Today we’d like to introduce you to Charles Kistler.
Hi Charles, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In June of 2018, it was my very first visit to the Silver Heart Inn as a guest. After that first visit, I decided that I would only stay at a bed and breakfast. The experience was magical. From the greeting when I first arrived, the elegant and comfortable room with modern amenities, to the delicious breakfast, I was hooked. On my fourth visit to the inn, I was offered the decision to take over as the new innkeeper since the couple was retiring. I immediately knew this was the place for me. I sold my home in Nebraska and moved to Independence in November of 2021. I was still active-duty military at the time, which was a challenge with early morning work hours and rushing home to clean and prepare rooms for guest check in by 3pm. I finally retired in December of 2023 giving me the option to totally immerse myself in
the inn. Today, with our team of four we host weddings, murder mystery events, family get togethers, make homemade sourdough bread and enjoy the daily tasks of innkeeping. As an innkeeper, I have found the most important factor to success is the welcoming environment and attention to detail in everything we do.
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 biggest obstacle was dual hatting my inn duties with the military. Fortunately, my deployments were over, and I was just a few short minutes away and could quickly head home when needed in a pinch. Another challenge was the historical home. There is no way I could have ever imagined the amount of time and upkeep required for a historical home; however, it is extremely rewarding. After all, how many people do you know living in an 1856 home?
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I spent 20 years in the military as a Human Resources Specialist. This experience prepared me for working with the public under pressure. Today, I am a much better professional in my career field of hospitality. Without being frazzled, I can quickly make decisions needed in the moment with customer buy in. This is important with small upgrades in wedding details, last-minute event changes, and needed updates to a reservation. I have learned to meet guest needs to give them the best experience possible. I love what I do! I love to cook, decorate and clean. Not many people can say that they enjoy their life’s calling every day.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I see the Silver Heart Inn growing into a larger event space. I have plans for an enclosed pavilion on the property to comfortably seat 100 guests. Currently, we can only hold 30 guests for an indoor wedding which can be difficult for summer weddings here. This additional event space will reduce wear and tear on this historic home.
Also, the trend for indoor private hot tubs is growing. I plan to add a private hot tub to our second cottage and split our main house porch into two hot tub areas instead of just one.
Pricing:
- Weddings between 1600 and 5000
- Discounts for booking directly instead of through a travel agency.
- Discount for booking the entire property for events
- Return guest discounts and perks
Contact Info:
- Email: silverheartinn@gmail.com
- Facebook: Silver Heart Inn and Cottages
