James Soule and Kristin Bria are the new innkeeper-owners of the famed TouVelle House, set for a soft reopening this March. The couple, formerly of the Napa/SF Bay Area closed on the property in June. “Since then,” James says, “we have largely been settling in and getting to know Jacksonville and performing many major and minor repairs/deferred maintenance on the property along with attending to some interior design updating.” Known for its magnificent grounds, he adds, “We will be focusing heavily on the grounds in 2021, adding more native plants, improving lawn irrigation/lawn health, and cleaning out the pond in anticipation of wedding business in 2021.” In addition, Kristin notes, “The property will look and feel much the same with some new paint color changes inside, draperies, vintage bikes for guest use, spa services on property, and more to come. As we are a Bed and Breakfast, guests should expect a beautiful breakfast service here as has been the tradition. We will continue to offer the pool, spa and sauna to guests.” Kristin will be juggling her current job as director of administration for a company that provides behavioral services for families and clients with autism with her new role at TouVelle House as operations manager. James will co-manage the property, drawing on his 40+ years of experience in hospitality, notably with Kimpton Hotels and Auberge Resorts. He spent most of his career managing food and beverage operations for luxury resorts in San Francisco and the Napa Valley and managed several hotels along the way. James has a brother and mother who also live in Jacksonville! For more information, inquiries may be sent to sourcesoule@comcast.net and/or phone 707-217-2158.

James Soule and Kristin Bria