Thank you JoAnn for your wonderful hospitality during our recent stay at Mistletoe Bough. We enjoyed exploring your beautiful home and relaxing among the comfortable furnishings. The food was delicious and we did so appreciate the extra effort you made to make sure we were well taken care of. (Your sweet and friendly cats were a bonus)
Most sincerely,
Kay & Bob
March, 2012 we spent a wonderful and very eventful time at Mistletoe B&B. It began as a lovely, warm, rainy day. Traveling from Florida we thought it would be cooler in Alexander City. Arriving mid afternoon we had a delightful meeting with JoAnn, our WONDERFUL host. Relaxing in the lovely Andrea’s Bedroom with delicious coffee we had begun our restful weekend. Since Mexican food is a favorite, we had dinner at a local, very lively, Mexican restaurant. Back in our room we heard danger sirens and were quickly and efficiently relocated to the basement as a tornado was headed for Alexander City. Only minutes later, we were notified all was safe and could return to our room. The next morning, a lovely breakfast awaited us and we met several new “friends” that are now even facebook friends. At JoAnn’s recommendation, we spent several hours at a local consignment, drove around Lake Martin and ended the day with another local meal. We had such a great time and JoAnn was the best in hospitality. Always a pleasure to meet and get to know new “friends”. We will cherish this time at Mistletoe B&B and hope to return again.
As young working professionals in the city, we needed some time away from the office to decompress and relax. We found it at Mistletoe Bough. Between the serene environment and JoAnn’s gracious service, something about the place felt like home. We stayed in the Master’s Suite and our room was not only lovely but also amazingly comfortable — I can’t remember the last time I slept so peacefully for 8 hours. Breakfast was delicious, and if you were to leave hungry then it would be your own fault. We can’t thank JoAnn enough for her kind hospitality, and absolutely recommend staying at Mistletoe Bough!
My wife and I stayed at this wonderful B&B for a getaway. It was a surprise for her. I spoke to Joann Frazier the Innkeeper. They offered a discount for weekday travelers, which we took advantage of. She made the reservations process so easy and she was willing to work with me. We had a sick child and could not get away when we first wanted to and she was so friendly and accommodating to adjust the date.
Joann is the jewel of this B&B… the Innkeeper is what makes the B&B and this is one of the best B&Bs because of Joann. Friendly, warm, welcoming, accommodating, polite, a true “service heart” are only a few ways I can start to describe Joann. From the phone call before we arrived while we were driving down… to the hand written note and the hand dipped chocolate strawberries, to cooking our breakfast in the morning. On our first morning we had Fresh Fruit Parfait, Banana Walnut Pancakes, great tasting Sausage served with Coffee and Peach & White Grape Juice (and she checked with us about allergies and dislikes the night before). She was a perfect host! The second morning we had Fresh Biscuits with local Jams, Fresh Baked Fruit Danish followed by individual Baked Breakfast Strata. Some of our breakfast companions had special diets and one even brought some of her own food and Joann took care of us all… again she was a perfect host.
The B&B is amazing. The rooms are spacious, Victorian designed, large windows and high ceilings thru out… and the upkeep was amazing. If you have ever stayed in an old house you know how much noise they make, this one was quite and very few cricks. The B&B was very clean and the bathroom was spotless and the bed was like sleeping on a cloud. The entire place was furnished with beautiful antiques and artwork. This Victorian House was originally built in 1890 to 1895. It stayed in the original family for 3 generations before it fell in total disrepair and was condemned by the city. It was converted into a B&B and completely renovated in 1993. Be sure to ask Joann to see the pictures of the renovation. WOW! I love the history.
We had a great time in Alexander City and Lake Martin. Joann is so knowledgeable of the area and had many recommendations. My wife and I enjoyed walking around the old downtown. Some of our favorite shops were: The Shoppes of Queen’s Attic, Little Black Dress, Cloud Nine, Emporium Wine and MacDavid & CO. We also ate at some great restaurants (again from Joann’s recommendations) two that we truly loved were the SpringHouse Restaurant and Sho’nuff BBQ… two must stop restaurants.
It was so special to have a getaway trip with my wife and re-learn that my wife and mother of my kids is still my best friend. I highly recommend the Mistletoe B&B for anyone needing a little time away from their busy lives. From the 2 cats who are the self-appointed (outside) welcoming committee, to the perfect places to curl up with a good book both inside and out. This is a perfect get away. I can’t wait until Christmas season so I can see this Victorian Mansion in all its glory.
Pros:
Joann, Service, Hospitality, the Victorian House, quite rooms, fantastic renovation – well built, Joann, Breakfast, authentic furniture, several areas to quietly read a book, very clean, comfortable bed, loveable cats, the house was amazing… oh and last thing did I mention Joann
Cons:
Not many and I have to dig deep to net-pick – The grounds were a little over grown and some of the outside seating was not useable. Some of the outdoor lights were not working. It was hard to find “locals serving local food” until I started asking around – (again Joann was good knowledge of the area).
We recently returned from a wonderful stay at Mistletoe Bough B&B and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The home is beautiful with a rich history. Our room (Sweet pea) was beautiful and very comfortable. We enjoyed touring the area and we especially enjoyed meeting Joanne and her delicious breakfasts. Thank you Joanne, what a treat!
We had a wonderful stay at this lovely B&B. JoAnn was totally awesome and we definitely plan on returning. The house is amazing and the breakfast was very delicious. I’m vegetarian and Joanna was able to make very healthy and delectable dishes!
I had a wonderful opportunity to visit the Bodyworks Massage on Madison. I just couldn’t believe the price of The Works! It consisted of an apricot body scrub, an algae body wrap and a full massage. Two hours later my skin was soft and gleaming and I was so relaxed. Please take time to visit Shirley at Bodyworks while you’re visiting Mistletoe Bough; it is definitely worth the price!!
We’ll definitely return JoAnn
Bruce & Elizabeth Martin
We stayed at the Mistletoe Bough B&B over Easter weekend. We had a wedding to attend at Lake Martin which was only about 25 minutes away. This was a sweet B&B. Very victorian in decor, which is usually the case. We stayed in the Master Suite room. It was very spacious with a lot of windows for great light. There was an adequate sized TV for my husband to watch the Masters and extras like robes hanging on the door and a coffee machine out in the hallway. Jo Ann was more than accomodating and has great stories to tell. Her breakfast was amazing; fruit, sausage and a wonderful bread pudding. Although we were only there for a wedding, I think there is a lot do do around Alexander City; Antiquing, Museums, the lake, etc. Would be a nice get away for any couple…
This was our first experience at a Bed & Breakfast, and it was wonderful! It was a very relaxing stay and it is such a beautiful home. The breakfast was super yummy, too! The Keurig outside our room was also an awesome bonus! We were so comfortable there, and Joann has such a welcoming personality. We felt like we knew her our whole lives. We really hope we can go back soon!
Thanks so much!
Kellie & Andy
We had the most amazing weekend at the Mistletoe B&B. I set up this getaway to surprise my husband and celebrate both our birthdays and a late Valentines day. Prior to our trip, I made a list of things to do and see. I even requested a picnic lunch to take the park, but once we arrived, we did not want to leave. We skipped the movie, the park, ate the picnic in our lovely room, watched TV together (for a change) and we both just felt so comfortable and relaxed that I even finished a book that I had been reading for a year. This was the best trip we have had in a very long time and we want to thank JoAnn for making it so special. I highly recommend the Mistletoe B&B for anyone needing a little time away from their busy lives. Also if you do visit, please insist that JoAnn wear her most recent hat purchase and necklace….I am still laughing when I think of her serving breakfast with that hat and necklace.
We loved everything JoAnn…………….
Tracy
What a wonderful place to spend a couple days. It being a Christian home added extra value for Pat and me. Every morning, JoAnn greeted us with a smile and an amazing breakfast. Conversation at the breakfast table with other guest was great . . . we met some wonderful people. Talking to Susan about how she home schooled (and still is) five children was amazing. We felt so welcome and comfortable there. After a full day of antique malls with my wife (I’m not complaining) Mistletoe was an excellent place to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The house is beautiful throughout. Our bedroom was roomy and well decorated. We will go back.
Blessing,
Wayne and Pat White
Athens, Alabama
Upon entering the beautiful estate we were instantly overcome by its beauty and were intrigued by a eerie sense of familiarity. The atmosphere was very warm and inviting. We were instantly greeted by Mrs. Joann, the innkeeper, and she made us feel right at home. We could not rush away to our suite , as we had to marvel in the beauty of its fine architecture and antiques that adorned the home. My fiance, Ivan, reports the “best sleep he’s ever had” in a plush bed that enraptured us in comfort. Upon waking, we were greeted with the inviting smell of breakfast. We joined three couples downstairs for a superb breakfast served by Joann, who was the best hostess ever. Again, I stress the sense of familarity we experienced!! Joann is a beautiful person who is full of life, love and smiles. We highly recommend Mistletoe Bough and we are planning our next trip very soon. Thanks Joann and Jesse for a memorable experience and we will see you soon!
We had a wonderful time staying at the Mistletoe Bough B&B. The history of the house is very interesting and the Victorian decor is fabulous. We love old houses with all of the original woods and decor. We had a private balcony on our room which was great! The food was delicious and more than enough to fill us. The best part of the trip was having the opportunity to meet and get to know JoAnn and having lively discussions around the breakfast table! We also had fun exploring the Alexander City area antique and gift shops and Lake Martin. We had dinner at Cecil’s which was excellent and lunch at Sinclair’s on the lake (JoAnn’s recommendations).
I would definitely like to return and explore more during spring or summer!
My brother and I stayed after the Auburn football game. We arrived late after the game (10:45) and JoAnn greeted us like family. The room was great and the next morning we had a delightful breakfast. Since we were the only ones eating, we got to talk with JoAnn about the house and her journey to Alex City. It was absolutely delightful. Everything is just as the picture books and travel books describe the classic southern B&B. We highly recommend it and will stay again.
This is a wonderful place to stay for a weekend getaway. We had a great time just relaxing. We stayed in the Master Suite and loved it. Our room and bathroom, as well as all other guest areas of the house, were very clean and well kept. We are hoping to plan another visit during the holidays, to see the house in all its splendor! JoAnn is a very gracious hostess, who is also a great cook! J and J, thank you for a wonderful time away!
We thoroughly enjoyed our recent stay at the Mistletoe Bough B & B. Joann is the perfect hostess and made us feel very welcomed and at home. The room was extremely nice and clean, the breakfast delicious, and the other guests very pleasant to be around too. We will definitely stay here when in the area again.
We spent a delightful weekend at the Mistletoe Bough and enjoyed relaxing on the porch, walking on the grounds, our sweet hideaway in Nanny’s room, and a delicious breakfast with new friends. Thanks for making an ordinary weekend extraordinary! We’ll be back soon!
Dear Mrs. Joanne & Mr. Jesse,
My sister and I stayed with you a couple of years ago going to an Auburn Homecoming. We still talk about it! I just wanted to pop in and say Congratulations on being mentioned Southern Living’s July 2011 Edition this year!!! I picked it up and was reading in “The South’s Great Lakes” and when they listed you as the “Where to Stay” a shot of joy popped right up in my heart and I just HAD to tell you how very happy I am for you two! HOW SO VERY EXCITING!!!!! Yall Deserve it!!! Thanks so much for just being yall & being true to such a beautiful old home We love yall and pray the Mistletoe Bough is truly blessed & successful for many more years & many more people are blessed by staying there
Love,
Amanda & Trinity!!!
What a wonderful stay we had. Joann and Jesse thank you so much for embracing us during our stay. We were there for a funeral of a dear friend. We are still talking about how wonderful the rooms were and how good the breakfast was! We will be back one day.
Yup, this sounds like JoAnne–especially looking at the ice cream sundaes! We can tell you are in all your glory fulfilling your dream come true of owning a B&B.
We just returned for a wonderful stay at this beautiful Bed and Breakfast “Mistletoe Bough”. JoAnn made us feel at home and the breakfast was wonderful!! It was our first time to stay at a B&B and I hope to go back next year, maybe close to our anniversary. The house was beautiful and there were many great historic things to see close to it.
Dear JoAnn and Jesse thank you both for such a wonderful holiday,it was loveeeely to see you both again,we had such a wonderful 9 days with you we feel that Mistletoe Bough is our home in the USA.The food was better than at home and we were thoroughly pampered it was just what i needed after losing my mum.We met some great new friends staying for the race weekend and look forward to seeing them again,hopefully in october,we cant wait to come back to our Alabama home!!!!
with love to you both from your English family
We just returned home from a delightful stay at the Mistletoe Bough Bed and Bedfast in Alexander City, AL. There were four in our party and JoAnn was so accommodating. From the moment we arrived until our departure, we felt like we were visiting with old friends. The house has a unique history and we enjoyed a short tour and a little history. If you have an occasion to be in Alexander City, I highly recommend a visit to the Mistletoe Bough Bed and Bedfast. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit.
We stayed at the Mistletoe Bough for a weekend to attend a wedding at Lake Martin. The house, hospitality and food were all great. We left with some wonderful recipes. Joanne has a sign by her door “Enter as guests, leave as friends” and we did.
Our experience at the Mistletoe Bough was absolutely wonderful. From the moment JoAnne met us on our arrival until our departure, she not only made us feel special and right at home, she entertained us to no end. What a wonderful person she is. We are already planning our next trip and will recommend it highly to anyone. JoAnne, “we can’t wait to see you again.”
Our very first Bed & Breakfast experience was at the beautiful Mistletoe Bough B&B! Joann & Jessie (our host & hostess) were absolutely delightful! We felt as if we had known them forever. We stayed in the “Nanny’s Room”, which offered its own private balcony! How delightful!! We were there for three nights, allowing us time to enjoy a visit to the not-to-be-missed ‘Wellborn Car Museum’ in Alexander City, take in the Sunday NASCAR race at Talledaga & sample the excellent foods at “JAKE’S” restaurant! What a fantastic weekend!!!! Mistletoe Bough certainly deserves a five-star rating! We will be there again in the fall of 2011!
Dear JoAnn and Jesse,After traveling from the uk we were greeted at your beautiful home with such warmth that it made the long journey very worth while,you were away on vacation when we arrived but we were looked after brilliantly by jeri who could not do enough for us,it was our first visit to the usa and we didnt know what to expect we were blown away by mistletoe bough,the house is incredible and we cant wait to show everybody back home i took millions of photos,jeri cooked us wonderful food and showed us round,we feel that we have made great friends and we will keep in touch with you all,upon your return you took the time to explain all the wonderful history of your home which we loved,you can see all the love and care that goes into looking after the house and we feel privileged to have been able to stay with you we cannot wait to come back and hope it will be many more times Thank you Carol and Ian Dunford UK
I’d never been to a B&B when my “signifigant other” arranged a suprise stay at Mistletoe Bough. I did not know what to expect, but it was way beyond anything I imagined! We each live only about an hour away and it was our first trip as a couple. He couldn’t have chosen a better place! It felt like we were a million miles away and was so romantic. For any men out there, if you want to make your wife/fiance/girlfriend/significant other/how about Mom for Mother’s Day?/ very happy, this is the way to go!! Seriously guys, if you want to make the lady in your life feel special, this is the place for you. (Steve, if you are reading this, please skip the next sentence, Sweetie!) It would be a perfect place for a proposal to happen.The whole place is amazing and beautiful, but it was more than that. I had browsed the website too, but even that didn’t do it justice! We spent lots of time just strolling outside or rocking on the porch, the grounds and house are so neat. We always had company outside, there were 2 cats who were our self-appointed tour guides! They were very friendly and would let you pet them if you liked. We stayed in the Sunshine Room and it was perfect. All of the rooms are very big and roomy. Ours had a private bathroom and even a couch and little desk! Right outside our room was a balcony that overlooked the front yard and each night we sat out there. Perfect place to curl up with a good book as well! All of the decorating and furniture is beautiful and you can imagine the house looks exactly as it did back in that time period. I have to say my favorite thing was having breakfast in the mornings for a few different reasons. Mrs. JoAnn fixed a wonderful breakfast each morning, (my favorite was the pancakes with real apple in them!) we got to sit down with the other guests (not a requirement, but very fun to share a little time with the others). On our visit we met a couple whose son had graduated from Auburn and the nice lady got a new car the same weekend! Then there was the young couple who were celebrating their recent marriage and were so cute. (The young man inquired about Church services that Sunday morning and I was happy to hear Mrs JoAnn invite them to go to Church with her and Mr.Jesse! My favorite was a very sweet lady from Tennessee who was attending a wedding in Alex City who I had the pleasure of sitting next to the first morning and getting to know. I can not say enough about Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse. They were the sweetest and really, really make you feel at home! I am very shy and can be uncomfortable in new situations and unfamiliar surroundings, but I was completely at ease. Mrs. JoAnn made me feel like she was taking me under her wing. She even let me “hang out” in the kitchen and watch her cook some which really meant alot more to me than probably she even knows, because my own parents died young, and that was something I missed out on. There were so many little things that made the experience complete that I could go on and on. (Another personal favorite, ice water kept in a small fridge hidden in the hallway in a real glass decanter, not bottled!) For any of you other “treasure hunters” like myself, there is a huge antique mall that we browsed Saturday morning. It took us about 3 hours to get through it and was well worth the time! Thanks to Mrs JoAnn for telling us about it. Like I said before, I could go on and on about my experience, but don’t you need to go ahead and call Mrs. JoAnn and let her know you are coming? On a serious note, thank you so much to Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse for making our trip so wonderful! We will definitely be back to see you guys!
+1
We have purchased the Bed & Breakfasts and Country Inns publication annually for the past 8-10 years and have wanted to stay at the Mistletoe Bough since it was featured on the cover a couple of years ago. We have frequented B&B’s for years after becoming disenchanted with the hotel/motel atmosphere. This was, by far, the nicest Inn we have visited. We have been disappointed a couple of times when the Inn was not even close to the description or picture offered. The Mistletoe Bough, however, exceeded our expectations. JoAnn and Jesse are gracious hosts and they do a lot to retain the beauty of this gorgeous old house and grounds. Breakfast was great each day and the recommendations for other eateries were right on target. Cecils was a great place to eat and actually within walking distance had it not been so hot. A stop at Carlisle’s pharmacy downtown is a must. They still have the old soda fountain with the hugest banana split on the planet. This will be a regular for us when we need a little get-a-way.
This was our second Bed and Breakfast we have statyed in and our family enjoyed it beyond measure! JoAnn and Jesse were wonderful and made us feel right at home. Our daughter enjoyed playing their piano and we all enjoyed the Sundays! The items in the house all have a story behind them and were amazing. I am still full from the great breakfast and the coffee. For bed and breakfasts, this is the standard! JoAnn & Jesse thank you for the wonderful experience and we will staying again, hopefully soon.
V/R
Clark, Ianka and Lori
Thank you is just so inadequate as an expression to JoAnn for making our stay, again, so memorable. My sister and I just got back from our second summer stay together at Mistletoe Bough. I found it on the internet last year, wanting something different than a hotel/motel, and was I ever in for a treat. I take my daughter down to Camp ASCCA each July, and , up until last year, had never done anything for myself while she was gone for almost a week. I am a genealogist and history buff and this house and its history, which JoAnn knows as if it’s her own family, is right on target for me. We stayed one night last year and toured the nearby Horseshoe Bend Military Park, then I was back on Halloween week end as my daughter enjoyed the fall week end at ASCCA. Then, my sister and I were back for two nights this week. The feeling while you are there is in-describable, just walking the grounds and imagining what it was like for that family long, long ago to live there. Seeing the family photos hung by the staircase made on the front steps and in the yard bring their reality home to you, how old and treasured the house & grounds are. History is there and you can experience it. JoAnn is more than a capable hostess, she has such a love of what she does and it shows in the way she takes care of her guests. I can’t imagine anyone not wanting to come back to ‘the Bough’. I hate to leave every time and do so with a feeling of looking forward to my next visit. It’s my first stay in a bed and breakfast and I cannot imagine being as happy staying anywhere else, both because of the hostess and the house/atmosphere. The town of Alexander City is such a quaint, pleasant place to be as well. Seeing people walk down the sidewalks, especially older people, take me back to the 50s and 60s, like going back in time. The Carlisle Drug store with its soda fountain, the town square, the new place to eat across from the drug store, Jake’s, provided a wonderfully delicious bon voyage to our trip home tonight. Scrumptuous food and reasonable prices. The landmark Big B BBQ since 1976 shouldn’t be missed, and you have to give BBQ another chance at the Sho Nuff BBQ, their stuffed potato is out of this world! JoAnn’s breakfasts back at Mistletoe Bough can’t be duplicated, the presentations make you feel so special, and they taste delicious as well. Who could ask for anything more! There are two huge antique ‘malls’ to stroll through, taking hours if you do them justice. It is so rare for me to get time to myself, with my situation, and when I do, I’d rather spend it in this quaint little town in this beautiful home, not just a house, JoAnn and Jesse make it a home, and everyone’s home who visits there, than anywhere else. God has blessed them with their talents and love that they show everyone. May He do so for a long time to come…….Thank you again, Lynda and Violet
I can’t say enough about Mistletoe Bough and JoAnn. We were passing through from Auburn on a college tour and picked the best place to stay I could have imagined. We happened to be the only guests that particular night and had 2 rooms. It was restful, peaceful, comfortable, quaint, cozy. We missed Jesse due to a late arrival and his early departure but I felt instantly like I had known JoAnn my whole life. We had a wonderful breakfast and just a joyful and peaceful stay. Wish it had been longer! I have just begun staying in B&Bs but it was my husbands first experience. Because of the great stay at Mistletoe Bough, I won’t have any trouble getting him to try one on future travels. Thanks JoAnn!
13 June 2010
Chet and I made a reservation at Mistletoe Bough Bed and Breakfast with the intent of enjoying the Jazz Fest on Friday night June 11th.
However, when we entered the Nanny Room the need to rush to the Fest and be among crowds of people just melted away.
On Saturday morning, we toured Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. As a history buff, the Visitor Center introduced me to The Battle at Horseshoe Bend and the impact of the battle for the Creeks and the new country of the United States of America.
In the afternoon, I watch from the Nanny balcony a marriage ceremony in the beautiful garden below.
The rest of our visit to Mistletoe Bough Bed and Breakfast was spent in the peaceful Nanny Room. Except very early on Sunday morning, we sat in the rocking chairs on the balcony listening to the many birds singing.
I love touring historic homes and never thought I would have the honor of stay at one for several days.
Our hosts JoAnn and Jessie Frazier made our stay delightful by telling us the history of the home and the family that own it for about 100 years, by honoring our request to sever breakfast to us on the deck and by severing a wonderful breakfast each day.
I’d never been to a B&B when my “signifigant other” arranged a suprise stay at Mistletoe Bough. I did not know what to expect, but it was way beyond anything I imagined! We each live only about an hour away and it was our first trip as a couple. He couldn’t have chosen a better place! It felt like we were a million miles away and was so romantic. For any men out there, if you want to make your wife/fiance/girlfriend/significant other/how about Mom for Mother’s Day?/ very happy, this is the way to go!! Seriously guys, if you want to make the lady in your life feel special, this is the place for you. (Steve, if you are reading this, please skip the next sentence, Sweetie!) It would be a perfect place for a proposal to happen.
The whole place is amazing and beautiful, but it was more than that. I had browsed the website too, but even that didn’t do it justice! We spent lots of time just strolling outside or rocking on the porch, the grounds and house are so neat. We always had company outside, there were 2 cats who were our self-appointed tour guides! They were very friendly and would let you pet them if you liked. We stayed in the Sunshine Room and it was perfect. All of the rooms are very big and roomy. Ours had a private bathroom and even a couch and little desk! Right outside our room was a balcony that overlooked the front yard and each night we sat out there. Perfect place to curl up with a good book as well! All of the decorating and furniture is beautiful and you can imagine the house looks exactly as it did back in that time period. I have to say my favorite thing was having breakfast in the mornings for a few different reasons. Mrs. JoAnn fixed a wonderful breakfast each morning, (my favorite was the pancakes with real apple in them!) we got to sit down with the other guests (not a requirement, but very fun to share a little time with the others). On our visit we met a couple whose son had graduated from Auburn and the nice lady got a new car the same weekend! Then there was the young couple who were celebrating their recent marriage and were so cute. (The young man inquired about Church services that Sunday morning and I was happy to hear Mrs JoAnn invite them to go to Church with her and Mr.Jesse! My favorite was a very sweet lady from Tennessee who was attending a wedding in Alex City who I had the pleasure of sitting next to the first morning and getting to know. I can not say enough about Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse. They were the sweetest and really, really make you feel at home! I am very shy and can be uncomfortable in new situations and unfamiliar surroundings, but I was completely at ease. Mrs. JoAnn made me feel like she was taking me under her wing. She even let me “hang out” in the kitchen and watch her cook some which really meant alot more to me than probably she even knows, because my own parents died young, and that was something I missed out on. There were so many little things that made the experience complete that I could go on and on. (Another personal favorite, ice water kept in a small fridge hidden in the hallway in a real glass decanter, not bottled!) For any of you other “treasure hunters” like myself, there is a huge antique mall that we browsed Saturday morning. It took us about 3 hours to get through it and was well worth the time! Thanks to Mrs JoAnn for telling us about it. Like I said before, I could go on and on about my experience, but don’t you need to go ahead and call Mrs. JoAnn and let her know you are coming? On a serious note, thank you so much to Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse for making our trip so wonderful! We will definitely be back to see you guys!
A pleasant and relaxing experience. We stopped at the Mistleoe Bough B&B on our way from Louisville to the gulf coast and stayed two nights. JoAnn and Jesse were such friendly hosts and the inn, simply a classic scene from the proper Victorian period. Alexander City is also a nice quiet town with an interesting and historic past. We will return!
Jim & Mary Jo
Louisville, KY
I took my little sister to Auburn’s 2009 Homecoming and it was great but honestly…while we got the experience the traditions of toilet papering at Toomer’s & lemonade & ice cream after the game..Joann made us feel so welcome we kinda wished we had just stayed in & hung at the Mistletoe Bough all weekend! First of all I really can not say enough about Joann & Jesse Frazer! They are wonderful, salt of the earth people & I wish I could make it up to Alex City more often just to say Hi to them b/c they’re great! This review will be border line gushing ab Joann & Jesse b/c we got to know them a bit but that’s b/c we are very talkative People people. If you are looking for somewhere you need Privacy this is also the place for you! Joann isn’t one of those in your face B&Bers you just can’t get away from b/c they won’t let you. She & Jesse ARE NOT like that at all! If you need a weekend to yourself or just you & the Mrs. this is where you can go hide out for a while & turn that dreaded phone off LOL! Joann & Jesse are about the guest and if you want to talk and get to know them they are happy to make new friends. But if not they are glad to serve you & leave you to have your time for yourself. They are great B&Bers in that sense among so many other things they do so well!
The Home:
First of all when you drive up to the house my first thought was the Judy Garland film “Meet Me in St. Louis” it’s that kind of beautiful home! We were so excited that while when you park around the back & can enter from back door; my sister & I went & were welcomed through the front b/c we wanted to stand on that beautiful porch!
The Mistletoe Bough has antiques, beautiful historic fixtures, deep beautiful wood when you walk in. I personally felt instantly at home! Joann showed us to our room which was the Sweet Pea suite & it was so perfect for my sister & me! 2 Full Size Comfortable Beds & let me tell you we slept like logs in those things. The pillows were great too!
Upstairs there’s a small refrigerater tucked tastefully in a corner in the hallway next to the door opening to the second floor balcony (I know, I know some of you are thinking how is that possible for a small fridge to be ‘tastefully’ tucked away, I know I’d raise my eyebrow too…but trust me it is! Just take my word for it! Joann & Jesse are just good like that) Inside it there are water decanters(not plastic bottles or pitchers) but classic decanters & the water is always crisp & cold. Above is a Keurig coffeemaker which is perfect for the little Station that Joann has made for her guests upstairs. I’m ab to gush ab the coffeemaker but when you think about it, it was just such a smart idea for the different varieties of guests that Joann hosts! Business men, families, newlyweds everything. It brews on cup & then it’s easily cleaned b/c all you have to do is take out the little pod that the coffee grounds are in & go for the second cup for your partner or whomever is with you (& it can be a different blend b/c Joann and Jesse are awesome and don’t limit you to just 1 or 2 kinds of little coffee pods!) PLUS you don’t have so much space taken up in your room with a coffee tray & you don’t have to worry about pouring your own coffee(I have a tendancy to miss that first dribble of the first pour & it goes everywhere) SO smart, convenient, & pratical little coffee station in the hall & if you’ve got a doggie bag from Cecil’s Common House (GO THERE!!!!) you are also welcome to put it in the little fridge, grab your evening coffee & head to the balcony & listen to the birds & crickets outside.
Breakfast:
This is a mix of what I remember b/c we had 2 mornings of breakfast & both divine!Request the Cinnamon Peaches! They are simple but wonderful & One of THE BEST things I’ve put in my mouth! My sister loved them too! Like LOVED them! Some mornings she gets up at home and says “I want those peaches Mrs.Joann made us!” Ask for more than one! You’ll be sorry if you don’t! The Buttermilk Apple Pancakes are also a Mistletoe Bough Classic so don’t pass them up!(I say they’re a classic b/c I’m not the only reviewer that has complimented the Chef(Joann) about them!) Sausage was good too & hot tea is also a choice in the morning which is wondeful if you are an international traveler! We also had a choice of apple or orange juice. A kind of a coffee cake was served one morning..I can’t remember exactly what flavor but it was great and we also had breakfast cassarole YUM! If I missed anything it’s because my sister & I were just so taken with the peaches haha! I do remember you have a choice cinnamon butter with your breakfast. Joann serves it so beautifully in little courses in the morning! It’s just divine and made us feel like Princesses! Oh! And this was breakfast at 9 in the morning per our request. That may be a norm for bed & breakfasts b/c my sister & I usually stay at hotels(no more unless we absolutely have no choice) So we thought being SERVED was amazing! And there’s light music playing in the background so even if you’re with a group of people you don’t know at breakfast, the music is there to take the pressure off of everyone feeling that have to say something. Of course we lucked out and had sister time alone at the table so that was great but we also got to talk and get to know Joann And she actually joined us for some coffee at the end of our meal so she’s just great!
Area:
Oh also for anyone out there reading this who in the back of your mind worries about security & things like that. The B&B is located in a nice neighborhood in the Downtown area of Alex City & Jesse ,Joann’s husband, works for the local Police Department. The Police Department is literally just down the street too so no worries on your part should be had So there ya go folks THE perfect place to stay! Also Joann & Jesse are indifferent to Auburn or Alabama Football b/c they spent the first part of their life together on the West Coast so don’t pass up staying here if you are hardcore fans of either team.;) They are not team specific people lol! . Homecoming weekend the entire B&B though was taken over by the Blue & Orange so it was fun to have our War Eagle exchanges as we passed others in the hall or outside going in & out of the drive that weekend, which was fun
Overall wonderful service, people, and location! Thanks so much Joann & Jesse! You’re the best!
p.s. My sister is 15 & she wants her 16th birthday party to be hosted here! And what teenager, seriously, wants her 16th birthday at a B&B. This place is very special location!
We wanted to say thank you for the wonderful hospitality that Joann and Jesse shown to us. The breakfast was wonderful and the home was beautiful, we stayed in the Master Suite and it was a sheer pleasure. It was our 9th anniversary and Joann made it so special, I asked her to make us a picnic lunch and the food was wonderful. She takes the time for all the little extra’s and her wonderful personality made the experience so enjoyable. Truly a remarkable Bed and Breakfast. Thank you again, we loved every moment of it. And, the mint garnishes on the dishes are perfect.
We wanted to say thank you for the wonderful hospitality that Joann and Jesse shown to us. The breakfast was wonderful and the home was beautiful, we stayed in the Master Suite and it was a sheer pleasure. It was our 9th anniversary and Joann made it so special, I asked her to make us a picnic lunch and the food was wonderful. She takes the time for all the little extra’s and her wonderful personality made the experience so enjoyable. Truly a remarkable Bed and Breakfast. Thank you again, we loved every moment of it. And, the mint garnishes on the dishes are perfect.
We we would like to thank Jesse and Joann for their wonderful hospitality! This home is beautiful and relaxing and really takes you a step back in time! The breakfast was wonderful as was the conversation with both Joann and Jesse and I must not forget to mention the beautiful garnishes on our breakfast plate prepared by Joann every morning ! We will definitely be staying here on our many returns back to this area! Thanks so much!
Karen and i wanted to thank you again for the wonderful
time we spent there on our Honeymoon. Your home has the most romantic, and soothing atosphere we have ever seen. We will definitely be back next year to commemorate everything again. You made our time much more special. Everything was just perfect. From our hearts……..
Thank you so much;
Beautiful, historic, warm, welcoming, confortable, delicious and loving. These words and more describe, the wonderful old house, the grounds,Joan and Jesse, and the food. Felt like home.
Mistletoe Bough is a beautiful Bed and Breakfast. I do a lot of traveling for my job and The Mistletoe was just amazing, Joann and Jesse made it feel like you were coming home. It is quite and relaxing so it made my work (when I got back in) go alot smoother. Thank you so much Joann and Jesse for everything.
From the moment you step onto the veranda, you step back in time..to a wonderful Victorian Era of friendliness, welcome and relaxation. Mistletoe Bough is the most beautiful Bed & Breakfast Ive ever had the pleasure to stay in. We stayed in the Nanny’s Room, with its own small veranda overlooking the grounds. Absolutely every comfort…JoAnn and Jesse make every person feel welcome and like family. The food is amazing and Alexander City is a great place to explore! We are anxious to plan our next trip to Mistletoe Bough!
We have been there several times now and the memories are my “oasis” on hectic days here at home or work. The grounds are beautiful any time of year, the historic ambiance makes me want to play dress up like a little girl, the food is wonderful and Jo Ann and Jesse are so accomodating. I spend much of my time rocking on the veranda, walking around taking pictures or visiting the lake. Alexander City has the friendliest people! Can’t wait to come back.
I have never stayed in a more beautiful bed & breakfast. The atmosphere was wonderfully relaxing and I really enjoyed the food. It was a girlfriend’s getaway and we created wonderful memories. We are looking forward to coming back as soon as we possibly can. Thanks JoAnn & Jesse for a great stay
This was the first bed and breakfast we’ve ever stayed at, and boy were we overjoyed! Every morning, we were greeted with a smile and an amazing breakfast.(We stayed 5 days) We spent tons of time wandering around the most beautiful estate. JoAnn and Jesse were amazing and made us feel like family at every turn. There is nothing like feeling at home while on the road. Thank you so much for your hospitality.
Will be back for sure very soon!!!
Always,
Sarah and Brice
You have a magnificent Bed and Breakfast. My family and I enjoyed our visit and will be planning our next stay soon. Thank you for having us! You made us feel right at home, thank you again so much.
Sincerely,
Maria Estes and Family
Thank you JoAnn for your wonderful hospitality during our recent stay at Mistletoe Bough. We enjoyed exploring your beautiful home and relaxing among the comfortable furnishings. The food was delicious and we did so appreciate the extra effort you made to make sure we were well taken care of. (Your sweet and friendly cats were a bonus)
Most sincerely,
Kay & Bob
March, 2012 we spent a wonderful and very eventful time at Mistletoe B&B. It began as a lovely, warm, rainy day. Traveling from Florida we thought it would be cooler in Alexander City. Arriving mid afternoon we had a delightful meeting with JoAnn, our WONDERFUL host. Relaxing in the lovely Andrea’s Bedroom with delicious coffee we had begun our restful weekend. Since Mexican food is a favorite, we had dinner at a local, very lively, Mexican restaurant. Back in our room we heard danger sirens and were quickly and efficiently relocated to the basement as a tornado was headed for Alexander City. Only minutes later, we were notified all was safe and could return to our room. The next morning, a lovely breakfast awaited us and we met several new “friends” that are now even facebook friends. At JoAnn’s recommendation, we spent several hours at a local consignment, drove around Lake Martin and ended the day with another local meal. We had such a great time and JoAnn was the best in hospitality. Always a pleasure to meet and get to know new “friends”. We will cherish this time at Mistletoe B&B and hope to return again.
As young working professionals in the city, we needed some time away from the office to decompress and relax. We found it at Mistletoe Bough. Between the serene environment and JoAnn’s gracious service, something about the place felt like home. We stayed in the Master’s Suite and our room was not only lovely but also amazingly comfortable — I can’t remember the last time I slept so peacefully for 8 hours. Breakfast was delicious, and if you were to leave hungry then it would be your own fault. We can’t thank JoAnn enough for her kind hospitality, and absolutely recommend staying at Mistletoe Bough!
My wife and I stayed at this wonderful B&B for a getaway. It was a surprise for her. I spoke to Joann Frazier the Innkeeper. They offered a discount for weekday travelers, which we took advantage of. She made the reservations process so easy and she was willing to work with me. We had a sick child and could not get away when we first wanted to and she was so friendly and accommodating to adjust the date.
Joann is the jewel of this B&B… the Innkeeper is what makes the B&B and this is one of the best B&Bs because of Joann. Friendly, warm, welcoming, accommodating, polite, a true “service heart” are only a few ways I can start to describe Joann. From the phone call before we arrived while we were driving down… to the hand written note and the hand dipped chocolate strawberries, to cooking our breakfast in the morning. On our first morning we had Fresh Fruit Parfait, Banana Walnut Pancakes, great tasting Sausage served with Coffee and Peach & White Grape Juice (and she checked with us about allergies and dislikes the night before). She was a perfect host! The second morning we had Fresh Biscuits with local Jams, Fresh Baked Fruit Danish followed by individual Baked Breakfast Strata. Some of our breakfast companions had special diets and one even brought some of her own food and Joann took care of us all… again she was a perfect host.
The B&B is amazing. The rooms are spacious, Victorian designed, large windows and high ceilings thru out… and the upkeep was amazing. If you have ever stayed in an old house you know how much noise they make, this one was quite and very few cricks. The B&B was very clean and the bathroom was spotless and the bed was like sleeping on a cloud. The entire place was furnished with beautiful antiques and artwork. This Victorian House was originally built in 1890 to 1895. It stayed in the original family for 3 generations before it fell in total disrepair and was condemned by the city. It was converted into a B&B and completely renovated in 1993. Be sure to ask Joann to see the pictures of the renovation. WOW! I love the history.
We had a great time in Alexander City and Lake Martin. Joann is so knowledgeable of the area and had many recommendations. My wife and I enjoyed walking around the old downtown. Some of our favorite shops were: The Shoppes of Queen’s Attic, Little Black Dress, Cloud Nine, Emporium Wine and MacDavid & CO. We also ate at some great restaurants (again from Joann’s recommendations) two that we truly loved were the SpringHouse Restaurant and Sho’nuff BBQ… two must stop restaurants.
It was so special to have a getaway trip with my wife and re-learn that my wife and mother of my kids is still my best friend. I highly recommend the Mistletoe B&B for anyone needing a little time away from their busy lives. From the 2 cats who are the self-appointed (outside) welcoming committee, to the perfect places to curl up with a good book both inside and out. This is a perfect get away. I can’t wait until Christmas season so I can see this Victorian Mansion in all its glory.
Pros:
Joann, Service, Hospitality, the Victorian House, quite rooms, fantastic renovation – well built, Joann, Breakfast, authentic furniture, several areas to quietly read a book, very clean, comfortable bed, loveable cats, the house was amazing… oh and last thing did I mention Joann
Cons:
Not many and I have to dig deep to net-pick – The grounds were a little over grown and some of the outside seating was not useable. Some of the outdoor lights were not working. It was hard to find “locals serving local food” until I started asking around – (again Joann was good knowledge of the area).
We recently returned from a wonderful stay at Mistletoe Bough B&B and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The home is beautiful with a rich history. Our room (Sweet pea) was beautiful and very comfortable. We enjoyed touring the area and we especially enjoyed meeting Joanne and her delicious breakfasts. Thank you Joanne, what a treat!
April 25th – 29th, 2012
We had a wonderful stay at this lovely B&B. JoAnn was totally awesome and we definitely plan on returning. The house is amazing and the breakfast was very delicious. I’m vegetarian and Joanna was able to make very healthy and delectable dishes!
I had a wonderful opportunity to visit the Bodyworks Massage on Madison. I just couldn’t believe the price of The Works! It consisted of an apricot body scrub, an algae body wrap and a full massage. Two hours later my skin was soft and gleaming and I was so relaxed. Please take time to visit Shirley at Bodyworks while you’re visiting Mistletoe Bough; it is definitely worth the price!!
We’ll definitely return JoAnn
Bruce & Elizabeth Martin
We stayed at the Mistletoe Bough B&B over Easter weekend. We had a wedding to attend at Lake Martin which was only about 25 minutes away. This was a sweet B&B. Very victorian in decor, which is usually the case. We stayed in the Master Suite room. It was very spacious with a lot of windows for great light. There was an adequate sized TV for my husband to watch the Masters and extras like robes hanging on the door and a coffee machine out in the hallway. Jo Ann was more than accomodating and has great stories to tell. Her breakfast was amazing; fruit, sausage and a wonderful bread pudding. Although we were only there for a wedding, I think there is a lot do do around Alexander City; Antiquing, Museums, the lake, etc. Would be a nice get away for any couple…
This was our first experience at a Bed & Breakfast, and it was wonderful! It was a very relaxing stay and it is such a beautiful home. The breakfast was super yummy, too! The Keurig outside our room was also an awesome bonus! We were so comfortable there, and Joann has such a welcoming personality. We felt like we knew her our whole lives. We really hope we can go back soon!
Thanks so much!
Kellie & Andy
We had the most amazing weekend at the Mistletoe B&B. I set up this getaway to surprise my husband and celebrate both our birthdays and a late Valentines day. Prior to our trip, I made a list of things to do and see. I even requested a picnic lunch to take the park, but once we arrived, we did not want to leave. We skipped the movie, the park, ate the picnic in our lovely room, watched TV together (for a change) and we both just felt so comfortable and relaxed that I even finished a book that I had been reading for a year. This was the best trip we have had in a very long time and we want to thank JoAnn for making it so special. I highly recommend the Mistletoe B&B for anyone needing a little time away from their busy lives. Also if you do visit, please insist that JoAnn wear her most recent hat purchase and necklace….I am still laughing when I think of her serving breakfast with that hat and necklace.
We loved everything JoAnn…………….
Tracy
What a wonderful place to spend a couple days. It being a Christian home added extra value for Pat and me. Every morning, JoAnn greeted us with a smile and an amazing breakfast. Conversation at the breakfast table with other guest was great . . . we met some wonderful people. Talking to Susan about how she home schooled (and still is) five children was amazing. We felt so welcome and comfortable there. After a full day of antique malls with my wife (I’m not complaining) Mistletoe was an excellent place to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The house is beautiful throughout. Our bedroom was roomy and well decorated. We will go back.
Blessing,
Wayne and Pat White
Athens, Alabama
Upon entering the beautiful estate we were instantly overcome by its beauty and were intrigued by a eerie sense of familiarity. The atmosphere was very warm and inviting. We were instantly greeted by Mrs. Joann, the innkeeper, and she made us feel right at home. We could not rush away to our suite , as we had to marvel in the beauty of its fine architecture and antiques that adorned the home. My fiance, Ivan, reports the “best sleep he’s ever had” in a plush bed that enraptured us in comfort. Upon waking, we were greeted with the inviting smell of breakfast. We joined three couples downstairs for a superb breakfast served by Joann, who was the best hostess ever. Again, I stress the sense of familarity we experienced!! Joann is a beautiful person who is full of life, love and smiles. We highly recommend Mistletoe Bough and we are planning our next trip very soon. Thanks Joann and Jesse for a memorable experience and we will see you soon!
We had a wonderful time staying at the Mistletoe Bough B&B. The history of the house is very interesting and the Victorian decor is fabulous. We love old houses with all of the original woods and decor. We had a private balcony on our room which was great! The food was delicious and more than enough to fill us. The best part of the trip was having the opportunity to meet and get to know JoAnn and having lively discussions around the breakfast table! We also had fun exploring the Alexander City area antique and gift shops and Lake Martin. We had dinner at Cecil’s which was excellent and lunch at Sinclair’s on the lake (JoAnn’s recommendations).
I would definitely like to return and explore more during spring or summer!
Thanks again JoAnn!
My brother and I stayed after the Auburn football game. We arrived late after the game (10:45) and JoAnn greeted us like family. The room was great and the next morning we had a delightful breakfast. Since we were the only ones eating, we got to talk with JoAnn about the house and her journey to Alex City. It was absolutely delightful. Everything is just as the picture books and travel books describe the classic southern B&B. We highly recommend it and will stay again.
This is a wonderful place to stay for a weekend getaway. We had a great time just relaxing. We stayed in the Master Suite and loved it. Our room and bathroom, as well as all other guest areas of the house, were very clean and well kept. We are hoping to plan another visit during the holidays, to see the house in all its splendor! JoAnn is a very gracious hostess, who is also a great cook! J and J, thank you for a wonderful time away!
We thoroughly enjoyed our recent stay at the Mistletoe Bough B & B. Joann is the perfect hostess and made us feel very welcomed and at home. The room was extremely nice and clean, the breakfast delicious, and the other guests very pleasant to be around too. We will definitely stay here when in the area again.
We spent a delightful weekend at the Mistletoe Bough and enjoyed relaxing on the porch, walking on the grounds, our sweet hideaway in Nanny’s room, and a delicious breakfast with new friends. Thanks for making an ordinary weekend extraordinary! We’ll be back soon!
Dear Mrs. Joanne & Mr. Jesse,
We love yall and pray the Mistletoe Bough is truly blessed & successful for many more years & many more people are blessed by staying there 
My sister and I stayed with you a couple of years ago going to an Auburn Homecoming. We still talk about it! I just wanted to pop in and say Congratulations on being mentioned Southern Living’s July 2011 Edition this year!!! I picked it up and was reading in “The South’s Great Lakes” and when they listed you as the “Where to Stay” a shot of joy popped right up in my heart and I just HAD to tell you how very happy I am for you two! HOW SO VERY EXCITING!!!!! Yall Deserve it!!! Thanks so much for just being yall & being true to such a beautiful old home
Love,
Amanda & Trinity!!!
What a wonderful stay we had. Joann and Jesse thank you so much for embracing us during our stay. We were there for a funeral of a dear friend. We are still talking about how wonderful the rooms were and how good the breakfast was! We will be back one day.
Yup, this sounds like JoAnne–especially looking at the ice cream sundaes! We can tell you are in all your glory fulfilling your dream come true of owning a B&B.
We just returned for a wonderful stay at this beautiful Bed and Breakfast “Mistletoe Bough”. JoAnn made us feel at home and the breakfast was wonderful!! It was our first time to stay at a B&B and I hope to go back next year, maybe close to our anniversary. The house was beautiful and there were many great historic things to see close to it.
Dear JoAnn and Jesse thank you both for such a wonderful holiday,it was loveeeely to see you both again,we had such a wonderful 9 days with you we feel that Mistletoe Bough is our home in the USA.The food was better than at home and we were thoroughly pampered it was just what i needed after losing my mum.We met some great new friends staying for the race weekend and look forward to seeing them again,hopefully in october,we cant wait to come back to our Alabama home!!!!
with love to you both from your English family
Ian and Carol xx
We just returned home from a delightful stay at the Mistletoe Bough Bed and Bedfast in Alexander City, AL. There were four in our party and JoAnn was so accommodating. From the moment we arrived until our departure, we felt like we were visiting with old friends. The house has a unique history and we enjoyed a short tour and a little history. If you have an occasion to be in Alexander City, I highly recommend a visit to the Mistletoe Bough Bed and Bedfast. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit.
The Brooks’
We stayed at the Mistletoe Bough for a weekend to attend a wedding at Lake Martin. The house, hospitality and food were all great. We left with some wonderful recipes. Joanne has a sign by her door “Enter as guests, leave as friends” and we did.
Our experience at the Mistletoe Bough was absolutely wonderful. From the moment JoAnne met us on our arrival until our departure, she not only made us feel special and right at home, she entertained us to no end. What a wonderful person she is. We are already planning our next trip and will recommend it highly to anyone. JoAnne, “we can’t wait to see you again.”
Our very first Bed & Breakfast experience was at the beautiful Mistletoe Bough B&B! Joann & Jessie (our host & hostess) were absolutely delightful! We felt as if we had known them forever. We stayed in the “Nanny’s Room”, which offered its own private balcony! How delightful!! We were there for three nights, allowing us time to enjoy a visit to the not-to-be-missed ‘Wellborn Car Museum’ in Alexander City, take in the Sunday NASCAR race at Talledaga & sample the excellent foods at “JAKE’S” restaurant! What a fantastic weekend!!!! Mistletoe Bough certainly deserves a five-star rating! We will be there again in the fall of 2011!
Dear JoAnn and Jesse,After traveling from the uk we were greeted at your beautiful home with such warmth that it made the long journey very worth while,you were away on vacation when we arrived but we were looked after brilliantly by jeri who could not do enough for us,it was our first visit to the usa and we didnt know what to expect we were blown away by mistletoe bough,the house is incredible and we cant wait to show everybody back home i took millions of photos,jeri cooked us wonderful food and showed us round,we feel that we have made great friends and we will keep in touch with you all,upon your return you took the time to explain all the wonderful history of your home which we loved,you can see all the love and care that goes into looking after the house and we feel privileged to have been able to stay with you we cannot wait to come back and hope it will be many more times Thank you Carol and Ian Dunford UK
I’d never been to a B&B when my “signifigant other” arranged a suprise stay at Mistletoe Bough. I did not know what to expect, but it was way beyond anything I imagined! We each live only about an hour away and it was our first trip as a couple. He couldn’t have chosen a better place! It felt like we were a million miles away and was so romantic. For any men out there, if you want to make your wife/fiance/girlfriend/significant other/how about Mom for Mother’s Day?/ very happy, this is the way to go!! Seriously guys, if you want to make the lady in your life feel special, this is the place for you. (Steve, if you are reading this, please skip the next sentence, Sweetie!) It would be a perfect place for a proposal to happen.The whole place is amazing and beautiful, but it was more than that. I had browsed the website too, but even that didn’t do it justice! We spent lots of time just strolling outside or rocking on the porch, the grounds and house are so neat. We always had company outside, there were 2 cats who were our self-appointed tour guides! They were very friendly and would let you pet them if you liked. We stayed in the Sunshine Room and it was perfect. All of the rooms are very big and roomy. Ours had a private bathroom and even a couch and little desk! Right outside our room was a balcony that overlooked the front yard and each night we sat out there. Perfect place to curl up with a good book as well! All of the decorating and furniture is beautiful and you can imagine the house looks exactly as it did back in that time period. I have to say my favorite thing was having breakfast in the mornings for a few different reasons. Mrs. JoAnn fixed a wonderful breakfast each morning, (my favorite was the pancakes with real apple in them!) we got to sit down with the other guests (not a requirement, but very fun to share a little time with the others). On our visit we met a couple whose son had graduated from Auburn and the nice lady got a new car the same weekend! Then there was the young couple who were celebrating their recent marriage and were so cute. (The young man inquired about Church services that Sunday morning and I was happy to hear Mrs JoAnn invite them to go to Church with her and Mr.Jesse! My favorite was a very sweet lady from Tennessee who was attending a wedding in Alex City who I had the pleasure of sitting next to the first morning and getting to know. I can not say enough about Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse. They were the sweetest and really, really make you feel at home! I am very shy and can be uncomfortable in new situations and unfamiliar surroundings, but I was completely at ease. Mrs. JoAnn made me feel like she was taking me under her wing. She even let me “hang out” in the kitchen and watch her cook some which really meant alot more to me than probably she even knows, because my own parents died young, and that was something I missed out on. There were so many little things that made the experience complete that I could go on and on. (Another personal favorite, ice water kept in a small fridge hidden in the hallway in a real glass decanter, not bottled!) For any of you other “treasure hunters” like myself, there is a huge antique mall that we browsed Saturday morning. It took us about 3 hours to get through it and was well worth the time! Thanks to Mrs JoAnn for telling us about it. Like I said before, I could go on and on about my experience, but don’t you need to go ahead and call Mrs. JoAnn and let her know you are coming? On a serious note, thank you so much to Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse for making our trip so wonderful! We will definitely be back to see you guys!
+1
We have purchased the Bed & Breakfasts and Country Inns publication annually for the past 8-10 years and have wanted to stay at the Mistletoe Bough since it was featured on the cover a couple of years ago. We have frequented B&B’s for years after becoming disenchanted with the hotel/motel atmosphere. This was, by far, the nicest Inn we have visited. We have been disappointed a couple of times when the Inn was not even close to the description or picture offered. The Mistletoe Bough, however, exceeded our expectations. JoAnn and Jesse are gracious hosts and they do a lot to retain the beauty of this gorgeous old house and grounds. Breakfast was great each day and the recommendations for other eateries were right on target. Cecils was a great place to eat and actually within walking distance had it not been so hot. A stop at Carlisle’s pharmacy downtown is a must. They still have the old soda fountain with the hugest banana split on the planet. This will be a regular for us when we need a little get-a-way.
This was our second Bed and Breakfast we have statyed in and our family enjoyed it beyond measure! JoAnn and Jesse were wonderful and made us feel right at home. Our daughter enjoyed playing their piano and we all enjoyed the Sundays! The items in the house all have a story behind them and were amazing. I am still full from the great breakfast and the coffee. For bed and breakfasts, this is the standard! JoAnn & Jesse thank you for the wonderful experience and we will staying again, hopefully soon.
V/R
Clark, Ianka and Lori
Thank you is just so inadequate as an expression to JoAnn for making our stay, again, so memorable. My sister and I just got back from our second summer stay together at Mistletoe Bough. I found it on the internet last year, wanting something different than a hotel/motel, and was I ever in for a treat. I take my daughter down to Camp ASCCA each July, and , up until last year, had never done anything for myself while she was gone for almost a week. I am a genealogist and history buff and this house and its history, which JoAnn knows as if it’s her own family, is right on target for me. We stayed one night last year and toured the nearby Horseshoe Bend Military Park, then I was back on Halloween week end as my daughter enjoyed the fall week end at ASCCA. Then, my sister and I were back for two nights this week. The feeling while you are there is in-describable, just walking the grounds and imagining what it was like for that family long, long ago to live there. Seeing the family photos hung by the staircase made on the front steps and in the yard bring their reality home to you, how old and treasured the house & grounds are. History is there and you can experience it. JoAnn is more than a capable hostess, she has such a love of what she does and it shows in the way she takes care of her guests. I can’t imagine anyone not wanting to come back to ‘the Bough’. I hate to leave every time and do so with a feeling of looking forward to my next visit. It’s my first stay in a bed and breakfast and I cannot imagine being as happy staying anywhere else, both because of the hostess and the house/atmosphere. The town of Alexander City is such a quaint, pleasant place to be as well. Seeing people walk down the sidewalks, especially older people, take me back to the 50s and 60s, like going back in time. The Carlisle Drug store with its soda fountain, the town square, the new place to eat across from the drug store, Jake’s, provided a wonderfully delicious bon voyage to our trip home tonight. Scrumptuous food and reasonable prices. The landmark Big B BBQ since 1976 shouldn’t be missed, and you have to give BBQ another chance at the Sho Nuff BBQ, their stuffed potato is out of this world! JoAnn’s breakfasts back at Mistletoe Bough can’t be duplicated, the presentations make you feel so special, and they taste delicious as well. Who could ask for anything more! There are two huge antique ‘malls’ to stroll through, taking hours if you do them justice. It is so rare for me to get time to myself, with my situation, and when I do, I’d rather spend it in this quaint little town in this beautiful home, not just a house, JoAnn and Jesse make it a home, and everyone’s home who visits there, than anywhere else. God has blessed them with their talents and love that they show everyone. May He do so for a long time to come…….Thank you again, Lynda and Violet
I can’t say enough about Mistletoe Bough and JoAnn. We were passing through from Auburn on a college tour and picked the best place to stay I could have imagined. We happened to be the only guests that particular night and had 2 rooms. It was restful, peaceful, comfortable, quaint, cozy. We missed Jesse due to a late arrival and his early departure but I felt instantly like I had known JoAnn my whole life. We had a wonderful breakfast and just a joyful and peaceful stay. Wish it had been longer! I have just begun staying in B&Bs but it was my husbands first experience. Because of the great stay at Mistletoe Bough, I won’t have any trouble getting him to try one on future travels. Thanks JoAnn!
13 June 2010
Chet and I made a reservation at Mistletoe Bough Bed and Breakfast with the intent of enjoying the Jazz Fest on Friday night June 11th.
However, when we entered the Nanny Room the need to rush to the Fest and be among crowds of people just melted away.
On Saturday morning, we toured Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. As a history buff, the Visitor Center introduced me to The Battle at Horseshoe Bend and the impact of the battle for the Creeks and the new country of the United States of America.
In the afternoon, I watch from the Nanny balcony a marriage ceremony in the beautiful garden below.
The rest of our visit to Mistletoe Bough Bed and Breakfast was spent in the peaceful Nanny Room. Except very early on Sunday morning, we sat in the rocking chairs on the balcony listening to the many birds singing.
I love touring historic homes and never thought I would have the honor of stay at one for several days.
Our hosts JoAnn and Jessie Frazier made our stay delightful by telling us the history of the home and the family that own it for about 100 years, by honoring our request to sever breakfast to us on the deck and by severing a wonderful breakfast each day.
Joanna and Chet
I’d never been to a B&B when my “signifigant other” arranged a suprise stay at Mistletoe Bough. I did not know what to expect, but it was way beyond anything I imagined! We each live only about an hour away and it was our first trip as a couple. He couldn’t have chosen a better place! It felt like we were a million miles away and was so romantic. For any men out there, if you want to make your wife/fiance/girlfriend/significant other/how about Mom for Mother’s Day?/ very happy, this is the way to go!! Seriously guys, if you want to make the lady in your life feel special, this is the place for you. (Steve, if you are reading this, please skip the next sentence, Sweetie!) It would be a perfect place for a proposal to happen.
The whole place is amazing and beautiful, but it was more than that. I had browsed the website too, but even that didn’t do it justice! We spent lots of time just strolling outside or rocking on the porch, the grounds and house are so neat. We always had company outside, there were 2 cats who were our self-appointed tour guides! They were very friendly and would let you pet them if you liked. We stayed in the Sunshine Room and it was perfect. All of the rooms are very big and roomy. Ours had a private bathroom and even a couch and little desk! Right outside our room was a balcony that overlooked the front yard and each night we sat out there. Perfect place to curl up with a good book as well! All of the decorating and furniture is beautiful and you can imagine the house looks exactly as it did back in that time period. I have to say my favorite thing was having breakfast in the mornings for a few different reasons. Mrs. JoAnn fixed a wonderful breakfast each morning, (my favorite was the pancakes with real apple in them!) we got to sit down with the other guests (not a requirement, but very fun to share a little time with the others). On our visit we met a couple whose son had graduated from Auburn and the nice lady got a new car the same weekend! Then there was the young couple who were celebrating their recent marriage and were so cute. (The young man inquired about Church services that Sunday morning and I was happy to hear Mrs JoAnn invite them to go to Church with her and Mr.Jesse! My favorite was a very sweet lady from Tennessee who was attending a wedding in Alex City who I had the pleasure of sitting next to the first morning and getting to know. I can not say enough about Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse. They were the sweetest and really, really make you feel at home! I am very shy and can be uncomfortable in new situations and unfamiliar surroundings, but I was completely at ease. Mrs. JoAnn made me feel like she was taking me under her wing. She even let me “hang out” in the kitchen and watch her cook some which really meant alot more to me than probably she even knows, because my own parents died young, and that was something I missed out on. There were so many little things that made the experience complete that I could go on and on. (Another personal favorite, ice water kept in a small fridge hidden in the hallway in a real glass decanter, not bottled!) For any of you other “treasure hunters” like myself, there is a huge antique mall that we browsed Saturday morning. It took us about 3 hours to get through it and was well worth the time! Thanks to Mrs JoAnn for telling us about it. Like I said before, I could go on and on about my experience, but don’t you need to go ahead and call Mrs. JoAnn and let her know you are coming? On a serious note, thank you so much to Mrs JoAnn and Mr Jesse for making our trip so wonderful! We will definitely be back to see you guys!
A pleasant and relaxing experience. We stopped at the Mistleoe Bough B&B on our way from Louisville to the gulf coast and stayed two nights. JoAnn and Jesse were such friendly hosts and the inn, simply a classic scene from the proper Victorian period. Alexander City is also a nice quiet town with an interesting and historic past. We will return!
Jim & Mary Jo
Louisville, KY
I took my little sister to Auburn’s 2009 Homecoming and it was great but honestly…while we got the experience the traditions of toilet papering at Toomer’s & lemonade & ice cream after the game..Joann made us feel so welcome we kinda wished we had just stayed in & hung at the Mistletoe Bough all weekend! First of all I really can not say enough about Joann & Jesse Frazer! They are wonderful, salt of the earth people & I wish I could make it up to Alex City more often just to say Hi to them b/c they’re great! This review will be border line gushing ab Joann & Jesse b/c we got to know them a bit but that’s b/c we are very talkative People people. If you are looking for somewhere you need Privacy this is also the place for you! Joann isn’t one of those in your face B&Bers you just can’t get away from b/c they won’t let you. She & Jesse ARE NOT like that at all! If you need a weekend to yourself or just you & the Mrs. this is where you can go hide out for a while & turn that dreaded phone off LOL! Joann & Jesse are about the guest and if you want to talk and get to know them they are happy to make new friends. But if not they are glad to serve you & leave you to have your time for yourself. They are great B&Bers in that sense among so many other things they do so well!
The Home:
First of all when you drive up to the house my first thought was the Judy Garland film “Meet Me in St. Louis” it’s that kind of beautiful home! We were so excited that while when you park around the back & can enter from back door; my sister & I went & were welcomed through the front b/c we wanted to stand on that beautiful porch!
The Mistletoe Bough has antiques, beautiful historic fixtures, deep beautiful wood when you walk in. I personally felt instantly at home! Joann showed us to our room which was the Sweet Pea suite & it was so perfect for my sister & me! 2 Full Size Comfortable Beds & let me tell you we slept like logs in those things. The pillows were great too!
Upstairs there’s a small refrigerater tucked tastefully in a corner in the hallway next to the door opening to the second floor balcony (I know, I know some of you are thinking how is that possible for a small fridge to be ‘tastefully’ tucked away, I know I’d raise my eyebrow too…but trust me it is! Just take my word for it! Joann & Jesse are just good like that) Inside it there are water decanters(not plastic bottles or pitchers) but classic decanters & the water is always crisp & cold. Above is a Keurig coffeemaker which is perfect for the little Station that Joann has made for her guests upstairs. I’m ab to gush ab the coffeemaker but when you think about it, it was just such a smart idea for the different varieties of guests that Joann hosts! Business men, families, newlyweds everything. It brews on cup & then it’s easily cleaned b/c all you have to do is take out the little pod that the coffee grounds are in & go for the second cup for your partner or whomever is with you (& it can be a different blend b/c Joann and Jesse are awesome and don’t limit you to just 1 or 2 kinds of little coffee pods!) PLUS you don’t have so much space taken up in your room with a coffee tray & you don’t have to worry about pouring your own coffee(I have a tendancy to miss that first dribble of the first pour & it goes everywhere) SO smart, convenient, & pratical little coffee station in the hall & if you’ve got a doggie bag from Cecil’s Common House (GO THERE!!!!) you are also welcome to put it in the little fridge, grab your evening coffee & head to the balcony & listen to the birds & crickets outside.
Breakfast:
This is a mix of what I remember b/c we had 2 mornings of breakfast & both divine!Request the Cinnamon Peaches! They are simple but wonderful & One of THE BEST things I’ve put in my mouth! My sister loved them too! Like LOVED them! Some mornings she gets up at home and says “I want those peaches Mrs.Joann made us!” Ask for more than one! You’ll be sorry if you don’t! The Buttermilk Apple Pancakes are also a Mistletoe Bough Classic so don’t pass them up!(I say they’re a classic b/c I’m not the only reviewer that has complimented the Chef(Joann) about them!) Sausage was good too & hot tea is also a choice in the morning which is wondeful if you are an international traveler! We also had a choice of apple or orange juice. A kind of a coffee cake was served one morning..I can’t remember exactly what flavor but it was great and we also had breakfast cassarole YUM! If I missed anything it’s because my sister & I were just so taken with the peaches haha! I do remember you have a choice cinnamon butter with your breakfast. Joann serves it so beautifully in little courses in the morning! It’s just divine and made us feel like Princesses! Oh! And this was breakfast at 9 in the morning per our request. That may be a norm for bed & breakfasts b/c my sister & I usually stay at hotels(no more unless we absolutely have no choice) So we thought being SERVED was amazing! And there’s light music playing in the background so even if you’re with a group of people you don’t know at breakfast, the music is there to take the pressure off of everyone feeling that have to say something. Of course we lucked out and had sister time alone at the table so that was great but we also got to talk and get to know Joann
And she actually joined us for some coffee at the end of our meal so she’s just great!
Area:
So there ya go folks THE perfect place to stay! Also Joann & Jesse are indifferent to Auburn or Alabama Football b/c they spent the first part of their life together on the West Coast so don’t pass up staying here if you are hardcore fans of either team.;) They are not team specific people lol! 
. Homecoming weekend the entire B&B though was taken over by the Blue & Orange so it was fun to have our War Eagle exchanges as we passed others in the hall or outside going in & out of the drive that weekend, which was fun 
Oh also for anyone out there reading this who in the back of your mind worries about security & things like that. The B&B is located in a nice neighborhood in the Downtown area of Alex City & Jesse ,Joann’s husband, works for the local Police Department. The Police Department is literally just down the street too so no worries on your part should be had
Overall wonderful service, people, and location! Thanks so much Joann & Jesse! You’re the best!
p.s. My sister is 15 & she wants her 16th birthday party to be hosted here! And what teenager, seriously, wants her 16th birthday at a B&B. This place is very special location!
We wanted to say thank you for the wonderful hospitality that Joann and Jesse shown to us. The breakfast was wonderful and the home was beautiful, we stayed in the Master Suite and it was a sheer pleasure. It was our 9th anniversary and Joann made it so special, I asked her to make us a picnic lunch and the food was wonderful. She takes the time for all the little extra’s and her wonderful personality made the experience so enjoyable. Truly a remarkable Bed and Breakfast. Thank you again, we loved every moment of it. And, the mint garnishes on the dishes are perfect.
We wanted to say thank you for the wonderful hospitality that Joann and Jesse shown to us. The breakfast was wonderful and the home was beautiful, we stayed in the Master Suite and it was a sheer pleasure. It was our 9th anniversary and Joann made it so special, I asked her to make us a picnic lunch and the food was wonderful. She takes the time for all the little extra’s and her wonderful personality made the experience so enjoyable. Truly a remarkable Bed and Breakfast. Thank you again, we loved every moment of it. And, the mint garnishes on the dishes are perfect.
We we would like to thank Jesse and Joann for their wonderful hospitality! This home is beautiful and relaxing and really takes you a step back in time! The breakfast was wonderful as was the conversation with both Joann and Jesse and I must not forget to mention the beautiful garnishes on our breakfast plate prepared by Joann every morning
! We will definitely be staying here on our many returns back to this area! Thanks so much!
Karen and i wanted to thank you again for the wonderful
time we spent there on our Honeymoon. Your home has the most romantic, and soothing atosphere we have ever seen. We will definitely be back next year to commemorate everything again. You made our time much more special. Everything was just perfect. From our hearts……..
Thank you so much;
Beautiful, historic, warm, welcoming, confortable, delicious and loving. These words and more describe, the wonderful old house, the grounds,Joan and Jesse, and the food. Felt like home.
Mistletoe Bough is a beautiful Bed and Breakfast. I do a lot of traveling for my job and The Mistletoe was just amazing, Joann and Jesse made it feel like you were coming home. It is quite and relaxing so it made my work (when I got back in) go alot smoother. Thank you so much Joann and Jesse for everything.
The Mistletoe Bough is one of the most fun places I have ever stayed! Joann is a great cook and a perfect hostess. I cannot wait to stay there again.
From the moment you step onto the veranda, you step back in time..to a wonderful Victorian Era of friendliness, welcome and relaxation. Mistletoe Bough is the most beautiful Bed & Breakfast Ive ever had the pleasure to stay in. We stayed in the Nanny’s Room, with its own small veranda overlooking the grounds. Absolutely every comfort…JoAnn and Jesse make every person feel welcome and like family. The food is amazing and Alexander City is a great place to explore! We are anxious to plan our next trip to Mistletoe Bough!
We have been there several times now and the memories are my “oasis” on hectic days here at home or work. The grounds are beautiful any time of year, the historic ambiance makes me want to play dress up like a little girl, the food is wonderful and Jo Ann and Jesse are so accomodating. I spend much of my time rocking on the veranda, walking around taking pictures or visiting the lake. Alexander City has the friendliest people! Can’t wait to come back.
I have never stayed in a more beautiful bed & breakfast. The atmosphere was wonderfully relaxing and I really enjoyed the food. It was a girlfriend’s getaway and we created wonderful memories. We are looking forward to coming back as soon as we possibly can. Thanks JoAnn & Jesse for a great stay
This was the first bed and breakfast we’ve ever stayed at, and boy were we overjoyed! Every morning, we were greeted with a smile and an amazing breakfast.(We stayed 5 days) We spent tons of time wandering around the most beautiful estate. JoAnn and Jesse were amazing and made us feel like family at every turn. There is nothing like feeling at home while on the road. Thank you so much for your hospitality.
Will be back for sure very soon!!!
Always,
Sarah and Brice
You have a magnificent Bed and Breakfast. My family and I enjoyed our visit and will be planning our next stay soon. Thank you for having us! You made us feel right at home, thank you again so much.
Sincerely,
Maria Estes and Family