Brian Edson is the co-founder of The Good House Hotel & Spa in Desert Hot Springs, California. He is making waves in the Southern California hospitality scene. The Good House Hotel & Spa stands out not only for its luxurious offerings but also for its commitment to the community. Complementing this vision is Lauren Carothers, Director of Marketing at The Good House Hotel & Spa. She is also the founder of All Worthy People and plays a pivotal role in bringing the hotel’s vibrant energy to life.
Edson and Carothers share more about their journey and what guests can expect when staying at The Good House Hotel & Spa.
Travel Noire: What inspired you to become a hotel owner, particularly in Palm Springs?
Brian Edson: My initial draw to the desert was community. The original idea was to create a creative space for artists, writers, and musicians to gather, create, and collaborate. The desert has always had a special place for me. Furthermore, My family had a home here when I was younger. A short drive from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles to disconnect for a bit and just reset. The hotel became the perfect place to offer travelers the same kind of getaway my parents introduced me to as a kid.
TN: Can you share some of the challenges you faced as a Black entrepreneur in the hospitality industry?
BE: Acquiring an operational business has its challenges. To execute your vision, a lot needs to change which can be difficult as to not alienate your current client base and/or employees. Having not come from the hospitality industry prior, garnering respect from some can be challenging. But ultimately, with good intentions come great opportunities. We have been able to make the most of our relationships to create a beautiful space which has garnered some great reviews.
TN: What unique aspects of your hotel do you feel contribute to its appeal and success?
Lauren Carothers: We created an environment where guests feel nourished in their body, mind, and spirit. Our commitment to redefining luxury through personalized hospitality and attention to detail contributes to our appeal. From our thoughtfully and naturally sourced menu to the renowned hot springs pools, every aspect of our desert oasis provides an escape within the walls of our lush property.
TN: How do you prioritize diversity and inclusivity in your hotel’s culture and operations?
LC: At The Good House, diversity and inclusivity are fundamental values that guide our culture and operations. We are committed to fostering an environment where every guest and team member feels welcome, respected, and valued. We prioritize diversity by actively seeking to recruit and retain a team that reflects the rich tapestry of the DHS community. [This] creates a beautiful array of thoughts and ideas for our wide range of guests who visit the property.
TN: In what ways do you engage with the local community to support economic development and social initiatives?
LC: We recognize that our success is intertwined with the well-being of the community around us. We are committed to being an active and engaged small business. The hotel supports local farming and agriculture with our organic farm-to-table menu. We value connecting with people locally and supporting their businesses.
TN: What advice would you give to aspiring Black entrepreneurs looking to enter the hospitality industry?
LC: The good news is there are so many career paths to consider in hospitality from operations to marketing. Experience is the best way to enter! At a young age, I started traveling and always paid attention to the small details of my stays. I appreciate everything from the greeters to the layout of the rooms. I paid attention to how properties made their spaces come to life online or on their social media platforms. The best advice I would give is to try ALL positions in hospitality. The hands-on experience will help you succeed in your role.
TN: Looking ahead, what are your plans or visions for the hotel and its impact on Palm Springs?
BE: We plan to expand our current offering to guests by creating more space for recreation, retreats, and wellness events. This will hopefully allow us to invite our local community to our space to experience what we feel is so special about the area of Desert Hot Springs.
This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
