INN GOOD COMPANY

Meet Alexis Amaden. She is the keeper of the Whitlock Inn. She is also a keeper of tradition.

Hosting more than 9,000 guests annually, this modern, southern belle takes the cake when it comes to entertaining. We sat down to learn more about Alexis and the history of the Inn, both fascinating. And in true Southerly style, we were made to feel welcome and – dare we say it – right at home.

First things first. Is it Alexis or Lexie?
It’s Alexis, but many call me Lexie — happy to answer to either.

Lexie, it is. And as we understand the Whitlock Inn would not be here — literally — without your family’s efforts to save it.
Yes. The home was scheduled for demolition. My family purchased the property and worked tirelessly to restore the home back to its original glory. In 1994, we opened the Whitlock Inn as a bed and breakfast.

So clearly, preservation is a passion of yours.
I actually have a degree in history. So this is a natural fit for me. The home was originally built in 1900, and restoring it was no easy task. It took a lot of love and a lot of elbow grease. And we continue to maintain it, but it is truly a labor of love.

Everything here is beautifully maintained. The attention to detail in the home, and throughout the gardens, is evident. We’re guessing that is a big part of the undeniable charm of this place.
It might be an overused phrase, but we really do want people to feel at home when they are here. We never take for granted that people are choosing to spend some of the most special times in their lives with us. Whether it is a bride or a business owner, we enjoy creating memorable experiences that will endure and become part of the history of this place.

This month marks the 13th Annual Gobble Jog benefiting MUST Ministries. Rumor has it you started it.
I did, along with a dedicated committee who worked tirelessly to see it come to fruition. We really didn’t know what we were doing, we just knew it needed to be done. I remember stuffing goodie bags in the ballroom of the Whitlock Inn. Now they have a truck deliver them. It’s been amazing to see its growth and how it has been embraced by the community.

Why do you think that is?
As we gather around our tables on Thanksgiving Day and give thanks for all of our blessings, many of us realize how many people in our community don’t have food on their table on Thanksgiving Day – or any other day. The Gobble Jog offers a great opportunity for families to come together, bring the strollers and the dog, and establish a tradition of giving… and get a little exercise before we stuff ourselves.

So what’s next for the Whitlock Inn?
Weddings are a huge part of our business. And they have become more creative and personalized than ever. It has been fun trying new trends and playing with ideas found on social media sites like Pinterest. Creating unique events keeps us growing.

photograph by HADLEY(s) Photography