Victorias B and B

Analysis may sound like a mysterious word to a small business hopeful, but it was part of the guidance that led Carol and Carl Atzbach to open their business in Xenia, OH. Being a breast cancer survivor, Carol was motivated to put life into her dream of owning her own business. The couple also had a strong desire to live in a big, beautiful home, accent it with well-tended flower beds and serve others. What was their conclusion? Find a gorgeous old mansion to turn into a Bed & Breakfast Wellness Center.

Carol and Carl found what they wanted in Tipp City, OH, and took their plans to the SCORE office in Dayton, OH. There they met SCORE counselors Alan Cornish and Arnold Sandness who suggested the need for complete financial and market analysis. Previous owners were too secretive about financial deatls; and financial analysis demonstrated the lack of feasibility of that property.

The Atzbachs then attended three SCORE workshops: Introduction to Starting Your Business, How to Really Start Your Own Business and Women's Business Workshop. They added some networking and industry analysis and then signed a three year lease with option to buy the beautiful historic Victoria's Bed & Breakfast in Xenia, OH.

The change in name to Victoria's Bed and Breakfast Wellness Center fit their dream to create a B&B Wellness Center dedicated to supporting cancer patients, alumni and their families. Carol's experience with cancer had shown her than most of the places for support were at the hospital: "The last place I wanted to be." During the planning stage, both Carol and Carl kept their full-time jobs. As their business progessed, they both put full attention into the Xenia property.

The Eastlake style Victorian Mansion was built in 1881 and has high ceilings, original wood trim, 25 rooms, 30 chandeliers and 9 fireplace mantles. It's full of antiques, has five guestrooms and is available for conferences, weddings and parties.

Carol and Carl were supported in their endeavor by their church, their friends, community agencies and SCORE. The Dayton SCORE Chapter is pleased to have been a part of another realization of a dream.

Company Facts

STAT SHEET

Company: Victoria's Bed & Breakfast Wellness Center

Location: Xenia, OH

Formed: March 2002

Phone: 937/374-1202

Website: www.victoriasbnb.com