Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Conn.
Hi Taylor, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Aaron and Taylor come from a background in real estate, owning a local brokerage and investing in properties throughout the state. Purchasing a resort was never part of the plan, but when the opportunity arose, everything fell into place over the following months. The idea of raising their children on a resort quickly became something they were excited about.
“We loved the idea of built-in jobs for our kids—where they would naturally learn customer service, how to clean cabins and make beds, and how to stock shelves in the store,” they share. “They’d be learning responsibility and building character without even realizing it.”
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
“It has not been a smooth road, but it has still be so enjoyable and worth it! Anytime you begin construction, you uncover things you may not have expected or seen. All our projects have cost more than planned and/or taken longer than expected. We do as much as we can on our own, but also hire out quite a bit as we operate other businesses and have 2 under 2. There’s only so much time!”
Since purchasing the resort in September of 2024, the couple has removed old buildings off the property, installed a new swimming beach, purchased 2 new large dock systems, installed new siding and 2 new decks on their largest rental house, and constructed and opened the new Shore Shop. Guests have enjoyed and been appreciative of the changes.
We’ve been impressed with The Shores on Lake Ida, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Aaron and Taylor purchased The Shores on Lake Ida—formerly Betsy Ross Resort—in September 2024. Nestled on Lake Ida in Central Minnesota, this family-legacy resort has welcomed fishermen and families for nearly 68 years. Aaron and Taylor are honored to carry on the tradition of providing a safe, fun, and welcoming atmosphere for generations to come. Some guests have been visiting since the very beginning, with many returning for more than 20 years. The nostalgia is something that is unique to the resort. The cabins are not fancy or luxury. They are steps from the lake and remind guests of the good ol’ days!
The resort offers seven cabin and house rentals, seasonal RV sites, and boat rentals available to both guests and the public. In the summer of 2025, the couple also opened a brand-new on-site store, The Shore Shop. This mercantile-style shop features a thoughtfully curated selection of Lake Ida and resort apparel, along with light groceries, ice cream, candy, beverages, everyday toiletries, firewood, ice, and fishing essentials.
Guests love the 2 playground sets, mini golf, volleyball net, new large beach, water slide, water bouncer, and the expansive grass field for playing!
What truly sets a small, family-owned resort apart is the personal connection. Guests and customers see the owners daily and can take comfort knowing the people managing the resort genuinely care about their experience, the memories made, and the quality of service provided!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Aaron and Taylor are passionate about the guests and community they serve and would love the opportunity to host your family vacation!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theshoresonlakeida.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshoresonlakeida
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theshoresonlakeida
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/theshoresonlakeida/
