Conversations with Barbara Schudel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Barbara Schudel. 

Hi Barbara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
My daughter texted me one afternoon…”Mom!…someone is pounding in a for sale sign in front of the schoolhouse!” I asked her to send me a picture. I immediately called the realtor. We live just down the road of the one-room schoolhouse in Cooper Township, north of Kalamazoo. My biggest fear was someone would buy it and plow it under. It’s never been about the business…it’s always been about the building to me. I wanted to revive the character and uncover the soul of it. 

That 1871 schoolhouse was likely the center and focus for the surrounding rural community… a relic of the past…where town meetings and picnics were held, serving as the local chapel on Sundays and evening meeting places for local people. This was a place to gather…inspiring hope, joy, and thoughtfulness. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
We struggled throughout the renovation process with what to do with the space. How to share it with those around us? The answer was right in front of us…it was a place to gather in 1871 and there was no reason why it shouldn’t serve that same purpose now as an event space. A place that values sitting down together, carefree laughter, and shared dreams. This remnant of rural America’s essence remains and thrives in various forms. We’ve peeled back the structure’s layers to uncover its old soul…now called The Bellflower. 

It was very important to me to incorporate the building’s history but also give a modern edge. The Bellflower catering kitchen tastefully marries vintage style with modern function. We worked hard to balance the old and the new. The Bellflower has a distinctive, honest beauty that complements the look of any occasion. In the backroom you’ll find a collection of vintage dishes, milk glass, baskets, and linens offering stunning detail with a nostalgic touch to incorporate into your event. You’ll find it easy to create a memorable event and make your job as party planner more economical and enjoyable. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My background is in chemical engineering. I don’t have a background in hospitality management or established recognition in the wedding industry. I have retired from thirty-three years in the chemical / pharmaceutical industry. What I have is a building I named The Belllfower…a tangible link with the past that all can experience. The Bellflower symbolizes affection, constancy, and everlasting love. Belllfowers are often given in gratitude to say “thank you”. I say thank you by promoting respect for those who lived in prior times and different traditions. 

I dedicate this building to all families and gatherings in the hope that it will warmly welcome you, add to lively conversations, the sharing of love, and the building of many dreams. 

My goal?… for people to come along and catch the romance of the building and add new glories to it… It’s as simple as that! 

Contact Info:

• Email: thebellflowerkzoo@gmail.com
• Website: https://www.thebellflowerkzoo.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebellflowerkzoo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=the%20bellflower

Image Credits
Get Lucky Photography