Live Oaks Inn

Happy 4th of July and Welcome Race Fans

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 15:07:00 +0000

Good Morning!

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July. We are very lucky to have a house full of guests this weekend who we got to spend the evening with. Daytona Beach put on a fantastic fireworks show over the beachside pier. My father and I walked downtown to watch from the News Journal Center. However, we never made it quite that far, we met and watched the show with the owners of Hound Dogs, the newest restaurant on the street. When we returned to the Inn there was gathering of our guest talking on the deck. We sat with them into the wee hours of the morning. In comparison to most years, this one was certainly more mild, but just as interesting.All in all our 4th of July couldn't have been better.

Also in town this weekend in the Coke Zero 400. This is now the second race we have lived through and I am here to say that the excitment is all most too much to handle. Starting Monday, the tents, stages, trucks, banners, and road blocks came little bits at a time. By Wednesday, there had been a sudden influx of people and equipment. I was amazed at how quickly the lots in front of Daytona International Speedway went from empty to bustling. Our guest are all here for the race. Some won their tickets, some had nice bosses or friends who gave them their tickets, and others are just die hard race fans who follow the races wherever they go. It is certainly a different Daytona then it was only days ago.

I, too, bought tickets to the race. My dad has never been so I thought we should go so he could see what all the fuss is about. I have only been to one race myself, but I do remember the rush you get when they say "Gentlemen, Start Your Engines" and the whole stadium rumbles as the cars ignite. It will be very fun to see that agian. When it's all over I will write again to let you know if was as good as the first time.

With a cast of characters (in town and at Live Oaks Inn), the most patriotic holiday of the year, and the largest nightime sporting event all in the same weekend, you can imagine that we are very happy to be here right now. The weather is beautiful, the events are in full swing, and we are just glad to be in the right place at the right time.

Stay tuned, there's more to come!

Jessica

What a Week.

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 20:39:00 +0000

It has been a crazy week here at Live Oaks Inn (well I guess it's been more than a week). As some of you may know, my father has been travelling through Italy for the past 10 days, leaving me in charge of the ranch. It seems funny how many things can happen when you are all alone; things that wouldn't ever happen when there are people all around you.

The week started with a plague (or maybe just the flu) that ran through my entire staff. I was very kindly spared, I've already had my flu for the season. This wasn't really a problem when the week began, but as time went on I realized how valueable my staff really is. The phones started ringing off the hook, I booked 3-4 appointments per day, missed the trash guys twice in a row, stood in a pile of laundry up to my knees, and had an encounter with a very scary spider. At the end of it all, I was able to answer the phones, take the appointments, throw the trash away, do the laundry, and kill the spider. However, the point is my staff and my father are certainly a necessary part of my daily life.

In additoin to the flu and foreign travel, I had some wonderful guests with me this weekend. A great couple here for their 25th wedding anniversary and another couple here for the beach. When our guests are here it makes our very large house suddenly seem less expansive. It reminds me of why I got into this business to begin with. The chatting, the stories, coffee in the salon with people you just met, and the hope that they will forever become a part of that extended family that we are all creating on a daily basis.

I am also glad to report that my 3-4 appointments each day turned into 4 solid events and 3 possible events. I can see it now...soon enough we will be ovewhelmed with a myriad of weddings, baby showers, bridal showers, and honeymoons. The Inn will be a hustle and bustle of ongoing activity. I picture long days of planning and executing events that end as we say our goodnights the last of the sleepy guests.

In this story, the great part of my week was far better than the not so great part. Which, in the end, is all I can hope for. Check back next week for our latest and greatest.

Signing off,
Jessica

Spring Cleaning and Exciting Opportunities!

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:36:00 +0000

It's Thursday morning here at Live Oaks Inn and I am writing from the comfort of our brand NEW office. While most people might think it strange to get excited over a new office we have many reasons to be thankful for this change.
1) Our old office was not the ideal location for greeting our guests, it was small and messy, not making a good first impression (I apologize to those of you who visited us before this move). We haven't quite finished the reception part of the new office, but it is not far behind.
2) We had too much stuff and too little space, now we have shelves and places for everything to go. Organized and clean a much better working environment.
3) Our previous location was beginning to lack in air conditioning. There was too much equipment and not enough air to cool us down. So, unless you like feeling like bacon, it wasn't too much fun to be in there.
4) Finally, the reason that is my personal favorite, the office is no longer an extention of my living quarters. While I did enjoy the occassional phone call at 4am or the quiet hummmmm of the server, I am happy to say that their absence has caused me no harm.

In addition to the move, which I consider to be our version of spring cleaning, we have also joined forces with Lora Lynne's Weddings , to provide "intimate, elegant, affordable weddings". This is very exciting for us. While we are still going to be holding our own functions and providing our own planning services, we are also glad to be able to offer this package which will be another extention of our abilities. Please check out her packages on our website or hers!

It's funny, but as time goes on I am learning what this house really needs to seem alive. The obvious answer is people, but it goes even further than that. On a Sunday night not too long ago, a young couple checked in for their 1yr Anniversary. They were very excited too be here. The young lady informed me that she had not gotten photos of the back of her dress at her wedding. So, she brought it with her to take pictures here. When she came out, she seemed to fit here perfectly. It was only later, when I was looking at the pictures that I really appreciated how her presence brought our Inn to life. It was also strange to see that even as nothing more than a backdrop, the Inn really had an impact. Upon departure, she left us a lovely note in our bedroom journal, thanking us for the stay. But, I think more than anything we are thankful to her for giving us a day we will never forget!

It has been an exciting month at Live Oaks Inn. We are learning, changing, and growing every day. There are more great things just around the corner! So STAY TUNED, cause we are working hard to make Live Oaks Inn a place for you to come, relax and enjoy.

Signing off until next week! Enjoy the weekend, go out in the sun for me, as I'll be here working and thinking of the days when weekends meant days off...sigh. (She say knowing there is no place else she'd rather be.)

--Jessica

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 19 May 2008 21:54:00 +0000

Hey sports fans, Live Oaks Inn is a great location to stay if you are in town to go to the ball game! The Inn is two blocks from Jackie Robinson Ballpark where theDaytona Beach Cubs play they're games. Its a great ball park to watch a game in and see potential big leaguers before they become famous! Oh, and let's not forget the other ball game in town: Arena Football! Yes, Daytona Beach has its own Arena Football team the Daytona Beach Thunder. With a season that spans March through July, there is still a lot of football to be enjoyed here in Daytona Beach and Live Oaks Inn is perfectly located to allow easy access to your favorite sports team.

Mother's Day Brunch at Live Oaks Inn

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 19 May 2008 21:19:00 +0000

Mother's day is a day when families gather to celebrate their heritage and kinship. We at the Live Oaks Inn are proud to have hosted brunch on this special family occasion. Over one hundred guests graced our dining rooms, some families represented by three generations for this inaugural event. Showcasing our food service group - Acorn Catering, Inc., guests were treated to shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon, a carving station of honey baked ham with all the trimmings, and fancy pastries for dessert. By every standard, the event was a great success which we hope will become an annual offering.

Bachelorette Parties in Daytona Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Thu, 01 May 2008 13:37:00 +0000

Have the perfect Bachelorette Retreat at Live Oaks Inn bed & breakfast in the heart of Historic Downtown Daytona Beach. Within walking distance to restaurants, shopping, spas, and nightlife your bachelorette party will be one that you won't soon forget! Get your group of girls together, check in at Live Oaks Inn. We can make arrangements for massages, facials, and more. You can even go see a show at the state of the art News-Journal center! Then you can head downtown for a nice dinner and some drinks! The best part is, no one will have to drive! Of course, limo services are available upon request. As guests of Live Oaks Inn, you will also be served a complimentary breakfast! Call us today for more information.

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:22:00 +0000

We are excited to announce that we are launching our own catering service. Live Oaks Inn Catering is a full service catering company that can provide you and your group with gourmet catering and event services either onsite in the Live Oaks Inn banquet rooms or offsite at the location of your choice. Contact us today for a catering menu! We would love to sit down with you and discuss your upcoming event.

Daytona Beach Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 13:41:00 +0000

It is officially Spring, that wonderful time of year when love is in the air. Many of you out there may be planning for an upcoming Daytona Beach wedding. What better place to host your nuptials than Live Oaks Inn. Hold your ceremony under the live oak tree overlooking the marina or in the private gardens stretching to Palmetto Street, or even in the Grand Foyer with your wedding dress elegantly trailing down the stairs.

There are so many options for today's brides at Live Oaks Inn. With three different dining rooms to chose from it is the perfect place for an intimate reception. We have also noticed the popularity of Daytona Beach Destination Weddings. Bring the whole family and have them stay in our 14 luxurious guest rooms. It will be an event to remember in a very historic and elegant setting.

Contact our event planners today for more information. 386-252-0449 or toll free 1-866-LIV-OAKS.

Mother's Day Brunch at the Live Oaks Inn

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:26:00 +0000

The Live Oaks Inn is happy to announce that they will be hosting a Mother's Day Brunch this year. Dine in an atmosphere of history and elegance in Daytona Beach. Make reservations at 386-252-0449 for your family today! Want to make it a great weekend away from home? With 14 luxurious rooms available, you can stay at the Live Oaks Inn and give your mom a Mother's Day she won't forget! You know she deserves it.

Call today for seating times and reservation. We hope to see you soon!

Live Oaks Inn now a member of the Small Select Inns

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:10:00 +0000

Congratulations are in order for the Live Oaks Inn for becoming the newest member of Daytona Beach Small Select Inns. This is a very prestigious honor for innkeepers who meet the highest standards of quality, comfort, and cleanliness. You know you are receive personalized attention when you stay at a Small Select Inn. Call and schedule your tour today!

Daytona Beach Activities

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 13:04:00 +0000

With the arrival of spring, we here at the Live Oaks Inn have noticed that there is no shortage of things to do around town. Manatee Island is now open to the public, and what a great place to spend an afternoon. There are playgrounds for children and adults, a large amphitheater, a launching area for kayaks and canoes and plenty of space for a picnic lunch. The Daytona Cubs games are about to start soon too! We can't wait to take a walk over to Jackie Robinson Ballpark for the start of baseball season. Games start next Thursday, April 3rd. Visit the Live Oaks Inn Activities page for more information on what to do in Daytona Beach.

Official Website Launch

noreply@blogger.com (Live Oaks Inn) — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 18:49:00 +0000

Welcome to the Live Oaks Inn website. We have already had rave reviews about the "teaser" website that we have had up and running. After a great deal of work from Rare Brick and Beach Street Impressions our website is officially launched with a gift shop. Please check it out, give us some feedback and forward it to your friends!

We have had a lot of interest for Live Oaks Inn merchandise. Now you can visit our online gift shop and purchase a variety of memorabilia including polo shirts, blankets, and coffee mugs. All gift shop items are fulfilled locally by Beach Street Impressions and shipped directly to the customer.

In order to better showcase the Live Oaks Inn, the DiPietros in combination with Rare Brick decided to include a comprehensive listing of local Daytona Beach attractions. Even the locals didn't know that there was this much to do in Daytona Beach!