So, you’ve decided to open a bed and breakfast? Congratulations! You’re about to embark on an adventure filled with charming guests, homemade scones, and the occasional clogged toilet at 2 a.m. (It happens. Be prepared.)
Running a B&B is a dream for many, but to make that dream a reality, you need more than cozy rooms and good coffee. Here are seven must-dos to set yourself up for success—and keep your sanity intact.
1. Define Your Vibe (A.K.A. What Makes You Special?)
Are you a romantic countryside retreat? A hip urban escape? A dog-friendly paradise? Your brand identity should guide everything from your decor to your breakfast menu. Guests will book with you because of the experience you offer, so lean into what makes you unique.
Pro Tip: Pick a theme and stick with it! If your place is a rustic farmhouse, don’t suddenly add neon art and modern glass furniture. Consistency is key.
2. Get Your Licenses & Permits in Order (Boring, But Necessary)
Paperwork isn’t glamorous, but trust us—you do NOT want a surprise visit from the health inspector before you’ve dotted all your i’s and crossed your t’s. Check local zoning laws, get the right business licenses, and make sure you have proper insurance.
Pro Tip: Some areas have specific rules for short-term rentals and food service. Know the regulations before you start serving those famous blueberry pancakes.
3. Make Your Rooms Instagram-Worthy
People don’t just want a comfy bed—they want an experience. That means stunning decor, thoughtful touches (think luxury bathrobes or handwritten welcome notes), and an aesthetic that guests will want to share on social media.
Pro Tip: Natural light, cozy textures, and a mix of vintage + modern elements make for the best #B&BGoals photos. Bonus points if you have a cute dog or cat that can make an appearance in guests’ selfies!
4. Nail Your Breakfast Game
Breakfast is literally in the name, so it better be good. Whether you go all-out gourmet or keep it simple with fresh pastries and local coffee, make sure every dish is delicious, consistent, and meets dietary needs.
Pro Tip: Always ask about allergies and preferences in advance. Bonus points for including local ingredients—guests love a farm-to-table experience!
5. Master the Art of Pricing (Without Guesswork!)
Setting the right room rates is one of the trickiest parts of running a B&B. Charge too much, and guests will look elsewhere. Charge too little, and you’re leaving money on the table. The key is dynamic pricing—adjusting rates based on demand, seasonality, and market trends.
Pro Tip: A tool like TakeUp (wink, wink) can help you optimize pricing so you’re always maximizing revenue while staying competitive. Less guesswork, more bookings!
6. Create a Seamless Booking Experience
People hate friction when booking. If your website is slow, your reservation system is confusing, or your availability isn’t up-to-date, you’re losing business. Invest in a user-friendly booking system that makes reservations (and payments) a breeze.
Pro Tip: Mobile-friendliness is a must. Most guests book on their phones—make sure your site looks amazing and works flawlessly on mobile!
7. Deliver Five-Star Hospitality (Without Burning Out)
The best B&Bs have one thing in common: exceptional guest experiences. But that doesn’t mean you have to be at your guests’ beck and call 24/7. Set clear check-in/check-out expectations, offer self-check-in if possible, and use guest messaging apps to keep communication smooth.
Pro Tip: A well-stocked welcome station with snacks, drinks, and local recommendations goes a long way in making guests feel at home—without you having to hover.
Ready to Be the Ultimate Innkeeper?
Owning a B&B is a mix of passion, business savvy, and a little bit of magic. Get these seven things right from the start, and you’ll be on your way to running a thriving (and stress-free) inn.
And if you want to take the stress out of pricing? TakeUp can handle the numbers while you focus on creating an unforgettable guest experience.
