charm meets simple sophistication in this new boutique hotel

that’s accessible to most travelers.

Desert Flower is the brainchild of husband-and-wife team Jody and Xochitl Wodrich and reflects the couple’s blend of sophisticated, cosmopolitan vibes and authentic Northern New Mexican charm. According to Jody, “I’ve traveled to 96 different countries for my former work in marketing. I've seen so many hotels, from the five-stars to the smaller hotels, and there are the things that you stop and notice. We made sure we had those types of amenities, whether it's the high-quality bedding, pillows and sheets, or the deluxe, puffy towels. You know, things that make you say, ‘Oh, this is nice. This feels good.’” Xochitl was born in Albuquerque and spent time in Las Vegas. In addition to her New Mexico roots, she brings years of experience as a buyer in the fashion industry.

Jody and Xochitl’s story began in 2001 when they met on the porch of a mutual friend’s house. The two became fast friends and eventually started dating. Today, the couple are married with three boys, all of whom help with the hotel, making the Desert Flower a true “mom and pop” business. Their oldest son planted the trees that will someday provide fruit for guests to pick. The couple also plans to sell homemade jams and preserves on premises once the fruit trees mature.

Jody and Xochitl’s original idea was to open a glamping site on NM 110; however, many neighbors expressed concerns, and the project grew contentious. Whereas others might have been discouraged, the Wodriches took everything in stride. “Honestly, it was a blessing to get so much feedback,” Xochitl says, “because we learned so much about the community, their needs and their concerns about growth and sustainability.”

Plans for the Desert Flower hotel began when the couple drove by the vacant property on NM 68. Jody drew up a blueprint that added privacy to the classic roadside motel concept. After extensive renovations, Desert Flower became what it is today: an old adobe building with thick walls and vigas ceilings, but with a sleek, modern look.

Jody recalls working long days, putting in “sweat equity” beside his team of local contractors. “Everything in