A few years out of college we met living and working in NYC.   That sounds glamorous but I assure you it was not.  Living direct deposit to direct deposit, we worked hard and played harder and Amy had only skied once in her whole little life.  Then we were onto Chicago for a few years.  Ned would spend a week here and there skiing out west but otherwise we were just plugging away at the business of living.  Ahh, youth and freedom and a bit of disposable income.  When it came time to settle down/start a family, we opted to move back to Connecticut where we were both raised.  Part of life here, for the lucky ones, are winters spent in the green mountains.  It's about renting houses with friends, skiing/boarding, hiking, hot tubbing (maybe a few beers) and really making the most of the seasons here in the northeast.  (It's not such a bad winter if you get outside!)  

But why Okemo?

Over New Year's week 1999 we rented two homes side by side in Ludlow for what we called the Malonnium (long story).  Forty of our closest friends from CT, NY and Chicago gathered for a week of pure hilarity.  A few years later, one of those homes popped up in the real estate booklet down at the Hatchery.  When we saw that ad we were brand new parents and had started to appreciate Okemo's family feel and the reputation of their ski school.  After a few phone calls and many spreadsheets, we shook hands with the owner and agreed to purchase our home on Bowker Court; now lovingly called the Henry House as a tribute to Amy’s dad.  We nearly bailed on the purchase after we had a house fire back in CT, but ultimately, we decided it was a good business decision and with a little help from our parents, we moved forward.

What a great decision that turned out to be.  The home was profitable from day one, even after renting through third parties and paying commissions.  We spent time there with friends and family in the off season and nearly sold out every winter.  After 24 years, that home continues to be a joy.  Recent renovations have made her solid once more and the smaller footprint and budget-friendly rates are a great fit for younger families and those 30-something friend groups.

As we worked and traveled and added two more kids to the mix, we continued to keep our eyes open for the next great VT home.  After 7 years we finally hit the jackpot.  Our Mount Holly property is truly one of a kind and has provided our families, our friends and countless vacationers with an amazing experience.  A winter wonderland and a summer oasis all in one.  This property has taken a LOT of time and effort over the years; it continues to be a work in progress, but I am so proud of what we have done.  

So life was good as they say.  With two rental properties, 3 young children, a little home and a little boat we were awfully happy and spread pretty thin.  But then we got the call that another beloved property in Ludlow was going to auction.  It was too good to pass up and after a very hectic renovation, the River House reopened its doors to ring in the 2012 New Year.  Many years later and after another big renovation in 2024, River is an amazing property in its own right.  The perfect spot for couples’ weekend, girls’ weekend or mom inviting the kids and their friends’ weekend.  Bet your wondering if we’re still looking for the next purchase; WE ARE NOT!   

We have countless memories in each of these homes and welcome you to make your own!


Nice To Meet You!

We’re the Nichols!

We have countless memories in each of these homes and welcome you to make your own!


The Fine Print

Although we want everyone to enjoy our properties we have learned a few lessons over the years and have had to limit the groups we can welcome.  First we have strict rules about the number of guests (adults, children & pets) that we allow and those numbers vary from home to home.  You will be expected to provide a firm headcount to book and will need to update us with any changes.  The houses are well suited to be shared by 3 to 4 families, or for groups of couples and/or singles (35yo minimum).  Unfortunately, we cannot allow any younger groups or bachelor parties in our homes.  Any other “events” including but not limited to birthday parties, showers or weddings would require approval.