Beaumont Inn Newsletter

Also see: Spring 2008, Spring 2007, Autumn 2006, Summer 2006, Spring 2006,
Winter 2005

Dear Friends:

2008 surely was the year of change and challenge! We saw $4.00 a gallon gas, a ridiculous increase in food costs and a media blast which could not say anything nice about anyone or anything. We certainly got tired of the chronic barrage of haranguing over the mishandling of big corporate funds by big corporate executives, the sub-prime loan debacle of the banking industry, the woes of the auto industry, etc., etc., etc.. What we didn’t tire of were the wonderful guests who traveled to us for a visit to get away from this nationally played-out sitcom! All in all, we had a good year with a noticeable increase in guests from our 200 mile major market area and folks who took advantage of our packaging and three nights or longer discounts. Yes, “cocooning for comfort” is our new mantra for today’s visitors. We have set our course for 2009 with this in mind as we strive to provide a “value experience” for our travelers of today. (Quick note: Winter rates extend through February 28.) Read on for the poignant news of past and present as we prepare for your next visit with us in Historic Harrodsburg.

Family & Staff Notes

Wedding bells did indeed ring for Dixon (our fifth generation Innkeeper) and Elizabeth Simms of Springfield, Kentucky on September 27, 2008. Of course, we hosted the rehearsal dinner here at the Inn and the wedding was held in Springfield, Kentucky with a beautiful reception at the Simms family farm there as well. What a magical time we had with great weather, great friends and a great ceremony belying the true gift of matrimony as a union of the body, spirit and soul.

Helen continues to keep us all on track here at the Inn and (as if she doesn’t have enough to do!) was selected as one of two Kentucky advisors for the National Trust for Historic Preservation. She attended the National Conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma and is excited about her involvement with the national preservation issues identified for 2009 and beyond.

Becky continues her work as Guest Services Manager at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky. This is a “must see” for those of you who wish to experience the Bourbon Trail here in Kentucky. If you go, be sure to say hello to her. Her latest duties include representing the Distillery on TV and Radio while promoting the many events held at this beautiful landmark distillery.

Speaking of Woodford Reserve Distillery events, our Chef Jerry Broderick will be featured at the distillery on January 24 as he teaches a class on using Bourbon in dishes designed to make anyone’s Super Bowl party a huge success!

Bell Cottage Spa

As we previously reported on our website, the Bell Cottage was transformed in September into our Spa facility ready to relax, renew and rejuvenate you through a serene and sensuous therapy experience. Our Spa menu continues to evolve as we identify additional areas of interest to our clientele. So, whether you enjoy our spa services as a great amenity to a special getaway occasion such as an Anniversary/Birthday, a ladies “Pamper Me Weekend” or simply a desire to escape the tensions of a hectic world, we would love to have you experience the peace and serenity of the Bell Cottage Spa.

***SPECIAL WINTER 2009 NEWSLETTER DISCOUNT*** For those folks booking one of our Lodging/Meal Packages with arrival prior to July 1, 2009, we will offer a 10% discount off any spa session if scheduled at this initial booking. Simply request the Special Winter 2009 Newsletter Discount for this special Spa discount!

Our BIGGEST NEWS for 2009

After the creation of the Old Owl TAVERN in 2004, our attention was directed to the second phase of our “Owl” development plan. This involved the transformation of our existing conference and banquet room (John Augustus Williams room) into a third cocktail and dining venue entitled The Owl’s Nest. Well, the plans were discussed and fussed over until a conversation with a most coveted family friend, Mr. Ralph Anderson of Cincinnati, Ohio, gave us the encouragement to move ahead on the project. He graciously offered us the expertise to initiate the design and coordinate the project with the guidance of his professional staff seasoned with many years of engineering projects all over the world. An offer we could not refuse! So, almost four years to the date of the TAVERN’s opening we set out on a 44 day journey which will ultimately conclude on February 14 – Valentine’s Day. And what a “sweetheart” it will be! The Owl’s Nest will feature a cozy pub atmosphere complete with a small intimate paneled bar and additional designer seating allowing for a most relaxing atmosphere to conclude the activities of the day. Great food, great spirits and great hospitality (along with a 62inch flat screen TV) will be the hallmark of the Nest.

Along with the Owl’s Nest, we are redecorating our two Main Dining Rooms while creating a couple of private dining and/or meeting room scenarios available for those private celebratory or business meeting functions. We can’t wait for you to experience it! Photos soon to be found on our website.

So, Come Check Us Out

Well, there you have it. We are underway for a new year with much to be thankful for and much to look forward to. Our new 2009 Calendar of Events and 2009 Packages are listed for your perusal. Pick a weekend, select a weekday package, relax in the Spa, explore the world of Kentucky Bourbons in the Owl’s Nest, enjoy the casual favorites in the TAVERN and taste once again the classic Beaumont fare of the Main Dining Room. We can’t wait to hear from you. Remember, Spring is just around the corner!