IAA Bed & Breakfast Association

Growing Your Business Using Our Community Digital Marketing Strategy

The IAA Bed & Breakfast Association helps new customers find your business.  You can START TODAY FOR FREE by either claiming your business listing on our site or you can create your new business listing.

What is the IAA Bed & Breakfast Association? 

 

The IAA Bed & Breakfast Association is a key component of the International Association Alliance’s (IAA) community of associations, organizations, businesses and individuals that provides your business with access to new customers who are looking for your business and the products or services that you provide.

 

Business association memberships help you build your brand awareness, while increasing your brand’s credibility.  This helps you to “close the deal” with new customers.

 

The IAA Bed & Breakfast Association helps establish the bed and breakfast community business standards that help attract independent businesses to become members.  These independent businesses understand the value of being part of an industry group that provides credibility and helps them build their brand. 

 

See how easy and inexpensive it is for your business to use the power of multiple association memberships to build your business.  Instead of spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year, your IAA membership allows you to join the associations whose membership will benefit your business, all for one low membership investment.

Why IAA membership is an investment in your business!

 

 

 

IAA membership is a small investment with big rewards and includes membership in our growing number of business associations which include:

 IAA Bar, Pub & Tavern Association

 IAA Bed & Breakfast Association

 IAA Better Business Alliance

 IAA Boutique, Shop & Store Association

 IAA Brewery, Cidery & Distillery Association

 IAA Café, Diner & Restaurant Association

 IAA Farm & Ranch Stay Association

 IAA Global Green Alliance

 IAA Green Business Alliance

 IAA Guide, Outfitter & Tour Association

 IAA Limousine & Coach Association

 IAA Mall, Market & Outlet Association

 IAA Spa & Wellness Association

 IAA Vineyard & Winery Association

 IAA Wedding Association

 

 

Instead of spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year, your IAA membership allows you to join the associations whose membership will benefit your business, all for one low membership investment.

 

Do you care about people and the environment? 

 

What kind of business do you think your customers want to do business with?  Customers today are looking for businesses that help people and protect the environment.  To address this need, your membership also includes membership in Accessibility International and Sustainability International.

Why IAA membership is important for your business.

 

When it comes to your business, everything you do on the Internet is done to get your business noticed.  You hope that your website, and social media accounts will attract attention and help someone to become your customer.

 

The Internet is a great place to market your business, but the competition is fierce.  Do you get frustrated knowing that your small business has to compete for customers with huge global companies? 

 

Because you are working with limited resources, you have to provide even more paths for your business to be discovered by new customers.  And when they find you, you have to quickly give them good reasons why they should entrust you with their business. 

 

Please, if you want more new customers to find your business, learn how the International Association Alliance can help your business connect with those customers.  You have to be creative with your marketing, giving potential customers unique ways to find your business.

 

When a potential new customer searches for your business, they use a search engine, either Google, Bing, Yahoo, or one of the others.   Google is the most prominent search and two of Google’s top-ranking factors for any website are BACKLINKS, and CONTENT.  

 

Your Social Media accounts are a great example of how you are building your content and building backlinks to your business content.  You can easily multiply this effect by engaging on IAA’s industry Social Media Groups that will enhance your brand’s web exposure.

CATEGORIES

How to Use Instagram to Promote Your Bed and Breakfast *

If your bed and breakfast isn’t on Instagram yet, you’re missing out. Boasting more than 400 million users, Instagram is quickly becoming one of the most popular platforms for social interaction on the web. The idea is simple: Post one photo, give it a great filter...

Recipe from The Yellow House: Cinnamon Roasted Pears

Many of us are staying at home right now, which means we are cooking more at home than we used to. If you are like me, you may be looking to try something new. You have also probably found yourself with a little extra anxiety about making a run to the store when you...

Is Your Bed & Breakfast Instagram Account engaging? *

  Facebook and Instagram are designed for different tasks.  Though they are both social media sites you use to connect with your friends, their unique features crave different audiences. Both platforms are popular, image-centric social sites, but you must...

FREE eBook: The Traveler’s Journey to Your B&B *

Every traveler who books online goes through a journey. This free eBook will cover all the steps that traveler’s take on their online booking journey: Dreaming stage Planning stage Booking stage Experiencing stage Learn everything you need to know about their online...

Stop Selling, Social Media Works by Engaging Your Visitors P

Start Engaging Others With Your Social Media   Do you use social media marketing to grow your business?  Are you wondering how to get others to engage with your social media?  Would you like to have others say great things about your brand or product on your...

A Doctor’s Prescription for Good Customer Service

I wanted to share a great post from my favorite customer service guru, Shep Hyken.    A Doctor’s Prescription for Good Customer Service Here’s another great story we can learn from. This reminds us that having a good system with good people who understand how to...

You Must Understand How COVID Has Changed Social Media

Social Media Changes You Need to Make in a Coronavirus World The Pandemic has turned our world upside down.  It’s already hard to remember how we conducted our lives and businesses just a few short weeks ago.  We’re all asking many questions.  How can we stay...

Trail Hikes around Waynesville

As an innkeeper, I get asked a lot about local attractions and activities, and one of the most common of those is where the best hiking trails are located. Because I am still new to the area, I didn't really have much knowledge about the local trail systems, so I...

Your Guide to the Best Day in Historic Fernandina Beach

Historic downtown Fernandina Beach is known as Amelia Island's most charming corner, decorated with ornate homes from the Gilded Age and more quaint boutiques and shops than anyone can count. This is one piece of the island that you won't want to miss. Here are our...

Pros and Cons of Staying in a Bed-and-Breakfast P

With the growth of digital marketing, there are now more options for travel accommodations than ever before. Whole genres of travel lodging have arisen thanks to the quick, efficient, and secure marketing and procurement available online. However, one of the most...

A Guide to Finding the Best Places to Stay in St. Augustine

If you're looking for a vacation destination that has a little something for everyone in your family, there's no better place to visit on your next trip than St. Augustine. With stunning beaches, a thriving culinary scene, a grand downtown area steeped in history, and...

Hard Cider Rules in Western North Carolina

With the growing popularity of alternative cocktails including hard seltzers and infused vodkas, alcoholic cider is a very popular choice. And hard cider rules in Western North Carolina! Yes, even in Asheville, aka "Beer City." Although it's not clear when or where...

Can You Name Ten Reasons Your Customers Do Business With You P

Can You Give Me Ten Reasons to do Business With You?   It’s a very valid question that you should ask yourself.  Can you give me ten reasons I should do business with you or your company?  I’m talking about good reasons that have substance and are unique....

Trail Hikes around Waynesville

As an innkeeper, I get asked a lot about local attractions and activities, and one of the most common of those is where the best hiking trails are located. Because I am still new to the area, I didn't really have much knowledge about the local trail systems, so I...

Great Takeout Restaurants in Hendersonville, NC

Whether you’re looking for an easy night in, a spontaneous picnic in the woods or you want to socially distance, picking up takeout in Hendersonville is just as delicious as a full sit down restaurant. Here are a couple of great restaurants that will package up their...

Social Listening Energizes Your Digital Marketing Strategy P

Can Social Listening Improve Your Marketing?   It’s not easy to build an effective Digital Marketing Strategy.  All the content bombarding your audience every day makes it difficult to garner the attention you need.  The question is, what can you do to stand out?...

Your Brand’s Authenticity Must be Unscripted and Genuine *

You Can’t Script Authenticity in Your UX   Your Authenticity is Customer Focused   It’s easy to know when you are dealing with a customer service representative who is less than sincere.  They lack authenticity which goes hand in hand with their insincerity....

4 Types Of Guests Will Stay At Your Bed & Breakfast *

Each of your Bed & Breakfast guests is unique and will have their own reason to visit your area.  People travel for many reasons, though there are certain common guest types that you may be called upon to host at your property.  Can you name the different traveler...

3 Reasons to Visit the White Oak Conservation Center

Visit the White Oak Conservation Center in Yulee, Florida, for a wildlife experience like no other. This exciting day trip near Amelia Island allows you to get up close and personal with some of the world’s endangered species. Witness the amazing work done here,...

3 Great Breweries to Visit on Amelia Island *

What's your drink of choice while on vacation? For some, no getaway is complete without a fruity cocktail. Meanwhile, others simply enjoy the taste of a refreshing, ice-cold beer. If you fall into the latter category, then you've landed on the right page! The...

Why Staying at The Addison on Amelia Island Is a Safe Choice P

The Future of Travel Leisure travel is on hold for now while we band together to “flatten the curve” of the pandemic. We’re all yearning to travel and, soon enough, we’ll be able to. In the meantime, many are asking what traveling will look like in our post-pandemic...

Live Music in Asheville NC During COVID-19

One of the many reasons people visit Wildberry Lodge and the Asheville area is to check out our wonderfully divergent, eclectic, and happening music scene. Due to COVID-19, music venues large and small were forced to close, not just in Asheville, but throughout...

Has your B&B responded to Google’s mobile-first approach P

The time has come once again — Google has changed its algorithm. As the most powerful and widely-used search engine in the world, it’s not surprising that businesses across all industries scramble when they hear this news. They need to make sure that their websites...

How to attract more B&B guests to your region using destination marketing *

One of the most powerful traveller review sites in the world has spoken, and the top destinations for 2018 have been revealed. According to TripAdvisor users, some of the best places to visit this year include Paris, London, Bali, Prague and New York City. Perhaps you...

Get outdoors: LOT’s of public activities in safe venues

Do you suspect the Covid quarantine has driven live performance off the New England stage? Not so! Many places are presenting outdoor music and other entertainments in socially distance settings, with safeguard such as online ticket purchases and limited or timed...

Choosing the Best St. Augustine Beach Resort

You've decided to spend your vacation on or near St. Augustine Beach. Where will you stay? It depends on what you're looking for. Are you looking for a place with everything you need at your fingertips? Do you want an inexpensive place where you can rest before going...

5 marketing lessons from businesses thriving during COVID-19 P

The COVID-19 global pandemic caused dramatic shifts in the way we do business. But those changes aren’t all negatives. In fact, there are a few marketing lessons you can walk away with as a result. As Bob Liodice, CEO of the Association of National Advertisers (ANA),...

3 Ways To Fall in Love on Valentine’s Day in St. Augustine

There’s no better way to show your love than with a romantic trip to St. Augustine! From start to finish, a Valentine’s Day in St. Augustine will fill your days with romance, charm, and affection. Hand in hand with your lover, explore the Ancient City’s picturesque...

Everything You Need to Know About Hiking on Amelia Island

It’s no secret that Amelia Island offers a little bit of everything to visitors and locals alike. From beautiful beaches to historic architecture, you’ll find it all! One of our favorite things to appreciate around the area? The outdoors, of course! There’s an...

How to protect the privacy of your small business

Much like an entrepreneur would incorporate a business to ensure it receives limited liability protection, it is critical that owners of small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) emphasize protecting the privacy of a small business. Data breaches and cybersecurity...

Market your bed and breakfast using other people’s content P

I wanted to share the following post that first appeared on Little Hotelier.  How you can use other people’s content to market your B&B Share this 26SHARES Facebook16 Twitter6 LinkedIn Email4 Being active on the web and developing a positive online presence can be...

5 of the Best Niagara Falls Christmas Events

Is a relaxing getaway on your Christmas wish list this year? We can help make it come true! Below, you’ll find some of our favorite Niagara Falls Christmas events. They’re all a short drive from our bed and breakfast in Clarence, NY! From gingerbread houses to...

Art and Craft Events Around Asheville NC

The general Asheville area has become a mecca for artists of all types. It's definitely a hotbed of musical creativity and talent, rivaling its Tennessee neighbor Nashville for musical supremacy. The creative vibe and style also extends to the visual arts, from...

Where to Enjoy Horseback Riding in St Augustine P

Escape the ordinary and treat yourself to a unique adventure in St. Augustine. This stunning historic city is known for its scenic landscapes and peaceful surroundings. Here, you can leave behind your boring daily routine, connect with nature, and enjoy the best St....

Holiday Breakfast for a Crowd: Creme Brulee French Toast P

Maybe the kids (and their friends?) are home for Spring Break. Or the whole extended family is getting together over a holiday brunch and you’ve got your hands full with the dying and hiding of Easter eggs. Or you volunteered to put together a wedding morning...

Your Guide to the Best Holiday Lights in Asheville

It's hard to believe that we're already thinking of the winter holidays when summer is just ending, but we've got to make those plans early to concoct the best strategy for seeing all the best holiday lights in the best season of the year! What a lovely idea for a...

5 Lessons From Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Report *

Euromonitor International has published its annual Top City Destinations Ranking report, detailing international tourist arrivals in 100 of the world’s leading cities. For small hotels and B&Bs, it’s a good chance to see the performance of the local area, discover...

5 Sure Signs of Spring in Asheville *

When the weather is favorable, there are so many great places and things to see in the greater Asheville area. How do we know that spring is coming? Here are 5 sure signs of spring in Asheville NC! Spring Temps Increase We are starting to see more days with highs in...

Should You Promote Your Destination Instead of Your B & B? *

Few of us have grown up without an iconic image pressed into our memory.  An image of a place that we feel compelled to visit.  It might be the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids in Egypt or countless other treasures around the globe. Most travelers...

Ensure That Sustainability is Part of Your Business Plan

Inject Sustainability into Your Business Plan    Sustainability Can’t be an Add-on   Sustainability can’t be an add-on or simply tacked onto your companies business plan.  It needs to be infused into the core of your companies culture and central your the...

You Can Make Your Content Amazing by Analyzing It *

We All Feel That Our Content Matters   As we write our Blog posts, articles and other web content we do so with one thing in the back of our minds.  Admit it, we all worry because everything we produce will be ranked by GOOGLE!  Whether our content lives or dies...

What Your Bed and Breakfast Should Be Tracking And Why *

The powerful tool that should be part of your Bed & Breakfast marketing strategy to attract, reach and convert guests is social media.  Facebook is the most popular of all the social networks available. Over a billion people globally use Facebook to connect to a...

Hard Cider Rules in Western North Carolina

With the growing popularity of alternative cocktails including hard seltzers and infused vodkas, alcoholic cider is a very popular choice. And hard cider rules in Western North Carolina! Yes, even in Asheville, aka "Beer City." Although it's not clear when or where...

The Best Destination to Host Your Florida Bachelorette Party

A bachelorette party can be one of the most exciting weekends of a young woman’s life, but only if you do it the right way! There are dozens of classic destinations for this fun tradition, but Amelia Island is by far the best. This Floridian island has everything you...

4 Rules for Successfully Marketing Your B&B Online *

Rule #1.  Minnows Can't Compete with Whales!   You know how frustrating it is marketing your business online.  You understand that it's almost impossible to be found when you are a tiny minnow, swimming in an ocean filled with whales.... For your online marketing...

Christmas at The Yellow House

This year at The Yellow House, we wanted to do something special for the guests who were spending Christmas with us. We weren't sure what to do, so one of our colleagues challenged us with a question: if we imagined our guests waking up at the inn on Christmas...

Your Guide to the Best St. Augustine Ghost Tours

With such a rich past that dates back over 450 years, it’s no surprise that the Nation’s Oldest City has its fair share of spirits. St. Augustine is considered one of the most haunted cities in the United States. If you’re fascinated by the paranormal, you’ll be...

Enjoy Four Seasons Weather in Remarkable St. Augustine

If you think that St. Augustine is a summer-only destination, then we’re about to rock your world! In addition to the city’s unforgettable charm, St. Augustine weather is perfect all year long. During the cold months, St. Augustine is the perfect place to escape from...

What Happened to Customer Service, it’s Expected Now P

You Need to Know, Your Customer Service is a Differentiator It wasn’t that long ago that you would go to a store, dine at a restaurant, do business with a vendor or call a customer support center and notice how good the customer service was.  Even then a great service...

You Can Create Images People Love to Share *

What is visual content marketing?   Visual content marketing uses images, rather than words, to communicate a message about your business, product or service. Visuals are a snackable way to express ideas. Visuals are a growing part of social media and...

Hidden Attractions in St. Augustine That You Must Visit P

Some will say that St. Augustine is an attraction in and of itself. Just roaming the cobblestone streets of this charming north Florida coastal town is a wonderful travel experience. However, if you’re really interested in digging into this town’s history, culture,...

How Can Social Listening Energize Your Digital Marketing?

Can Social Listening Improve Your Marketing?   It’s not easy to build an effective Digital Marketing Strategy.  All the content bombarding your audience every day makes it difficult to garner the attention you need.  The question is, what can you do to stand out?...

Memorable Remarkable and Relatable Word of Mouth Marketing

Word of Mouth Marketing Defined   According to the Business Dictionary, Word of Mouth Marketing is:   “An oral or written recommendation made by a satisfied customer to the prospective customers of a good or service.  Considered to be the most effective form...

How to Enjoy Eco-Friendly Travel to St. Augustine, FL 

Reduce your carbon footprint while celebrating your best vacation yet in St. Augustine. Discover the great outdoors, try some local cuisine, and tour the Old City’s charming streets. There is so much to see and do in St. Augustine—enjoy it all without harming the...

Christmas at The Yellow House Bed & Breakfast *

This year at The Yellow House, we wanted to do something special for the guests who were spending Christmas with us. We weren't sure what to do, so one of our colleagues challenged us with a question: if we imagined our guests waking up at the inn on Christmas...

5 Ways to Experience the Colonial Quarter in St. Augustine *

It’s no secret that St. Augustine is one of the most enchanting places you’ll ever visit! To get the most out of your time exploring the Nation’s Oldest City, you have to visit the Colonial Quarter in St. Augustine. The authentic...

Top 5 Historic Sites in Asheville NC

What an awesome time to get out and explore the beautiful city of Asheville! The weather is cooler, the fall colors are fantastic, and we've got so many things to do here! If you're of an historic turn of mind, you will find so many sites of interest in our city. Here...

Why Cloud Technology Will Guarantee B & B Positive ROI *

Technology is one of the most essential investments you can make for your B&B. Cloud technology, in particular, not only makes life generally easier at your property, but also works tirelessly to increase bookings and revenue, ensuring your return on investment...

How to Enjoy the Fall Foliage near Niagara Falls

Did you know that Asa Ransom House is located just 28 miles from the roaring waters at Niagara Falls? It’s a spectacular attraction year-round with incredible vistas. Fill your camera with stunning photographs and your head with unforgettable memories by checking out...

5 solutions B&Bs still use which have become redundant *

Due to fear of increasing expenses, many B&B owners are still using outdated hotel technologies. Although it may seem like a sacrifice in the name of saving money, this redundant technology is only hindering the way they manage their property and is inhibiting...

Valentine’s Day and Long Island Winterfest

With our house manager Deb McKay at the helm, A Butler's Manor is open this winter and we're pleased that guests have been enjoying the quiet beauty of the winter season with us. If you didn't realize that you could get away to A Butler's Manor in the offseason, I...

Complete guide to B & B website design *

Bed and breakfast websites For bed and breakfasts and other small accommodation providers, it’s vital that the impact and importance of their website is not underestimated. For most of your guests, their first impression of your brand began long before they arrived...

What to Look for in Your Beach Vacation Resort *

Just down the coast from Jacksonville, St. Augustine is a town rich in history set along beautiful sunlit beaches. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States and is known as "The Ancient City." Today, tourists stroll...

How to use Facebook Messenger Ads For Your B&B *

Businesses can no longer deny the power and potential Facebook has for advertising their product or service. Facebook has 2.07 billion monthly active users and is the most popular social media platform worldwide.  Facebook Messenger Ads are also changing the way...

Sales Prospecting in the Age of Digital Relationships *

A Sales Relationship Used to Begin With a Smile and Handshake   Two components of reliable relationship building in sales used to be a smile and a handshake.  Things have certainly changed in the digital world.  So many of today’s interactions take place without...

What is Your Latte Factor and Why Does it Matter?

Your Latte Factor Equates Your Litter Factor   Have you heard of the Latte Factor?  It’s a phrase that was created as a metaphor for all the little things we spend money on during the course of a typical day.  These purchases are usually done with little thought...

New Hampshire’s Rock My Soul Kicks Up the Spirit at Christmas

When hard times happen, New England people join hands and push back. Rock My Soul, a New Hampshire roots-based, raise-the-rafters gospel group, has spent months recording a Christmas album from singers’ homes. It is OUT! Need Joy? Since 2004, Rock My Soul has been...

Great Spring Happenings in Asheville NC *

We’re updating the old adage of “April showers bring May flowers” into ”April’s Here, Grab A 9-Iron And A Beer, and Let’s Cheer!” WNC is blessed with an abundance of great golf, both public and private, as well as a plethora of breweries, live music and more-and we’re...

Do You Know How to Measure Your Customer Retention? P

This post is shared from one of my favorite customer service guru's Shop Hyken, author of theThe Shepard Letter HOW TO MEASURE CUSTOMER RETENTION                       Get ready to do a little math. While not my...

What Makes a Product Sustainable and Why We Should Care? *

What is Sustainability, and Why is it Important?   We talk a lot about the importance of sustainability and making sure the products we purchase are sustainable. But what is it, exactly, that makes a product sustainable? As you might suspect, “sustainable” can...

Your Social Media Posts Aren’t Word of Mouth Marketing P

Social Media Dominates the Conversation   Whether on social media or through word of mouth, next week’s sales are driven by this week’s conversations about your brand.  The best way to grow your business is to help your customers do it for you.   Social...

Short Registration Forms Result in Better Visitor Engagement P

Don’t Use Lengthy Registration Forms   Anything you require your visitors to do, creates a barrier between you and them.  Think about what your response is when you are asked to complete a form with lots of questions.  Either you ignored it and clicked away or...

How Web Analytics Measure Your Digital Marketing Success P

Web Analytics Measure and Quantify   Web Analytics Measure Your Success   Web analytics is the measurement, data collection, analysis and reporting of web data.  This tracking and analyzing of data is done to help understand and optimize web usage.   Using...

What Do Your Guests Really Care About During Their Stay? *

As technology transforms our lives, lodging around the globe is taking the opportunity to adopt technology into their rooms and operations. This technology impresses the guests who stay at these properties, but it adds convenience while improving the guest experience...

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Asheville Anytime! P

Greetings from Wildberry Lodge in Asheville NC, where Yellowstone meets the Smokies. People often ask us "when is the best time to visit Asheville?" The answer may (or may not) surprise you: any time of year is a great time to make a trek to Western North Carolina....

How do you market your B&B (and is it the right strategy)? *

When it comes to promoting your B&B, it’s easy to get comfortable with the same tricks and ideas that you’ve used time and time again. When something is working — or at least working well enough — you may not be motivated to switch it up. However, is your...

Embracing Business Sustainability Has Challenges and Rewards

What is a Sustainable Business?   A Sustainable business or green business, is a business that has minimal negative impact on the global or local environment, community, society, or economy.  A sustainable business embraces the concept of the triple bottom line...

Save Time Scheduling Your Bed & Breakfast Social Media Posts *

If you don't have extra time each day, it’s difficult for you to regularly check and update their various Bed & Breakfast business social media accounts. Scheduling your Social Media posts is the best way to recover your freedom because it decreases the time you...

5 Sure Signs of Spring in Asheville NC

When the weather is favorable, there are so many great places and things to see in the greater Asheville area. How do we know that spring is coming? Here are 5 sure signs of spring in Asheville NC! Save Big With Our Winter Special At Wildberry Lodge! For those who...

Offbeat Things To Do in Asheville NC

Offbeat. Funky. Eclectic. These are words often used to describe Asheville, a city that contradicts itself as often as a new craft brewery opens. Asheville seamlessly blends today's cutting-edge art and technology with its centuries-old Appalachian folk past. Unlike...

Mouth Watering Peach Crepes Recipe In Asheville, NC *

One of the bright spots to emerge from a prolonged period of staying at home is the fact that people have been honing their culinary skills. As a result, one of the most popular topics online over the past few months has been recipes. Wildberry Lodge would like to...

Nights of Lights St. Augustine, Your Gateway to a Magical Holiday

You haven’t truly experienced St. Augustine until you’ve seen its unique architecture covered in millions of dazzling lights and twinkling with holiday splendor. Every holiday season, Nights of Lights St. Augustine, captures the hearts of all...

Where Is the Best Lodging Near Fort Clinch State Park?

What brings you to Amelia Island? Natural beauty is the No. 1 reason visitors come to our area each year. Amelia Island is home to hundreds of acres of hiking trails, bike paths, fishing holes, and more across nearby state parks. Fort Clinch State Park is one of our...

Join the Manor’s Sleep Around Club

It started out as a joke when a room wasn’t available for the entire span of time that a guest wanted to book, necessitating a change of rooms during their visit. “You’re joining the Sleep Around Club,” we’d tell them. “The elite club of people who have slept in every...

Now Entrepreneurs Embrace Sustainability Becoming Eco-preneurs

Is Sustainability A Smart Choice For Your Business?   Beginning in the 1980’s eco-awareness grew from the growth in pollution during the 1960’s.  Today growing consumer demand has brought sustainability into the main stream in business practices. Sustainable...

Step Aboard for One of the Best Erie Canal Cruises

In 1817, construction began. By 1825, one of the most famous engineering feats had been completed — the Erie Canal! Mostly dug by hand, this 363-mile wonder stretched from Albany to Buffalo, connecting the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River. It...

10 Steps to Get Your Business Indexed by Google *

If Google Doesn’t Index Your Site, You’re Invisible   If Google doesn’t index your website, then you’re pretty much invisible.  To the rest of the world your site doesn’t even exist.  You won’t show up in any search queries, and you have almost no chance of...

Web Accessibility is Good for Business and it’s the Law P

What Defines Web Accessibility?   Web accessibility is ensuring there are no barriers that prevent interaction with, or access to, websites on the Internet by anyone with disabilities.  Correctly designed websites, using Universal Design principles, that are...

Top Tips for Winter Visitors

This morning we woke up to a beautiful snow covered landscape! This was the first "real" snow that we have seen since we moved to the area, and I have to say, it is a gorgeous sight. Locals tell us that this has been an unseasonably warm December and January, so we...

“I gotta get outta here”– Surviving Winter, 2021

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes Not long ago, we got a call from a woman in Queens looking to get out of the city for a few days. “I’ve gotta get outta here. Are you–and the restaurants– open right now? Nothing’s open here, and I just want someone to serve me a meal...

6 Reasons to Combine Your Walk-In and Online Distribution *

Many bed & breakfast owners prioritize their online distribution strategy, and with good reason.  This is done because a growing number of travelers are using online resources to browse accommodations.  Ultimately many will choose to their upcoming stay online....

Create a consistent social media strategy for your B and B P

Your social profiles for your B&B need to be run much differently to your personal accounts. While you may decide in the moment what photo to share on Facebook and what Instagram filter to use for your personal feeds, you need to develop a consistent social media...

Your Brand’s Authenticity Must be Unscripted and Genuine P

You Can’t Script Authenticity in Your UX   Your Authenticity is Customer Focused   It’s easy to know when you are dealing with a customer service representative who is less than sincere.  They lack authenticity which goes hand in hand with their insincerity....

5 Fun Fall Activities In Asheville NC P

There's something about being up here in the mountains of Western North Carolina which tends to bring out the explorer in people. Our area is alive with tourist attractions, outdoor activities, fun things to do, unique events and a wide variety of culinary treats--and...

7 New Businesses and Eateries to Try in Asheville NC

Welcome 2021! Here in Western North Carolina, where "Yellowstone" meets the Great Smoky Mountains, we are as excited about 2021 as a child watching fresh flakes of snow drift down from the sky. We are especially excited about the new businesses in greater Asheville...

Why SEO Is So Valuable For Your Bed and Breakfast P

Search engine optimisation is essential for every business because it informs search engines that the information on your site is the most relevant to the user, drawing more organic traffic to your website by ranking your B&B higher up on results pages. Travelers...

Celebrate 2021 With Festive Cocktails And Mocktails!

The new year is here, and many of us are not sad at all to see the old one go! So, let’s celebrate 2021 with festive cocktails and mocktails! Cocktails And Mocktails? A trend that has gained substantial ground in recent years is the unexpected surge in non-alcoholic...

Networking is a Great Way to Promote Your Amazing Blog *

Let’s Turn Our Attention to Networking for Blog Promotion   What is Networking?  A quick online search found the following definition which I feel is pretty appropriate.  Networking is “the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and...

Make Your Blog Posts More Engaging and Conversational P

To Be Effective Your Blog Posts Must Be Engaging   I’m sure that you’ve already heard that your blog posts need to be written in a style that is  “conversational”.  You may not understand why it is important to do this.  Your posts are telling your story and...

Should Your B&B Jump on the Snapchat Bandwagon?

It might be easy to brush off Snapchat as the social networking platform that is used exclusively by teenagers and their friends, but as a small hotel operator, you shouldn’t ignore this powerful social media tool. Snapchat allows its users to send messages that will...

How to use Google Hotel Ads at your B&B *

With the launch of Google Hotel Ads (GHA), Google has simultaneously made it easier for hotels to reach their guests and for travellers to find the perfect room wherever they roam. If you’re thinking of making the plunge, see how Google Hotel Ads can deliver a revenue...

Accessibility Toolbar