Driving through the windy roads in the shadow of the Blue Ridge to arrive at our elopement venue, the open gates beckoned us to drive through the traditional 18th century boxwood to Prospect Hill Inn, established in 1732.
Even though the manor house was built in 1732, our elopement cottage, officially the Overseer’s Cottage, dated to 1720.
I loved all the French Country touches to the cottage…
I chose the Overseer’s Cottage because it had a separate seating area, styled as an indoor porch, from the bedroom, separated by French doors. Meanwhile the bathroom is off the seating area.
One of the enhancements that we chose was a charcuterie board, for quick nibbles since we knew we’d be famished after a long drive in traffic…and there was plenty for the next day.
Another enhancement we chose was a curated selection of three Virginia wines, which we ended up taking home because we were otherwise bountifully provided!
When we later enjoyed them thoroughly, we reminisced of our elopement, complimenting Doc Findley (the owner) for his wise selection and dreaming of returning for another stay in the summer to tour the local wineries.
Unpacking the car, I took over the bedroom for bridal preparations…
Soon the flowers arrived, provided by the inn for the elopement ceremony.
All we brought were each other, our rings, and our marriage licenses (in the manilla envelope).
Right on time, our photographer, Jen knocked on the door and together we walked to the manor house for the elopement ceremony.
After the ceremony and dinner out in Charlottesville at the historic Clifton Inn, we returned to our cottage where the left over champagne awaited from the ceremony…
My new hubby built a fire in the 1720 fireplace, suddenly making me glad we were still in a bit of winter mode.
I might not have had an abundance of spring flowers on the grounds, but a warm fire in the 18th century fire was quite a nice touch!
And I loved the atmosphere of this dark sage green paint.
The next day explored the property, without any fear of getting lost.
Nearby was the 18th century boxwood entrance to the manor house where we further explored, enjoyed the grand piano, and warmed up…
We toured the barns…
Further we found another boxwood entrance, this time to one of the other cottages.
Our flowers were still looking quite fresh a few days later when we headed home.
