editors note
I can’t believe that it’s 18 years already! Way back in 1996 we started the magazine and called it Canadian Country Inns and from there we evolved to where we are now, Inns Magazine. Still HERE and proud to be in business, still standing and most of all getting to talk, write and represent thousands of inns and B&Bs in our industry. That is an accomplishment. When it was decided last May that we were discontinuing the printed magazine, I had that sinking feeling. It was a difficult decision, but my heart went with it. I still get calls from readers missing our printed version, ‘Me too’ I say, no one loves magazines more than me! Well you notice we are still here and you are reading this, our new online magazine has gained an amazing amount of readers, and I thank each and every one of you for joining us here.
It's hard to think 18 years ago but I do remember starting the magazine out of my sweet century town home and as a single girl I lived above the office and used my credit card to start the business. Lots of courage but not a lot of $$ smarts! Today I have visited almost 500 Inns and B&Bs. I love to write and interview, market and breathe this wonderful industry. I especially love when innkeepers ask my help to critique their marketing and or their property to make it better. The friends you make along the way are the most important. Mary White from BnBFinder.com writes a column within our pages called MandM, where she and I answer lots of questions, industry and travel related. We have had a number of chefs contributing to our recipe pages over the years and this year is no exception as we have Chef Ro Cober writing fantastic food articles each issue. The B&B Team and Inn Consulting Partners and Peter Birrell have been long time friends and supporters as many businesses and Inns along the way, I thank all of you. I met one of my best friends through this business, Bebe Woody who owns the beautiful White Doe Inn in Manteo, NC. My list of friends made in the last 18 years here is endless and I am thankful for each one of you!
I love sharing ideas and great places to visit and live for decorating and food ideas.
So to old and new friends please sit back and put your feet up and read along in our great 18th Anniversary issue. I still can’t believe it!
18 Anniversaries to
remember
Mary Hughes, Editor-in-Chief