Moving On
Twenty years ago, my husband’s job loss forced a change in our lives. After many years as a major Richmond, KY employer, Phillips Electric moved to Mexico. Unemployment hurts; it is hard to admit, and it can be embarrassing. We all have been touched by misfortunes, haven’t we? And what happens after a set-back? We get up, dust ourselves off and begin anew.
We can think of life as a game. We either take daring chances, or we play it safe. We decided to be daring. We decided to reflect on our specific talents and put them to use. Mine was hospitality, decorating and organization. My husband, Richard’s was bookkeeping, handyman maintenance and talking to people. Teamwork rocks!
We found our niche and historic downtown Richmond, KY needed us. We opened Bennett House B&B and Events. This business rests in a beautiful architectural jewel located in the heart of Central Kentucky. 
Now, almost twenty years and five grandchildren later, it is time to find another daring entrepreneur with a plan to move forward in life. Here’s looking for someone to step up to the plate!
Where do you Live in the Bennett House?
Where do you Live in the Bennett House?
“Where do you live?” This is a daily question, both from B&B guests and the general public. Do you live in the big house or in the house in the back?
We have lived in the big house for nineteen years. We built the house out back eight years ago to provide long or short term rental options.
“But where do YOU live”, I am asked again and again? We live all over! An upstairs bedroom and bath provide our personal dressing and bathing spaces, clothes closet and the ‘no one is allowed to see’ space. We watch TV in the upstairs den, sleep in our bedroom, eat in the dining room and cook in the kitchen.
B&B ownership is the ultimate form of hospitality. We meet the nicest people from all over the world. They come back time and time again. Some claim Richard and me as family. They invite us to dinner and pay for our meal. You can’t beat that!
B&B owners are the face of our community. We provide a snapshot of our local people, places, and things to do. Best of all, we live here in the big house. All over!
Ideas for “Change” Moving Forward
Ideas for “Change” Moving Forward
A Facebook friend posted this awesome compliment in reference to making our life change-“Bittersweet: an iconic and elegant business moves out of the hands that built it, and you guys move on to a wonderful phase of life that you’ve earned. Best Wishes!”
This quote confirms to me that “change is good.” I could even visualize or propose a change in the Bennett House business model. What changes can you see for this prime commercial property located on Main Street in downtown Richmond, Kentucky?
Zoned B-2 (downtown business), the property might serve as professional offices for attorneys, CPA’s, financial managers, etc. Perhaps retail space for a clothing boutique or gift shop would find the Bennett House as their home for a new business. Fine dining in the beautiful space as a tea room is a much-needed addition for the historic district. Or, imagine the personal inspiration with natural light streaming through the beautiful stain-glass windows for an art gallery or studio.
You get the idea. Perhaps the new owner just wants to change back to the original purpose as a private residence. The modern house on the property could then provide a steady income stream as a rental property.
Change or not, the possibilities are endless! Visit us at https://bennetthousebb.com to join the journey!
