About Me

Hi, I am Ingrid Vanderploeg. I am a business owner, and a graduate student at Colorado State University working towards a Master's degree in Communication and Media Management.

My background is in communication-related employment and entrepreneurship in hospitality and tourism. I previously worked for the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions as a project manager, developing websites and editing content.

In 2006, I immigrated with my husband to the United States, in Denver, Colorado. Since then, we have owned several successful businesses in Ouray, Colorado. We owned an award-winning Bed and Breakfast for ten years, and currently own a 5-star TripAdvisor-rated restaurant and a vacation rental business.

Bed and Breakfast Award

One of my proudest achievements is that BedandBreakfast.com, now Expedia, awarded our Inn a spot in the USA's top 25 Bed and Breakfasts of 2017. Venturing into business ownership while building a family made me who I am today: a resourceful, creative, and enthusiastic teambuilder with a passion for authentic communication. I strive to keep learning every day and I possess bilingual fluency in both English and Dutch.

Education

In 2024, I enrolled in CSU’s Master in Communications and Media Management (M.C.M.M.) program to freshen up my communication knowledge and develop hard skills. For example, I created this website from scratch in HTML5 and CSS in JTC 572: Corporate Web Design and Management. Other relevant couses that I have taken are: Strategic Digital Communication and Digital Media Writing and Production. I plan to graduate in 2027.

Professional Aspirations

My professional path has always centered around helping people feel welcome, connected, and inspired, whether in person or through online experiences. I am looking to change trails and passionate about joining a communication team with a mission-driven organization that values connection, creativity, and positive impact in the wellness, travel or hospitality industry. I firmly believe that growth and self-improvement is crucial to fostering a better work environment and better world for all, including myself. As we strive for personal growth, we become leaders and colleagues who inspire through our actions and behavior, not just words.

Professional Ethics Statement

Interests

Next to trail running, photography is one of my many interests and hobbies. I enjoy taking pictures of the outdoors, like the one you see at the top of this page, or snapping beautiful presented plates of delicious food in our restaurant. In the portfolio section, you can view some of my favourite shots over the years. I also enjoy writing poetry, skiing, reading, sudoku puzzles, and practicing daily meditation.