On April 3, 2019 Steeles Tavern Manor changed hands and a new era of hospitality began at this Shenandoah Valley B&B. Dana and Trey Tumminello began their new career as Innkeepers and are ready to meet you – here, by telling you about themselves, AND in person when you stay at Steeles Tavern Manor.
Dana and Trey have two adult children – AJ, who is married to Emily, and Grace, who is married to Denny. They have one grandchild, John, who is less than a year old. Trey served in the Army for 11 years and their children have followed a military path. AJ is a Military Intelligence officer; Grace flies Blackhawk helicopters for the Army; and Denny flies Hueys for the Air Force. Emily is a school teacher staying at home with John.
Dana has prepared herself for the demands of innkeeping by getting in great physical shape in leading aerobic fitness classes and then teaching PE classes at a private K-12 school where she also served as the Athletic Director and Director of Admissions and Marketing.
In addition to Trey’s military experience, he has worked in landscaping (handy experience for an innkeeper!) and then in medical sales. Trey loves working outside and is very good at building construction and repairs. He has a sharp eye for details and a mind that can solve challenges well. Those are all great qualities and experience for an innkeeper too!
Innkeepers are frequently asked about their decision to enter the hospitality business. Dana and Trey have a most unique story of how they got into the innkeeping business. As it turns out, Dana received a speeding ticket in the Shenandoah Valley and needed to go to court in Staunton. When she had her court appointment, she and Trey actually stayed at Steeles Tavern Manor B&B during the trip and learned that the inn was available for new owners. After lots of research, education, and prayers, they decided that owning a successful B&B would be their next adventure!
Anyone who has already stayed at the B&B would understand why Dana and Trey were attracted to the area. The beauty and peacefulness of the Shenandoah Valley and the property settles around you and calms your spirit. There are lots of different types of activities available to keep you busy when you visit the area too. Steeles Tavern Manor is located in the middle of arts and entertainment, athletic activities such as hiking and kayaking, the “foodie” towns of Staunton and Lexington, and lots of historic sites. The home and property itself is historic and Dana and Trey still have lots to learn about it.
Dana says, “I love meeting people and getting to know them. Cooking has been a passion of mine for years and breakfast has always been my favorite meal of the day. Being an innkeeper fits my interests perfectly.” Previous owners, Melissa & Ray, and their dedicated staff made Steeles Tavern Manor a wonderful, welcoming, and relaxing place. Dana and Trey plan to continue that special hospitality as they settle into their new careers as innkeepers.
In addition to the work of getting unpacked and settled in their new home, Dana and Trey have already made some plans for future development of the 50-acre property. Watch for some changes around the pool area to make extra space for social hour near that relaxing water feature. They also hope to add another cabin within the next year or two since guests seem to enjoy the privacy of the cabins so much. Dana and Trey really enjoy working as a team on this venture. You may have noticed the result of their teamwork in the look of the new logo and website!
They are looking forward to becoming a part of this community and getting to know the neighbors and area business people. Make your reservation today to meet the new innkeepers at Steeles Manor and enjoy a springtime getaway to the Shenandoah Valley.
