When you talk with Sarah Harris, it doesn’t take long to realize that hospitality is in her DNA. She and her husband, Robey, who has been a teacher at Crosby Middle School for 17 years, have called Lake Forest home for five years. They live along with their son James, a 16-year-old student at Eastern High School and a dedicated baseball player. But Sarah’s roots in this neighborhood go back even further. “My grandparents moved into Lake Forest in the very first Homerama house in the early 80s, so I’ve been part of this community since I was very young,” she shared. Today, her sister has also moved to the neighborhood, and Sarah lights up when she talks about how special it is to have family so close.

Sarah grew up in Bowling Green and Middletown, spending plenty of time in Copperfield, where her mother still lives. Her father and stepmother remain in Bowling Green, making it another place she happily calls home. When she reflects on what led her to a career in hotels, she credits her grandparents’ Bed and Breakfast as her earliest classroom. “As a young girl, I worked in their B&B and learned so much about hosting events of all kinds. I guess you can say they passed down a hospitality gene,” Sarah said with a smile.

That passion turned into a career spanning more than two decades in “big box” hotels before she made a meaningful shift to join the Common Bond Hotel Collection. “Although I don’t own Common Bond, I came to this team after a 20+ year career with larger brands because I wanted to be part of the story we are telling,” Sarah explained. “And I wanted to be a part of the Bourbonism that makes Kentucky so unique.”

The Common Bond philosophy is rooted in honoring history while creating memorable experiences for today’s traveler. Each property embraces a restrained style with eclectic touches that reflect its community. “Our hotels are designed for the unconventional traveler who is casual and confident in lifestyle and prefers presence over pretense,” Sarah shared. “The Common Bond experience is all about self-discovery without being self-absorbed.”

This vision comes to life across Kentucky with distinctive hotels:

Bardstown Motor Lodge – a reimagined 35-room lodge blending the rich history of the former Parkview Motel and Kurtz Family Restaurant with modern amenities, complete with firepits and a retro pool. “We call it an adult summer camp!” Sarah said. This was the first hotel in the Common Bond Hotel Collection. The property is also home to Toogie’s Table, which captures the authentic flavors of the Bluegrass State while adding a modern twist. Sarah shared, "It’s named after the original owner, but the food is quite different — a wonderful selection that can be casual or higher end depending on what you’re looking for. We also have one private space in this restaurant building as well.” Toogie’s Table is a gathering place for foodies and bourbon lovers alike, emphasizing community, creativity, and comfort. Learn more at www.bardstownmotorlodge.com.

The Myriad Hotel – a revitalized disco ball factory in Louisville’s Highlands neighborhood that now offers 65 eclectic boutique rooms and vibrant social spaces reflecting the area’s eccentric signature style. Guests can enjoy Paseo, a metropolitan-style eatery bursting with spice and scenery, complete with an open kitchen concept, wood-fire stove, and sultry bar. “The atmosphere is unbeatable,” Sarah said. She adds, "We also have two wonderful private event spaces at this location.” Alongside Paseo are the Switchboard Bar & Lounge and Myriad Swim Club, giving guests plenty of reasons to stay and soak in the vibe. Visit myriadhotel.com to learn more.

The Delegate Hotel – set on the Bourbon Trail, this property offers sophisticated hospitality with a “new traditionalism” feel, perfect for meetings or quiet getaways. It's designed to satisfy the guests' needs of today. Its signature restaurant, Cypress & Oak, is an upscale steakhouse that blends traditional elegance with modern sophistication. “We have two private dining spaces and meeting rooms there and host parties and special events all the time!” Sarah said. The warm wood accents, jewel-toned decor, and open kitchen create an unforgettable dining experience in downtown Frankfort. Learn more at www.delegatehotel.com.

The Ashbrook Hotel – a stately historic mansion in Frankfort, affectionately nicknamed “The Queen on the Corner,” where southern charm meets modern elegance. Set on a picturesque avenue on the edge of downtown, each stay is a mix of tradition and warm Kentucky spirit. Guests can dine in style at The Ashbrook Restaurant, a refined space where the rich traditions of Kentucky come alive. “It’s elevated southern fare, and the dining space is like nothing you’ve ever been in!” Sarah said. With its cozy ambiance, curated bourbon selection, and elegant setting within a lovingly restored historic home, The Ashbrook offers a truly distinctive dining and lodging experience. Learn more at www.ashbrookhotel.com.

Sarah believes these properties aren’t just hotels but opportunities for connection. “The next time you’re thinking of something special you can do, maybe a family reunion or a team retreat, think outside the box. We do total property buyouts at some locations and can set up meetings or events in truly unique spaces,” she suggested. She added that many of the Common Bond hotels are located in historic buildings, and the company works closely with Historic Preservation to give these landmarks new life while honoring their past.

With her blend of experience, warmth, and deep community ties, Sarah brings both a professional and personal touch to hospitality. For her, it’s more than a career — it’s a way of life passed down through generations, now reimagined in the heart of Kentucky.