Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Schaubhut.
Hi Melanie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My relatives have lived on or near rivers in Texas all my life, so when I saw a hand written “For Sale by owner” sign on cottage perched high above the Guadalupe River, I thought “this is it! I have finally found my families magical spot on the river. It’s beautiful, it’s in the long flowing Upper Guadalupe, and it’s looks to be out of the flood plain since it’s so high up…. Whoever build this knew what they are doing- it’s going to be our place to make memories & raise grandchildren.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Opening your home & property to visitors can be both humbling and enlightening, and usually comes with more maintenance than you had ever imagined. But being able to provide a beautiful place for families & friends to enjoy each other, nature, and the river, makes all the bumps worth the ride.
Last year offered challenges with the epic softball size hail storm in the spring, followed by the tragic 4th of July flood, but being in Center Point community made it a bonding experience more than a struggle.
I have experienced several floods, and although this one was the most tragic, having planned ahead for it, then having the community support to rebuild, made it less of a struggle & more of a experience. Lots of tears were shed, but lots of heart to heart hugs & friendships were created.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Treetop River Cabins is just what it sounds like. Four family friendly cabins located on the banks of the Guadalupe River, with decks surrounding the top of a huge Ball Cypress tree. Each cabin can sleep up to six guests, with a total of 14 beds, and fully equipped with kitchens, comfortable beds, and cozy living spaces both inside & outdoors.
It’s an outdoor lovers paradise with kayaks, paddle boat, floating dock, plenty of chairs around the fire pit, and hammocks.
Across the river is Center Point, a 10 minute walk, and offers some of the best chefs in Texas! It’s a hidden gem, with beautiful gardens behind Zanzenburg Tavern & Cafe Josephine’s, The locals gather at Central Provisions for live music, games, book club, local produce & home maid ice cream.
We also have a Tex-mex restaurant & Tucán Jim’s, a colorful Jimmy Buffet style palapa bar & restaurant.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
It’s always risky when you put your life savings into a business plan or dream, but with my life experiences, river knowledge, small business ownership, & “just do it”attitude,… I feel like I can handle almost anything.
The major risk in owning a small business is being able to cover the overhead costs & payroll, and if you’re lucky you have some change left to put in your own pocket.
Owning our vacation cabins may not fill our pockets, but because they attract like minded Guests, we are wealthy with memories, our hearts are filled with joy and gratitude- and we enjoy being able to share our magical spot with others. That is more than money can buy, and that’s not taxable!
Pricing:
- $250-$325 per night high season
- $195-$225 winter season
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.TreetopRiverCabins.com
- Facebook: TreetopRiverCabinsTx
