Paul and Michelle Dowdey were high school sweethearts and have been married since 1989. Paul is a firefighter and Michelle is a nurse. They have always dreamed of opening and bed and breakfast and have worked hard to make this dream come true.

 

They purchased The Flyway Lodge in June 2016 after selling their farm near Charlotte, NC. Since that time, they have undertaken major renovations to preserve their beloved lodge. This labor of love is truly a family affair and their three children are a huge part of it. Their oldest child, Allison was the first to live in the home- she launched the wedding venue business while helping with renovations and upkeep. Clay and his girlfriend Savannah have made many trips from Raleigh to help with every aspect of the rehabilitation process. The youngest child, Tanner, is still in school and lives in the lodge with his parents. Their two year old German Shepherd, Slugger, and eleven year old mix, Kelso, are also part of the family and they love visitors. 

​

Paul and Michelle enjoy the great outdoors and can often be found taking a kayak break after a long day of work. Paul’s background in construction has enabled them to tackle major and minor projects around the lodge. In their spare time they enjoy gardening. Paul is a beekeeper and intends to establish healthy bee colonies to pollinate their crops. Michelle enjoys canning, cooking and baking and enjoys preparing garden to table meals and desserts. 

​

Future plans involve re-establishing a peach orchard, something The Flyway was known for years ago. They also intend to plant a strawberry patch and fields full of fresh flowers and lavender for a You-Pick business.