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WELCOME TO THE VERY FIRST EDITION OF SPILLING THE TEA |
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Labor Day weekend holds special meaning for me. Exactly one year ago, I was sitting on a beach in Ocean City, Maryland, when The Magnolia Inn first came on my radar. Two weeks later, I registered Magnolia Inn, LLC with the NC Secretary of State. What began as a dream of finding a place to live near my husband’s daughter — and a venue to launch my own business — suddenly became very real. The Inn checked both boxes and set us on a whirlwind path. |
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After our wedding in England in July 2024, I made the firm decision to pursue this dream. By November 15, we had closed on the property. We moved in December 1 and spent the next eight weeks working day and night to prepare for launch. On February 1, we welcomed our first guests.
Trials, Tribulations, and Turning Points
I’ll be honest: February was hard. While the house looked beautiful, the back-end operations weren’t ready. I blocked off much of the month to get systems in place, but I also took on events that pushed me to the limit. |
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I was overwhelmed, exhausted, and anxious. My husband carried the load at home — cooking, laundry, dishes — so I could keep the business afloat.
By March, a light appeared at the end of the tunnel. I hired Jordan Oldham as a housekeeper, and she quickly became indispensable. By May she was promoted to Assistant Manager, and today she’s our General Manager and lead Event Coordinator. Bringing her on was the single best decision I’ve made as an owner. |
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This summer brought more reasons to celebrate. In July, we were honored to be voted Best Hotel/Motel in Johnston County — an incredible recognition just six months after opening. Around the same time, we trimmed back the overgrowth that had hidden the house for two decades. Now, our wide wraparound porch and freshly revealed facade greet guests with the charm this house deserves.
We also welcomed our second employee, Marlon Banasihan, as our Digital Operations Coordinator. His skills and energy have already been a tremendous asset as we grow. |
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This summer brought more reasons to celebrate. In July, we were honored to be voted Best Hotel/Motel in Johnston County — an incredible recognition just six months after opening. Around the same time, we trimmed back the overgrowth that had hidden the house for two decades. Now, our wide wraparound porch and freshly revealed facade greet guests with the charm this house deserves.
We also welcomed our second employee, Marlon Banasihan, as our Digital Operations Coordinator. His skills and energy have already been a tremendous asset as we grow. |
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The Business Today
We are now hosting not only overnight guests but also full-scale events. Weddings, showers, teas, and reunions are filling our calendar. The pace is fast, sometimes overwhelming, but also exhilarating. Every past experience prepared me for this: my military service, which taught me discipline and |
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attention to detail; my years in diplomacy and federal communications, where I planned events and led teams; my academic training in public relations and international affairs. This is the culmination of everything I've learned — and I’ve never been happier.
I haven’t taken a paycheck yet, but every ounce of energy I’ve invested is paying dividends in community support, word-of-mouth, and the joy of watching guests create lasting memories here. My mission is clear: to preserve this historic house, provide respite and beauty, and build a business that gives back to Clayton. |
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Looking Ahead
This newsletter is the first step in sharing that journey more openly. Each month, I’ll pull back the curtain to show you what’s happening behind the Magnolia doors, and Spilling the Tea: the wins, the challenges, the little joys, and the magic we’re creating together. Thank you for being part of this story. We have a good thing here, a strong team, and an exciting future ahead. I’m so glad you’re here with us. |
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Warmly, |
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NEW ON THE BLOG |
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Where Daydreams Become Destinations
Before The Magnolia Inn ever opened its doors, it started with a simple idea: that the best part of travel is the daydreaming that comes before it. This week on the blog, we’re sharing the heart behind our vision — and what makes this house more than just a place to stay.
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👉 READ THE FULL POST HERE |
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