Une journée dans la vie d'un aubergiste
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Our Journey to Buying the Cornelius Daily Inn
- The Charm of a Victorian Bed and Breakfast
- A Delicious Start to the Day: Breakfast at the Inn
- Tailoring Menus to Cater to Guests' Preferences
- The Morning Routine: Setting the Stage for Breakfast
- Guest Rooms with a Victorian Touch
- The Ongoing Maintenance: Cleaning and Laundry
- Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere for Check-In
- Wine and Conversation: Mingling with Guests
- The Joys of Owning a Bed and Breakfast
- Retirement and Passing the Torch
- Conclusion
Introduction
Running a bed and breakfast is no easy task, but for my husband and me, it was a welcome change after spending over 30 years in the high-tech industry. In 2002, we took a leap of faith and purchased the charming Cornelius Daily Inn. This article will take you on a journey through the daily routine, the joys of hosting guests, and the satisfaction we derived from running the inn for over a decade.
Our Journey to Buying the Cornelius Daily Inn
After years of working in the high-tech industry, my husband and I were ready for a career change. We craved something different, something that would allow us to connect with people on a more personal level. When we stumbled upon the Cornelius Daily Inn in 2002, it was as if fate had intervened. The beautiful home, which had been operating as a bed and breakfast since 1991, presented itself as a turnkey business opportunity, and we wasted no time in making it our own.
The Charm of a Victorian Bed and Breakfast
The Cornelius Daily Inn, originally built in 1905, exudes Victorian charm and elegance. The moment guests step through the front door, they are transported back in time, surrounded by intricate details and period furnishings. Our inn boasts five uniquely designed guest rooms, each with its own character and story to tell. From Miss Martha's room to the Victorian Rose Suite, our guests have a range of options to choose from.
A Delicious Start to the Day: Breakfast at the Inn
At the Cornelius Daily Inn, breakfast is a highlight of the stay. We believe in starting the day off right, which is why we serve a four-course breakfast to our guests. Each morning, I wake up at 6:00 a.m., with our loyal companion, Snickers, our long-haired Chihuahua, trailing behind me. After getting ready for the day, I head to the kitchen to prepare a mouthwatering feast.
Tailoring Menus to Cater to Guests' Preferences
To ensure that our guests have the best dining experience possible, we tailor our menus to their specific dietary needs and preferences. Whether it's gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan options, we strive to accommodate every guest's requirements. Over the years, we have served a variety of delectable dishes, from scones and strata to stuffed French toast and sweet breads. The challenge lies in creating menus that cater to a diverse range of tastes while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
The Morning Routine: Setting the Stage for Breakfast
By 7:00 a.m., I begin my morning routine, which involves preparing the dining room for breakfast. I meticulously lay out the plates and silverware, carefully arranged in the built-in cabinets. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and tea fills the air as I make sure everything is ready for our guests, who will be seated promptly at 8:30.
Guest Rooms with a Victorian Touch
One of the most rewarding aspects of running the Cornelius Daily Inn is ensuring that our guests have a comfortable and unforgettable stay. Our inn features five beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with its distinct Victorian touch. From Miss Martha's room, with its cozy ambiance, to Annie Murphy's room, which offers a stunning garden view, we take great pride in providing our guests with a home away from home.
The Ongoing Maintenance: Cleaning and Laundry
Running a bed and breakfast is not just about serving breakfast and tending to guests; it also involves the continuous maintenance of the inn. After breakfast, my husband and I embark on a cleaning spree, ensuring that each room is immaculate for the arrival of new guests. From changing sheets and towels to cleaning bathrooms and vacuuming rugs, every detail is attended to with great care.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere for Check-In
As the clock strikes 4:00 p.m., guests begin to arrive for check-in. I greet them with a warm smile and show them to their rooms. To add a personal touch, I prepare hors d'oeuvres for them to enjoy between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. As we mingle with our guests, we listen to their stories and offer our knowledge about the area. It's a privilege to meet people from all walks of life and to make them feel at home during their stay.
Wine and Conversation: Mingling with Guests
One of the highlights of owning a bed and breakfast is the opportunity to meet fascinating people from all over the world. From European countries to Japan, Korea, Australia, Samoa, and even Eureka itself, we have had the pleasure of hosting guests from various backgrounds. The evening wine and mingling sessions provide the perfect setting to engage with our guests, listen to their travel tales, and share local recommendations.
The Joys of Owning a Bed and Breakfast
Despite the demanding nature of running a bed and breakfast, the joys far outweigh the challenges. Welcoming guests into our home, offering them a glimpse of Victorian elegance, and providing them with a memorable stay brings us immense satisfaction. It's like traveling the world without leaving our doorstep, as we get to connect with individuals from different cultures and backgrounds.
Retirement and Passing the Torch
After over a decade of running the Cornelius Daily Inn, we have decided it's time to fully retire. We look forward to passing on the torch to new owners who will continue the tradition of providing exceptional hospitality in a Victorian bed and breakfast setting. Though bittersweet, we are ready to embark on the next chapter of our lives, cherishing the memories and friendships we have made along the way.
Conclusion
Operating the Cornelius Daily Inn has been a fulfilling and enriching experience. From serving exquisite breakfasts to maintaining exquisite guest rooms, every aspect of running a bed and breakfast has contributed to our love for this venture. The satisfaction derived from making guests feel at home, hearing their stories, and providing a memorable experience is beyond measure. As we bid farewell to our beloved inn, we carry with us a treasure trove of memories and a deep appreciation for the gift of hospitality.
【Highlights】
- Transforming careers: From the high-tech industry to the hospitality sector.
- Victorian charm: The allure of a century-old bed and breakfast.
- Delightful breakfast: A four-course culinary experience to kickstart the day.
- Personalized menus: Catering to guests' dietary preferences and restrictions.
- Meticulous preparation: Setting the stage for a delightful breakfast experience.
- Enchanting guest rooms: Victorian elegance and comfort combined.
- Housekeeping duties: Maintaining cleanliness and comfort for guests.
- Warm welcome: Creating a pleasant atmosphere for check-in.
- Wine and mingling: Connecting with guests from around the world.
- The ultimate reward: The joy of owning a bed and breakfast and making lasting memories.
- Passing the torch: Preparing for retirement and a new chapter.
【FAQs】
Q: How many guest rooms does the Cornelius Daily Inn have?
A: The Cornelius Daily Inn boasts five guest rooms, each with its own unique charm and ambiance.
Q: Do they cater to guests with specific dietary needs?
A: Yes, the inn accommodates guests with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Q: What is the highlight of the breakfast experience at the inn?
A: The daily four-course breakfast is often praised by guests as a highlight of their stay, featuring a variety of delicious dishes.
Q: What is the evening wine and mingling session all about?
A: The evening wine and mingling session provides an opportunity for guests to interact with the inn owners, share their travel experiences, and receive local recommendations.
Q: Is the Cornelius Daily Inn still operating?
A: The inn owners have decided to retire and are in the process of passing on the bed and breakfast to new owners.