“It’s been a labor of love,” said Nicola Weems, of Conroe, who owns the facility with her husband John Baxendale. “We’ve kept the appearance of the facility as close to original as possible – but we’ve added a lot of creature comforts to make it more convenient.”

The couple had considered restoring a historical structure for a bed & breakfast facility for some time when they happened upon the 5,000-square-foot home on 2 acres near Montgomery’s historical business district. Weems, who has a background in the hospitality industry and event management, wanted to use her experience in a nostalgic setting.

“I was skeptical at first,” acknowledged Baxendale. “I was concerned the structure and the grounds would be a bigger project than we could handle.”

While the residence suffered from neglect, inspections determined the structure and systems were in remarkably good shape. The couple spent long hours removing layers of old wallpaper and bringing the unique structure back to life.

Fresh paint, an eclectic array of furniture and furnishings and the addition of a few new amenities, and the building was once again ready to receive visitors. The name, Hodge Podge Lodge, comes from Weems’ appreciation for a range of styles and activities.

“I like a little of this and a little of that,” quipped Weems. “It’s light and it’s fun.”

But make no mistake, the couple’s plans for the future of Hodge Podge Lodge are ambitious. In addition to a traditional bed & breakfast, Weems said the facility will serve as a host facility for many activities. The main house has three nicely appointed bedrooms, but the grounds can easily accommodate 150 guests for a social event.

“We already have a few weddings and corporate meetings booked,” Weems said. “It’s a beautiful facility for social events and executive retreats.”

Baxendale noted the grounds include a huge, open front yard and a newly constructed stone patio in back. He said he’d like to see the property get involved in hosting community activities.

“This could be a fun place for movies on the lawn or Easter egg hunts,” he said. “We are anxious to maintain the property’s nostalgic look and be part of historical Montgomery.”

Hodge Podge Lodge also will serve as a resource for creativity. Weems said the facility will host a artistic classes and workshops for children and adults. The website has information on upcoming programs, including a heart silk scarf class, nuno felting and a cooking class to teach children (and parents) how to make cinnamon rolls from scratch.

“Our overall theme is ‘gather, create, stay,’” Weems said. “We want Hodge Podge Lodge to be a creative resource for the artistic community as well as a setting for social events and meetings.”

The initial response from the public has been highly favorable, Baxendale said. In addition to several confirmed bookings and initial inquiries, Hodge Podge Lodge has been embraced by the local community.

“There was some concern we were going to tear the historical building down or do something to conflict with the image that is important to Montgomery,” Baxendale said. “Once local residents understood our plans, they have been incredibly supportive – especially local officials.”

Among those supporters is Montgomery Mayor John Fox.

“We are very pleased to see new life brought to the old building,” Fox said. “The facility should be a great asset to the community and will help bring people to the town who will experience the historical charm of Montgomery.”