We contacted Edrienne Baebler at Byron Park over a year ago to arrange a tour with our father and his girlfriend. Our visit there was pre-pandemic, so my very much-belated review of this spectacular facility will be reflective of that.
While deciding on a time to visit, Edrienne remembered from our initial phone conversation that both our dad - as well as his girlfriend - are musicians, so she suggested coming to tour on a Friday afternoon, as Byron Park features a Happy Hour, along with live music on Friday's.
Upon arrival, Edrienne took us to a private area where we could talk...we discussed what our father's current situation was, what he liked and did not like about it, and what would be important to him in planning a move from the home that he has built, and lived in for the past 60 years. (Our mother suddenly passed six years ago, so he has been living alone since.) His girlfriend's daughter was also in attendance, and we then talked about what she would be looking for.
After a bit more conversation, she then took us around the facility - noting some of the amazing amenities that Byron Park has to offer residents there. Our father commented that he felt like he was "on a cruise ship", given the number, as well as the variety of all the offerings. He also noted that he liked the fact that you could choose to take part in the activities one day, and on other days, spend your time just enjoying the beautiful space.
As we meandered down the hallways, on our way to look at one of the 2- bedroom units, we were greeted by not one, but EVERY SINGLE RESIDENT that we passed. The amazing and positive energy throughout the facility was undeniable. By the time we passed and were greeted by the fifth resident, I jokingly asked her (the resident) if Edrienne had slipped her $20 to be so happy and friendly...it was truly unbelievable how everyone - both staff and residents alike - made you immediately feel 'at home'. And that was the feeling we all shared, from the moment that we walked through the front door.
The unit that we looked at was on the backside of the complex, backing to open space. Edrienne told us that it was quite common to see many forms of wildlife - all types of birds, deer, raccoons, wild turkeys, etc. - passing by at all times of the day and night. There was a private balcony that faced the open space, so our father really liked that, as he is used to enjoying privacy in the backyard of his current home. (Edrienne had also remembered that our dad very much enjoys the birds, as he currently has two large feeders in his backyard that he refills daily.)
Edrienne's attention to detail and listening skills are second to none...she remembered things from both our first and second phone conversations that I had already forgotten.
After we had finished looking at the unit, we then headed downstairs for their Friday Happy Hour. Again, many more "Hello's" and waves along the way. The staff at Byron Park was professional, yet also both very warm and friendly...it was obvious that they all took great pride in their work.
Sitting on the patio outside, we were all admiring the beautiful flowers, landscaping, and impeccably maintained grounds. The live music that evening happened to be piano, which our dad's girlfriend particularly enjoyed, having been a concert pianist - as well as a piano teacher - for over 50 years. Looking around the room, we saw everything from a subtle toe tap, to others practically dancing in their chairs...again, the amount of positive and upbeat energy in the room was overflowing.
Having enjoyed Happy Hour, we then headed to the dining room for dinner. That was the biggest, and the most unexpected surprise...it felt more like a restaurant - with servers, and even MENUS - our dad looked over and again said, "Wow, I really do feel like I'm on a cruise ship!" We each ordered something different (so as to try as many things as possible), and all agreed that the food was phenomenal.
After dinner, Edrienne rejoined us and we went back to the private area to talk about our experience. She asked us several open-ended questions - what we liked, what we were impressed by, what our general feeling was - to which we shared the aforementioned. It was refreshing that there was nothing 'salesy' about any part of our interaction, no pressure to make an instant decision...just more caring and thoughtful discussion about what they were looking for in consideration of their move.
Edrienne then explained that this was going to be "a process", and boy, was she right! Our father? Still in the same house, and has yet to make a move...yet, on more than several occasions, he fondly recalls our incredible experience at Byron Park. We can now only hope that when it is his decision to finally 'make the move', that he, too, will choose Byron Park.
Thank you, Edrienne, for creating a wonderful experience for our families...no wonder you are so highly regarded in your profession - you are truly a gift! read more