Members of the Louisiana Bed and Breakfast Association (LBBA) attended a conference at the St. Landry Parish Tourist Information Center in Opelousas on Wednesday, July 17, 2013.
The one-day conference included various speakers, including Kyle Edmiston from the Louisiana Office of Tourism, who was happy to report that tourism is the best it has ever been in the state. Kim Walker with 5 Stones Media spoke on “Growing Your Business with Social Media and Email Marketing”. “Search Engine Optimization” was the topic for Lisa Kolb with Acorn Internet Services, and Laine Garner with the Louisiana Travel Promotion Association (LTPA) gave innkeepers tips on “Packaging Your B&B.”
Following a general membership meeting, the innkeepers were taken on a FAM (Familiarization Tour) of two B&B’s in Washington, Louisiana – Country House Bed and Breakfast and Camellia Cove Bed and Breakfast. The evening was concluded with dinner at the Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant.
Faith Ford and her husband thrilled the innkeepers by stopping by the Tourist Information Center to show their support.
One of the most valuable aspects of the day was the networking between innkeepers throughout Louisiana. Innkeepers had the chance to meet one other, learn about each inn, and share ideas. Such connectivity helps innkeepers to provide a better B&B service.
The Louisiana Bed and Breakfast Association is made up of Louisiana’s finest bed and breakfast establishments. Bed and Breakfasts approved by the Louisiana Bed and Breakfast Association must meet a rigorous approval process including board certification and inspection.