Marta Turnbull (she/девушка)

Marta Turnbull is the owner of Motel Bear Lake, a retro-modern motel located in rural Northern Michigan. With a deep personal connection to the area, she grew up spending weekends and holidays at Bear Lake, which has been a significant part of her family history. Turnbull describes herself as a "thrifter" and a "numbers nerd," emphasizing her commitment to both hospitality and community engagement.12

Professional Background

Before acquiring Motel Bear Lake, Turnbull spent 15 years working in tech and e-commerce globally. She also co-founded a diverse housing company in Northern Michigan called Up North and Away and initiated local non-profits like Up North Pride and Pour for More. Her extensive experience in these fields has informed her approach to running the motel, where she aims to create an exceptional guest experience while supporting local businesses.123

Motel Bear Lake

Turnbull purchased the property, previously known as the Bella Vista Inn, in 2023. Since then, she has overseen significant renovations, transforming it into a welcoming space that reflects both nostalgia and modern amenities. The motel features 18 rooms decorated in mid-century styles, complete with digital check-in systems and community-focused spaces.23

Turnbull's vision for Motel Bear Lake includes:

• Impeccable hosting for guests.
• Empowerment of her team.
• Promotion of local businesses.
• Community upliftment through various initiatives and events.12

Community Engagement

In addition to her work at the motel, Turnbull is actively involved in community initiatives. She has been nominated to the board of Manistee Tourism, where she plans to direct resources towards enhancing Bear Lake's visibility and appeal as a tourist destination.2

Turnbull's efforts have made Motel Bear Lake not just a place to stay but a hub for community connection and support, particularly for underrepresented groups such as the LGBTQ+ community.4

For more insights into her professional journey and community initiatives, you can find her on LinkedIn under the username martaturnbull.5