Meet Jeannie Besmehn: Bringing Hospitality Along for the Ride
For Jeannie Besmehn, hospitality means connecting with people. "The people makes the place," she emphasizes. After five years at Grand View Lodge, Jeannie has built strong relationships with guests, coworkers and families from all over the globe. Her journey in hospitality is filled with stories and experiences that make her role truly special.
From Reservations to the Transportation "Fun Bus"
Jeannie joined Grand View Lodge in June 2021, initially starting in Reservations. She quickly transitioned into Transportation after about eight or nine months. This shift matched her outgoing personality and passion for connecting with others. Today, she balances her roles between the two departments seasonally, working in Transportation during the busy summer months and returning to Reservations in the winter months.
Her background in Reservations laid a solid foundation for her Transportation role. Jeannie was already familiar with the property, accommodations and common guest inquiries. Once she began driving the shuttles, she experienced Grand View Lodge from a fresh perspective.
"I love it because it gets me out in the summertime," she says. "I'm not sitting in an office, and it gets me out there with the guests." These shuttle rides allow her to engage in meaningful conversations, learn about guest preferences and gather valuable feedback. When she returns to Reservations, she shares these insights, enhancing future guests' experiences.
One memorable summer, Jeannie helped a family book a stay in Fairway Pines. She recommended this quieter location for families with young children. Later, while driving her shuttle, she recognized the very same family. They expressed their delight with the accommodations and their intention to return. For Jeannie, this connection was immensely rewarding.
Making Shuttles Part of the Vacation Experience
Jeannie believes shuttle rides should not be mere transportation. Kids often ask for Jeannie because she drives the "fun bus." Her shuttles are filled with music, sing-alongs to "The Wheels on the Bus" and wildlife spotting. Jeannie knows where to find deer and other local wildlife, enhancing the experience for her passengers.
"I try and make it fun," she says. The stories shared during these rides are some of her favorites. One guest shared that she had vacationed at Grand View Lodge as a child and now returned with her family. She hoped her children would create similar memories. These stories highlight how deeply the lodge can become part of a family's tradition.
Jeannie also welcomes international team members through seasonal work programs. She drives them to various appointments as they settle into life in the Brainerd Lakes Area. This experience allows her to connect with employees from diverse backgrounds. Her ability to speak some Spanish strengthens these bonds. "It makes us feel closer," she remarks. Meeting people from countries like Mexico, Jamaica, and several European nations enriches her daily experiences.
A Natural Fit for Hospitality
Jeannie's love for hospitality predates her time at Grand View Lodge. She spent seven years at the front desk of Country Inn & Suites in Baxter. "I loved it," she recalls. "It just fits right in with my personality." After three years in California, Jeannie returned to Minnesota in 2021. Her daughter, Melissa, who has worked at The Spa at Grand View lodge for 10 years, encouraged Jeannie to apply at Grand View Lodge. The lodge was already familiar to her family, having spent time on Gull Lake and visiting the property.
When asked what makes Grand View Lodge stand out, Jeannie points to two key factors: the variety of activities available and the dedicated team behind the scenes. Guests can enjoy countless activities throughout their stay, but it is the team's commitment that creates lasting memories. "It doesn't matter where you are on the property—whether it's grounds, the front desk, or the restaurants—everybody makes them feel welcome," she explains.
Working in Transportation allows Jeannie to witness this team spirit firsthand. As she drives around the resort, she sees the grounds team tending to flowers, employees maintaining the property, and various team members striving to make the lodge feel special. Jeannie appreciates the natural beauty surrounding Grand View Lodge. "It's just a beautiful place," she affirms. "There's so much beauty."
Life Beyond Grand View Lodge
Jeannie's love for the outdoors continues after her shifts. She enjoys kayaking, biking, swimming and photography. Her phone often captures beautiful moments around the resort. Jeannie also studied graphic design, offering her a creative outlet. Animals play a significant role in her life; she has a cat named Sugar and a horse named Sueños, which means "dreams" in Spanish. Raising a horse has been a long-held dream for Jeannie.
Dining at Grand View Lodge is another joy for her. Currently, Char Craft Steaks is her favorite spot, where she relishes the Steak Oscar and Black Truffle Stuffed Beef Ribeye. The restaurant's inviting atmosphere adds to the overall experience.
Experience the Grand View Lodge Difference
At Grand View Lodge, guests can immerse themselves in luxury and adventure. The resort offers a wide range of amenities, including rejuvenating spa services and distinctive dining. Guests can explore the scenic surroundings with various outdoor activities.
Whether it's a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, Grand View Lodge caters to all desires. The dedicated team, including passionate individuals like Jeannie Besmehn, works tirelessly to create unforgettable experiences.
Review our offers and book your stay today and discover the magic of Grand View Lodge. Enjoy the beauty, hospitality and cherished memories that await you.