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RECENT BLOG POSTS
An Equestrian Afternoon in Marshall and Hume
In the heart of Virginia's countryside, amidst the quaint towns of Hume and Marshall, our day unfolded with a blend of rustic charm and refined delights. Starting with a savory stop at The Whole Ox in Marshall, we savored their renowned burgers before setting off for the sprawling trails of Marriott Ranch. There, beneath the vast sky and rolling hills, we found solace in the company of Jess and Ranger, our trusty steeds for the day. As the sun dipped low, we ventured to Rappahannock Cellars, where the vineyard's sparkling wines and panoramic views provided the perfect finale to our day of adventure.
24 Hours in Hunt Country Virginia | A Country Chic Escapade
As the days begin to get brighter and warmer, now is the perfect time to plan a weekend trip through the picturesque landscapes of hunt country to gather inspiration from the charm and beauty of this region. From the quaint streets of Middleburg to the rolling hills of Charlottesville, there's no shortage of delightful destinations waiting to be discovered. Join me in this post as I embark on a whirlwind dreamy day trip tour of some of the area's most beloved locales, each offering its own unique blend of seasonal delights and irresistible allure.
7 Activities to Ring in Spring in Virginia
The enchanting realm of springtime in Virginia, where nature awakens from its wintry slumber, painting the landscape with vibrant hues and breathing new life into the air… As the days grow longer and the sun's warmth graces us once more, there's an undeniable sense of renewal and possibility that permeates the air. In this blog post, I invite you to join me on a journey through seven of my favorite activities to celebrate the arrival of spring in the Old Dominion. From leisurely strolls amidst blooming fields to quaint picnics in picturesque vineyards, each experience promises to immerse you in the beauty and charm of this magical season. So, let us embark together on this adventure, as we embrace the joys of springtime in Virginia and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Shopping Local | Small Changes to Support Small Businesses
Some of the things I love most about Virginia are the vast expanses of rolling hills, cattle farms, the copious amounts of wineries, and the lovely towns that sprinkle the state map. To me, keeping these characteristics as a part of the state are critically important. One of the easiest ways to keep Virginia’s lovely rural ambience alive is by supporting the hundreds (if not thousands) of small businesses that keep this vibrant state alive. From supporting local orchards and restaurants to shopping from local butchers, meat markets, and farmer’s markets, there are so many ways that we can play our own part in keeping the expansive country land and small-town feel of Virginia alive.
A Foodie Guide to Downtown Fredericksburg
When I venture outside of the heart of Virginia’s wine and horse country, one of my favorite places to spent an afternoon is in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia. For some reason, Fredericksburg doesn’t seem to be a very popular place for those who reside in Virginia — I’m convinced it’s simply because those individuals don’t know where to go! In my modest effort to showcase this lovely and historic town, I’ve rounded up my favorite restaurants and bars in downtown Fredericksburg.
Champagne, History, and Luxury: A Weekend at Albemarle Estate
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of Charlottesville, Virginia, Albemarle Estate stands as a testament to history, beauty, and refined indulgence. This lavish estate offers visitors an exquisite blend of elegance, rich heritage, stunning gardens, gourmet cuisine, and a winery experience that's nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a wine connoisseur, or simply seeking a serene escape, Albemarle Estate promises an opulent and unforgettable stay that will rejuvenate your senses and captivate your heart.
Lunch at Keswick Hall
To kick off my birthday celebration over the past weekend, we popped over to Keswick Hall which is located just twenty minutes outside of Charlottesville, Virginia. During our visit, we had the opportunity to walk around the resort, enjoy a cocktail in the library adjoining one of the pools, and soak in the lovely golf course views as we enjoyed a fabulous lunch at Marigold by Jean-Georges.
Quarterly Trip to Effingham Manor Winery
Although our visits are often more frequent than quarterly, we stop by Effingham Manor Winery, nestled in the quaint countryside of Nokesville, Virginia, to pick up our Wine Club bottles every three months. This quarter’s wine club, which we picked up over this past weekend, featured a King’s Ransom (a personal favorite), Cabernet Franc, and Petit Manseng. We also took the opportunity to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with a bottle of Effingham’s Sparkling Wine and the lovely views next to the koi pond on the property.