What inspired you and Charles to take on Bridgeton House, and what did you see in the property that others may have overlooked?

I often joke that I fell in love with an artist—and that's really how this story began. Forty-five years ago, while I was attending nursing school and working evenings in local restaurants, Charles discovered this property. At the time, it was in rough shape. The building had been divided into apartments, much of its character was hidden, and most people couldn't imagine what it might become.

Charles could. He has always possessed a remarkable ability to see beyond what exists and envision what could be. He saw the river, the location, the history, and the potential long before anyone else did. We were young, ambitious, and perhaps a little naïve, but together we spent years restoring the property by hand. We opened Bridgeton House in 1981, and what began as a dream has evolved into a lifelong passion.

Bridgeton House has lived many lives over the years. What makes the property's history so special?

This site has always been connected to the river. Long before Bridgeton House existed, there was a ferry crossing here, followed by a wooden covered bridge that stood on the very same stone piers as today's Upper Black Eddy–Milford Bridge. Over the years, the property served as a private residence, a bakery, a general store, and eventually a collection of apartments before we purchased it.

One of my favorite discoveries was learning about the little building we now call the Boathouse. Decades ago, it operated as a neighborhood bakery, and I have wonderful photographs of barefoot children standing outside with fresh loaves of bread. The property has witnessed nearly two centuries of local history, and we feel incredibly fortunate to be part of its next chapter. From the handcrafted details to the thoughtfully designed rooms, there is a strong sense of individuality throughout the inn.

How do you approach creating spaces that feel both distinct and personal?

Everything here has always been a collaboration. Charles has the extraordinary ability to visualize a space before it exists, while my background has always leaned more toward hospitality, décor, and the guest experience. We each bring different strengths to the process.

Many of the rooms evolved over time through restoration projects, additions, and opportunities we simply couldn't pass up. Whether it was adding the penthouse suite or acquiring the neighboring Boathouse, each decision was guided by a shared belief that every space should feel unique, comfortable, and connected to the property's character. Nothing was designed from a template. Every room tells its own story.

How does the Delaware River influence the experience you've created for guests?

The river changes every single day, and that's part of its magic. One moment an eagle is soaring overhead, the next the sky has transformed completely. The wildlife, the changing seasons, the reflections on the water—there is always something new to notice. I think the river naturally brings a sense of calm to people. Guests arrive looking to slow down, reconnect, and escape the pace of everyday life. Whether they're walking the towpath, cycling along the canal, exploring nearby river towns, or simply enjoying a quiet morning coffee overlooking the water, the river becomes part of their experience here.

Bridgeton House has built a loyal following of returning guests over the years. What keeps people coming back?

For me, it always comes back to hospitality. Beautiful accommodations are important, but what people remember is how you made them feel. We've always believed in anticipating guests' needs before they have to ask—whether that's a blanket waiting on the porch during a cool evening or simply a warm welcome when they arrive.

We pay close attention to the details because details matter. Hospitality is both an art and a craft, and it's something we've never stopped refining. Our goal is to create an experience that feels effortless, personal, and genuinely caring. When guests feel truly looked after, they return—and many of them become part of the Bridgeton House family.

When you're able to step away from the day-to-day operations, what does a perfect day look like for you?

These days, the perfect day is a simple one. Charles and I feel incredibly fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the world. We love being surrounded by nature, art, and the creativity that has always defined this region. Most of all, we treasure time with our family. Our children live in the city now, so having everyone back together—sharing a meal, spending time outdoors, and enjoying the place we've built over a lifetime—is incredibly meaningful. After all these years, that's what success looks like to me.