About the Innkeepers
For Mike and Monica Hunter, becoming the innkeepers for the Inn on Crescent Lake is the culmination of a dream.
Both born and raised in Missouri, they share a passion for the state’s history and beauty. Their story began in junior high, where they started “going together,” as was the phrase back then. Their connection grew closer in high school and college, culminating in their marriage in 1989.
As their family grew with the addition of two sons, they moved into an old farmhouse located on acreage outside Cameron, Mo., where they not only raised their boys, but also a variety of animals while savoring the quality of life that comes from small-town living.
As their boys grew, the Hunters made a life-changing decision: to start a residential and vocational agency for special needs adults. The impetus behind the decision was the memory of Monica’s mother’s brother, who was born with special needs. Although his life was brief, his memory has made an impact on successive generations. They feel his spirit in each step of their journey.
Through a billboard the previous owners had purchased just north of downtown Kansas City, Mike discovered the Inn and first began to feel its tug, as he knew it was Monica’s lifelong dream to run a bed and breakfast. Although there was much to consider in undertaking such a big responsibility, the Hunters were heartened by signs that their decision was the right one. They are excited to take on the challenge of operating Missouri’s Most Romantic Getaway with the support of their extended family as well as their special needs family. And they are thrilled to know that their sweet granddaughter will be able to enjoy growing up in such magnificent surroundings!
“We came here fighting, hoping for love to rebloom. And it did. Thanks for everything!” – Anonymous, Lawrence, Kansas
“What a beautiful, serene escape you have provided. Thank you so much!” – Chad and Lacey Hollrah, Omaha, Nebraska
“Found a little piece of heaven here in these beautiful surroundings. It will be one of our best stops and experiences of this trip. Thank you for opening up your home and sharing this treasure.” – John and Mary Reyenga, Ontario, California
“Thank you for a wonderful, relaxing weekend to celebrate our 11th anniversary! We love this Inn and the beautiful surroundings. We will definitely be back many more times to celebrate!” – Mike and Lacey Holderby, Independence, Missouri
“My husband and I came to celebrate our seventh anniversary. The Inn was perfect!! Beautiful, cozy, charming, and relaxing – just what we needed!! The owners and staff were friendly, funny, and accommodating. We loved it and will be back!!” – Brad and Megan Sibold, Leavenworth, Kansas
“Amazing stay, this was our 21st anniversary as well as my 40th birthday, and after visiting several B&Bs, this is our STAND OUT favorite!” – Matt and Stacey Masters, Kansas City, Missouri
“Thank you for this beautiful retreat. We enjoyed our stay once again! This is our 17th year of celebrating our anniversary here. We love the peace we feel here. May God bless you both!” – Jan and Tim Sumner, Lee’s Summit, Missouri
“What a wonderful bed and breakfast you have! We are hooked! I’m sure this will become one of our favorites to frequent in the coming years. We like how quiet, cozy, and romantic the Tuscany Suite was. Simply incredible. Thank you for the amazing hospitality and the wonderful breakfasts, too. I’m sure a summer getaway soon will entice us back here.” – Caleb and Dallas Nachtigall, Omaha, Nebraska
“We want to thank you for being such a gracious host and hostess! This weekend has given us a time to relax and put the losses in our lives on hold. The peace of mind was welcome. Your wonderful food and staff are the bonus. We will be back!” – Dale and Shirley Drury, Ballwin, Missouri