“Having been innkeepers for 11 years, there is always something to learn in this ever-changing industry. The Conference offers great networking opportunities, new vendors, idea-packed learning sessions and fun new friends.”
Karen DeBord (Phillips),
Bedford Landings Bed & Breakfast
Why You Should Attend:
Invest in your business by immersing yourself in content-rich sessions that offer knowledge, new ideas, and technology tools to help you keep competitive
Network with fellow innkeepers.
Recharge your passion for innkeeping.
Visit with Industry Partners who have products & services you need to meet the demands of your business.
Affordable.
This year's educational tracks are:
Managing Your Health & Interpersonal Relationships
Social Media / Marketing / Technology
Operations & Business Strategy
Smart Cooking for Small Operations
SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2026
9:00am – 4:30pm Registration Open – Lincoln Foyer
10:00am – 4:30pm Aspiring Innkeepers Seminar – Salon F
(Pre-Registration Required)
12:00pm – 4:30pm Exhibitor Setup – Presidential Ballroom Foyer
1:30pm – 5:30pm B&B Tour – Departs from Wyndham Hotel Lobby at 1:30pm SHARP
(Pre-Registration Required)
4:15pm – 5:30pm Exhibitor Mixer with Aspiring Innkeepers Seminar Attendees
6:30pm – 8:30pm Off-site Dinner – Beyond the Battlefield Museum
Address: 625 Biglerville Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325
(Pre-Registration Required)
MONDAY, MARCH 16, 2026
7:00am – 5:30pm Registration Open – Lincoln Foyer
7:30am – 9:00am Breakfast & Welcome – Salons ABC
Presentation by Innkeeper’s Advantage – Title Sponsor
9:00am – 5:00pm Tradeshow Marketplace – Presidential Ballroom Foyer
9:30am – 10:30am Keynote Speaker – Salons DEF
From Drained to Driven: Refuel Your Energy to Recharge your Hospitality
Dr. Alicia Grandey, Liberal Arts Professor of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University
When we feel drained of energy, both our health and our work suffers. Attendees will learn how to recognize the early warning signs of burnout and identify burnout-triggering events specific to innkeepers. The talk will link these events to the “emotional labor” required in hospitality—hiding fatigue, maintaining composure, and enthusiastically welcoming others—and show why a burnout spiral occurs. We will then walk through evidence-based strategies on how to regulate emotions in difficult interactions with guests and how to recover and recharge oneself. This session empowers you to offer the best hospitality by stopping the burnout spiral and regaining your energy and purpose.
10:30am – 11:00am Break: Tradeshow Marketplace – Presidential Ballroom Foyer
11:00am – 12:00pm Concurrent Sessions
Virtual Assistant: Save Time and Grow Your Business Using AI
Tracy Purdy, Three Daughters Inn, PA
Salon D
This session will break down the various ways artificial intelligence can support bed and breakfast owners in managing time-consuming tasks and improving guest experiences. Attendees will learn how to use tools like ChatGPT to draft social media content, write guest emails, create house manuals, analyze reviews, and build staff training resources. Tracy will also explain where other AI-powered tools (like Constant Contact, Mailchimp, and Canva) fit in and how to choose the right ones.
Entry and Exit Planning for Innkeepers
Chuck Anderson, Marilyn Bushnell & Associates
Salon E
Every inn gets bought and every inn gets sold… there will be a transaction when it changes ownership. As a business owner, how do you plan for these transitions of stewardship? Every innkeeper needs to have an exit strategy as a part of their overall business plan. The best time to start baking that into your thought processes is when you are buying your inn in the first place. Chuck will walk through the process of valuation (how much is it worth?), identification/marketing, and transfer from both the buyer’s and seller’s perspective. Yes, there will be some numbers involved – but Chuck will keep it as interesting as possible with some slides and handouts as he showcases how to maximize your return on investment at both ends of the innkeeping journey.
Reconnect with the Joy of Modern Innkeeping
Rachel Foster, Apple Pony Inn, PA
Salon F
Do you feel stressed and burned out with the daily grind of innkeeping? This session will INNspire joy and engagement for modern innkeepers. Identify signs and symptoms of burnout and identify strategies to correct including setting personal boundaries, managing difficult guests, and most importantly creating energy for work through personal investment in your business. Walk away with practical strategies to fall back in love with innkeeping.
12:00pm – 1:30pm Lunch – Salons ABC
Presentation by ThinkReservations – Luncheon Sponsor
1:15pm – 5:15pm Serv Safe Class – Stars & Stripes Room
(Pre-Registration Required)
1:30pm – 2:30pm Concurrent Sessions
Smarter Visibility, Smarter Revenue: AI Search Tools for Small Lodging Success
Cindy Bachmann, Innkeeper’s Advantage
Salon D
In today’s AI-driven search environment, B&B’s, boutique hotels and inns face a new reality: travelers often find and book rooms without ever clicking through to your website. This session unpacks the rise of click-less search — where Google and other platforms serve up instant answers, rates, and reviews — and shows you how to stay visible and competitive.
SEO in the Age of AI Search: How to optimize your property’s presence in Google Hotel Search, Maps, and voice assistants.
AI-Powered Rate Management: Practical tools that adjust your pricing automatically to stay competitive while maximizing revenue.
Google Performance Max Campaigns: How to reach the right travelers with smarter, AI-driven ad campaigns — without wasting your budget.
Monitoring & Managing Reviews: Using AI insights to track guest sentiment, respond effectively, and protect your reputation.
This session is designed for independent hotels, B&Bs, and boutique properties who want to leverage AI without enterprise-level budgets. Walk away with actionable, affordable strategies to boost direct bookings, cut OTA costs, and deliver more revenue with less manual work.
Hospitality Management & Guest Experiences
Salon E
Hospitality management and guest experience are all about creating a welcoming, comfortable, and memorable stay for every guest who walks through your door. It’s more than just providing a clean room and good breakfast — it’s about anticipating needs, adding personal touches, and making people feel genuinely cared for. Great hospitality turns visitors into loyal guests because they don’t just remember where they stayed — they remember how you made them feel.
Rotate from table to table to hear from your fellow innkeepers on what they do at their Bed & Breakfast / Inn.
Table 1: Cross-cultural communication making all guests feel welcomed
Speaker: Christine Campbell, The Keystone Inn, PA
Table 2: Crafting the perfect Check-in and Check-out Experience
Speaker: Don Zelek, 1825 Inn Bed & Breakfast, PA
Table 3: Managing guest expectations and handling complaints gracefully
Speaker: Monique Greenwood, AKWAABA Bed & Breakfast Inns, NY
Inspiring & Heartfelt Look into the Teamwork & Balance Behind the Business
Sharon & Chris Tillman, Georges on York, MD
Kedri & Matt Metzger, The South Mountain Inn, PA
Salon F
This session explores how couples divide responsibilities - like one managing the guest experience while the other handles finances or maintenance - and how they communicate and support each other through the busy seasons. They will outline the importance of setting boundaries, learning to "clock out" from work, and finding time to enjoy life together outside of the business. Overall, it offers a warm, relatable glimpse into the unique dynamics of blending love, work, and hospitality under one roof.
2:45pm – 3:45pm Concurrent Sessions
Smart Systems for Small Inns: Streamlining Operations with Cloud Tools & AI
Patrick Campbell, The Keystone Inn, PA
Salon D
This workshop will demonstrate to independent innkeepers and B&B owners how to apply practical, low-cost technology to manage operations more efficiently and reduce manual workload. Attendees will learn how to identify and automate repetitive tasks, streamline team communication, and coordinate everything from cleaning schedules to vendor requests using integrated tools like ClickUp, Google Workspace, Zapier, and ChatGPT. The session focuses on reclaiming time, cutting operational friction, and improving service quality through smarter systems — with actionable examples that can be implemented immediately, no matter your budget or tech experience.
Housekeeping & Maintenance
Salon E
Housekeeping and maintenance are the backbone of a great bed and breakfast experience. It’s about keeping everything spotless, comfortable, and running smoothly so guests can relax without a worry. From fresh linens and sparkling bathrooms to a well-kept garden and cozy rooms, attention to detail makes all the difference. A clean, well-maintained space shows guests you care and helps create that warm, inviting atmosphere they’ll want to come back to.
Rotate from table to table to hear from your fellow innkeepers on what they do at their Bed & Breakfast / Inn.
Table 1: Daily housekeeping procedures and efficiency tips
Speaker: Kedri Metzger, The South Mountain Inn, PA
Table 2: Preventative maintenance is key to avoid costly repairs later
Speaker: Chris Tillman, Georges on York Bed & Breakfast, MD
Table 3: Eco-friendly cleaning products and sustainable practices
Speaker: Dan Smith, Ecolab, PA
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and TIME!
Karen DeBord & Jack Philips, Bedford Landings Bed & Breakfast, VA
Salon F
This session will have three separate components wrapped with seasoned innkeeper advice from Karen and Jack.
Division of responsibilities and how to rock your relationship while running a business together
Pet peeves while keeping your cool including difficult requests that make you fume! Difficult eaters, no-shows at breakfast, requesting things you don’t offer and more.
How to best protect your property by understanding your guests’ needs and objectives for their visit.
3:45pm – 4:15pm Break: Tradeshow Marketplace – Presidential Ballroom Foyer
4:15pm – 5:15pm Concurrent Sessions
Essential Marketing & Website Strategies for Aspiring & New Innkeepers
Jeff Logan, Logan Marketing
Salon D
Buying or launching your first inn is exciting—but your marketing decisions in the first year will define your success. In this session, Jeff Logan of Logan Marketing shares what new and aspiring innkeepers must do first to build a strong foundation. Learn how to budget wisely, choose the right marketing and website partners, and protect key digital assets. Discover which website features attract guests, how local content and photography drive bookings, and what to avoid in your first year. Leave with a clear plan to market your inn effectively and establish a foundation for lasting success.
Redecorating and Updating for Impact
Chuck Anderson, Marilyn Bushnell & Associates; Christine Campbell, The Keystone Inn, PA; Robin King, Pheasant Field Bed & Breakfast, PA
Salon E
This session will present real-world examples of rooms that have been redone with an eye toward significantly enhancing guest experience (and potential revenue for innkeepers), while keeping a sharp eye on the budget. This will be a highly interactive session with plenty of questions and input from the audience.
Healthy Living for the Brain and Body
Sarah Davis, Extension Educator, Penn State Extension of Adams County
Salon F
The health of the brain and body are connected, and now, science provides insights into how to make lifestyle choices that may help you keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Sarah will share current research and reasons to take care of yourself. She’ll provide practical strategies for healthy aging focusing on: cognitive activity, physical health and exercise, diet and nutrition, and social engagement.
5:30pm – 7:30pm Southern Chapter Social – Presidential Ballroom Foyer
All are Welcome to Attend
Dinner on Own
TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2026
7:30am – 3:00pm Registration Open – Lincoln Foyer
7:30am – 8:30am Breakfast – Salons ABC
8:30am – 9:30am State Meetings
By gathering with your fellow innkeepers, you gain practical business knowledge, local insights, new ideas, and a supportive network.
Pennsylvania Innkeepers
Facilitator: Zak Pyzik, PA Restaurant & Lodging Association
Salon D
Virginia Innkeepers
Facilitator: Lankford Blair, Bed & Breakfast Association of Virginia (all VA innkeepers are welcomed)
Salon E
Innkeepers from Other States
Facilitator: Sharon Tillman, Georges on York Bed & Breakfast
Salon F
9:45am – 10:45am Concurrent Sessions
Why Your Direct Booking Strategy is Broken and 5 Ways to Fix It
Jeff Hebrink, restream
Salon D
Direct bookings are 9% more profitable for your business. Are you doing everything you can to capture your share? Get immediate access to items that are broken in your direct booking strategy and what you can do NOW to fix it and start driving more direct bookings.
Learn about competition within the hospitality landscape
Review potential missed lead opportunities
Discuss the power of OTAs
See examples of successful strategies
Brand Integration: Embedding Your Identity Across Every Operation
Sharon Tillman, Georges on York, MD|
Salon E
Branding is more that your logo. It's more than your website design. It's how the world views your business. In this session, you'll learn how to incorporate your brand into all facets of your business decisions about music, decor, food, breakfast, and more.
Cooking for a Crowd without the Casserole: Fresh Approaches for Innkeepers
Chef Gerry, Sugar Tree Inn, VA
Salon F
Tired of relying on the same old casseroles to feed a full house? In this session, Chef Gerry of Sugar Tree Inn will show innkeepers how he scales up recipes for large or small crowds. Drawing from years of cooking for groups of 6–26 guests in a mountain-lodging setting, he’ll share practical techniques for preparing crowd-pleasing meals without relying on a casserole dish. Participants will learn strategies for efficient prep, smart batch-cooking, and tips on make-ahead meals. Whether you’re feeding a full weekend retreat or managing peak-season breakfasts, you’ll walk away with recipes, processes, and confidence to elevate your group dining experience—no casserole dish required.
10:45am – 11:00am Break: Tradeshow Marketplace – Presidential Ballroom Foyer
11:00am – 12:00pm Concurrent Sessions
Design Retreats to Increase Bookings in the Off Season
Lisa Altman, Four Seasons for Fun Bed & Breakfast, PA
Salon D
In this session, Lisa will share how she made her bed and breakfast into a destination for themed retreats that bring people together through books, wellness, and meaningful experiences. From Book Club Retreats to Couples Rest & Reset Retreats and Wellness Retreats, Lisa will share how she designed gatherings that balance relaxation, creativity, and connection. Hosting a retreat is more than offering a getaway—it’s about creating an environment where people feel inspired and cared for. She’ll explore the essentials of planning and running successful retreats, from concept and themes to guest experiences, collaborations, and marketing strategies to attract the right guests. This session is perfect for anyone interested in generating more revenue—especially during slower months—while building experiences that leave a lasting impact.
What’s Protecting Your Guests and Your Property?
Chuck Heinlein & Devlon Cowart, Pro Fire Safety, PA
Salon E
Is the “minimum” enough for your Bed and Breakfast? Our goal is to educate bed and breakfast owners about the devastating effects of home fires and other home safety issues, like carbon monoxide, flooding and freezing. Today’s homes present numerous safety challenges. Unfortunately, most home and business owners are unaware of the hidden dangers they face. Chuck and Devlon will share how a high quality warning network of fire protection for your bed and breakfast will provide more protection than the minimum.
Great Breakfasts don't have to Come with a Hefty Price Tag
Anthony Bianco, Executive Chef & General Manager at The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion
Salon F
This educational session explores proven ways to reduce food costs while still purchasing quality products. Anthony will share with you how to shop smarter, work effectively with local resources, and stretch your food dollars so you can protect your profits without compromising the guest experience.
PART 1: From Welcome to Practice: Living Our Welcoming & Inclusion Statement
Christine Campbell, The Keystone Inn; Tracy Purdy, Three Daughters Inn
Stars & Stripes Room
Hospitality is more than a service - it is a spirit of welcome. In this interactive two-part session, PABBI Council members Christine Campbell and Tracy Purdy invite innkeepers and industry partners to explore how a Welcoming & Inclusion Statement comes to life in everyday innkeeping. Through guided reflection, small-group discussion, and real-world scenarios, participants will examine how inclusive values show up in guest experience, marketing, and operations. Attendees will leave with practical tools, shared language, and concrete actions they can implement at their own properties to foster respectful, welcoming environments where guests, staff, and owners can truly be themselves - one stay at a time.
12:00pm – 1:15pm Lunch – Salons ABC
Presentation by Logan Marketing – Luncheon Sponsor
1:15pm – 2:00pm Tradeshow Marketplace – Presidential Ballroom Foyer
2:00pm – 3:00pm Concurrent Sessions
Stress-Free Social Media for the Time-Strapped Innkeeper?
Kathi Fuhrman, Fuhrman Creative
Salon D
You don't have time to live on social media - and you shouldn't have to. This session is designed specifically for innkeepers who wear all the hats and need a simple way to show up on social media without feeling chained to their phones. In this session, you'll learn how to create a weekly routine that keeps you visible, your personality shining, and ideal guests excited to book. We'll walk through what to post, where to post, and how often - plus simple systems to repurpose and organize content so you're not starting from scratch every week. You'll walk away with:
A weekly social media schedule
A list of go-to post ideas tailored for inns and B&Bs
Tips for using photos, reviews, and local attractions to sell the experience
Basic guidelines for what really matters (and what you can ignore!) on each platform
From Kitchen to Table: Smooth Breakfast Operations
Rachel Foster, Apple Pony Inn & Debra Miller, Kane Manor Inn
Salon F
This session will not focus on the food being served or how it looks on the plate, but rather, how to serve and manage smooth breakfast operations at a Bed & Breakfast. This session will focus on breakfast marketing, operations and logistics, budget considerations, food safety and food allergies and dietary restrictions. Make breakfast a breeze with many practical strategies from two current Pennsylvania innkeepers.
PART 2: From Welcome to Practice: Living PABBI's Welcoming & Inclusion Statement
Christine Campbell, The Keystone Inn; Tracy Purdy, Three Daughters Inn
Stars & Stripes Room
Hospitality is more than a service - it is a spirit of welcome. In this interactive two-part session, PABBI Council members Christine Campbell and Tracy Purdy invite innkeepers and industry partners to explore how PABBI's Welcoming & Inclusion Statement comes to life in everyday innkeeping. Through guided reflection, small-group discussion, and real-world scenarios, participants will examine how inclusive values show up in guest experience, marketing, and operations. Attendees will leave with practical tools, shared language, and concrete actions they can implement at their own properties to foster respectful, welcoming environments where guests, staff, and owners can truly be themselves - one stay at a time.
3:00pm - 3:15pm. Closing Remarks & Award of Prizes