The Inn at Christmastime

In 1905, Oklahoma was just becoming a state, the first issue of Variety magazine was published, and construction on the Wellington Inn in Traverse City began. It was a time of grace, elegance, and grandeur, a time that moved at a pace forgotten now, over a century later. When you walk through the heavy, wooden doors of the Inn today, however, the history and charm surrounds you, and you can't help but feel transported.

When Barb, the owner, welcomed Kelly and me to this historic bed and breakfast on Friday afternoon, she was elbow deep in garland, ornaments, and Christmas lights. She is an absolute gem with a endless supply of quick quips and stories about the four year process of restoring the inn, its history, and her regular guests. If it wasn't for our packed traveling schedule, I would have kicked my shoes off and helped hang bulbs on the trees, easily spending the day in her company.

The Wellington Inn has nine guest rooms and two vintage carriage house apartments, each filled with carefully chosen period antiques.Every space is a new experience for the eyes, with colors and textures layered to build its splendid personality: the Milliken Chamber is Barb's "girly room," the Votruba Chamber reveals a secret message from the original painters, the art deco apartment features a 1930's seafoam green stove, the third-floor ballroom features towering ceilings that extend to a fiddlers' balcony for entertainment...

It's all nearly impossible to describe and do proper justice, especially when the Wellington Inn adds holiday magic to the already dazzling experience. You really must see it for yourself, which is why we're giving away two sets of tickets to The Inn at Christmastime.

 

This Week's Giveaway!

Each year during the three Sundays prior to Christmas (December 5, 12, and 19), the halls are decked in holiday splendor, and the inn opens its doors for you to enjoy. Following a tour of the entire mansion, complimentary treats and hot mulled cider comprise a holiday spread in the ballroom. It's all just mere steps from the always charming downtown Traverse City. To enter, just tell me when your family traditionally starts decorating for the holidays, and I'll pick the winner on Friday, November 19.

Meanwhile...

The Wellington Inn is also offering another festive holiday package for "The Perfect Christmas Event" which includes a two night stay and formal dinner by five-star chef Harlan "Pete" Peterson. Visit WMTA.org's Holiday Celebrations page for all the details.

Good luck this week and, of course, high five,

-Shannon