On Wednesday, a group of journalists found themselves on a quiet and quaint street in the heart of Brooklyn, standing in front of a mansion.
This mansion is one of five, owned by former Essence magazine editor-in-chief Monique Greenwood. Greenwood is the star of a new docu-series being produced by OWN network called Checking Inn. The series follows Greenwood, her family and staff as she builds her bed and breakfast empire, Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns.
Checked Inn features all five of Greenwood’s properties but highlights the 22-acre estate at Noble Lane in The Poconos. The staff of the estate are colorful and make for great television. At Wednesday’s press event at the Akwaaba mansion in Bed Stuy, Greenwood divulged there are key characteristics all of her employees most have.
“We need people with personality,” said Greenwood. “I can teach you how to set the table properly,I can teach you how to do triple sheeting, but I can’t teach you kindness and how to have a genuine sense of how to make someone’s day.”
The show promises lots of drama. Greenwood hopes to someday pass the business to her daughter Glynn, who is also on the show. But the only child has other plans. “I want to become a writer,” said Glynn. “And tell the narratives of people of color.”
As the afternoon comes to a close, Greenwood tells reporters her ultimate goal. She plans to leave a legacy and create a business that can be passed down within her family for future generations. She hopes the show will help elevate Akwaaba so she can continue to grow her brand. As far as her personal legacy, she hopes people realize, “I made a mark, but it didn’t leave a stain.”
Checked Inn premieres on Tuesday, November 21st.
