Herdman Hospitality was built because hospitality and traveling has been a passion of mine since childhood. My grandmother and I often dreamed of running a hotel on the beach while we were on vacation, strolling down the sand early looking for shells, sand dollars, and the ever so rare shark’s tooth. That dream never left me and I am living it here on Block Island.
Where It All Began
While studying at Lynchburg College (who have since changed their name to the University of Lynchburg), I fulfilled an internship at a Wingate by Wyndham, where I had the opportunity to learn from some incredible management and marketing mentors. They put me through every department of the hotel and in the 3 months I was there, I had learned how to turn over rooms, prepare breakfast for a 129 room hotel, go on sales calls, answer the phones, check guests in, and I, oh so clearly, remember changing out adhesive anti-slip mats in the bathtubs with the very patient maintenance team. That experience solidified my love for the industry, showing me the importance of attention to detail and the impact of genuine hospitality. A brief stint in corporate America at an insurance company confirmed what I already knew—hospitality was my true calling.
Coming to Block Island
For the past eight years, I’ve worked with the Blue Dory & Avonlea Inns in some capacity, and for the past year as Director of Operations & Marketing. In this role, I learned the intricacies of managing high-end vacation rentals, ensuring guests received top-tier service while maintaining the charm and authenticity of Block Island. Since 2020, I’ve also worked with Phillips Real Estate, which, as an office, oversees around 80 vacation rentals. My experience in the real estate office and housechecking, gave me a deep understanding of the local rental market, homeowner expectations, and, most importantly, what guests truly want from their stay.
I earned my Rhode Island real estate salesperson license in 2021 and am now working toward my broker’s license. Attending the 2024 VRMA conference in Phoenix was a turning point. I realized the Block Island rental market, while strong, lacked the level of hospitality and service today’s travelers expect. Guests don’t just want a place to stay—they want an experience, one that blends modern convenience with the warmth of personalized service. That realization led me to start my own company.
Herdman Hospitality Is Born
With the Waverly Suites and Sherman Cottage under negotiation and my broker’s license on the horizon, I’m excited to take on even more properties. Herdman Hospitality is more than just a rental management company—it’s a vision for a new standard of hospitality on Block Island. My goal is to offer seamless stays where guests feel at home, with all the comforts and elevated touches of a luxury getaway.
At the heart of this business is a genuine love for guest interactions. Over the years, I’ve built lasting relationships with travelers who return year after year, and that’s what makes this work so fulfilling. Whether it’s welcoming families back for their annual summer retreat or helping a couple create the perfect romantic escape, I believe in going beyond expectations to craft truly memorable experiences.
My mission is simple: to elevate the guest experience with true hospitality, ensuring travelers feel like they have a home on Block Island—not just a rental. This business is built on genuine connections, personalized service, and the belief that every stay should be unforgettable. Hospitality isn’t just about where you stay—it’s about how you feel when you’re there. And at Herdman Hospitality, we are redefining what it means to feel at home on Block Island.
You can view all of our rentals and their availability on our booking engine here, Booking directly with us instead of a third party site will always ensure that you get the best rate and most personalized experience. Check back every year to see new options as we continue to grow! You can reach out to me directly by email, info@blockislandbooking.com or phone at 401-477-3885.