She's In Haven!

I am always amazed at the talented and passionate people hiding up in these hills. As the editor of 573, I get to meet so many incredible people and places out there; it is simply amazing. Recently, I was invited to check out the Haven, a 100-year-old church converted into an open-floor vacation rental. Misty Brown, one of the owners of the Haven, is a real estate agent making waves in the region.   

This 1924 church has been converted into a one-of-a-kind getaway with an artistic vision and antique furnishings.  Its high ceilings and stained-glass windows fill the open space with natural light to create a beautiful ambiance.  A magical master sleeping area, open bay beds, lounging areas, a big dining table, and a working church bell.  Yup, all who stay can ring the bell.  Meet Misty Brown, a realtor with a plan and her Haven Air bnb.  

My name is Misty Brown.  I am a Realtor, Co-Owner of Fredrock, and Property Manager. I have had these roles for almost six years now and have learned that there are many roles within these roles. And I use the word "many" lightly. Some days I'm a land specialist, a plumber, a cleaning girl, a carpenter, interior designer, snow shoveler, hot tub specialist, a painter, a social media marketing expert, a photographer, a landscaper, a caretaker, a landlord, pastry chef, accountant, seamstress, drywall expert, receptionist, a host, a writer, and the list goes on. I have the personality type I need to stay busy all the time, so all these roles suit me. It seems like there is something new for me to do every day.  I also have a passion for music and travel.  I try to squeeze in some concerts and trips when I can.  

...I started searching online for our first vacation rental project.

I got into real estate when I was living in Encinitas, CA.   I was a hairstylist and was ready for a career/life change. I decided I wanted to move back to Missouri to spend time with my grandparents, but I knew I was done doing hair. The wheels started turning on what my new career could be when I moved back.  I got the idea in my head that starting an Airbnb in Fredericktown would be fun. In all my travels, I have stayed in many Airbnb, so I started searching online for our first vacation rental project. The process was fun, so I decided, why not find properties for me and others too? I researched real estate schools and found Global Real Estate, which happened to be based out of Farmington. What were the odds the school's owner went to church in Fredericktown, where I was moving? It felt meant to be.  So, I got my license online and started working when I arrived back in Fredericktown. 

Never give up your day dream!

My days as a realtor don't feel like work most of the time. Selling beautiful rural properties and exploring beautiful Missouri land perfectly fit me. I love meeting new people and helping them buy or sell their properties. 

 I love meeting new people and helping them buy or sell their properties. 

A leaky roof, families of termites, and enough old, musty orange carpet to cover the small town.

When I saw the real estate listing for the church come across my computer screen, the wheels immediately started turning. Now, I have seen some unique properties, but a church?  I felt like the universe was challenging me to give this church a new lease on life.  This 1924 beauty was begging to be transformed.  A leaky roof, families of termites, and enough old, musty orange carpet to cover the small town. But nothing my mom, Beverly Brown, and I couldn't handle.  Armed with only knee pads and sheer willpower, we rolled up our sleeves and dove into our project. 

This 1924 church has been converted into a one-of-a-kind getaway with an artistic vision and antique furnishings.

A super clever sliding door for the bathroom.

The real fun was designing the church. We envisioned The Haven as a sanctuary for travelers, with tall, rounded ceilings that were so high they practically reached the heavens. The archway to the main bedroom, which was once the church's stage, has gorgeous stage curtains to separate the bedroom from the main room, made by my mom with fabric she found in New York.  

...high ceilings and stained-glass windows fill the open space with natural light to create a beautiful ambiance.

A tub for two.

...we incorporated some pews to make a twin bed frame for a cozy night's rest.

The Haven also has beautiful stained glass windows throughout, including the bathroom, which made a perfect location for the large soaking bathtub.  We couldn't let the church pews go to waste, so we incorporated some pews to make a twin bed frame for a cozy night's rest. As a nod to the church's music past, we left the mighty organ that was left behind for our music-loving guests.  I can't leave out the bell tower. Yes, the original bell still hangs there, waiting to be rung by any guest wanting to announce their presence to the world.  

It's always the tiny details that make something good.

A beautiful makeup station.

The Haven sleeps four, offering a unique and cozy retreat for families or a group of friends. We added a kitchenette so guests could prepare meals and dine in; the sizeable last supper dining table made for a dining experience you will never forget.  The Haven has a living area where you can kick back and enjoy streaming your favorite movie or hop on the wifi if you have some work to do while traveling.   We also rent the Haven out for special small events, like baby showers, bridal showers, and dinner parties!

My mom and I put our hearts  (blood, sweat, and tears) into making The Haven a beautiful, unique space—we think you would enjoy a stay.

Misty and Beverly Brown.

Get Out There!  Paint something.  Join something. Take that class. Rehab something.  Do something.  Do anything. What one person can do, another can do. That sunken sofa will be fine without you.  Crawl out and live your dream—time's a wastin' and it's running out!

Pics & Words - T. Smugala aka supreme Leader of 573 Magazine

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