NORTH WILDWOOD ─ "I've come full circle," Carrie Locklyn told the Herald Aug. 31 during an interview.
A native of Cape May County, Locklyn's creative journey has taken her from the streets of New York City and Los Angeles, Calif. to 25th Avenue in North Wildwood on the set of the television show "Hotel Impossible."
Airing on the Travel Channel and hosted by Anthony Melchiorri, "Hotel Impossible" renovates hotels across America, originating at the request of hotel owners who believe that their establishment is in need of Melchiorri's expertise.
Locklyn, 37, tackles the redesign of the hotel, a particular challenge for the 25th Avenue location. According to Locklyn, remolding the North Wildwood hotel on the cusp of the busy Labor Day weekend is "messy" and has been "one of the largest challenges" that she has encountered. Locklyn arrived onsite Aug. 29 and the work had to be completed Aug. 31 in time for "reveal day" of Sept. 1. "Today is crunch day," said Locklyn.
Raised in Cape May, Locklyn's dreams have taken her far beyond the Jersey shore. "I've always been in the entertainment business," Locklyn explained.
Her dream to be a professional dancer led her to New York City. Later, her attention shifted to acting and modeling. "I changed directions," said Locklyn, describing her move to Los Angeles.
After work in print modeling and commercials, Locklyn said she and her husband bought a home and completely remodeled it.
"Word got out" about the couple's remodeling and the door opened for her to join "Hotel Impossible" as one of its design specialists.
When asked how it felt to return to Cape May County, Locklyn replied: "It's very surreal."
"I got to have dinner with my mom last night," she added.
Locklyn left Cape May at 17 and returned 20 years later.
Once performing at school and other venues, Locklyn has danced under stage lights that shine upon celebrities and stars.
"Dreams do come true," said Locklyn before resuming her role as a designer.
Just another day on a show that seeks to restore hope and vitality and another footprint along a creative pathway that has led a Cape May County woman home.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
