The Elms Bed and Breakfast

We had a lovely Sunday night stay and were the only guests. We stayed in a two bedroom with access to the porch and a large beautiful bathroom. Breakfast was excellent and service was very friendly. Definitely recommend!

We had a large room with big bathroom and enjoyed relaxing on the really deep first floor balcony. The house has been restored and many of the original pieces or furniture and family belongings are in use or displayed - the main rooms have guide books to tell you about the contents - amazing. The breakfasts were superb as Esther is a great chef. The location is ideal - just a short walk down Washington St to the Mississippi River and a selection of restaurants. And service is what really counts - Esther kindly posted some shirts I had left in the closet and refused payment. Stay here!

The Elms was a great place to stay! It was very quiet and peaceful and provided a relaxing getaway for us!

We had reserved the Drake room several months in advance and received a confirming e-mail but were instead given the Kellogg room upon arrival. The Kellogg room was considerably smaller and did not have a nice view but there was no apology about switching - we were just told that a larger group needed the Drake room. Breakfast was only ok - not up to the standards of many of the other b&bs we have enjoyed.

The Elms is a beautiful place that is very rich in history. My family really enjoyed our stay. The only problem we had was the t.v. not working.

Beautiful old home, very fine furnishings and linens, very comfortable bed. We were given a different room than what was reserved, even though we were the only guests there. Our room wasn't thoroughly cleaned - a previous guest's blouse was found in our room and an empty champagne bottle and two glasses were on the porch outside our room. We were offered a glass of wine, which we enjoyed on the porch overlooking the beautiful grounds. We were disappointed to learn Ms. Carpenter would not be preparing our breakfast the next morning, however she gave us a voucher for breakfast at Dunleith.

The Elms is a beautiful, quiet, and restful place, with a great deal of charm and southern hospitality. The hostesses is a gourmet cook and and a very gracious human being. It was a real pleasure to stay at the Elms. A stay in the large Kellogg room is like turning back the clock with contemporary conveniences.

This was our first experience with a B&B as well as an historic home. The propietor is the 5th generation owner of The Elms and the house has been in the family since 1870. Ester Carpenter, the owner, was very personable and willing to answer all our questions regarding the property. One of the more interesting items in the home was a handwritten letter of recommendation from President Filmore to one of Ms Carpenters relatives. The grounds of The Elms is beautiful with huge trees covering the 1 1/2 acre estate. According to Ms Carpenter, the house is about 6000 sq feet, although I would not be a bit surprised if it were much larger. There are 3 floors, with Ms Carpenter living on the third floor and guests on the second floor. Ms. Carpenter is a renowned chef, and the breakfast was fabulous, served on pre-heated plates. The Elms is located centrally to many of the other antebellum homes in the Natchez area, making it an ideal location from which to visit the others. One of the two other couples staying at The Elms other than ourselves was a couple that had retired from Iowa, moved to Arkansas, and visiting Natchez. This was a repeat visit for them to the Natchez antebellum pilgrimage. The guests had an opportunity to fellowship over breakfast and resulted in a very enjoyable time for all. We visited and talked with Ms. Carpenter and her staff while breakfast was being prepared and found out a lot about the house and its former occupants. We would encourage others to help preserve a bit of history by scheduling a stay at The Elms. The owners of these antebellum homes get no financial support from the government and rely on visitors to maintain them. This is truly a labor of love.

The Elms was a wonderful experience. The breakfast was one of the best I have ever eaten. The buttermilk biscuits were better than my grandmother's. The rooms very lovely and full of charm. Esther was a wonderful host. I would stay there again and recommend it to anyone staying in the Natchez area.

Stayed in the Drake Room with my husband and we thought that it was nice. The bed was really comfortable and loved the bathroom. Ms. Esther was a sweet lady and the breakfast was delicious. Would recommend.

It was such fun staying in this historic home. The room was spacious and charming, and had everything we needed. The breakfasts were delicious (loved those biscuits!). Esther was a very gracious and welcoming host. The location provided convenient access to the downtown and restaurants, and for our side trip to Vicksburg.

We found a very charming lady very proud of its heritage (I would say she can be), ready to share it with you if you show some interest. For those who like athmosphere rooms, that's THE place you should not miss. Breakfast was prepared with love and very complete. Bravo

The Elms was a nice quiet getaway. Esther was very accommodating yet gave us our space. Her breakfast was delicious!

My husband and I just returned today from a two night stay in the Kellog Room. We enjoyed the Romance package. I did not want to leave. Esther is a wonderful hostess. We felt pampered! The room was incredible. The bed was super comfortable. The house and grounds were beautiful. The breakfasts each morning were superb. If I could, I would give the overall experience ten stars. We will come again.

The Elms was fantistic. My Husband and I spent a couple days there on our honeymoon and it could not have been more romantic. The Kellog Room was perfect, beautiful and extremely comfortable. The bathrooms was nice and relaxing and both the shower and tub (which had bubble bath to go along with it) were suited for two! The staff was very friendly and yet unobtrusive. The breakfasts were also delicious and served beautifully. If we had it to do all over again, we would still choose The Elms for our honeymoon and we will definitely be going there again at our first opportunity for a getaway!

My Husband and I stayed at the Elms May 12th and 13th (two nights). Had a wonderful stay. Stayed in the Castle Room. The bed was very comfortable, linens top quality and towels very plush. Antique furnishings beautiful. Grounds were extensive, we enjoyed sitting outstide in the afternoons after our daily excursions. Esther was a perfect hostess. Breakfast was very good. The house is very close to "downtown" Natchez and we were able to walk to many of the sites. Only improvement we would wish was for more seating areas on the porch. Rather than one big seating area perhaps three smaller groupings. Shades on the bedroom windows that could easily be closed at night would have been nice. But overall loved the Elms and would stay there again.

Breakfast was delicious! Personalized service was exceptional. It included making our lunch & dinner reservations as well as helping us optimize our sightseeing time in Natchez.

Our stay at the Elms was fabulous! The room was stunning. The towels and bathrobe were so luxurious, I felt spoiled. There was magnolia-scented bubble bath for the claw-foot tub! The location was ideal for our sightseeing. But the absolute best part was Esther and her incredible cooking! You WILL gain weight on her breakfasts. They are too wonderful to resist. Pawallis

I can't say enough good things about my stay here. Esther was so gracious and kind. She gave a wonderful tour of her home and the breakfasts were outstanding. She lives very close to some major attractions that you could actually walk to but the house sits on two acres so you in no way feel crowded. The porches that you access from your rooms are wide and real nice to sit on. I just wish that I would have had more time to enjoy them. I look forward to the day that I can stay there again. I highly recommend this bed and breakfast.

I stayed two nights at The Elms with my mother and mother in-law and couldn't have had a better time! The rooms we stayed in were wonderful; the beds were extremely comfortable and the bathroom reminded me of something you'd find at a spa. Esther was a great host; her tour of the home was probably the best tour we had all weekend, even better than the homes run by the Garden Club. Breakfast was wonderful; it embodied a Southern-style experience. I will definitely stay at The Elms again in the future and will recommend it to anyone I hear who's going to Natchez.

The stay was even more than we had hoped for. The history we saw that was maintained not only in the home, but the grounds surrounding The Elms was just fantastic. Esther not only was a great hostess but don't let on that you know what a great cook she is! Breakfast was excellent, not only in the food but the presentation as well. We will be back!

My husband and I stayed 3 nights and The Elms and neither one of us wanted to leave! Esther is such an awesome host. The rooms are gorgeous, a wonderful blend of old and new, antique furniture with beautiful new bathrooms. The linens are something special. The breakfast bar none is the BEST breakfast I have ever eaten. Esther is such a wonderful chef. The food and service are really something special. We had such a great stay, the grounds are beautiful. Couldn't have been better!!!!

My cousin and I went to Natchez to tour the historic homes of the city. To describe our stay in simple words is impossible. We stayed at the Elms. We were greeted as we arrived in the pouring rain. Mark brought our luggage up to our room. We stayed in the Drake room, which is a fabulous 2-room suite. The bathroom was very large and gave both of us plenty of room to get ready for our days of touring. We stayed from Saturday to Tuesday and really didn’t want to leave. You need to have a love for uniqueness and history if you plan to stay at the Elms. This home is full of history. Esther is the most gracious hostess. I am an early riser (4:00 am) and she set the coffee pot to come on at a time that I requested so that I may have my coffee early. I would go down to the kitchen to get my coffee. A carafe and cups on a tray were already prepared for me. I only had to pour the coffee from the pot into the carafe. Having coffee on the porch in the early morning is such a peaceful, quiet, moment of solitude that was wonderful. We felt like we were at home as we were treated like family. This is an amazing place to stay. Breakfast was a wonderful experience for Esther is an incredible Chef. I have never experience such a breakfast like it in any B&B I have stayed in, in the past. My cousin and I have promised ourselves we will return to Natchez one day, even if for nothing else but to stay at The Elms. I must mention Lucy and Gumbo, two precious toy poodles. They are the most adorable, friendly animals I have ever seen. (I am not an animal lover)

My husband and I were recently at The Elms for a 2 nite romantic getaway. We stayed in the Kellogg room - very warm, cozy, intimate setting. The large soaking tub and the sit down shower were both fa-bu-lous! The ambiance of the lighting in the rooms along with the period furniture were beautiful. Esther was a great hostess. We very much enjoyed our visit to Natchez and hated to leave. Thanks Esther! We will be back. John and Georgette

My mother, sister and I had an absolutely wonderful experience for my mothers 55th birthday. This was my second time staying at the Elms, and Esther has proven to be a wonderful host each and every time. We loved the history of the home, the carpenter room was just perfect for the three of us. It was probably one of the best breakfasts that I have ever eaten, Esthers' cooking is magnificent, and anyone who chooses to pass this place up is definitley missing out.

My husband and I recently stayed overnight at The Elms and found it a delightful experience. We stayed in the Kellogg Room, which was furnished beautifully, with quality appointments. This is a fifth generation Natchez family home with lovely antiques and interesting family history. Esther is a fabulous professional chef!

She was one of the only B&Bs who would allow us to bring our little ones, 4yrs and 2yrs old. But I think breakfast was the best part, she is wonderful cook and she cooks with things from her garden, can't get fresher than that! The room was very clean, never lost hot water and we all slept great. It was a wonderful weekend and my husband and I are planing on going back without the kids!

This was one of my favorite B&B's that I have ever stayed in. The home it's self is filled with wonderful antiques and has many, many years worth of stories that fill each room with many wonderful memories. Ester's cooking is literally "to die for"! She has the best eggs I've ever had, along with her grits and orange scones and I could go on, and on for days. The only thing I didn't like was the coffee. It had Chikory in it, and I just don't like that. (I'm norhtern). The location is great. You can walk everywhere, which is what we did the whole weekend. The front porch is a great place to sit and read a book. Or to just sit and stare at the lovely, massive Live Oak trees in the front yard. I really could go on and on about how lovely this B&B is. It's old and needs some loving, but Ester makes you feel right at home. I will diffently come back and stay here again. Any excuse to eat her breakfast!

Best eggs I've ever had! My impossible to please mother-in-law was even pleased with the room and service.

We loved our stay from start to finish and can't wait to return! It was the perfect getaway and the perfect location within Natchez. Breakfast was incredible! We really enjoyed the tour of the home from Esther.

This is a charming home with a fascinating history, and Esther's cooking is NOT to be missed. Not only did we receive the best breakfast in town (even better than the Castle's breakfast at Dunleith), but the turn-down service included yummy homemade chocolate candy. Additionally, the clawfoot tub came complete with foaming milk bath.

The Elms was a wonderful place to stay for my new daughter-in-law and mother and family for her wedding. The rooms are lovely, bathrooms roomy and spotless, and Esther is a terrific chef. Breakfasts were delicious, and the ambiance of the antebellum home was perfect. Great for brisk walk downtown and close to the church. Anyone staying here will get the royal treatment.

Our stay at The Elms was just wonderful. Our room was comfortable, warm and spacious, and the breakfast was absolutely delicious. The hospitality of Esther and her staff was outstanding. We would recommend The Elms to anyone traveling to Natchez.

From the moment my husband and I stepped in the door until we left we were treated like special guests. We had planned on many tours through out the city but instead we found ourselves coming back to "The Elms" to relax in our room or sit on the porches reading. A most relaxing retreat. Ms. Esther and her staff were wonderful and the extra touches made it just that much more special. The first morning we ate breakfast in the kitchen and were able to watch Ms. Esther create our delicious meal. The next two mornings we had breakfast in the dining room and shared a delightful meal with the other guests. We will return again. Thank you Ms. Esther.

We were looking for a place to stay a night on short notice and had local recommendations to contact the Elms. We could not have been happier with our stay. The room was beautiful, comfortable and clean. Esther is an amazing chef that places you eating an unforgettable meal in a setting that makes you feel like royalty. We are planning future cooking classes, anniversary getaways, and any other excuse we can come up with to stay at the Elms. Esther and her staff were so inviting, interesting, and went out of their way to be so helpful after my husband injured himself (at the town cemetary of all places). So for us point forward it is the only place we will be staying when visiting Natchez.

I planned this weekend for my wife's birthday. I read the many many great reviews about Ester and The Elms, and chose her B&B for this reason. We could not have been happier. Let me say right off the bat, this house is a wonder to behold. The splendor of this beautiful house was overwhelming. If you enjoy the cold lifeless setting of a hotel, you may want to stay away from The Elms. From the moment Ester or Adyelle (hope I spelled that correctly) meets you at the door, the world stops spinning and time slows almost to a halt. We reserved the Kellogg Room. There was a beautiful clawfoot soaking tub fully equipped with soap, bubble bath, and emboidered towels. We left Friday evening for dinner, only to return to a turned down bed, soft music playing on the tv, cold ice water and wonderful chocolate treats. Mark even walked me into the mens parlor and showed me the assortment of complimentary premium cigars. We sat on the second floor balcony and enjoyed a glass of wine while looking out into the beautiful front yard. The next morning we awoke to the smell of fresh coffee and breakfast being prepared downstairs in the kitchen. I cannot tell you how wonderful the breakfasts are. Everyone gathers around the dining table to fresh fruit, orange juice and the most wonderful breakfast you will ever experience. I dont think anything has ever been allowed to rest on that table if it wasnt made from scratch. The food alone is worth much more than the cost of the room. . The level of personal service you will recieve at The Elms goes second to none. This is not a hotel made into a B&B, it is a home that you are invited into and they treat you like royalty the entire stay. It was heartbreaking to check out, and we are already planning our next visit. If you want a quite, relaxingly slow romantic experience, give The Elms a try. You will not be dissappointed! Tony and Christina

We stayed in The Drake Room (which includes an extra room with two single beds and a modern bathroom that just "looks" old. Esther has stenciled the walls of The Drake Room - they're just beautiful! The beds were very comfortable with 1000 thread-count (I ordered some just like them for my own home.). Breakfast was just the "BEST!" I would not change anything about our stay & I highly recommend The Elms.

Breakfast was wonderful. Owner was hospitable and delightful. Location is perfect. Overall, a delightful experience.

In a word - unbelievable! We've stayed at many historic BandB inns before, but the Elms was hands-down our favorite! This grand mansion is filled with family antiques, since it had been the home of the current owner's grandmother. Every item has a story and hostess Esther will share them with you. It creates an authentic ambiance that can't be beat. And gourmet chef Esther made the breakfast experience unforgettable. We'll be returning as soon as possible!

Enjoyed our stay at Esther's family home on a girls get-a-way package. Esther's extensive culinary experience is obvious -- everything was delicious! Our suite was very nice and the attention to detail was very much appreciated. The house has apparently been in Esther's family for a long time and Esther's history in Natchez was very interesting to learn about. The house has been through one or two add-ons through the years and I found myself almost continually 'lost' as we wandered around the property. (I'm sure the add-ons made sense at the time...) The house seems a little 'tired' and could use a little exterior sprucing up. Ultimately, it's all about the room/suite and full breakfast and both were very good.

We stayed 3 days in June . What a wonderfull place. Esther and staff were outstanding. The morning meal what can I say. So much great food we saved money because we did not eat lunch the whole time in Natchez. Mitzi & I will stay the next time in Natchez.

Esther Carpenter is your classic "Southern Magnolia" and her home is a fabulous place to spend a long weekend. A very charming place. cozy and quiet, the rooms are magnificient, antiques from the 1700's and 1800's throughout. Esther is such a talented owner with a southern flare; and outstanding chef (I do not believe that you could top her breakfast) and an extremely talented painter in her own right. If you are looking for a warm friendly smile, the charm of the old south and a clean comfortable place to stay, the Elms is it. This is our third trip and there will be more. Fred and Debbie Gwin

We wanted a quiet getaway for the wife's big birthday and we found it at The Elms. It was wonderful. The room was big and comfortable. The bathroom was large enough for the two of us to get ready for the day. The breakfasts...oh my gosh, they were fantastic Southern delights. The turn down service was an added treat. Mark gave us a wonderful tour of this historic home and all the family heirlooms in it. Esther was the perfect hostess. (Sad to say I forgot the other lady’s name who helped out at the house but she was good to us too.) While the outside of the home isn’t all glamour like some of the houses we visited in Natchez, the charm, warmth, and family history inside was spectacular. We would stay here again.

Our stay at the Elms was wonderful. My husband and I had The Drake Room which has a sitting area with two twin beds for our two children. It was perfect for our family. Esther and Mark gave us a great tour of the home, spending so much time telling us about the history. Our family really enjoyed seeing it and hearing the stories Esther had to share about her home. The rooms were spacious, the bathrooms modern, and the breakfast each morning was wonderful. Our family is looking forward to going back and staying again. We would highly recommend staying at the Elms for anyone who would like the experience of staying in a beautiful and gracious home.

My husband and I booked 2 nights at The Elms for a belated anniversary trip. It was enjoyable, quiet. A nice weekend get-away.

Have stayed at several B&B in Natchez over the last several years, but this is our new found favorite. Very comfortable accomodations, gracious hostesss, and rustic surroundings. Breakfast exceeded our expectations, and rooms were charming with updated baths. For the history buffs, this is IT....not the usual Holiday Inn.....but the real deal. Esther is the best, welcoming us with complimetary wine upon arrival, turn down of beds in evening with sumptuous treats left at our bedside. By all means...check this out......

My husband I and spent the weekend at The Elms and had a wonderful time. Breakfast was glorious and the staff was great. The Drake Room was beautiful and the walls done by Esther were beautiful. Our only disappointment was that we were not given any history at all about the house and we never saw Esther except to pay when we were leaving. I was looking forward to a tour of the home and the history that is associated with it, but we never got any of that. We chose this B&B because of the reviews about all the personal contact with Esther and that is not at all what happened, but we did have a wonderful trip and enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. The linens and personl touches in the room were quite a treat and the home was lovely and well maintained. I would recommend this home to anyone.

We have stayed at many B&B's in Natchez and this is one of the top 3! Very relaxing, cozy, comfortable and Esther is a wonderful hostess. Great breakfasts, and the history of the home from someone who grew up there ~ can't get much better than that! You won't be disappointed ~ a nice B&B gem in a city full of history.

Wow...I really don't know what to say, I was in shock, the rooms were amazing, so was the house, Ms. Esther is an amazing cook, artist, AND hostess. The grounds were beautiful! Every evening Ms. Esther would come in and turn down the sheets and plump the pillows and put out a fresh pitcher of water and clean cups out for us, then she would put the TV on some soothing music. The breakfast was great! I felt like I was in a Jane Austen novel, with all the fancy china and silver. I felt as if I just put life on pause and rolled back in time. The porch was a great place to relax and cath a breeze! I will come back someday!! Thankyou Ms. Esther

My husband and I were treated like royalty during our 2-night stay at the Elms, one of the famous antebellum homes of Natchez, MS. We have been married over 25 years. It was our first time away from the kids, so we enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere that permeates the Elms and its graceful gardens. The historic home had lots of space to relax, in the sitting room downstairs, or outside in the shade. Our upstairs bedroom was large, with a four-poster bed and our own bath, equipped with a claw-footed tub and warm shower. The bedroom had its own thermostatic control for heating and cooling. We were pampered with beautiful music playing every evening on the flatscreen tv, chocolates on the table, and our bed being turned town for us, magically, every evening. Bountiful breakfasts, tastefully prepared, were served in the beautiful dining room at 8:30 each morning, and we thoroughly enjoyed the meals!! Mmmm! I have several food allergies, which I had told the hostess before arrival, and she made sure I was able to eat the meals, along with the other guests. What a special treat for me!! While in Natchez, my husband and I enjoyed a nostalgic, top-notch performance by locals at the Little Theater, dinner and sunset along the Mississippi River, and tours of several mansions that dated to before the Civil War. It was my second time to Natchez, and my husband's first. We would highly recommend the Elms.

Oh my gosh! Esther is not only a Master Chef and Artist, but a superb hostess! Mark and other staff were like family. Hospitality at its finest. Miss you guys already! Be back in May I hope! Monica

The Scarlett O'Hara girlfriend getaway package was a true delight. Ester was a most gracious hostess, excellent chef, and a connoisseur of sort to accommodated all of our needs. The rooms were large and clean, sheets satiny luxurious, with Esther spoiling us to turned back linens and decadent chocolate awaiting us at night time. Our updated bathroom was large, with thick towels, bathrobes, special soaps and lotions all set in antebellum opulence. Ester, a five-star chef, served a fabulous full southern breakfast. Everything was included from fruit cups, eggs, potatoes, bacon, grits, petite biscuits, jellies, juices, coffee or teas, and my favorite her blueberry muffins. This was my best bed and breakfast experience, and yes Ester, you spoiled us rotten--but in a good way!!! We will be back soon.

Stayed at the Elms with my 9 & 10 year-old children. The rooms were excellent. My suite had one wonderfully large bed and in the other room, two twins for my children. The rooms were separated with a pocket door. Bath was large and modern with tile and marble...beautifully done. Master walked onto the second floor wrap-around veranda. Food was unbelievably good. Esther paid attention to every detail. From your pre-heated cups of coffee to your breakfast being served on hot plates, nothing was left out. We drove in from San Antonio and our friends drove in from Memphis. We had a great time during Christmas week. My family and I will certainly return.

I've stayed in many B&B's and the Elms is exceptional. I highly recommend it for the following reasons: The charm of the experience of staying in a gracious, rambling family home being brought back from its faded glory by a talented artist The really lovely modern and spotlessly clean bathrooms - very unusual in any B&B but doubly so in a somewhat dilapidated 200 year old manse. These bathrooms are straight out of a Rejuvenation Hardware catalog and are just terrific - no expense was spared here. The sumptuous beds and linens. Heirloom bedsteads but brand new high-end mattresses, pillows and linens. This is a place that irons its sheets. Gracious hosts with tons of personality. We didn't just have a great place to sleep - we visited. We really enjoyed getting to know William, who has enough entertaining stories to while away many happy hours. Also, he's a great cook. Beautiful things to admire - tons of them. Five generations of collecting leads to lots of cool stuff. I love china, light fixtures, furniture, carpets - I was in heaven. Attention to detail. This is a place where your host preheats your coffee cups in the morning, not only irons the napkins but starches them, too, provides "silver" canisters of cotton make-up removal pads and Q-tips in the bathrooms, and sends you up to bed with a gold-rimmed pitcher of ice water with an antique linen napkin to set it on. The galleries overlooking the live oaks in the lawn. This is just a magical place to relax. Arrive early, so that you have time to enjoy view from the upper floor galleries. Natchez is a terrific tourist destination, but there is something about the verandas of the Elms that is even better than all the sights in this history-rich town. Great central location in a very interesting little historic city. Easy to find, but if Mapquest tells you to turn right onto Pine Street from Route 61, know that Pine Street is called Martin Luther King now.

We got lucky in late September when planning a spontaneous trip to Natchez. Weddings at both the Monmouth and the Dunleith Plantations meant there was no vacancy at either. After scouting out B&Bs on the Internet, we came across The Elms and booked ourselves into the Drake Room. The Elms is run by the immensely gifted but modest Ms. Carpenter, an artist, gourmet chef and a woman with Natchez history in her blood. We settled into our spacious surroundings where every detail echoed Esther’s finely-tuned aesthetic sense. The bed was high with down pillows and duvet. Moments later, Esther returned with a tray of cheese, crackers, and grapes, an ice bucket, and wine. We sat out on the porch to enjoy our pre-dinner treat and gazed out at… OAK trees. Esther tells us there probably once were ELMS at The Elms but not today. The breakfasts are enough to carry you through a day’s worth of sightseeing without a lunch break. In fact I hold those breakfasts responsible for preventing an opportunity to sample Big Mama’s Hot Tamales. Where do you get peaches as sweet as those in the fruit compote? How do you make biscuits as flaky as those sweet little ones Esther baked each morning? Apple crisp and grits too! I was fascinated by Esther’s account of clearing the attic and sorting through centuries of treasures and everyday items from trunkloads. As a flea market junkie, these tales had me salivating. The bathroom has hotel magnifying mirror, good lighting, excellent stall shower, lovely fixtures, and windows on two walls! Plush monogrammed towels. Crisp linen curtains. I wouldn’t be surprised if they had been rescued from one of the trunks. Can’t ignore the ceiling in that bathroom as it appeared to be original multi-toned wood that wears its antiquity well. If you prefer, a 3-seater outhouse is still intact. Gorgeous stenciled walls executed by Esther’s hand. Among the books, a 1957 history of Natchez plantations. One of my favorite B&B experiences.

My husband and I visited Natchez for the first time and found The Elms and its owner to be charming. We chose The Elms because we wanted to experience the historical Natchez of the pre-civil war era. We picked the right place. The Elms is being lovingly restored by owner, Esther Carpenter, who played there as a child when it was her grandmother's home. An artist extrodinaire, Esther is carefully restoring each part of the house to its historical pre-civil war period. When we first arrived, I was a little worried that my allergies might give me fits because of the stuffing in some of the furniture, but I had no problem at all. The bedroom was very clean and centrally air conditioned. The King-sized bed was quite comfortable and was endowed with luxurious linens. The room (Kellogg) had a very nice large bath with both tub and shower. Esther is a gracious hostess and a marvelous cook. The food was delicious! We were lucky enough to enjoy an evening meal prepared for us by a master chef (Esther). The grounds are beautiful and the location is convenient to town and eating establishments. The mighty Mississippi River and many of the historical sites are within walking distance. For a true step back in time into old Natchez, The Elms is a perfect choice. We were delighted with our stay. We want people to know that because portions of the house are in the renovation process, don't be alarmed if you see some stages of disrepair. It will not interfere with your enjoyment. In due time, Esther will have it all in great shape.

We were referred to The Elms by Oak Hill Plantation (Oak Hill was full for Labor Day Weekend). William was very friendly on the phone and took down my name & number (no credit card info to reserve the room). I called back to request a vegetarian breakfast. Esther (proprietress) was very accommodating and even bought us soy-based yogurt and milk from Whole Foods. (Non-vegetarians were served eggs & bacon.) Our room (Drake) was on the 2nd story - consisting of a very nicely appointed and modern bathroom, a separate room containing two single beds, and another room containing a four-poster queen bed and a huge flat panel TV with satellite service. The house is a big, rambling, multi-room 100+ year old structure in various stages of remodeling/repair. The house has been in Esther's family for generations upon generations. There is antique furniture everywhere, and small nicknacks for sale are on display. We got a tour of the whole house from William, who also knew quite a bit of the history and construction of the structure. The only reasons that are preventing me from giving it 5 stars out of 5 are: (1) something in the room made me sneeze - I'm guessing mold? (2) our bed was terribly squeaky and kept us up all night as we tossed and turned to find a comfortable position. Otherwise, the house is gorgeous, the hostess is gracious, the breakfast is delicious (although nothing extraordinary - fruits, juice, coffee/tea, milk, oatmeal, homemade biscuits), the location is very convenient to downtown Natchez & riverfront, and the property is very quiet. The Elms is relatively new to the B&B market in Natchez (just opened in Feb '09) but it's hard to imagine this house as being anything but a B&B.

We just departed "The Elms" after a two night stay and I must say that I have never felt more at home. Ester, the owner, and her friend William made it difficult to leave. The home is a beautiful work in progress and is gently being restored to it's original beauty. Each room is filled with furniture and personal articles passed down from Ester's family. The food is world class and the hospitality is even better. The massive oak trees surrounding the home appear to frame the beauty of the home and reflect upon the once and still beautiful south. The home has "Character" and one leaves for home feeling as thought one is actually leaving home. While one is but a guest of the family, one feels as though they are a part of the family and even more a part of the beauty and history of this amazing home. We will soon return and I highly recommend this B & B to anyone who wishes to experience the meaning of true "Southern Hospitality. W.C. Smith and Susan Ridgeland, MS. 601-898-9013

My husband and I stayed at Ms. Carpenter's Elms Bed and Breakfast recently to celebrate our anniversary. We had never been to Natchez before so the experience was new all around. The stay was wonderful!! The plantation was comfortable and our room was very nice. The service was outstanding, Ms. Carpenter made us feel at home. The Inn is within walking distance to restaurants, antique shopping and viewing the local architecture. The river is about six blocks away which has a small casino boat for those that like gambling. The breakfasts we ate there at the Elms were quite delicious. We would definetely stay again. Carolyn

Esther and William have clearly spent incalculable hours restoring this gem of a mansion. While the accommodations are exceedingly comfortable, we most enjoyed breakfast chats with the aforementioned on issues ranging from the Mississippi tomato queen contest to snooty southern belles who still hold forth in the Natchez Garden Club. Don't miss this experience.

My stay at The Elms was my first stay at a Bed & Breakfast. What an experience! Esther Carpenter is an accomplished chef who creates the most amazing breakfasts in the friendliest atmosphere you can imagine. She gives a personal tour of her home. Her presentation is not a canned speech which she gives time after time, but a remembrance of her childhood. The rooms are large and spacious, and the bathrooms are new, modern, and very clean. Esther is an artist and you will see some of her work on display at The Elms. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I can recommend The Elms as a comfortable and friendly place to spend a few days.

Another innkeeper in Natchez recommended Ms. Carpenter and the Elms, and we are so grateful for the recommendation. When calling the Elms and speaking with Esther, I discovered we had an immediate connection because Esther had recently moved back home from Los Angeles. Since I'm originally from Kentucky and now live in Los Angeles, I thought it would be the perfect place for us, and I was right! She is an extremely nice and incredibly gifted lady, as a chef, an artist, and an innkeeper, and her family home is an incredibly neat place. She hasn't missed a detail in her renovation of the Cassell room, at the top, and I would recommend it for anyone that can handle the steps to the 3rd floor. We met interesting people, had unbelievable food, and saw amazing art and antiques without even having to leave the Elms. We hope to go back again and take her up on cooking class. The Elms and Esther and friends are amazing, and we'd recommend them to anyone!

When we first drove up to The Elms we didn't readily see the address, but I recognized it from the internet photos. I was immediately captivated. The gardens and trees are just beautiful, in a relaxed welcoming, laid back kind of way. The home is being beautifully and meticulously restored. Such a wonderful eclectic blend of the old mixed with the new. Charming new baths with the look of yesterday and all the modern conveniences of today. Large guest rooms, beautifully decorated in exquisite antiques and the most comfortable beds in the world. You'll love the tour of the home, which will be given by the gracious hostess herself, Ms Esther Carpenter. It was amazing to see the tons of memorabilia, antique books, gorgeous antique furnishings, heirlooms, and the photos of the home, from then to now. Voted one of the top 20 female chefs in the South, Esther serves a worderful southern breakfast. (Make sure you don't miss the breakfast and Esther will share her biscuit recipe with you if you ask) Loved the food, Loved the home and just loved the talented and gracious hostess. Our stay at The Elms was like visiting a friend who just couldn't wait to see you. We will definitely be back. Barbara & Philip Stiell, Spanish Fort, Al

Esther Carpenter takes a multi-generational stakehold in the heart of Natchez and has added her innate sense of style, substance, and sophistication. The house is the definition of eclectic - bridging three stylistic periods of Natchez architecture and possesses a mix of Empire, Colonial, and Baroque furnishings reflecting the evolution of Natchez nabob interiors. Esther, a master painter-designer and chef, delivers a tour-de-force of both elements during your stay. She has updated her guest rooms with a nod to the present while honoring the past. Bathrooms are brand new and clean with chrome and white decor patterns. The bedding is most comfortable and high-end. The breakfast is delicious and if you pay attention, you might learn how to cook better from one of America's top haute cuisine artists. The final cherry on this delicious sundae is Esther's warm hospitality and sincere personality - she is a modern woman bred with Southern manners - all befitting the lady she is. Five stars for the Elms.

I made a reservation based on a local recommendation during the Spring Pilgrimage 2009. I spoke on the phone with Esther Carpenter, the 5th generation owner. She returned recently to inherit and restore the former grandeur of the Elms. Any doubt about this newly opened B&B dissipated after her warm welcome on the phone. When I checked in to the Elms, I was immediately captivated by the beautiful garden and trees surrounding the house. The Elms is situated in a secluded English garden despite its city location. The “Elms” allusion to the English poem is absolutely appropriate. The house appears unchanged in history, and all the furnishings are original to the period. Esther gave me tour of the mansion and showed me the 4 rooms available for B&B guests. There are 2 large suites, one room with 2 twin beds, and the attic penthouse, all with central air-conditioning and upscale baths. Esther had spent hundreds of hours herself painting the walls to restore the original patterns. The attic room where I stayed is truly unique. I had access to the entire attic which includes the room and an artist studio. The bathroom is modern with a relaxing bathtub hanging above the garden. The room opens directly to the front roof of the Elms. You can walk along the entire metallic roofing. The panoramic view above the Elms is one of my most memorable images of Natchez. Southern Breakfast was cooked by Esther, a renowned chef, and served in the family dining room with antique china and silverware. I felt more an invitee than a B&B guest. I was already planning in my mind a future return since Esther would be able to arrange private dinners. I would love to come back for dinner, overnight stay and breakfast at the Elms, reliving the grandeur of the old South. The Elms is truly a precious gem that is hard to find in these days of bland “hotel-like” B&Bs. It’s about re-experiencing the antebellum grandeur. David Lee, MD New Orleans

We were looking for an authentic ante- bellum mansion b&b for our visit to Natchez and a friend at Architectural Digest recommended The Elms. We could not have been more pleased! The house itself is a national treasure! It is chock full of exquisite antiques and is run by the most delightful innkeeper! Miss Esther epitomizes "Southern Hospitality" at its best and can she ever cook! In fact, she does ALL the cookin'!

Little did I dream what the accomodations would be like. We have stayed in several B & B's over the years, but nothing can compare with this. The Cassell Room was great, I can hardly imagine what it would be like to have this room during the balloon races in October. It was every so spacious and the bathroom was great. All new and pristine. The breakfast was to die for, prepared by owner and master chef Esther Carpenter. You can eat in the formal dining room or sit in her warm kitchen and watch her cook. We did both. A most gracious hostess. Book you room and have a great weekend.