The Sweetwater Branch Inn is part of a Victorian complex located in historic downtown Gainesville, Florida. It boasts 20 beautiful rooms, suites and guest houses that are perfect for vacationing, weekend getaways and event stays.
This past weekend I was able to visit the Inn & learn more about it while attending a blogger brunch with other social media content creators in the area.
Photographs by Barbara Ann Photography
Surrounded by the beautiful McKenzie Gardens, the McKenzie House, dates back to 1895. In 1992, owner Cornelia Holbrook, took on the task of restoring the Cushman-Colson House (pictured above). She decided to give each space it’s own creative charm and named the rooms after different types of roses. While there, we were able to view 2 of the unoccupied guest rooms. I must say that they embodied Victorian charm yet still provided modern amenities one may hope for (i.e televisions, coffeemakers & WIFI).
Homemade breakfast is always complimentary with your stay at Sweetwater. The buffet is stocked with freshly baked goodies, along with other dishes that are made with local, farm fresh ingredients. During our visit, we were treated to the best brunch I have ever experienced. Pumpkin French Toast, Organic Yogurt with Fresh Fruit & Granola, Eggs Benedict and Mini-Pecan Pies were some of the items I chose for my plate.
Photographs by Barbara Ann Photography
After brunch, Cornelia talked to us a little about the complex and what it means to her. She explained how her family had purchased the buildings and used them as private residences. That is until, in 1993, she used the Cushman-Colson Home to start an Inn. While she was speaking, her love for the establishment billowed. Cornelia also conveyed how time has brought new competition with Air B&B’s and hotel chains. Hearing about the struggle while sitting in this gorgeous place and witnessing the atmosphere left me dumbfounded. The care that is put into everything you experience at the Sweetwater is so apparent. Something you will never find by choosing to stay in a hotel room.
Photographs by Barbara Ann Photography
Next, I had a little more time to meet and greet with the other ladies that were in attendance. All of the girls were so very kind and as beautiful on the inside as they were on the outside. We received our goodie bags filled with items from local businesses before heading out to view the complex.
Photographs by Barbara Ann Photography
Flowers provided by Garden & Grace Florals
Our group headed out into the courtyard between buildings for a little photo op. The bricked area was filled with different flowers and plant life, making it such a pretty backdrop for our photographs. I can imagine this would be a wonderful spot for special events/wedding receptions
Photographs by Barbara Ann Photography
(Pictured: Amanda @amandabarkley, Erica @thefabdivaonadime, Monique @monique.mchugh, Beka @beka_xo_co, Bianca @biancacloxton, Kayla @thehappyfloridian)
All in all the day couldn’t have been better! Being a Mama of 3 & new to Gainesville, it’s hard to get out and meet new people. The girls I met were so welcoming, kind and supportive. I’m so excited to be able to now call them friends! It was so great to get fresh perspectives from the others coupled with information about local businesses here in town.
I’d like to give a huge thank you to all of those who aided in making the day a great one!
Special thanks to: Kayla for planning the event, The Sweetwater Branch Inn, Barbara Ann Photography, Garden & Grace Florals, Sarah Langston, Arbonne, Sugar Baby’s Cookies, Select Shades, Agapanthus Gainesville, Golden Gator Tans, Maple Street Gainesville, Vale Food Co. & Alumni Hall UF
Bianca