

Me

"Imagination is more important than knowledge.  Knowledge is limited.  Imagination encircles the world." -Albert Einstein