This seminar is designed for you as it covers everything you need to know to start and operate a B&B. Running a successful B&B is much more complicated than people think, in fact some people have even called it a ‘no brainer’. But because it involves people and business skills and a commitment of time and effort, it is very important to fully look into the business to see if you are suited to it before you take the first steps. You may find out, as many have, that the business is not for you and the small investment in a seminar will save you thousands of dollars. One author has written, “The difficulty of successfully starting and operating a B&B is often overlooked because of the emotional appeal and the romantic notions that surround the subject.”

Group seminars are held in Courtenay. The cost is $200 for singles and $300 for couples. It is really recommended that spouses attend as they will be a big part of the business. The course includes a seminar manual, a copy of our book, lunches, coffee and snacks. The B&B has three rooms so you can book accommodation there if you are coming from out of town.

There is lots of time for questions and discussion and to network with other prospective B&Bers. We usually do one seminar in early November and one in March. Please contact us to see when our next group seminar will be held or refer to our website www.bbbookandseminars.com.

We also do private seminars for people who would like more individual attention. These are held over two days at our home in Lillooet and include one night’s accommodation, a seminar manual, a copy of our book, lunches, snacks and refreshments.  The cost of private seminars is $500 per couple.

Online Bed and Breakfast Seminars

As an expansion of our seminar program we have written a B&B Online Seminar which was previously given through Vancouver Community College. This is a professionally designed distance education course with a text, course manual and discussion board. This in depth course requires 5 to l0 hours a week for 8 weeks to complete. Students can work from their home or office in their own time. For full details on the seminar please go to our web site www.bbseminarsonline.com.

Defining a B&B. What it is and what it is not.
Naming your B&B.
Who are you? Is this business for you? Why do you want a B&B?
How will you open your B&B and where?
Outfitting and decorating your B&B.
Handling guests good and bad.
Serving breakfast.
The business end of B&B – licenses, budgeting, taxes, insurance and credit cards.
Reservations and cancellations – how to handle them. Cancellation policies.
Marketing – how to put your B&B on the map. Internet, the marketing revolution for B&B.
Web pages, B&B Guides, Domain Names and email. Getting your B&B on the Internet.
Buying an existing B&B, is it better.
Cell phones, 800 numbers, answer phones and FAXES – what do you need?
Tourism BC Approval and Canada Star Rating – the qualifications. Is it of value?
Can I make money at B&B? What is the reality.