As the (dreaded) inspector for the Maryland Bed & Breakfast Association, I have the good fortune to visit the member inns all over the state. Not only does this process support the mission of the Association, it allows me to
see the diverse array of inns in Maryland. Urban inns in Baltimore, Chesapeake Bayside manors, small town inns surrounded by history, and, this past week a Farmstay…the Crow Farm B&B in Kennedyville.
On almost 400 acres of sprawling countryside peacefulness, Judy and Roy Crow raise Angus cattle and are in the process of planting a 4 acre vineyard in another venture that will produce future rewards. But this is not just another working farm. Recently Judy and Roy opened their farm to guests, with 3 comfortable guest rooms with private baths, this inn has positioned itself for the AGRI-Tourism market. With about 80 head of Angus cattle, and a motto to “stay original”, they also provide grass-fed (not stall force-fed) meat, sans hormonal growth injections, to the local restaurants and markets.
What a great niche for a farm only about an hour away from the mega-populations of Philly and Baltimore, where most families have never seen cattle other than on a piece of styrofoam wrapped in Saran-Wrap at the local Giant food store.
One of the keys to occupancy (and therefore, financial) success is for an inn to the BEST at what they do in comparison to other similar and nearby properties. Finding the niche that fits YOUR inn…whether AGRI-Tourism like Crow Farm, or historical relevance and authenticity, or the finest event venue in the region, or Going Green, or soft-adventure home base… and to attract MORE than your fair share of the traveling or vacation market, it is important…NO CRITICAL… to find what your inn is BEST at, and then market it, market it, market it.
Welcome to the MBBA, Judy and Roy. I believe you have positioned your farmstay in a way that will be rewarding for you…and Babe (the retreiver) and Curious (the calico). Scott
