By Megan Bevins
In 2018, Christian Asam was recognized as a West Virginia Executive Young Gun, an early acknowledgment of his leadership and vision at the Bavarian Inn. Since then, he has actively worked to expand the inn and enhance its amenities.
As president of the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, Asam has overseen significant expansions, including the launch of a German-themed brewpub and lounge, Bavarian Brothers Brewing, in spring 2020. He has also organized the installation of a captivating infinity pool, complete with a large gas firepit where guests can cool off during hot summer days and warm themselves on cool nights. Additionally, the inn has remodeled its hotel rooms to elevate the overall guest experience.
“I really enjoy welcoming people to West Virginia,” Asam says. “We are located in the Eastern Panhandle just over an hour from Washington, D.C., where the majority of our guests come from.”
Despite fully immersing himself in the hospitality industry, Asam reveals it wasn’t his initial career aspiration.
“In my early years, I thought I may grow up to be an architect or meteorologist, but I ended up realizing I had learned so much about the hospitality industry by just being around it,” he says. “Every meal with my parents was a lesson, sometimes appreciated, often not.”
Once his passion was realized, Asam applied to the hospitality program at James Madison University, where he earned his degree and met his wife, Kerry. After graduation, he gained valuable experience working in Vail, CO, and Philadelphia, PA, before returning home to help with the family business, the Bavarian Inn.
“My brother, David, and I enjoy working side-by-side daily. We are thrilled to be the second generation running the Bavarian Inn,” Asam says. “What we’re most proud of is how we have updated the inn and added fun amenities while staying true to our
European roots.”
This balance of innovation and tradition has been crucial.
“Change can be difficult,” Asam says. “It’s a balance to get the next generation of guests interested in our product without alienating long-time visitors.”
Asam highlights the significance of teamwork, pointing out that his organization has a dedicated group of over 100 employees who create a positive work environment. He believes their family-owned and managed approach differentiates them from larger corporate hotel chains. Asam partially attributes the inn’s success to the personal touch its service offers that fosters guest loyalty.
“Our guests love our team,” Asam says. “They love that we are family-owned, and they appreciate the unique taste of Europe we provide without the need for a plane ticket.”
Being part of a multigenerational business brings both challenges and rewards.
“It makes business personal, not just work,” Asam says. “The second generation has pressure to continue the legacy, improve upon the product and make sure our guests keep coming and enjoying.”
As his daughters enter college, discussions about potentially involving a third generation in the business have begun, highlighting the family ethos that permeates their work. Looking ahead, Asam reminds aspiring entrepreneurs that the unique opportunities in West Virginia allow for significant community contributions.
“You can truly be a fish in the pond. A big fish or a smaller fish, the choice is yours,” Asam says. “Connect with industry leaders, join associations and network. In West Virginia, there’s a spirit of camaraderie that truly benefits personal and business growth.”
As for his goals, Asam emphasizes the continual focus on guest experiences.
“I’m honored to serve as the president of the Jefferson County Convention & Visitors Bureau, where we see tremendous success in tourism countywide,” he says. “We are happy to be part of this rising tide. Jefferson County is a great place to live and visit. It really is amazing how we are all working together to make this happen.”
