October 30, 2025, submitted by Liz Marsh, Seward Chamber of Commerce Communications Director

Duke Marolf, Pamela Eiting, Nicole Lawrence, Colby Lawrence

We had the pleasure of speaking with Pamela Eiting this week, one of the owners of the beloved Seward restaurant and hotel, The Breeze Inn. Pamela, along with her husband, Duke, and their two friends, Nicole and Colby Lawrence, took over ownership of The Breeze Inn in the spring of 2024. Before the purchase, the two couples had already shared a friendship, a love for Alaska, and a strong connection to this community.

Their commitment to community outreach and staying true to what The Breeze Inn has represented to locals for many years truly sets them apart and contributes to their continued success as a trusted business appreciated by both Seward residents and visitors.

Not only does The Breeze Inn offer hotel rooms, a bar/lounge, and a restaurant, but they also regularly host special events, create a space for meetings and gatherings, and offer catering. ‘What don’t they do?’ is truly the question! 

Can you share a bit of the history of The Breeze Inn and how it has evolved over the years? How long have you been a part-owner? 

Pamela: Each of us has equal shares in the business and did a lot of work to make it all happen – equally stressful and exciting!

The Breeze Inn began its story in 1974 as a modest 28-room motel with a restaurant housed in a simple trailer. From these humble beginnings, it grew into the 100-room, full-service hotel, restaurant, and lounge you see today, all thanks to the vision and dedication of Juris Mindenbergs.

In March 2024, Juris passed the torch to new local owners who shared his commitment to warm hospitality, steady improvement, and genuine care for both guests and staff. Today, The Breeze Inn is proudly owned by four equal partners, (myself) Pamela Eiting, my husband Duke Marolf, Colby Lawrence, and Nicole Lawrence – two married couples who purchased the Breeze together.

The four owners of The Breeze Inn were friends long before they became business partners, united by their affection for Seward, its community, and the spirit of Alaskan life. That longstanding friendship and shared vision shape the way they operate the inn, with a focus on collaboration, trust, and teamwork. Each owner also holds a full-time job outside of The Breeze Inn and devotes much of their free time to the business. They credit the inn’s dedicated staff — especially those who remained through the transition in ownership — as the true heart of the establishment, acknowledging that the operation would not be possible without their efforts.

In what ways does staying at The Breeze Inn offer visitors something different/unique?  

Pamela: The Breeze Inn is one of the few year-round hotels in Seward that is locally owned and operated, offering guests a true sense of Seward hospitality in every season. Our on-site restaurant and lounge are also open year-round, providing a local hangout with comforting favorites and familiar faces.

Located right in the Seward Harbor, we’re just steps away from summer adventures and fishing charters, yet equally inviting for winter visitors looking for comfort, good food, and community connection. We also offer multiple spaces for gatherings, meetings, and catered events, making The Breeze a natural place for both work and celebration year-round.

What challenges and opportunities come with running a business in a small Alaskan town that relies heavily on seasonal tourism? 

Pamela: Like many Seward businesses, we experience that whirlwind summer season of trying to share our incredible Alaskan backyard with the world while keeping up with the pace. Staffing, supply logistics, and seasonal swings are always challenges, but they also remind us how special this community is. We’ve chosen to stay open year-round because it allows us to provide steady, long-term jobs and remain a part of the community even after most of the visitors head home. At the end of the day, we’re all neighbors in a small Alaskan town, and that’s something we value deeply.

What is one thing you’d want to say to the people of Seward?

Pamela: We took over The Breeze Inn, Restaurant, and Lounge, intending to preserve what locals have loved about it for decades. Our mission isn’t to change that historical feeling, but to make it even better. To keep improving while staying true to its roots as a welcoming, familiar place for the community.

What is your favorite thing to do/favorite part of Seward in wintertime? 

Pamela: We love how community-driven Seward becomes once the summer season ends and the pace slows down. Winter is when we get to reconnect and catch up with friends and neighbors we haven’t seen much of over the busy season. To unwind, we take advantage of some weekend cabin trips when we can enjoy a quick getaway and winter activities. Duke and Colby love to snowmachine; Nicole is an avid backcountry skier and mountain climber (you may have seen her recent Denali adventures); and Pamela, who’s yet to try downhill skiing, sticks to cross-country skiing and hiking. It’s all about getting outside and appreciating the beauty of our home.

What role do you see The Breeze Inn playing in the local community, beyond just being a place to stay or eat?

Pamela: We’re proud to be a gathering place and a community partner. The Breeze Inn regularly supports local organizations through donations, event hosting, and catering, and we keep our spaces open for meetings and community gatherings throughout the winter. We have even more ideas on the horizon for new events, seasonal activities, and ways to give locals more options for connection and fun right here in Seward.

As locals, The Breeze is a year-round staple where many of us hold cherished memories. Is there a memory you’d like to share?  

Pamela: We’ve all spent more than 20 years stopping by The Breeze, so it holds a lot of special memories for each of us. As boat captains (Colby, Nicole, Duke) and deckhands (Pamela), it’s always been the go-to spot after a long day on the water, which still holds today for a lot of our local boat and harbor workers.

For Pamela, The Breeze holds an extra layer of nostalgia: it was her first job in Seward nearly 20 years ago, starting as a catering server, then working in the restaurant, front desk, and eventually behind the bar.

In many ways, The Breeze Inn hasn’t changed much, and that’s part of its magic. It’s a place full of good memories, familiar faces, and a sense of home that’s stood the test of time.

Talking with Pamela reminded us why places like The Breeze Inn mean so much to Seward. It’s not just about great food or a cozy stay, it’s about people who care deeply for their community and the traditions that make it special. Under the care of Pamela, Duke, Nicole, and Colby, The Breeze Inn continues to be that familiar gathering place where locals and visitors alike can slow down, share a meal, and feel like part of the Seward story.

Contact The Breeze Inn:

Call (907) 422-7939 for the restaurant and lounge!

Call (907) 224-5237 for booking and questions!

Website: www.breezeinn.com