Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebecca Darley.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
We are originally from Joliet, Illinois. We always loved staying in bed and breakfasts when we traveled and were intrigued by owning one ourselves someday. When we shared our dream of innkeeping with friends and family, they responded that they could not think of two people who would be more perfect innkeepers. In 2015, we started our search for the perfect place to open our bed and breakfast. We toured properties all over the country for three years before we found the perfect property just outside of Kansas City to create a peaceful retreat for our guests. Our love for entertaining, good food, nature and meeting new people sparked our long-time dream to own a bed and breakfast. But truly we are really just down-to-earth people, who would love to share a bit of what makes us happy with others.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
We had started our search for a Bed and Breakfast by looking at already established properties. With us being new to the hospitality industry, we thought it would be best to take over a property that already had a clientele, website and was well known in the community. But none of the properties that we toured checked all the boxes. This is where we live and we wanted to make a home as well as create an unforgettable experience for our guests. So we had to start from the beginning. We found the perfect property but there was much work to renovate it into a bed and breakfast. We also had to create a marketing plan along with a user friendly website. It was definite a learning experience but after 7 years now we feel like old pros.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Walnut Waters Bed and Breakfast?
Walnut Waters Bed & Breakfast offers a peaceful countryside escape just outside Kansas City, Missouri — where guests can enjoy tranquility without sacrificing convenience. Set on 21 scenic acres take a stroll on the wooded trails or a spin in the paddleboat on our 2½-acre pond where many guests also enjoy fishing. Walnut Waters Bed and Breakfast is a traditional bed and breakfast and features three recently renovated guestrooms, each with private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, TVs, and covered patios overlooking the pond or wooded landscape.. Each morning we serve a full home-cooked breakfast accommodating any dietary restrictions, A private breakfast can also be arranged for those guest wanting more privacy. Guests also can enjoy complimentary refreshments at our coffee bar. We have created the perfect atmosphere to reconnect with nature, loved ones, or friends in a serene setting.
Beyond lodging, Walnut Waters serves as a versatile event venue, hosting weddings, receptions, parties, showers, reunions, and retreats. The venue offers both indoor farmhouse-style charm and beautiful outdoor spaces perfect for gatherings of all kinds. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a special celebration, Walnut Waters Bed & Breakfast provides the perfect blend of comfort, beauty, and hospitality.
We have welcomed guests from all over the U.S. as well as hosted international guests. It is always interesting to meet new people and make new friends.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
We are a traditional Bed and Breakfast. We are not an Airbnb and many people do not understand that there is a major difference. We are licensed, insured, inspected and a legitimate business. Most on Airbnb are not. So the lesson that we have learned is that perceptions of the independent lodging industry can widely vary.
Pricing:
- Pricing begins at $229/night
- We offer discounts for full time military and clergy
- We offer very affordable Elopements and Micro-Weddings
- Many extra packages and embellishments are available
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.walnutwatersbedandbreakfast.com
- Instagram: #walnutwatersbnb
- Facebook: walnutwatersbedandbreakfast@thepeacefulplacelonejack
