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Category Archives: News from Brayton Bed and Breakfast

New Website Launched

May 10, 2013 by braytonbb

Scott and I went to a national B&B conference known as PAII out in Las Vegas this past January. We had never gone to one of these national conventions before, so we really didn’t know what to expect. There were B&B’s from all over the country ranging in size from 1 room to literally the size of a small hotel up to 30 rooms. We met a lot of really nice people and came back with so much information. Because they are catering to a wide range of different size inns, some information didn’t pertain to us like how to brew beer at your inn. Hmm, that got Scott thinking that maybe we should think about getting bigger. Ha! Back to reality.

The biggest thing I walked away from was some new marketing ideas though. Being in the bed and breakfast industry is not a get rich quick profession or EVER for that matter. It really is all about the lifestyle though, which is why Scott and I love what we do. It works for our family.  We constantly get told from locals that they did not even know that their was a bed and breakfast in Oshkosh. You have no idea how many times we hear that. Our marketing budget is so small that we have to be sooo choosy on where we spend our marketing dollars. Because the majority of our business comes from our surrounding states, we tend to focus our efforts in trying to get our inn noticed by the greatest number of people. Our website is the window to that world. Now, don’t get me wrong, we want Oshkosh to know that we are here and hope that our Facebook and word of mouth referrals  will keep coming our way but we figured a new website might not hurt either.  One statement grabbed my attention while in Vegas.

It was said, that if you have a limited dollar amount for your marketing budget, put everything you got into your website if it is three years or older. Our website was just past that mark.  We have always gotten great reviews from it and I hated to change it, because I did like it so much. Now, I have always been one that appreciates honesty, whether you want to hear it or not. I have never been one to hold back so I hoped they wouldn’t either and they didn’t.  This presenter that we were listening to, put our website along with many others up on a big screen in a convention hall and started picking it apart. Man, I felt like I had a lot to learn. As small as I felt, I needed to hear the bad news which lead us to where we are today.

I decided to work with a company that we had been doing business with the last couple of years who focuses on the bed and breakfast industry in website design.  We spent almost a half a day just trying to come up with a font that was easy to read. Scott still isn’t happy with it, but I would love to know your thoughts. This company went out of their way to find out who we were were as a family, as innkeepers, information about Oshkosh , our clientele and our style. All things important when creating a website or our storefront for that matter, that appeals to the masses. The last couple of  months have been tweaking everything from information, to pictures, to the behind the scenes that only Google and many other search engines will appreciate. Our website just went live yesterday with a  few minor things that need to be completed.

I hope you like our new site and find it easy to use and navigate through. If you should have any thoughts one way or another on it, please feel free to share.

 

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Hey, look we were mentioned!

April 22, 2013 by braytonbb

Ext 1b no sign(print)Every once in a while, our name appears in an article, not necessarily promoting us specifically, but what may be around us or things to do in the area.  The first article is from Travel Wisconsin and as you can see Oshkosh made the list of things to do, see, and places to eat. The second article is a feature story for the Circus World Museum in  Baraboo. Though Baraboo is roughly a 2 hour drive from Oshkosh, it is an easy enough day trip for those who are looking for something different to experience. I hope you enjoy both articles as much as I did.

 

“Wisconsin’s Event City,” Oshkosh is home to over 1,000 events and festivals, including the famous EAA AirVenture and the Country USA music festival. The city on the western shore of Lake Winnebago also has more than its share of year-round fun. Here are our top picks for an Oshkosh weekend getaway, any time of year.

Where to brunch

Pilora’s Café dishes up the café essentials – friendly service and wholesome food – with a dash of originality. From jazz music in the background to some unusual menu items (like cornbread pancakes with Door County cherries and the Moroccan ham sandwich) Pilora’s makes a point of offering something different. They also brew Alterra coffee, so you can fuel up on a proper cup of joe before heading out for your Oshkosh adventures. 

Where to explore

The EAA’s AirVenture fly-in every August isn’t your only chance to experience Oshkosh’s world-renowned Experimental Aircraft Association. The EAA AirVenture Museum, open year-round, features over 200 historic airplanes, plus movie theaters, galleries, flight simulators, and two “hands-on” interactive galleries for all ages.

Where to shop

You’ll find a lot of unique shops on (and just off) Main Street. A few to get you started:

If big-name stores are more your style, The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh, across from the EAA, is home to 55 of the best. We recommend adding a whole day to your Oshkosh itinerary if you want to hit the outlets!

Where to get your culture on

The Grand Opera House, built in 1883, is the oldest operating theater in Wisconsin. It puts on a fun variety of entertainment, from the Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra to musicals, rock ’n’ roll shows, and karaoke nights. The Paine Art Center and Gardens is a 1920’s estate with an amazing art collection and display gardens. Their Family Discovery Gallery offers hands-on art experiences for children. Admission: $9 adult/$5 youth. 

Where to go for dinner

Gardina’s Wine Bar & Café has a great menu of American/Mediterranean starters, cheese plates, salads and sandwiches, with nightly entrée specials. But it’s their pizza that steals the show. Bring an appetite and brace yourself for some tough decisions: there’s an impressive selection of wines, craft beers, and – bonus – individual-sized cheesecakes. Jam to live music Friday and Saturday nights. 

Where to stay

The Brayton Bed & Breakfast is just a short walk from Main Street. Warning: if you stay in this beautiful, friendly B&B, you might not want to leave…especially on the weekends, when you can enjoy an afternoon wine and cheese social in the living room, and homemade desserts later in the evening. Rates: $129.00-$299.00 nightly.

Learn more about all the fun Oshkosh has to offer here.

Liven Up Your Vacation: Visit the Circus World Museum

If you have enjoyed luxuriating yourself in your suite at Brayton B&B, drinking fine wine, eating local cheeses, and visiting the occasional museum, take a vacation from your vacation. Plan a day of highly charged entertainment at the Circus World Museum. The Circus World Museum is a two hour drive from Oshkosh; far enough away to be a significant day-trip, but close enough that you can still make it back to your suite for an evening drink. A premiere Wisconsin attraction, the Circus World Museum is a historical site that attracts thousands of visitors a year, and is loved by both children and adults.

History

What sets the Circus World Museum apart from your average circus is its remarkable history. The circus, originally named ‘The Ringling Bros. Circus’, was founded in 1884 by the five Ringling brothers. The Ringling Bros. Circus ran for thirty-five years, and in that time expanded to an empire consisting of the three largest circuses in America. In 1959, after the circus industry had gone into decline and The Ringling Bros. Circus had long been closed, its gates once again opened. This time it was named the Circus World Museum, a museum with a mission to preserve the circus industry, so it could be understood and loved by future generations.

Sights

The Circus World Museum is home to several of the original buildings used by The Ringling Bros. Circus; these buildings are the largest groups of original circus buildings in North America. Located on the north bank of the Baraboo River, they date from 1897 and 1918, and the area they comprise is now a National Historic Landmark. As well as these historic buildings, artefacts from the old circus are displayed in the many exhibits on offer across the site. Here you can see everything from the cage wagons in which lions were kept, to original poster art advertising circus shows.

Performances

Of course it would be unheard of to go to a circus and not see a show. With the spirit of the original Ringling circus, there are a variety of shows on offer to suit a multitude of interests and tastes. Gymnastics, acrobatics, elephant shows, clown shows, and contortionist shows, are just a few of the performances on offer for visitors. Just make sure to look at the performance schedule on arrival so you won’t risk missing your favorite.

Eating and Drinking

If your trip to the Circus World Museum falls during the summer season, then their deluxe onsite restaurant, Cookhouse Grill, is open for business. If not, or if you would prefer to eat away from the circus, why not venture into Baraboo? Baraboo is a bustling city with a diverse range of eateries. Here you can sample the best burgers American cuisine has to offer, as well as some top-notch Mexican and Italian food.

Getting There

Driving is certainly the easiest, and most cost-effective, way of getting to the Circus World Museum, and will give you the chance to experience some of the beautiful scenery of Wisconsin between Oshkosh and Baraboo. It is important, however, that you consider safety before hitting the road. Whether you plan to rent a car or bring your own with you to Oshkosh, you must ensure that you are covered against breakdown in the Wisconsin area. Purchasing breakdown cover is simple, as it can be bought quickly and easily online, and there are many cheap deals to be found. While it is unlikely you will need to use it, breakdown cover is priceless for the piece of mind it will give you during your trip. Once you’ve got your breakdown cover in the bag, and have set a date for your trip to the Circus World Museum, simply jot down the directions below and you are ready to go.

Directions:

1.    Head northwest on Church Ave towards Central St(0.4 mi)

2.    Turn left onto Wisconsin St (0.5 mi)

3.    Continue onto Ohio St(0.9 mi)

4.    Turn right onto W South Park Ave(2.0 mi)

5.    Turn left to merge onto U.S. 41 S toward Milwaukee (2.4 mi)

6.    Take exit 113 for WI-26/County Rd N toward Waupun (0.4 mi)

7.    Turn right onto WI-26 S/WI-26 Trunk S/Co Rd N. Continue to follow WI-26 S/WI-26 Trunk S (21.5 mi)

8.    Take the Wisconsin 26 S/U.S. 151 S ramp to Waupun/Madison (0.4 mi)

9.    Merge onto US-151 S (1.0 mi)

10.  Take exit 147 to merge onto US-151 BUS S/WI-26 S/WI-26 Trunk S/Fond Du Lac St toward Waupun. Continue to follow US-151 BUS S/Fond Du Lac St.(1.6 mi)

11.  Turn right onto EMain St.(1.0 mi)

12.  Turn left onto WI-68 W/Fox Lake Rd. Continue to follow WI-68 W (9.5 mi)

13.  Continue onto State Hwy 33 W/W State St. Continue to follow State Hwy 33 W (44.8 mi)

14.  Turn left onto Washington Ave(0.6 mi)

15.  Turn right onto Water St. Destination will be on the left.

Posted in News from Brayton Bed and Breakfast, Oshkosh, WI events, Uncategorized | No Comments »

New space, New items

March 25, 2013 by braytonbb

When we first opened the inn, we decided that we were not going to have a gift shop. I didn’t want to clutter the space we did have with things other than what we used everyday.  Since we have been open though, there are a few items that people ask for all the time such as our cozy bathrobes, amazing sheets and our seasonal soaps. We started selling these items a few years ago since these companies that we buy them from only sell to spas and inns. We figured that it is pretty great that you can purchase these items through us after you have tried them out first hand.  I never did  put them on display,but rather just waited for someone to ask me about them.

It seems like the last year or so though, our guests have been asking for more items that they can purchase to remember there trip here in Oshkosh. So, since you asked for it, we made a few more items available. We’ve taken the sunporch, that had extra seating for when we are full for breakfast and cozied it up a bit.  We left a couple of tables, but we have also  added a couple of comfy chairs that our guests can seat around the fire and read a good book, an area rug and lamp and a couple of bookcases that now hold all our products we use at the inn, that are now available for sale along with information on what to do in Oshkosh when are you visiting.  We partnered with a local company in Neenah who made these fantastic coasters and mugs with our logo on it that are also now available for purchase.

We still have a few Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Cookbooks available and as always our sheets, bathrobes and soaps too.

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Packer Alumni stay at Brayton Bed and Breakfast

March 4, 2013 by braytonbb

Packer Alumni

I’m in 7th heaven with David Whitehurst and Frank Winters

What, you say? Yes it is true! It was also my birthday on the 22nd and I have to say that I could not have dreamed up a better 40th birthday weekend.

Okay, let me start from the beginning because it only gets better as the story goes on. I found out about a 8 weeks ago that some of the Green Bay Packer Alumni were coming to town for Battle on Bago that took place Feb. 22-23. Glenn Curran who is one of the founders of Battle on Bago does an amazing job of putting everything together. There is so much to get done to pull off something of this magnitude.  Proceeds from this event have primarily benefited over 20 Youth Fishing Events and the purchase of fishing poles, tackle boxes, and bait for kids.

We  are so close to the event that took place at Menominee Park and we were able let the guys have the entire inn to themselves. It’s nice to be able to be away from home and still feel like your at home.  I didn’t really have any idea what to expect, but it was beyond my wildest dreams.

Five Packer alumni and alumni coordinators were expected to arrive on Thursday night, but because of the snow storm, Lynn Dickey who played for the Packers as quarterback from 1977-1984 and Paul Coffman as a tight end from 1978-1985 were stranded in Kansas City and would not be able to make it.

Frank Winters was the first to check in. Frank played for the Packers as a center for 9 consecutive seasons. This guy is HUGE but he is also a big teddy bear too. I don’t know if he would appreciate me saying that, but he’s a really nice man. We had the opportunity to chat for a couple of hours before Dave Whitehurst arrived.

Dave Whitehurst was a quarterback for the Packers who played for 7 seasons. Dave was  probably the most humbling man I have ever met. I felt like I knew him for years. He could be anyone’s best friend. His son Charlie now plays for the San Diego Chargers as a quarterback as well.

Jerry’s Bar was the place to be Thursday night if you wanted to say hello to the boys. They got to experience a little bit Oshkosh history.

It looked like I would have to wait for rest of the crew to come in the following night. Friday night was my birthday which my parents drove up 21/2 hours to come and share with me. My husband, daughter, parents and some close friends dined out in Appleton and were back at the inn by 11:00.

At which time Bill Schroeder was waiting in my living room relaxing with Dave.  Bill Schroeder played for Packers for 7 seasons as a wide receiver. He was born in Eau Claire, attended Sheboygan High School and went to college in LaCrosse where he starred in track and field. I didn’t have much of an opportunity to talk to Bill since he was here such a short time, but I hope that I get the chance to meet him again someday. He couldn’t have been nicer in the time I did have with him.

Casey Rabuck who played for the Wisconsin Badgers stayed for a short time, but I never go the chance to meet him. The guys were up early on Saturday morning to do some ice fishing and head down to Battle on Bago where I got to spend most of my afternoon hanging out with some of them.

Later that evening, my husband and I had the pleasure of dining out with Dave. We decided to take him to Ratch and Deb’s for some great pizza and show him the shrine of Packers legends.

By Sunday, I was beat but still grinning from ear to ear. I only hope that we will get this opportunity again someday. If not though, this will be something I remember for many years to come.

Posted in News from Brayton Bed and Breakfast, Oshkosh, WI events | 2 Comments »

Did you hear?

February 25, 2013 by braytonbb

How exciting! Did you hear that Brayton Bed and Breakfast was nominated for Best Wisconsin B&B’s for Ice Fishing?

We are so honored! I mean we know we live in this great city where we are surrounded by beautiful lakes and architecture, but to be nominated! What an privilege! Check out some of the other B&B’s in Wisconsin that were nominated along with us but also for skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

AND THE NOMINEES FOR THE BEST WISCONSIN B&Bs FOR ICE FISHING, SKIING, SNOWSHOEING AND SNOWMOBILING ARE… 

 

MERRILL, Wis. (February 7, 2013) – For those of hardy stock – and really, who doesn’t that describe in the Midwest – the idea of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or snowmobiling out the front door is the ideal.  Now take that notion and apply it to a winter getaway. While the front door for most hotels and resorts leads to the parking lot, at many Wisconsin B&Bs the front door leads you to the great outdoors. A quick survey of Wisconsin inns produced a slew of ideas for travelers who like to take in the fresh winter air.  So, in the spirit of the film and music awards season, we bring you nominees for “best of” in the following categories:

Best Wisconsin B&Bs for Cross Country Skiing

  • The Justin Trails B&B in Sparta deserves the lifetime achievement award for winter sports of all sorts, but especially for cross country skiing. They have a 10K trail on their property groomed for both striding and skating styles of skiing, and you can literally ski out the back door of the inn.
  • At Apple Tree Lane B&B in Waupaca, enjoy a hearty breakfast, then go for a brisk ski on the property, in that order so advises the owner.  Warm up at the outdoor fire pit with hot chocolate after.
  • Another strong nominee is Eagle Centre House in Eagle, given their proximity to Lapham Peak park in the Kettle Moraine State Forest with nearly 20 miles of trails of which 2.5 miles are lighted for night skiing.
  • Other inns with cross country skiing right on property include Cedar Ridge B&B in Portage, Lakeside B&B in Florence, and Artha Sustainable Living Center in Amherst.

Best Wisconsin B&Bs for Snowshoeing

  • Crystal River Inn B&B in Waupaca has snowshoes sitting right on the front porch for guests – think grab and go. Try candlelight cross country skiing on their well groomed trails, knowing you can warm up after with refreshments whipped up by the innkeepers.
  • At Pinehurst Inn in Bayfield, the snowshoes are complimentary and so is the cardio workout on their 20 acres of rolling hills and steep ravines along Pike’s Creek.  The innkeepers will provide head lamps if you want to snowshoe by moonlight.
  • Honorable mention to Honeybee Inn B&B in Horicon for providing free use of snowshoes for exploring the Horicon Marsh trails just 10 blocks from the inn.

Best Wisconsin B&Bs for Downhill Skiing

  • Take the trio of ski hills near Wisconsin Dells – Devils’ Head, Cascade Mountain and Christmas Mountain – and you must nominate Pine Grove Park B&B and Parkview B&B, both in Reedsburg.  Pine Grove Park has four freestanding guest houses tucked back on 55 aces, while Parkview is located right in town.
  • There are 18 slopes at The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva in Lake Geneva, and there are 10 suites at the Lazy Cloud B&B in Lake Geneva, each with a two-person whirlpool and fireplace.

Best Wisconsin B&Bs for Snowmobiling

  • First up, Grapevine Log Cabins in Sparta, where you can pick up the Leon-Sparta Trail right on property.
  • At Canyon Road Inn in Turtle Lake, not only do you have access to the Cattail Trail but the inn has plenty of trailer parking too.
  • Favored to take home the award is Cobblestone B&B in Birchwood, with access to the Tuscobia State Trail from the inn, plus the owner provides all the accoutrements like indoor parking for cars and snowmobiles, a fire pit and hot chocolate.

Best Wisconsin B&Bs for Ice Fishing 

  • Three notable nominees in this category, with the first going to the Brayton B&B in Oshkosh, just one mile from Lake Winnebago, a body of water famous for sturgeon spearing but also white bass and walleye.
  • The second nominee is Eagle Harbor Inn in Ephraim, located a quarter-mile from the bay of Green Bay.  Side note here, if you prefer to glide on the ice the innkeepers recommend the skating rink in Sister Bay with fire pit and warming hut.
  • Up third is Riverview B&B in Neshkoro, where the ice is thick on the White River and the fish are biting. Care to ice skate instead? Friends of the White River not only maintain a rink area but also have a collection of skates for free use.

 

About the Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Association

The WBBA is the one of the largest associations of its kind in the United States and the only quality-certified B&B organization in Wisconsin.   Its 140 member inns range from historic mansions to waterfront cottages to contemporary urban retreats.  Full descriptions of the inns may be found at www.WisconsinBandB.com.

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Crusty Bread

January 30, 2013 by braytonbb

I will quote another Pinterest pinner. I am addicted to this bread!  I have made three loaves and probably would make more if I had another cast iron pot. The bread takes time to make, but it is so easy. You literally take 5 minutes to make the dough and then walk away for 12-24 hours and then come back to it. That’s it! The best part of about it is that you can add whatever ingredients you want for what you are using it for.

The first day I made just the original and shared with my husband that evening with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, grapes, cheese and red wine. That actually could be my go to, staying in dinner every night, but my daughter might start to complain.

The second day, I added some craisens, walnuts and honey to the loaf. YUM! That was breakfast. I am thinking I may be using this for a french toast or sandwich for another recipe.

Finally the third day I was looking through the fridge to see what I could incorporate into this loaf. I found some cheddar cheese, and fresh thyme and sprinkled a little parmesan cheese and fresh cracked pepper to to the loaf. Excellent again. I think next time, I may add jalapenos!

I can’t wait to come up with some other great recipes. In the meantime though, if you come up with something, please pass it along. I would love to try your creations as well.

Okay, back to the recipe. So 12-24 hours seems like a long time to proof the bread, but trust me! It is necessary! If I start it at 8:00 in the morning, I have to wait until 8:00 at night to bake it. I am too tired by that time so I have waited until the next morning to bake and it has turned out great every time, but be my guest. Do what is ever easiest for you. No matter what though, wait at least 12 hours.

Crusty Bread – 3 C all purpose flour, 1 3/4 tsp. salt, 1/2 tsp. yeast, 1 1/2 C water and then whatever else if you want to through into it. Also, you will need a cast Iron bowl. I have never tried a regular stew pot, so I am not sure if it would work as well. Its worth a try though if you don’t have cast iron.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt and yeast. Add water and  mix until this shaggy looking mixture forms. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and set aside for 12-24 hours.

When ready to bake, heat oven to 450 degrees. When the oven has reached this temp, place your cast iron pot(empty) with the lid on in the oven and heat for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, pour dough onto a heavily floured surface and shape into a ball. Cover with plastic while the pot is heating.

Remove pot after 30 min. and add dough to the pot. Cover with a lid and put back into the oven for 30 min. After 30 min., remove the lid and back for additional 15  minutes.

Carefully remove bread from pot when done and cool on a wire rack. Enjoy when cool, if you can wait that long!

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Family history this holiday season

December 31, 2012 by braytonbb

If  you have ever been to our place or been to our website, you will know that we are not like your typical bed and breakfast. You won’t find lacy pillowcases, flowered wallpaper or that 80′s country motif and we are completely doily free, and proud of it. Now, we know that there is a place for that. We have stayed in many lovely B&B’s that do a great job with these themes.  We hope that you can appreciate the architecture that our Creme City Brick Italianate home offers. We have brought in a lot of dark, warm colors to compliment the high ceilings and tall windows and doors.

Now we appreciate history just like you do. We love to tell people that our home is almost 150 years old and that it has gone from a residential home, to a boarding house, to group home to now our home and bed and breakfast. “Full Circle” is how I feel and what I tell most people. That is why we do have a few antiques in the home. Maybe a handful at the very most. In fact the ones I am the most proud of, are a piece of my own family history.

When I was pregnant with my daughter I had a baby shower just like many. The best gift of the day came from my Grandmother who gave me her Fathers rocking chair. I never had a chance to meet him, but this rocking chair was always in my Grandparents house and I had never known the history.  She had cleaned it up and tweaked it to be squeak free. On the bottom of the chair seat she had written me a letter describing how her Father had sat in this chair every day on the porch smoking his pipe. It brought tears to my eyes that she was giving me something so precious, that meant so much to her and something that I could rock my baby in. Now my baby is teenager, so  it sits on the front porch at our other property where I can enjoy it just like my Great Grandfather.

 

Not long after we opened, my Mom gave me a floor lamp that was my Great Grandmothers. I was lucky enough to know her. In fact she passed away just a few weeks after my my daughter was born who is now 15. Its pretty cool that my daughter got to meet her Great Great Grandmother. She may not remember, but I do have a picture of the 5 generations. This lamp fits perfect in the B&B. It has a wonderfully warm glow that shines through the delicate beaded rice paper shade. I am so careful not to touch it too often, since it is in such fragile condition, but I love to show it off.

 

My family is very generous. Not just around the Holidays, but all the time. A couple of Christmas’s ago, I was unwrapping one last present. To my surprise, my Grandfather gave me a table lamp from my Great Grandmother. It is a very simple Tiffany design but something I adore. It is one of my favorite gifts that sits by the front door and illuminates the desserts I put out each evening.

 

 

 

When I was a teenager, I was allowed to walk through the home of my Great Grandparents that they no longer resided in or had resided in for many years, but still kept full of clothes, dishes and furniture. I was asked at that time if there was anything I was interested in. At 16, at least for me, many things were beautiful, but I really did not have a use for anything. I spotted an area rug that I thought that maybe someday I could use, somewhere. I left and that was it. It was never brought up again. The home stayed empty until this last summer when they decided they would finally have an auction. There was this area rug. Water had been on it from a leaky ceiling and the years of mustiness had gotten to it, but it still looked incredible to  me. I put a bid on this rug along with one other one and they ended up being mine.  These rugs were steam cleaned twice but still had a long way to go to bring them back to their luster. My wonderful husband hosed them down and hung them on the clothes line over the summer where they were sun dried and cleaned again.  We rolled them up and stored them until we were ready. A week ago, I convinced my husband to help me bring one of the rugs inside the inn and replace it with a newer one that we had. He wasn’t so sure, but once it was among the other furniture and colors of the inn, it felt like it should have been here the whole time. I still have  not found a place for the other rug, but I know I will.

I felt like this was the ideal time to share a little piece of our homes history along with a little piece of mine as well. I am very fortunate to have a such a wonderful family who allows me to share  the history of my family with the history of this wonderful place we call home. Happy New Year and thank you to  my Great Grandparents, Grandparents and parents and to all of you who we have had the pleasure of seeing and meeting this year.

Nicole, Scott and Chase

 

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Proudly displaying local artist

December 17, 2012 by braytonbb

Scott and I were out one weekday evening enjoying a couple of glasses of wine at one of  our favorite establishments in town. Gardinas. We love that we can just walk a couple blocks and check out downtown Oshkosh and enjoy so many wonderful treats. I am pleased to say that so many local places display great artwork by so many of the wonderful local artists that we have in our city.

Immediately my eye went to this amazing painting on the wall inside Gardinas.  I knew exactly where I would put it.  I just had to have it! Sometimes I can look for a long time for something that I want, not really ever knowing what it may be, but knowing that when I find it, I will just know.  That was the same in this case.

The following day I got in touch with the artist, Leif Larson, whom I had never met before. He was so kind to hold this piece for me until I was ready for it.  A few days ago, I called him up and said I was ready, at least for the most part. He was so gracious to deliver the piece for us.

I am so proud to be able to show this piece at the B&B for the sake of displaying a local artists piece of work, but also showing off the beautiful Algoma Club building, which is only a few blocks away from us.

If you are ever looking for a piece of local art, abstract, or figure painting, I highly recommend the work of Leif Larson.

 

 

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What to get for the person who has everything?

December 10, 2012 by braytonbb

How about a gift certificate to a bed a breakfast? Gift certificates are that perfect gift to give anyone. Especially one to a B&B. They know you are thinking about them and want to pamper them to a relaxing stay. We will be the first to tell you that a gift certificate to our lovely establishment is the way to go, however I will not be stingy. There are a couple of options for you this season.

1. You can purchase a gift certificate from us in any amount- even for packages.  We can email you the certificate, put it in the mail for you or mail it directly to whomever you are gifting it to as a surprise.  If you have stayed with us before, we always enjoy meeting your friends and family. You can purchase one directly from our website or call us and we can take care of everything.

 

 

2. You can purchase from WBBA which is our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Association. A gift certificate through them gives your recipient the option of choosing any B&B they would like to stay in within the association. There are over 150 bed and breakfasts to choose from. WOW! We have a few of our favorites as well.

Either decision, will be the right decision. Any questions about either one of these options, please don’t hesitate to ask. We will be more than happy to help guide you in the right direction depending on what you are looking for.

 

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Hot Ticket Giveaway!

November 28, 2012 by braytonbb

Oshkosh has so much to offer. Why do you think we are called the Event City? Unique retailers, amazing restaurants and all different types of  festivals for all ages. The Oshkosh Convention and Visitors Bureau likes to share these great finds each month by giving a small of piece of the city in their Hot Ticket Giveaway! It could be an overnight stay, tickets to a show or a gift certificate to our city’s many great shops and restaurants.

This month, we are happy to tell you that we have paired up with the CVB to be a part of that prize package.  There will be an overnight stay here at Brayton Bed and Breakfast, a gift certificate to Gardinas Wine Bar and Trillium Salon. All downtown. Wow! I wish I could win. All you have to do like “Visit Oshkosh” on Facebook and click on the “Hot Ticket Giveaway” button and enter all your information. It couldn’t get much easier. You can enter every month too for a different package giveaway. We can’t wait to find out who the lucky winner will be.

 

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Holiday Surprise at Brayton Bed and Breakfast

November 26, 2012 by braytonbb

 

So this idea popped into my head this summer and I have been anxiously waiting to pull it all together. Originally, I was just going to have a  Christmas Tree with only clear ornaments, with each one having a surprise inside. I have embellished a little though. I have decided to have a few trees this year.

First,  a Charlie Brown tree or twig tree, is what I found they were called,  on the front porch. I saw one on Pinterest and started looking online for one like it. After seeing them for $80.00 I showed the picture to my husband and had him build me. I love it! Thank you honey! Its simple and my favorite. We get several Christmas cards each year from our guests so I think this will be the tree I string them on.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secondly, a romantic tree at the top of the stairs , small, pink, glittery and a lot of fun!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, my last and of course my somewhat traditional tree in the living room where my idea is born. For anyone staying with us in the month of December, you can pick a clear ornament from this tree, among all the fun, colorful, large bulbs and trinkets that adorn this tree.  Open up your ornament to find your surprise. Many bulbs will have 10, 20 and 30% off stays inside.  Two bulbs will have 50% off stay and one bulb will have a free one night stay.  All returning guests can use their surprise for that stay. All new guests will have the opportunity to use their surprise for for a future stay. We like to reward our return guests just a tad bit more when possible.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If this is a hit, I may do the same thing around Easter with eggs. So, that being said, come and relax with us after all that holiday shopping and enjoy some home made hot chocolate while sitting by the cozy fire.

 

 

 

 

 

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Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Cookbook is here

November 14, 2012 by braytonbb

Well, they are finally in. The Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast cookbook is here. If you pre ordered your copy, it is waiting for you to come and pick it up anytime. I did order 10 additional copies for those of you have decided they just can’t live with out this years addition or if you have decided that they will make excellent Christmas gifts.

This is the largest collection of recipes EVER from the Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Association. These recipes are from many of my friends and other innkeepers around the state. Some of these recipes are old family secrets (not anymore), some are recipes born from mistakes and some were tweaked from other recipes. This is the Eighth  cookbook that WBBA has put out. Every prior addition has sold out.  These are not just breakfast recipes either. You will get everything from appetizers, lunch, dinner, desserts and special dietary recipes as well.  You can find a recipe by inn or by category.

We have a total of 6 recipes in the book which I am sure some of you have tried. I tried to add recipes that were not in the previous books in case you had copies from the past.  I look forward to making a few of these myself from other inns. Its great to share recipes that you know are a hit.

Posted in News from Brayton Bed and Breakfast, Recipes | 2 Comments »

Need advice

November 8, 2012 by braytonbb

The Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce puts on these great seminars that are free of charge. Its hard for me to get to them most of time since they are at 7:30 in the morning and I am usually making breakfast.  A few weeks ago, I noticed they were having a seminar on blogging being presented by Dealer Fire. Fortunately, I was able to attend this on. I have been blogging now for over year, but I knew that there was so much more than I needed to know. First, off let me say, the folks at Dealer Fire are really nice and really knowledgeable. I learned a lot, thanks!

One thing in particular that was mentioned though to me was to try and post Monday-Thursday between 12:00 and 3:00 on my social media sites (Facebook, twitter, etc.) The logic to this is that  a lot people do not look at their social media sites right away in the morning or later afternoon and never on Fridays. I had not really thought about this, but it seemed to make sense. The problem I was thinking about was that I always posted what was happening in Oshkosh every Monday morning and my food blog every Friday morning. Apparently two big no no’s. This week I decided to post my food blog Thursday around lunch time and  not mention that I was doing it differently.  Now, it hasn’t been that long, but  too many people have not seen the recipe this week. By the way, it is scrumptious and perfect for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.

So, my question goes out to you. What you think? Stick with the Friday morning recipe or do you think I am better off switching it up to lets say, Thursday afternoon? When do you log on?

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We sadly say goodby

October 8, 2012 by braytonbb

Many of you will know Georgia in some form or another. You may have read about her in the journals in your room. She has either met you by the door by sliding into it if you rang the doorbell or barked to let me know someone was inside. She may have nuzzled by your leg during wine and cheese hoping that you would pet her. More often then not, she would be in the kitchen with me in case anything fell on the floor and then followed me to the table with your meal in hopes that you might feel sorry for her and slip her something under the table. Cold winter mornings, she would scoot right up to the pellet stoves to keep herself warm. She was not a big barker like some Schnauzers  and she never jumped on people or the furniture. However, some of you missed your own pets so much that we did find her in your room at times cuddled up with you in bed. Attention is one thing she did not lack.  Some of you even inquired about finding a dog just like Georgia. She looked at you with those cute eyes, that it was hard not to love her back.  My Mom, who lives near LaCrosse raises Schnauzers.  So a few puppies have even been purchased from her that are Georgia’s relatives so you could have one for yourselves.

Over the summer, she became irritated with her back hind leg. We took her to the vet and found out that she had liver cancer. Her tumor was quite large, so she had probably had it for awhile, but it had grown enough that it had bothered her to not want be touched in a certain area.  Up until last Monday it would have been hard to know that she was sick. She loved treats and still chased squirrels around the yard. By Monday evening, she was pretty sluggish and didn’t want even want  a treat. Tuesday night we said our tearful goodbyes to a family member and innkeeper if you will. I have added a few photos soon after we got her when our daughter was small to recently. Good by dear friend.

 

 

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Where’s Waldo?

June 30, 2012 by braytonbb

Where’s Waldo? In OSHKOSH, of course. He’s turning twenty-five this year, and to celebrate, the famous fellow in the striped shirt and black-rimmed specs is visiting twenty different local businesses all through the month of July. Those who spot him can win prizes, including buttons, books, and more. From Brayton Bed and Breakfast, Crescent Moon Antiques, to Caramel Crisp Café.  Waldo figures are showing up in public areas of local establishments. Anyone who wishes to participate can pick up a “Find Waldo in OSHKOSH!” search list with the names of all the businesses, and collect an “I Found Waldo at ___________” card for each Waldo they spot. Collecting cards in sixteen or more businesses and turning them in at Apple Blossom Books will win a Waldo button and an entry for other, larger prizes to be drawn at a Waldo party on July 31. The Grand Prize is a complete six-volume set of Waldo books. People who prefer a shorter version of the hunt can collect the cards from eight businesses and pick up a Waldo button at Apple Blossom Books.

Waldo is the creation of Martin Handford, whose entertaining drawings of crowd scenes swept the world in 1987. Since then, the Where’s Waldo books have held a cherished spot on bookstore shelves the world over. There are now over 55 million Waldo books in print worldwide and they’ve been translated into eighteen languages. An entire generation has grown up searching for Waldo and his cast of wandering companions.

In celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and 250 independent bookstores all across the country, including Apple Blossom Books here in Oshkosh, to have fun and encourage people to visit local businesses. There is no charge to participate, and the game lasts for the entire month of July. For more information about hunting for Waldo in OSHKOSH, call Apple Blossom Books at 920.230.3395.

Waldo is hidden somewhere on the front porch of Brayton Bed and Breakfast. If you find him, grab a card. If we are around when you are there, please find us and sign up for our drawing where we are giving a gift certificate for a percentage off your next nights stay with us. Please be courteous of other staying with us and only look for Waldo before 8:00 PM. Thank you!

 

 

 

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Finally, garden is completed!

May 29, 2012 by braytonbb

I feel like I am behind this year, and with all this early warm weather, you wouldn’t think I would be. Needless to say though, I am.  The garden is now weeded, new mulch laid down, flower pots galore surround the inn and new flowers and hostas are filling us the garden. Things are looking pretty good though I have to say. Now, its just keeping up with all the watering and weed pulling throughout the summer. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining one little bit. I love this time of year and wish it would last longer than it does.

Oshkosh has so many great things that are coming up this summer and my future blogs in the upcoming weeks will be filled with things to do, places to go and people to see.  A little insight is Irish Fest,  Saturday Farmers Market, graduation ( my daughter enters  high school…sigh…, waterfest, festivals, etc etc etc. You’ll have to check back for everything that is going on. Enjoy Summer!

 

 

 

 

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8th Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Cookbook is in the works.

April 19, 2012 by braytonbb

I am looking for some suggestions. The WBBA (Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Association) is in the process of putting out its 8th cookbook from Wisconsin innkeepers. They are asking for 4 recipes from each inn. I started looking through all my recipes and then decided that I would let you choose. Please tell me your favorites that you have had when you have stayed with us and we will use the top ones in the cookbook. I need all requests in by April 25th. You can reply to this blog, comment on our facebook page or email me. your choice.

Cookbooks will be ready for sale by October at a price of $24.95.  We will ship them to you or someone else as well for an extra charge.  As always we will have a hefty supply, but if you preorder now, they can be yours for $19.95.  Boy that sounds like a real infomercial. Sorry about that. These cookbooks have been in a huge demand in the past and sell out each year.

In case you are wondering, the cookbook is more than just the recipes.  There will be information about each B&B that submitted a recipe as well.  The last cookbook that was put out was so  much more than just breakfast entrees. Appetizers, soups and some lunch and dinner entrees and Amazing desserts were also included!

I look forward to seeing all your favorites

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Death to the Doilies!

April 16, 2012 by braytonbb

You may have heard about it, you may have not, but I am proud to tell you that the Death to the Doily campaign has started.  I do not have a lot of information to tell you since it is fairly new and the  details are still being worked out. There was supposed to be an open house on April 22nd for B&B’s to participate, but they did not have a very good turn out for participants so that has been canceled.

Death to the Doilies? What is it you ask? Well, let me tell you. There are many misconceptions to a bed and a breakfast and one of them is the dreaded doily! Yes, at one time, whatever B&B you went to, they were there. Under lamps, used as coasters, on the backs of chairs and yes, even made into bed spreads. I am happy to report though, that we have never had a single doily at our inn, nor will we ever. Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not putting down the doily and those B&B’s that use them. One in many advantages to staying at a B&B is that we are all so different, unlike the boring hotel chains. You have your choice of so many different locations whether its in the country, the city, a turn of the century Victorian, row house, farm house or modern day new construction. If you love the doily, they are still there, however if you do not, you do have options.

I have included this video which will give you a glimpse of the promotion and some quirky innkeeper humor.

Death to the Doily Video

 

 

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New suite is named – Casa Suite

March 6, 2012 by braytonbb

With many months of working on the new suite and receiving so many name ideas from our Facebook followers, we have come to a decision. Casa Suite is the new two bedroom suite. A name brought to us from the contest we ran on Facebook for naming rights. Jon and Susan from Milwaukee have won a free night stay in the new suite. However, we have decided that our runners up, Robin and Philip and Mary Kay and Chet should also be rewarded. They are each receiving $100.00 towards their next stay with us.

With just the bathroom needing completion, we are only a couple weeks away from showing you the final outcome. Casa means a lot to us for several different reasons. Casa means home. Therefore, we want you to feel comfortable, as if you are in your own home, not only at the B&B, but in this new suite as well. We also purchased our home from Casa Cara 8 years ago, which was a  non profit organization here in Oshkosh. In keeping with the rest of the theme of our other rooms, which are named after people that had a significant influence on our home and business, we felt this was the best choice.

The Casa Suite is a two bedroom suite on the second floor. As you walk through the door, the master bedroom is on the left. It is decorated in dark green mossy, suede walls, and velvety mossy green drapes with creme berber carpeting. It boasts a black king size four poster bed with a heated mattress pad, two nights stands with a ipod alarm clock, 32″ flat screen television and ceiling fan. As you walk out of the master bedroom, you will walk through an arched entry way into the foyer.  To the right of the foyer is the second bedroom which offers two full size beds with tan tufted headboards against a deep plum painted granite wall. It is carpeted in a nutmeg color flooring, with a ceiling fan, 27″ flat screen television, and one night stand with a shared ipod alarm clock. As you walk out of the second bedroom, it will lead you to the living room. The living room is carpeted in a smoky gray flooring with a 37″ flat screen television, black sofa with chaise lounge, a cream leather chair and ceiling fan. Off to the side is a small work area with a desk.   The bathroom which is off of the living room is still being completed, however some things you can look forward to is a double vanity, bathtub, laundry facilities and a tiled shower with steam like amenities.

I am looking forward to getting professional pictures taken of the new suite, but I wanted to offer you a sneak peak of one of the rooms. In a couple of weeks, I will post more once completed. We are taking reservations now. You can book online or call us anytime.

 

Posted in News from Brayton Bed and Breakfast, Renovations | 1 Comment »

New reservation system has gone live, WITH A CONTEST!

December 19, 2011 by braytonbb

Though this may not sound too exciting for some of you, however it is a huge benefit to all involved. For one,  when booking your reservation online, you can now see what is available and what is not just by looking at the calender on the left. The dates marked in gray, we do not have any availability.  The dates that are not  marked you can click on and see what what rooms are available that day for that price, also you can see if  there  is a minimum night stay on any or all rooms.

There are also tabs at the top of the page that you can add a package to your stay, add extras such as flowers, candy, dinner,etc. buy gift certificates that I can email or mail out or get those sheets and bathrobes that you love so much when you stay.

In the summer we offer Scotty’s Pontoon for rent. Our guests get a discounted rate, however we offer it to anyone that would like to use it. . Coming soon, there will be a link that will show when the pontoon is available, which then you will be able to book online as well.

If you have any suggestions, please let us know. Some things we have control over and some things are just how the system works. We’ve tried to make this as easy as possible when booking your reservation.

As an extra bonus, we will have an additional room available this Spring. After you click on check availability, go to the guest rooms. Scroll down to the bottom where you will see our fifth room that we will be offering. We are having a contest over the next few months on the name of the room.  If we choose your name for the new guest suite, you will win a one night stay in the new suite.

So click on check availability now on our site and start thinking of some good names and then email us and with your thoughts. Good Luck.

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Merry Christmas Week

December 17, 2011 by braytonbb

I don’t know about a lot of you, but it has been a tough season for me to get motivated to put up the decorations and feel the spirit of Christmas. We have  had such a mild winter ( which I am overjoyed about) and little to no snow (which I couldn’t be happier about) which is what I blame my lack of ambitions for. Though the decorations have been up for a while with the push of my guests, my Christmas shopping is hardly started. I am not a last minute shopper. In fact, most of my shopping is usually done online and is done by now. I have my work cut out for me these next few days. I have a feeling I will be in the same boat as many others-which means lot of crowds and lines. YIPEEEE-Not!

Anyway, wish me luck for my daughters sake. In the meantime I have posted some decoration pictures.

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Secretary of Tourism, Stephanie Klett stays at Brayton Bed and Breakfast

May 12, 2011 by braytonbb

Friday recipe of the week is postponed until tomorrow due to the Oshkosh Tourism breakfast being held this morning.

Secretary of Tourism, Stephanie Klett stayed with us last night prior to speaking at the Oshkosh Convention Center. She highlighted 2010 Oshkosh tourism achievements and spoke about what we have to look forward to in 2011 and following years.

I am honored that I got to attend the breakfast and listen to Stephanie speak. She is such an inspiration and a lot of fun to listen to. I don’t get a chance to attend many city functions in the morning and on weekends due to that I am usually making breakfast, cleaning rooms and checking new guests in to the inn. I don’t have any employees other than my husband and daughter (who if you would like cheerios for breakfast) I could then possibly attend, if I could get away from worrying about what was happening when I was not around.

Thanks again Stephanie for visiting Oshkosh and staying with us. We are very honored!

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New for 2011

January 24, 2011 by braytonbb

We have joined forces with Olden produce as a CSA. What is a CSA you ask? Community Supported Agriculture Share Program.
This allows us to get our produce from a local source and support our local community.
This year we will be able to get a constant supply of fresh fruits, vegetables, and eggs during the growing season. All produce is grown in a sustainable all chemical/natural free manner.
We will have fresher, local choices that we will be able to utilize in making your breakfast and desserts each day. I am hoping that will be be able to use some products that we have never tried before and make some new recipes as well.
Please come and check us out this summer to see what all the fuss is about.

Posted in News from Brayton Bed and Breakfast | 1 Comment »

Christmas at the Inn

November 29, 2010 by braytonbb

It is a beautiful time around the inn at Christmas. We have just finished putting up the garland and lights outside, candles in the windows, Christmas tree up and of our course our mini Christmas village. We would love for you to come and enjoy this beautiful time of year with us. We also sell gift certificates, which make the PERFECT, holiday gift that anyone would enjoy.

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