Inn's Gardens and Guests Bring Glee to New Owners

The Collins House Inn, located in Marion, VA is the newest addition to join the Bed & Breakfast Association of Virginia (BBAV), and the Inn was recently purchased by Mike and Sue Edwards. Originally built in the 1920s by George A. Collins. who opened the Collins Brothers Department store in Marion in 1898, the Inn sits in the middle of historic Marion, and is within walking distance of many of the town’s attractions. There are five guest rooms, each with modern amenities and a private bath. The Edwards purchased the Inn after they “fell in love with the house and the area.” Sue Edwards says that her favorite feature of Collins House Inn is the house’s grounds: “Mike & I are currently in the process of investigating putting a gazebo in our beautiful side garden and landscaping the area in preparation to start offering wedding, elopement, and vow renewal packages. There is nothing like this in Marion, and we have the perfect place to do this.” When asked what the importance of being a BBAV member was, owner Sue stated that the BBAV allows Mike and her  “to become acquainted with those who have been in the industry and learn the 'ins & outs.'” She also emphasized how the BBAV’s approval and property inspection “tells your guests that this inn is a special inn and when you stay there as a guest, you are staying at the very best.” Sue’s favorite aspect of being a B&B owner is the opportunity it presents to meet people. “We have had guests from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. We just had our first international guests from the United Kingdom. It is fun just listening to guests carry on conversations around the breakfast table talking about their experiences; guests giving other guests information about the area and places to go and things to do.” Aside from admiring the Inn’s grounds, while staying at Collins House Inn, guests may venture out to Hungry Mother State Park or Grayson Highlands State Park for a scenic hike and finish off their day by heading out to the Davis Valley Winery to sample some delicious Southern Virginia wines. Marion, VA also is home to The Lincoln Theater, where guests may watch many different live performances. The Collins House Inn is also a short drive to Bristol Speedway, a favorite for NASCAR and racing fans alike. BBAV President Heidi Lanford is excited to add Collins House Inn to the list of BBAV members, saying, “Collins House Inn is a great addition to our members list! It is located in such a fun area of Virginia and we are so happy to welcome them to the BBAV.” [caption id="attachment_5235" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Ribbon Cutting at The Collins House Inn[/caption]