Sisters Kristen and Kathryn Groom have turned a historic manor in Welland, Ontario, into a thriving bed-and-breakfast, fulfilling a shared dream after leaving behind their corporate careers. The siblings purchased the property, known as The Rose Manor, in May 2022 and opened for business just a few months later.
Kristen, 37, previously worked as a human resources director while pursuing a graduate degree in project management. Kathryn, 28, was a freelance social media manager and also completing a graduate degree, this time in national security and counterterrorism. Despite their disparate professional backgrounds, neither sister had prior experience in the hospitality industry. However, they shared a passion for travel and a desire to launch a business together, with a bed-and-breakfast concept repeatedly emerging as their preferred venture.
The Rose Manor's History
The Rose Manor was originally built in 1906 by Hugh Alexander Rose I as a gift for his son, Hugh Alexander Rose II. The property, designed in a Tudor Revival style, reflects the historical significance of the Rose family in Welland, who at one point owned much of the surrounding area, including the adjacent property that belonged to the town's first doctor and land that was once a private tennis court.
The sisters discovered the property through a real estate listing sent by their mother. The manor's location in their parents' hometown and its historical character appealed to them, transforming what they considered a potential retirement plan into an immediate reality. Situated along the Welland Canal, the inn offers guests waterfront views and convenient access to local amenities.
Challenges and Evolution
Opening the inn presented numerous challenges. The sheer size of the eight-bedroom, six-bath manor proved to be a significant undertaking in terms of furnishing and preparing the space. The sisters utilized a combination of existing furniture from their shared home, along with extensive antiquing and thrifting. Kristen continued her demanding full-time job during the initial launch phase, leaving Kathryn to manage on-site operations and immediate issues. Kathryn also juggled her social media clients and graduate studies while testing recipes for the inn.
Unexpected issues with the historic property, such as plumbing problems and a broken air conditioner, added to the early hurdles. Despite not being listed on major booking platforms, the inn maintained a strong social media presence that helped secure bookings.
Expanding Services
Over time, The Rose Manor evolved beyond a traditional bed-and-breakfast. Local photographers began using the space for shoots, which led to requests for hosting small events like baby showers and birthday parties. Approximately 18 months after opening, the sisters hosted their first wedding, an event that inspired them to develop wedding packages. They now offer elopement services for up to 16 guests, indoor seated weddings for 25, and outdoor cocktail-style events for up to 50.
In addition to weddings, the inn has become a venue for wellness and staff retreats. They have also partnered with an on-site facialist, expanding their service offerings without requiring guests to leave the property. The sisters have found their current venture is successful, with Kristen noting they may eventually need a larger space if they continue to expand their event services.