Meet Kimberly McBride of The Sono Chicago in Old Town

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly McBride.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
It was a whirlwind beginning. I didn’t realize that bed and breakfasts even existed in the city of Chicago. When my brother Kevin mentioned he was interested in opening one within the next 10 years, I hesitantly asked if he would consider doing it with me. It was within days that he found a property to build what eventually became The Sono Chicago. My husband Tom and I put our house on the market and jumped in head first.

Kevin and I designed the house together, both inside and out and we were part of the entire project. It was more work than we could have imagined and we were a bit delirious. We all work really well together. We certainly have our moments, but each of us has our strengths and it’s a great combination. Running the bed and breakfast is my full-time job, so my entire life revolves around it. Giving up my previous career in sales was the craziest decision I have ever made and it’s a decision I have no regrets in making.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I would say it’s been a surprisingly smooth road as far as the business aspect. We’ve worked so hard and we have been busy since day one. It’s certainly more work than I could have imagined. Our challenge is that it’s such a personal business. It’s in our home. It’s 24 hours a day and it never stops.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with The Sono Chicago – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Staying at a bed and breakfast is a completely different experience than staying at a hotel. I think we offer guests a chance to stay in Chicago as a local as opposed to a tourist. You are staying in an awesome Chicago neighborhood in an authentic Chicago home that is close and easily accessible to downtown.

We are near anything you could possibly want to do on your visit here. We have easy free parking, are close to the “L” and within walking distance to an endless amount of options. It’s a perfect location! I know you won’t get the same service at any hotel. This is my home and I am committed to making sure you have an amazing time while you are here. I love being a part of a guests experience in Chicago and I take this responsibility very seriously. I know that accommodations are a huge part of that experience and I want guests to love where they stay.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We are open to anything and my brother is capable of making even the craziest ideas a reality, so we will see. Stay tuned!

Contact Info:

• Address: 1428 N. Cleveland Avenue
  Chicago, IL 60610
• Website: www.thesonochicago.com
• Phone: 312.720.1857
• Email: kim@thesonochicago.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesonochicago/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/thesonochicago/

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