Norland and Amina James are a Black power couple making history in the real estate, travel and hospitality industries.
The James’ just made history with the acquisition of a Quality Inn Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee. Thanks to the help of a Black cohort of real estate buyers, the couple was able to purchase the hotel for $3.85 million.
The duo has decades of experience under their belt to make this venture a success. Norland holds an MBA degree from the University of Phoenix, while Amina holds a Doctorate in Human & Organizational Learning from George Washington University. Together, they are both seasoned vets in the real estate space.
“We know this will be a success,” Norland said. “We already have plans and consultants in place to increase customer satisfaction, implement sales and marketing strategies, and enhance property condition.”
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In addition to their ownership of the Quality Inn, the James’ has also made a name for themselves in the travel industry by opening their Black-owned beach house in Hampton, Virginia. The Alberta Beach House has become a popular vacation spot for travelers looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway.
In an interview with Travel Noire last year, Amina said, “After about a year of really learning the industry and seeing how bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, and extended stay hotels performed fairly well throughout the pandemic, we decided it was time to create our own brand. Thus, Chronicle Lodging & Events was born.”
Norland and Amina want Chronicle Lodging & Events to highlight Black stories and histories, so Hampton, Virginia was the perfect place to start.
“We lucked up with Hampton, VA. It is a gem. The city boasts some of the richest Black histories in the Northeast. It is the site of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in English North America, home to The Arc of Freedom– a safe haven for enslaved people during the Civil War, and home of the great HBCU Hampton University,” Amina said.
The James’ acquisition of the Quality Inn and the success of the Alberta Beach House demonstrate the limitless potential of Black-owned businesses in the travel, real estate, and hospitality industries. They serve as an inspiration to other Black entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the industry. Congratulations to this Black power couple!
