"WHERE THEY CAN BE THEMSELVES BUT BE TAKEN CARE OF."

He had to cancel initial reservations due to medical circumstances, but the very understanding Sandy refunded the man and wished him better health. A year later he was able to visit, immediately falling in love with the historic property. Even having his own house in Florida and a son living in the state, the man has visited the B&B roughly 30 times now. Bringing his friends or family along, Sandy has gotten to know many of his loved ones, sharing a deeper connection with the guests

The B&B receives frequent foreign guests, many drawn to the European feel of the property. The most frequent of foreigners are German, typically visiting the state for business. Claudia, an innkeeper who speaks 9 languages, is resilient in breaking language barriers for guests.

“We’re lucky,” said Sandy, “We have really good people.” Many of the employees came with the place, one chef recently retiring at the age of 72. Lavern, a cook at the inn, has been with them since their beginning. Breakfast foods he serves include omelets, fresh fruits, blueberry waffles and their famous french toast.

In keeping up with renovations, the last was roughly late 2018. Hurricanes Matthew and Irma, 2016 and 2017 respectively, flooded the first floor Looking towards the brighter side, Sandy explained they were able to renovate after the first storm and complete what they needed to after the second.

With so much history behind the property, it's hard not to include a long-lasting love story. Acquiring the venue next door took three years for the Wibers, but was well worth it for both the business and historical satisfaction. With the Wibers’ purchase, the Sanchez home and Marin property were united, decades after

Sanchez’s son and Marin’s daughter married. The venue used to host weddings, often ending considerably late in the night. Sandy recalled having to be at the venue at 10:30 sharp to meet with the DJ about timing Now owning the property, weddings start earlier and promptly end at 8:00 P M

A couple that visited the lodging developed a sentimental attachment to the destination, eventually using the inn’s wedding services. First visiting as a couple, they quickly gained an attachment for the home. Not just returning to get engaged, but returning to get married made Sandy’s heart beam with joy. Witnessing their relationship grow showed Sandy she is in the right business for her The couple came for yet another visit, baptizing their first-born at the church they wed in

“We did really well in 2022,” Sandy said. “The rest of the town was dead, but I don't know a single other B&B that changed anything.” The inn switched to keyless locks and a text platform, both more modern methods. Noting that most guests prefer privacy, often having breakfast in their rooms and heading straight up when arriving, Sandy thought the texting platform would be a perfect way to communicate to these guests.

The text message program helps staff stay on top of guests’ needs yet doing so in a way thatiscomfortableforbothparties

Unlike most text programs, there is truly a person on the other side. Utilizing a program called Whistle, employees are actually whistled at until they respond. Sandy pointed out the program is amazing for communicating during emergencies, such as power outages or storms, as she can efficiently notify all guests at once.

Having been through a few difficulties with the business, she believes everything has worked out for the better, always finding the good in nervous situations. As dog lovers themselves, the Wibers have made seven rooms available for pet families. “We get more Christmas cards from the pets who have stayed here than the people,” Sandy fondly recalled. She believes the downtown area is perfect for a morning walk, and she has plenty of recommendations for dog-friendly restaurants and beaches.

Interviewed by: Elisse Nielson

Written By: Celeste Denova

Food and water bowls as well as supplies to fill both are provided for the four-legged guests. Treats and loaner leashes are also welcome to guests, but a favorite are the puppy popsicles given during summer months.

The Bayfront Marin House separates itself from the normal expectation of a bed and breakfast, rejuvenating the industry with their historic take on cozy getaways. Sandy seeks to put a smile on the face of anyone she meets. As she put it, “we just want them to want to come back ”