I’m so excited to collaborate with Julie Loveless, who co-owns the Belva Lockwood Inn with her husband Ike, on our upcoming custom planting auction this Friday and Saturday!

Julie and Ike bought and have been renovating the historic building, which was in need of repair. They have already enjoyed a spot on HGTV’s House Hunters, which grabbed them international attention (after 6 days of shooting for the 22 minutes of airtime!). They are on their way to opening the inn during this upcoming holiday season.

As Julie puts it: “My vision for the Inn is to provide a unique guest experience, including the history of the building. The furnishings will be a mix of old and new with plenty of technology mixed in. We will have on-site catering available for intimate parties and weddings.”

While the inn’s future is invigorating, its history and namesake is just as important. Julie explains: “The thing that got me about Belva is that I was born, raised and educated in this country, and never heard of Belva Ann Lockwood until I bought this house.  She ran on a national ticket for Presidency twice in 1884 and 1888 and stood for equal rights for all people. She’d be at the forefront of the equal rights movement today, but she’s not here, so I feel strongly that it is our job to help spread her message.

I’ve photographed Julie tour countless guests through the renovation project and I can feel her passion when she speaks of Belva. It moves me to tears, something very rare while working behind my lens!