30 years ago, Tessa painted a watercolor scene from a dream. There were water lilies, deer, a church, a cruise ship with snow-capped mountains along with sailboats, a dense forest, and a bi-plane all set amongst a 4-story home with a quaint cottage on the side.
Remarkably, Tessa & Carrie discovered such a home 7 years ago on Whidbey Island.
The Quintessa has been the choice for family reunions, corporate retreats and intimate garden weddings with accommodations for 32 guests under one roof.
Celebrations include a 50th Wedding Anniversary, and a couple who made plans on the day they married to return the island 10 years later to celebrate.
Finding local treasures to please guests is half the fun of this business. Chef Vincent Nattress with his amazing culinary skills adds to the delight of The Quintessa's guests. Cake-maker extraordinaire, John Auburn, at J.W. Desserts, always continue to impress their guests.
The Quintessa has provided lodging for the 3-day Ragnar Relay starting from the Canadian border down to Whidbey Island - 190 miles of stunning Washington scenery. This year's group is from Brook's Sports, designer & maker of high-performance running shoes. Like last year's group, it is certain that their priorities will be 'Where's the shower?” 'Take me to the bedroom!' and 'Help, I can't make it up the stairs!'
When families select The Quintessa for their reunion, it always brings back fond, heartfelt memories of Carrie’s family reunions held every year no matter where in the world the children and grandkids were living.
Tessa & Carrie actively promote Whidbey Island by enthusiastically sharing its beauty and the goodness of its multifaceted community. This is why Tessa & Carrie provide their guests with so many Whidbey options including dining recommendations and fun-filled events which can be found on their website at Q123.info.
The Quintessa purchased this house in 2005
Large heron and ducks often visit The Quintessa's pond. The trail on the property crosses a year-round stream that is part of the salmon spawning cycle. The Maxwelton Outdoor Classroom is just down the street where guests can learn all about this process while on a picturesque walk. Both whales and Orcas can be seen during Ferry rides, while cruise ships, cargo ships, and even surfacing submarines can be seen from the home passing through the Sound. Our neighboring town, Langley by the Sea, is just a few miles away and offers many activities including shops, artists and dining. Be sure to try your hand at glass blowing or rent a moped while you're down at Langley!
