A Warm Welcome to NSU Students at the Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast
Updated: Oct 29
On September 22, 2026, I had the pleasure of welcoming the NSU Hospitality Management and Tourism students to the Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast for our annual field trip. This event has become a cherished tradition since we began hosting it in 2023.
A New Chapter in Our Tradition
In previous years, we held the field trips at the Judge Porter House Bed and Breakfast. This year, I was excited to host the students at the Queen Anne for the first time. Each year, McKenna Marsh, the Interim Department Head of Northwestern State University’s Hospitality Management and Tourism Department, brings her class to experience the world of hospitality. I always look forward to meeting the students and sharing the practical lessons I've learned from operating bed and breakfasts in Natchitoches.
A Valuable Community Connection
The relationship between our bed and breakfasts and Northwestern State University began with Laura Lyles, the President and CEO of the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce. When McKenna sought a local hospitality business for her students' field trip, Laura recommended us. I am truly grateful for her connection and for recognizing that our properties could provide students with a firsthand look at the daily operations of a small hospitality business.
Sharing Our Hospitality Story with NSU Hospitality Management and Tourism Students
I kicked off the presentation with a brief history of the Queen Anne and the families who have called it home. I then shared my own journey into the bed-and-breakfast business and how it has evolved over the years.
We delved into various practical aspects of operating four historic bed and breakfasts, including:
Managing multiple properties
Maintaining consistent standards
Hiring and training employees
Preparing and serving breakfast
Creating memorable guest experiences
Marketing a small hospitality business
Responding to guest reviews
Earning awards and recognition
I also discussed how technology and artificial intelligence are transforming the way travelers research destinations and select accommodations. Just like any business, we must continue learning, adapting, and finding innovative ways to introduce Natchitoches and our bed and breakfasts to future visitors.
I even gave a nod to ChatGPT for making my life a bit easier. It helped me organize and simplify the information for the presentation and student handout. While artificial intelligence doesn't replace personal knowledge or hospitality, it certainly streamlines some time-consuming tasks.
Touring the Queen Anne
After the presentation, I guided the students on a tour of the Queen Anne. This allowed them to explore the guest rooms, common areas, dining spaces, and some behind-the-scenes details involved in running a historic bed and breakfast.
Tours like this bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. Students can see that successful hospitality involves much more than just providing a room. It requires attention to detail, thoughtful service, good communication, careful planning, and the ability to create unforgettable experiences for guests.
Cowboy Cookies and a Special Prize
No field trip is complete without a treat from the kitchen, so I baked Cowboy Cookies for the students to take home. One of the cookie bags was specially marked, and Carter Day selected it, winning a gift certificate for a two-night stay at any of our inns.
That was a delightful way to wrap up a very enjoyable visit.
I am grateful to McKenna Marsh and her students for spending the morning with us at the Queen Anne. I also want to thank Laura Lyles for facilitating the original connection between Northwestern State University and our bed and breakfasts.
I eagerly anticipate continuing this tradition and welcoming another group of future hospitality professionals next year.
The Importance of Personal Connections in Hospitality
In the world of hospitality, personal connections matter. They create a warm atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. When I share my story with students, I hope to inspire them to build their own connections in the industry.
Creating a welcoming environment is not just about the physical space. It’s about the feelings we evoke in our guests. Whether it’s a smile at check-in or a thoughtful gesture during their stay, these moments matter. They are what turn a simple visit into a cherished memory.
Embracing Change and Innovation
As we move forward, embracing change is essential. The hospitality industry is ever-evolving, and staying ahead means adapting to new trends and technologies. I encourage students to be open to learning and to embrace innovation.
Artificial intelligence, for instance, can enhance guest experiences. It can streamline processes, allowing us to focus more on what truly matters: our guests. By integrating technology thoughtfully, we can create a unique blend of tradition and modernity that appeals to today’s travelers.
Looking Ahead
As I reflect on our field trip, I feel a sense of excitement for the future. The hospitality industry is filled with opportunities for those willing to learn and grow. I hope that the students left with a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of this vibrant community.
I look forward to continuing our partnership with Northwestern State University and welcoming more students to the Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast. Together, we can inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals to create memorable experiences for travelers seeking historic, luxurious, and personalized accommodations.
In closing, I invite you to explore the charm of Natchitoches and consider a stay at one of our award-winning inns. You’ll find a warm welcome and a unique experience waiting for you.
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