8 | | Bed & Breakfast News | | Christmas 2016
Just after the Scottish Minister of Tourism launched the Scottish B & B Association and welcomed them as founding members, Carol and Gordon gave a Presentation at‘ Guest Scotland’ on 16th November on the‘ Secrets of their Success’. Here are their six‘ secrets’:
‘ Secret 1’ – Planning & Research
Before you start your business, you need to decide on how to balance what you want for your own lifestyle with what the market needs: what kind of house and where? What part of the market will you aim for? Write an outline business plan- and regularly review and update it.
Discovering and understanding legislation is also vital when you start out. That is where the Bed & Breakfast Association can help- Carol and Gordon found their early membership invaluable.
Using reference sources is very helpful when you start out- Carol & Gordon bought and read‘ How to Start and Run a B & B’( above) by Louise & David Weston, which they recommended( the eBook version is currently free to BBA and SBBA members).
‘ Secret 2’ – Marketing your B & B
Gordon & Carol are great believers in the value of independent accreditation, to reassure and attract guests.
An attractive website with online booking on your homepage is vital. The Bullochs don’ t use any online travel agents( OTAs), so taking bookings directly online is vital to The Dulaig.
On setting your rates: Carol and Gordon emphasised their mantra:“ fair pricing, ensuring value for money”.
Manage and optimise your presence on marketing websites, and on Tripadvisor- and use all‘ free’ marketing, including repeat business and recommendations; other businesses e. g. travel guides and tour companies; and social media.
‘ Secret 3’ – Quality Accommodation
Think carefully about house alterations – make them sympathetic. Take care with décor, fittings and set up to fit the market you are aiming for, and your house style.
Use great beds and bedding!