A New Era for West Manor
West Manor Estate was built in 1823 by esteemed architect Thomas Poindexter for Naval Captain John West. West later married Poindexter’s daughter and the two built the property, then known as Waverly Plantation, into a thriving dairy business. The 600+ acre farm remained in the family for over 150 years before being sold to the Lester family in 1976. The Lesters carried on the dairy business until the mid 1990′s when they developed the plantation into a successful bed and breakfast and wedding and special event venue, even adding our famous ballroom and conservatory, inviting brides from around the world to “become a part of another era.”
This fall the torch was passed once again to the Fees’ family. Jill and John Fees purchased the estate and have begun fabulous renovations, updates, and expansions. The property is all abuzz lately with the sounds and smells of construction.
Speaking of sounds and smells, the Fees have brought on daughter Stephanie, renowned chef from The Greenbrier to manage and aid in the hiring of a fantastic onsite chef to provide each guest with a true culinary experience. Also coming on to manage is Susan Harrison, creator and founder of the YWCA Church Street Bridal Shop. And I myself will remain as our on-site event coordinator to ensure each client continues to receive the attention and service West Manor has become famous for.
With our new ownership and management in place, we have officially begun booking for the 2012 season, and are even getting inquiries into 2013! With the whole site being renovated and updated, brides, companies, and families, are snatching up dates while we still have them!
Over the next few months I’ll be keeping the blog up to date with changes so you all can see the wonderful things taking place around here. For now you’ll have to settle for this inspiration for our new “Atrium.” A gorgeous, glass enclosed structure being added to our ballroom for clients to host indoor wedding ceremonies, cocktail hours, dinners, or even dancing!
We hope that you will enjoy following us as we take West Manor into the next era!
Best Wishes,
Katie
