About The Inn
Our mission:
Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “To affect the quality of the day, that is the art of life.” At the Inn at the Rustic Gate, it is our mission to positively shape the quality of your days by doing the common things uncommonly well. Every detail, from meal preparation to housekeeping and attentive service, is designed to contribute to a restorative and memorable experience.
Additionally, our 146-acre property offers stunning views of rolling meadows, woodland forests, and thriving wetlands. There are hiking trails to explore, as well as a walking labyrinth for more meditative movement. The natural beauty of the Inn’s setting inspires reflection, creativity, and inner peace.
A Green Facility
- Geothermal heating and cooling
- Non-volatile compound paint, stains, adhesives, and insulation
- Recycled fiber carpet and padding, recycled composite decking material as well as porch furniture made of recycled milk jugs
- Adherence to the Green Hotel Association’s guidelines of linen replacement during a guest’s stay only when necessary, rather than on a routine daily basis
- Large dispensers for soap and shampoos rather than one time use packaged products which create unnecessary waste
- Taking all of our recyclable paper, plastic, glass, and Styrofoam containers to the Mecosta Recycling Center, as well as supporting the Center with cash donations
- Sourcing organic, local, and in-season foods whenever possible
History of the Inn
The Inn sits on a beautiful 146-acre piece of land, first established as one of the area’s earliest farms in 1910. When our aunts purchased the property in 2001, the original farmhouse had been standing empty for years. With a vision of creating a place where people could connect, create, and nourish their minds, bodies, and spirits amid the natural beauty of the land, they got to work. After three years of extensive renovations, including the addition of a wing of guest rooms, a welcoming lobby, and a commercial kitchen, they opened the gates in 2004 to welcome their first guests.
Our Facilities
The Inn offers 8 well-appointed guest rooms, each with it’s own bathroom.
Just a few steps from the front door we have a separate meeting house that can be used for multiple purposes, from group sewing or crafting, to yoga classes, or business meetings.
Our large dining room can comfortably seat up to 24 and can be rented for private events, as well as an outdoor pavilion overlooking the lake that can be used for larger outdoor gatherings.
Our beautiful grounds include hiking trails for guests to explore as well as a walking labyrinth.
The Innkeepers
Ryan Stroko:
Ryan came to the Inn from Manhattan, where he worked in restaurant management. When our aunts, the original owners, began preparing for retirement, he returned to Michigan to lend a much-needed hand, learn the Inn’s most beloved recipes, and become familiar with the daily operations. Ryan is talented cook with an eye for detail and a gift for hospitality.
Erin Wynn:
A former middle school English teacher, Erin now channels her planning skills, creativity, and warm personality into welcoming guests and tending to the details that make each stay special. She manages reservations and communications, oversees business operations, and ensures the Inn is a beautifully maintained and inviting space for every visitor.
Aaron Wynn:
Aaron draws on his years of culinary and management experience to help keep the Inn running smoothly. From his early days as a sous chef for a catering company to managing kitchens and departments at several Whole Foods stores, he combines a talent for cooking with an eye for organization and efficiency. Aaron helps to keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes, so that every guest enjoys an outstanding dining experience as well as a comfortable stay.