On this new collection, we highlight unbiased lodges to study extra concerning the on a regular basis challenges, rewards, and alternatives of operating an unbiased property.
Location: Thibodaux, Louisiana
Occupancy: 94 rooms
Open: 12 months-round
Web site: thecarmelinn.com
Surrounded by massive oak timber and southern mansions alongside Bayou Lafourche, the Carmel Inn and Suites is a Louisiana landmark recognized for its family-run hospitality, which incorporates complimentary morning breakfast. We chatted with operations supervisor Rhonda R. Gaubert to study extra about operating a profitable unbiased property within the coronary heart of Cajun nation.
Inform us just a little bit about your property – its historical past and what makes it distinctive.
Rhonda: Effectively, this space and this property is stuffed with historical past. Actually, we’re a historic landmark lodge. In 1855 it was a convent and then a catholic highschool. My husband’s household – the Gaubert household – purchased the constructing and in 1973 remodeled it right into a Vacation Inn. It operated underneath different flags as properly however, in 2009, the lodge was restored to replicate its historical past and was renamed the Carmel Inn & Suites. My husband, Greg Gaubert, is managing companion and proprietor and our household has been operating it since then. At this time, it’s ranked the #1 lodge in Thibodaux by TripAdvisor.
How do you promote/promote your property – by way of Journey Advisor? Phrase of mouth?
Rhonda: We positively depend upon on-line opinions and bookings by way of TripAdvisor and Expedia. We even have an incredible relationship with Nichols State College, which is situated in Thibodaux, so phrase of mouth is essential to us. We deal with our friends like household, whether or not they’re dad and mom visiting their faculty scholar or guests who’re a part of the medical tourism and eco-tourism within the space.
Do you cater to a sure sort of demographic? (household pleasant vs extra catered towards adults/honeymooners, and many others.)
Rhonda: You could be stunned however we’ve got hosted folks from all around the world. We also have a translator obtainable on the desk who can translate in 10 totally different languages. It’s not simply the college drawing them. There are others who go to our a part of the bayou system, and all of the historic plantations close by. We even have had many films filmed in and round Thibodaux, just like the Ray Charles story, “The Haunting,” and “The Butler.” We’ve had quite a lot of Hollywood actors keep right here on the lodge.
What are a few of the ache factors you will have in relation to shopping for merchandise/supplying your lodge with merchandise?
Rhonda: We’re a mother and pop operation, so our price range is tight, and we don’t have the storage to purchase provides in bulk. That may be difficult when there are buy minimums on sure gadgets. So we’ve got to be very strategic about ordering what we want for the property. However we additionally attempt to provide an area really feel. Our bathtub cleaning soap is from an area natural distributor, and our espresso is from a Louisiana brewer. Individuals discover once you use eco-friendly merchandise which might be distinctive to your group.
What recommendation would you give to these new to proudly owning/managing an indy lodge?
Rhonda: Effectively, it’s important to perceive that it’s a life dedication. You must be absolutely concerned to make it work. We deal with our 24 workers like household, so they’re additionally invested in our success. It does take time and effort. We’re not New Orleans, Baton Rouge or Lafayette, so it has taken a while for extra folks to learn about us and know concerning the totally different actions and points of interest in our space. Yearly, we welcome extra friends.
At American Lodge, we ship all you want, once you want it … so you may deal with what issues most. Discover our huge product assortment at americanhotel.com.
