Re: innkeeping: Attn: b&b owners - I need suggestions for

[ParishInn@aol.com]

marketing my b&b!
Sender: owner-innkeeping@innsite.com
Precedence: bulk
Reply-To: innkeeping@innsite.com


Dear Jenny,
When we opened 4 years ago, we spent 3 days and hosted targeted groups of
people at the Inn.  We did it during  the lunch hour, as everyone works 
here
it seems.  The groups I chose were realtors, bridal shops and consultants,
travel agents and the local university, and the Chamber of Commerce list. 
 We
had a pretty good turnout, considering it was the 3rd week of Jan.  We do
mostly business travelers, but it is a slow steady growth. However, if 
they
like you, the repeat business will support you for years. That is where 
we are
at now. Since we are in a service, hands on business, the marketing must 
be
the same.  So if you want to reach large numbers, an open house of sorts 
is
the only way. 
Make a pot of soup, fix sandwiches, a nice dessert, and invite the 
secretaries
at these businesses.  You may even have to hand deliver the invitations 
and
work out a deal with them,  They can earn "points" for every person they 
book
at your place. These points will add up to a gift certificate to stay at 
your
inn.  A small price to pay for referrals.  It beats paying for 
ads...Baskets
of muffins or cookies along with your brochures will also leave a 
memorable
impression with these people.

Good luck,

Chris






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