Many people will gather together at the end of November with family and friends. They are there to celebrate Thanksgiving. Most will also focus on the abundance of things they are thankful for from the year behind them and for what may come next such as babies, job promotions, or exciting new adventures. Others will look around and struggle to process where they should recognize thankfulness. The past may have presented challenges that overwhelmed and the future may be seen as nothing better. Not everyone has the same riches, health or friendships that lead to a contented experience. As you look around I hope you see all of your blessings and know that each of you have blessed us.
Banks Bed and Breakfast started as a dream to restore a locally important historic home and make it available for others to enjoy. After almost four years of restoration work during Covid with many delays, increasing supply costs, and some tears we were able to open the business in the spring of 2023. Like all many new businesses it has been a slow and steady effort to be seen. We will always be thankful for the people early on who believed in us enough to bring their family and friends together in our space. Before we ever had our first Google review, guests took a chance, booked a room, and became part of the history of this house by enjoying a stay. You see, I believe a home is meant to be shared and this one is no exception, and its historical significance to the Town of Garner is important. We are thankful to be a part of the Garner community.
Our guests have each entered the home with their own stories. We’ve met so many types of people from so many different backgrounds and cities that when I think back it excites me to know that they were a part of our lives even if only for a night. Many guests come back multiple times to attend concerts, visit family, work or just relax knowing that this home welcomes them with a place of comfort. We are thankful that you trust us to take care of you.
Some visitors have come to the home to experience a tea, workshop, or celebration. Day visitors may never stay the night but they do get to experience the richness of the home’s historical setting. When a community member sets for a bridal or baby shower, family gathering, or even a workshop they make the parlor their own unique space. Each event takes on it’s own personality in order to serve the need of the renter. When the renter’s guests enter it is comforting to hear their oohs and aahs as they walk through the home and into a room set up just for their enjoyment. The laughter, stories and hugs bring a certain life to this big old structure. Community events bring a life to the Banks house that it is happy to accept. We are thankful that we have a space where people can gather and enjoy each other.
It is our hope that Banks Bed and Breakfast will continue welcoming visitors, friends and family for many years to come. So whether you are here for an overnight stay, party, celebration or meeting we hope you can experience a historical setting that has welcomed people for over 100 years and hopes to welcome them for 100 more. We are thankful to each and every one of you.
Mary
