Partner Spotlight 2019
How long have you been with the Sea Island Inn?
May 23 of this year marked my 30th anniversary here. I started as a Night Auditor and since 1994 I have been the General Manager.
What’s the history behind the Best Western Sea Island Inn?
Up until the time of the Civil War, a beautiful southern plantation cottage stood where our hotel is now built. During the war between the states, the home was occupied by the Federal troops stationed here in Beaufort.
Once the war was over, additions were added to the home and it was called the Sea Island Hotel. This hotel operated into the early 1950’s.
During the 1950’s, there was not much prosperity in the Beaufort area. The was no demand for such a hotel, the was no money to be spent of vacations. At this point the building stood empty.
In the late 1950’s the property was sold. Today’s structure was built in place of the old one. The bricks used for this existing building are well over 200 years old. They were ballasts in ships that came over during the colonial days.
The existing Sea Island Morel building is unique and built to last!
In 1982 we joined the Best Western membership and have been operating as such since. The beauty of the Best Western brand is that we are each individually owned and operated.
What changes have been made to the property?
There have been countless improvements made on the property over the years. Our most recent ones in 2019. In late August of 2018, after months and months of planning we began our guestroom refurbishment. All 43 guestrooms were given a new coat of paint, window treatments, cool coastal furniture and art. The color palette is of Lowcountry scenes. Some guestrooms have new carpet others now have luxury vinyl flooring. One of our favorite features is that we were able to keep our original tubs from the 1950’s renovation and those were totally refurbished.
What does the future look like?
The future is exciting for us! In the coming years you will see us mix technology, amenities that satisfy guests with true Southern hospitality.
What is the best thing about the property and business?
Longevity – the property has been a staple in Beaufort hospitality – serving the community and visitors year after year. We have so many guests who stay annually – we watch their families grow and become part of them. Most our small staff has worked here for many year – 40, 30, 20 or into a decade. We love our new staff members who know this is a place that they can stay and grow.
The best thing about living in Beaufort?
The community! I love living and working in the area- the beauty, the charm, the people!
What do you want your guests to take away or remember about their stay?
That this stay was tailor made for them – an amazing experience whether they were are here for one day or a week – business or leisure.