Today we’d like to introduce you to Glenna Nance And Rob Nance.
Hi Glenna Nance and Rob Nance, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
We both retired from our professions in 2014 (Rob) and 2017 (Glenna). Rob from 30 years as Nurse Anesthesist and myself from 20 years of teaching H.S. Family Consumer Science. Both employed in Overland Park, KS. It was soon apparent to me that I could not take retirement sitting down. With a strong background in culinary education and hospitality, I was looking for something that would be rewarding during my encore years. A friend I taught with owned a BnB in Weston and suggested I might be interested in managing it with an opportunity to purchase.. During 2015 my husband and I gave it a try and it seemed to be a perfect fit, although we did not purchase it for various reasons. We spent the next few years searching the KC surrounding areas and determined that Weston was still the best place to own and operate a BB. We found this 1845 historic home here in Weston and felt it checked all the boxes. Historic, updated, spacious, and charming. We purchased the property in late 2019, and with some additional remodeling (updating the kitchen, adding 2 bedrooms and baths, and landscaping), it became a favorite place to stay here in Weston.
My husband will have to admit, he pretty much planned on it being my project. Which it primarily is. I handle the food preparation and presentation,business management, marketing, and interior design. But Rob is a great host with a great sense of humor the guests love. He also is my sidekick for breakfast and our guests love his scrambled eggs.
As we decided to take on this adventure we assumed we would last 5-7 years. We also vowed that although this business would not only be one we enjoyed but one that would bless those who are our guests and neighbors. We have met some amazing people who have blessed us with their kindness and stories. Many of them return often to stay here at the Weston Steamboat Inn and visit Weston. We now are in our 7 th year of operating a BB and are not planning to officially retire soon.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The first year of business always has a strong learning curve. I had a background in hospitality (restaurant management as well as teaching) which helped. But, maybe the more difficult things was working with your spouse and finding a balance. Open communication is essential and finding and using your skills and strengths.
Learning to balance free time with work was a challenge. When we opened in 2020 during covid we were booked many days in row. We were supposed to be semi-retired.! We learned we had to limit our bookings to no more than 4 days in a row. We still wanted time with our own family and grandchildren.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I will talk about myself, Glenna. My degrees are from Kansas State University. Family and Consumer Sciences ED. and MS in Family Econ and Business. My professional background besides teaching is health inspector and restaurant management.
20 years 1997-2017) teaching in Kansas at Blue Valley schools at the alternative school. Developed and implemented the professional culinary program, Pro-Start. During this time I instructed student culinary teams who competed state wide who achieved high rankings. It is so important to believe in your students and what they can accomplish, they will surprise you. Believing and supporting others is what helps us all succeed. Although not always easy.
As far as awards, I have been awarded teacher of the year in Blue Valley and 2014 Kansas Pro-Start teacher of the year. Best of KC bed and breakfast 2023. We have a solid 5 star review for Weston Steamboat Inn.
But I have to say, awards are great but we have to remember the people who have helped us get there. Awards and recognition will fade away but family and friends will always be the most important to me.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Be a learner. Do something everyday to grow your business and yourself. There will be disappointments, but persevere.
Let others be a part of your success.
Be responsible for yourself and your response to others.
Encourage others and yourself.
Bless others and you will be blessed.
Don’t just do it for the money, do it because you find joy in it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://westonsteamboatinn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westonsteamboatinn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Weston-Steamboat-Inn-121359366255213
- Other: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g45038-d21141859-Reviews-Weston_Steamboat_Inn-Weston_Missouri.html
