About Us and Bright Morning B&B

In 2001, the estate of Sylvia Ayres was left to the Methodist Church in West Newton.  Mary Lou purchased the property at an auction to combine her living space with her music studio. Being a runner and cyclist, friends began to stay over night to do workouts on the trail.  Announcing this opportunity to the public by way of a Website, Bright Morning began with one guest room.  After marrying Rob in 2004 and living away from the business, the two decided to double the space of the building, adding their apartment and three more guest rooms.  Rob's encouragement led to the addition of the neighboring properties as they became available. Then in 2014 Rob left his executive Chef position at Franciscan University to be here full time. Today, there are four buildings, 14 guests rooms with a food and beverage license making “Bright Morning” a favorite place along the Great Allegheny Passage.