New Innkeepers Dean Whiteford and Cherie Thorn would like to welcome you to Abbington Green!

Dean is a dual American-Australian citizen who grew up in Port Hedland, a remote mining town in the North West of Australia. Cherie was raised on an agricultural farm in Somis, Southern California. Cherie graduated from New York University before moving to Asia shortly after graduation. Dean studied accountancy at Curtin University in Australia and is a former CPA and business consultant.

Dean is also an artist. He predominantly draws portraits in black and white. Please click here to view his collection: deanwhiteford.com

Dean and Cherie met while both were living and working in Hong Kong, where they later married in 1997. Since 1998 they have lived mainly in New York City, with Dean also spending time on assignments in Los Angeles, and in Tokyo, Japan. They share a love of travel, food, wine and the outdoors, and have always frequented Bed and Breakfast Inns during their many travels.

Cherie worked for over 26 years as an executive in the watch industry, and Dean held positions in Big 4 accounting firms as well as global law firms during his 30+ year career. Cherie and Dean have always been enthusiastic volunteers: Cherie with New York Cares and the American Red Cross, and Dean with The Relationship Foundation (where he is on the Board of Directors) and New York Cares. Giving back to the community is very important to them.

Dean and Cherie look forward to continuing the tradition of warm hospitality, tasty food, great service, and the attention to detail that Abbington Green is known for. They are excited to trade stories with fellow travelers in their new home of Asheville, NC!