Running a bed and breakfast (B&B) is extremely rewarding, enjoyable and varied, but it is not an easy option; it requires commitment, energy and enthusiasm, and it can very busy indeed. Before you embark on a decision that will have a huge effect on your life and the lives of those around you, you will need to be sure that running a B&B is the right thing for you to do. Some questions for you to ask yourself - Do you have what it takes, physically and mentally to run a B&B?
- How will it affect your family and lifestyle?
- How would you feel about having strangers in your home?
- Have you thought through the financial implications?
Case Study What needs to be done in the typical day of a B&B? - Be up and ready in time to prepare and cook breakfast – some guests may need to be up and out by half past seven, so you will need to be up by half past six.
- Serve breakfast (often at different times), and take time to talk to your guests and ensure they have everything they need.
- When guests have left the dining room, clear and tidy dishes and prepare bills for anyone departing.
- After the guests have left for the day, start cleaning the bedrooms, bathrooms and public areas ready for new arrivals; make beds and tidy all areas for those guests staying on.
- Do daily routines; laundry, shopping, ironing and any daily maintenance – wear and tear will be greater than in a domestic household, and paintwork may need touching up, light bulbs replacing, kettles de-scaling, the garden weeding and the grass cutting (these aspects are all important in ensuring a positive first impression).
- Complete paperwork (you are running a business), pay invoices, send out brochures, and respond to any enquiries, by phone or e-mail.
- Welcome your new guests when the ringing of the front doorbell announces their arrival.
- Explain everything, before offering them a cup of tea and advice on where to go for dinner.
This is an extract taken from the book, How to run a quality bed & breakfast ISBN 9-780709 582779 – R.R.P - £9.99 | 