Checked Inn

In 1995, Monique Greenwood pursued a newfound love for hospitality by opening her first B&B in Brooklyn, NY while also working as a magazine editor. Then, five very busy years later, she landed a dream job at Essence magazine, the leading publication for African American women. Monique quickly rose to become editor-in-chief—even as she continued to run the B&B. Much to everyone's shock, Monique eventually decided to walk away from her high-profile job at Essence. After juggling two professions for years, she wanted to focus on building the B&B business with her husband, Glenn, with the goal of creating a legacy they could pass on to their daughter, Glynn.

Today, Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns is the most successful B&B business on the east coast and Monique remains the hands-on force behind it. She runs her now four inns the only way she knows how—as the heart and soul, the everything planner and the innkeeper. Ever-helpful, Monique even finds herself offering advice to her guests when they confide in her.