Innkeeper Bill Wickman lives at the inn with his wife, Donna. They have traveled extensively and stayed in bed and breakfasts all over the globe. Their experience should help them provide a wonderful stay for anyone visiting this cozy B&B.
How long have you been innkeepers?
Actually, Donna has another career. I have been in business for four, about to begin five years.
What made you want to become an innkeeper?
We traveled a lot, stayed in B&Bs in Europe, Great Britain, Ireland, Japan, Canada, and this country. I retired after 38 years with the feds and decided that this is what I want to do for a while.
When did you first stay at a bed and breakfast?
Probably 25 years ago, a pension in Germany.
How long did you debate whether to become an innkeeper?
There was no debate; I knew before I retired.
How did you decide where to open your inn?
It's been our home for 18 years and is well-suited to a two-room operation.
What are some of the unique features of the Salem, Oregon, area?
Actually, it is a very dull place, being the state capitol and in Republican country. I ask myself sometimes why people come here, and the reasons are many and varied.
(NOTE: Mr. Wickman is, in my opinion, being too modest about this area of the country. For example, the inn has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places, is just 50 minutes from Portland, 60 minutes from the beach, 90 minutes from skiing, and 60 minutes from the University of Oregon. And it's only 20 minutes from the site of Oregon Gardens, a world-class botanical garden.)
What is your favorite part about being an innkeeper?
The guests, many of whom have become friends.
And the logical followup -- What is your least favorite part?
Cleaning the bathroom.
Which is your personal favorite room at your bed and breakfast?
The "Maid's Room." Small but nice.
How do you make a stay at your B&B special?
My only real feature is hospitality, hospitality, and more hospitality (plus two great cats, Willyum and Merry). There's no antique clutter or "cutesy stuff."
What would you say to people who have never stayed in a bed and breakfast?
Why stay in a motel and eat at a fast food resturant when you can stay here for less, be in a home atmosphere, and have my wonderful breakfast served on china with silver -- all for less than what you would pay staying in another type of facility?
What would you say to people interested in becoming innkeepers?
Think about it long and hard, read books, and talk to other innkeepers.
NOTE: As of April 2008, it appears that Cottonwood Cottage Bed and Breakfast is closed.
