The initial text gives you a bit of information about myself and how I started in this industry.  Towards the end of the page is a list of key areas where I’ll be able to help you get going on running a successful Bed and Breakfast business of your own.

I started running my own two-bedroomed Bed and Breakfast business at Castleton House in Mere, West Wiltshire in 2003.  My occupancy rates average 65% throughout the year, with many repeat and recommended customers.

In the late 1990s I read Hotel & Catering Management at Sheffield Hallam University and am a Member of the Institute of Hospitality.  My time at University also taught  me to become more profit focused and gave me a deeper understanding of the importance of customer needs and changing trends.

Over the years I have been assessed by the AA and Quality in Tourism who implement grading for Visit England and have consistently achieved 4 stars and on my last inspection a Silver award, and Castleton House has an excellent profile on Trip Advisor.   I can also advise on wheather to advertise in Alistair Sawday’s Special Places to Stay, Wolsey Lodge, Bed and Breakfast Nationwide, Quintessential Bed and Breakfast and Britain’s Finest – to name just a few.  I’m also happy to help with Google Analytics and MailChimp.  I also use on-line marketing tools such as Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

You might like to read my article written for the on-line forum Life After London http://www.lifeafterlondon.com/bb-should-you-consider-it-in-your-new-home/

I can help you with

• How running a B&B might impact and enrich your existing lifestyle
• Complying with current legislation
• Save you money on how to source providers of card payment machines
• Show you where to source inexpensive and effective on-line booking systems
• Identifying your target market according to the accommodation you offer and where you live, helping you reach more customers with specific advertising.
• Talk to you about website promotion and Search Engine Optimisation, and help you to save money on expensive advertising
• Provide you with an understanding of Google Analytics
• Where to advertise – both on and off-line
• What the grading inspectors will be looking for
• Establishing room rates for your property
• Turnover targets and the implications of reaching the VAT limit
• Running through the practicalities of where the guests will need have access to in your home
• Advice on suppliers of beds, bedding, linen, insurance companies, printers and furniture,
• Obtaining Food Hygiene Saftey Certificates

There is more information on my story into the world of running a Bed and Breakfast business published in the Western Daily Press in July 2013 http://www.southwestbusiness.co.uk/news/01082013110017-gail-garbutt-keen-to-pass-on-her-know-how-so-others-can-thrive-in-the-b-b-trade/