Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Smalling.
Mary, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Banks Bed and Breakfast was created to help save a very important family home in Garner, NC. The Banks house was established in 1897 and Dr. Banks was the first town doctor of Garner. Dr. Banks purchased the property with a one story starter home and added the second level for his family and additional buildings on the lot. His grand Queen Anne home was completed in 1897 and he opened his practice within the home.
We came to know of the home in 2018 when the forth generation of family was moving on and the third generation was ready to let someone else take on the care of the aging home. It was purchased by us in late 2018 and we began a four year restoration process involving all new electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems to bring the home up to date. They layout was perfect for a bed and breakfast allowing us to have four overnight rental en-suite rooms and an additional parlor space for smaller events such as bridal and baby showers, birthday and graduation celebrations, business meetings and retreats, and even occasional church services. The restoration was completed in the spring of 2023 and the home is once again alive with visitors and family celebrations.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Having a business in a historic building means learning to deal with places not always quite square, un-level places in the floor, and constant upkeep. Our challenges are also what makes us unique and people understand and appreciate the quirks of an old home.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
We specialize in hospitality. We welcome people into the home for overnight stays in a unique environment and then provide them with a hearty breakfast in the morning. Banks Bed and Breakfast is known for a blend of antique and modern styles coming together to provide an original overnight experience. Banks Bed and Breakfast is the only 1897 historic stay located on North Carolina’s first paved highway. We are proud to help meet the needs of visitors and the community in a one of a kind historic setting.
How do you think about happiness?
It always make me happy when our house is full for events and family gatherings. This home is large and was meant to be shared and enjoyed by others. When I hear the the cry of happiness of friends and family coming together after a time of not being with each other it makes me smile. When laughter is coming out of the dining room as guests share stories with each other it warms my heart because this is what a gathering together is about. I hope this home will have a long history of bringing people together to celebrate the joy of being.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.banksbnb.com
- Instagram: banksbedandbreakfast
- Facebook: Banks Bed and Breakfast
