Hidden Gems: Meet Alekz Jorgensen of The Ash | Boutique Vacation Rentals, Rooms & Suites

Alekz Jorgensen

Thank you! Nestled in Sault Ste. Marie, MI, stood as a classic roadside motel. Whispers of travelers’ echoed in its history, providing the perfect canvas for transformation. We, Alekz and Jim, the husband-wife duo behind “The Ash,” driven by a passion to breathe new life into this historic space. The challenge was substantial, but we embraced it, preserving the motel’s 1950s essence while infusing contemporary conveniences sought by today’s travelers! The weathered facade now has a fresh coat of paint, and our suites, once mere rooms, exude individual character—a fusion of vintage charm and modern allure. Yet, our ongoing journey continues to shape and mold our property. We’re making inviting outdoor spaces where guests can unwind! Every nook tells a story of the passion and effort we’ve poured into this venture, yet it’s our guests, the heart of our space, that truly brings “The Ash,” to life. Nostalgia infuses our vision with a commitment to creating an atmosphere where every guest steps in and feels the warmth of a timeless memory.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Undoubtedly, our huge project came with its fair share of challenges. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic triggered shortages in building supplies, resulting in a significant surge in costs. Despite the substantial impact on our budget, our determination remained unwavering. Take, for instance, the initial plan for uniformity in each room. Unfortunately, financial constraints prevented us from incorporating the desired fixtures and elements. However, this obstacle became a triumph in disguise, pushing us to explore more creative avenues. We scoured local and Michigan antique shops, uncovering unique pieces of eclectic furniture. Instead of conventional large glass-framed art, we embraced tapestries hung with quilt hangers, adding a distinctive touch also contributing to the cohesive ambiance we sought for the rooms and suites.

This adversity prompted us to cultivate even greater innovation, leading us to discover even more hidden gems in our local community, Michigan-made products, and artists, turning constraints into opportunities for creativity and resourcefulness!

Our Vision:

“The Ash” sprang to life, fueled by our deep love for hospitality and wanderlust. We wanted to create boutique vacation rentals that transcend the ordinary; our mission is to fashion a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, guaranteeing every guest an unforgettable stay.

Embracing History:

The Ash transcends the conventional, resurrecting the past into a vibrant present. Every room is a celebration of uniqueness with vintage charm and eclectic artwork, weaving a snug and lively atmosphere that captures the very spirit of nostalgia.

Community Dedication:

Immersed in the soul of the Upper Peninsula, we love Sault Ste. Marie. Supporting local businesses and artists and being a part of the vibrant local culture reflects our admiration to the community we proudly call home!

Future Explorations:

We’re super excited for the restoration of our iconic pool! The pool’s nostalgic charm has enchanted us. The essence of “These are the good ol’ days” harmonizes seamlessly with our vision, and we’re eagerly looking forward to resurrecting that timeless allure, crafting fresh, indelible memories for our guests. While we don’t have an exact opening date for the pool, rest assured, we’re diligently making the plans. Envision a dynamic focal point, hosting vibrant gatherings and unforgettable pool parties. Stay tuned for more exciting updates! Also in the lineup are plans for yoga retreats, intimate cocktail soirées, picturesque weddings, and a medley of other exciting ventures. Our imaginations are buzzing with ideas!

Treasured Guests:

Our guests are the heart and soul of our small business. They make “The Ash” what it is today!

Beyond Accommodation:

Our commitment to preserving the character of the past sets us apart, with modernizations such as keypad-managed door locks ensuring a seamless, independent stay while supporting local businesses Michigan artists and utilizing local materials!

Our dreams extend beyond providing a comfortable stay. It’s a destination that fosters collaboration unique experiences, and sets the stage for exciting adventures. It’s a captivating space with its own distinctive charm that we are always enhancing! Drawing visitors from all walks of life, our city is adorned with natural beauty, rich history, and a warm, inviting ambiance that sets it apart!

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
We believe that Sault Ste. Marie, MI and the Eastern Upper Peninsula represent undiscovered gems with for some of the finest boating experiences in the country. From our dock, we can set out on journeys to stunning locations within miles, offering day trips or week-long voyages. Whether it’s the captivating cliffs on St. Joseph Island, the pristine waters of Lake Superior, the scenic Detour Passage, or the enchanting Les Cheneaux Islands leading to Mackinac Island, we serve as the gateway to adventure!!

Looking ahead, we anticipate significant growth in our city over the next 5-10 years. By sharing the beauty and charm of our community with visitors, we see Sault Ste. Marie flourishing beyond bounds, becoming a sought-after destination, especially for those seeking unique and unforgettable boating experiences.