Re: innkeeping: Local Association Chamber Membership

[Michael & Melanie Shane <lilacinn@sover.net>]

About one and a half years ago several b @ b's and country inns formed 
their
own organization in our area.  The local chamber went balistic and refused
to allow the group to have an affiliate membership.  The chamber has 
watched
our organization grow from 34 member properties the first year to 40 
member
properties the second year.  Each year several of our steering committee
members reopens dialogue about affiliate membership.  As the chambers 
board
is elected on an annual basis the possibility of linking remains an
approachable task.
Our philosophy has been one of how can we best serve the needs of the
travelling public?  Certainly it is not beneficial to local business to 
not
refer to each 
others organizations.  Of our 40 member base approximately 1/2 also 
maintain
membership in the chamber of commerce.  Most businesses create councils,
associations, or task forces specifically tied to their own business.
My recommendation:  create a strong association of members; market your 
area;
track reservations from your efforts; and have monthly meetings and 
minutes for
each member property.  Feel free to call me if you have any questions.