Inn at Willow Grove

I ordered a gift certificate for my niece on 27 Dec. The website offered delivery by mail or electronically, but gave me nowhere to enter an email address. I only got an “order confirmed” message, and as of 7 Jan it still hadn’t shown as shipped. When I called the Inn at Willow Grove front desk, they showed little empathy and asked me to wait until the end of the week to check delivery. It was going to Charlottesville VA, about 45 minutes away by USPS. They said they’d email it to me only if it still hadn’t arrived by then. Why not email it now so I can send it to her myself, maybe with a nice card or ecard? The service wasn’t what we’d enjoyed in past stays or meals at Vintage restaurant. It’s a shame, but I can’t recommend the place to friends and family anymore.

We stayed at the Inn for the night before and the night of our wedding, with my husband and me in the Butler's cottage, my mother-in-law in the Weaver's cottage, and my parents in the Schoolhouse cottage. Ray remembered us from our engagement stay the year before, which was a lovely personal touch. He helped with our bags, and he and the front staff gave us champagne to celebrate, in addition to the glasses we received at arrival. Our wedding dinner at the Vintage was delicious as always, served in a private room with custom menus for us and a complimentary champagne toast. The whole staff was attentive and made the stay feel thoughtfully tailored for us and our parents. Our parents loved their cozy, well-decorated cottages, the personable staff, and coffee and beignets delivered to the cottages. We’re looking forward to coming back for more milestones and anniversaries.

The Inn at Willow Grove has been part of our story for years: we had our first date there, got engaged there, and celebrated our son’s first birthday there. Returning for our wedding with our closest family and friends felt like coming full circle, and the team made the planning easy even from five states away. Catherine, the Director of Private Events, and Wednesday, the Food and Beverage Director, went above and beyond. The day ran smoothly, and we could be present with each other and our guests. The historic grounds made a beautiful setting for the ceremony and photos. We loved the cocktail hour and hors d’oeuvres, the meal, and dancing in a place that already meant so much to us. Our guests left with lovely memories too. The cottages were charming and comfortable. Guest services brought warm beignets and French press coffee each morning, and the evening turndown included delicious jam-filled macadamia nut chocolate cups. Taking a quiet moment together with coffee in the Schoolhouse cottage rocking chairs was one of our favorite memories amid the wedding bustle. Family also enjoyed the Mill House Spa and pool. Several people had massages and raved about them, while others relaxed by the pool. It was a joy knowing everyone was being looked after. The Inn is rich in history and has a timeless charm that’s hard to find. Our wedding here was unforgettable, and we can’t imagine starting this next chapter anywhere else. We didn’t want to leave. Our heartfelt thanks to David and Charlene Scibal, Matt, Wednesday, Catherine, Michele, Lisa, Andrew, Heather, Nikki, Ray, Kelsie, Michelle, Mrs. Barbara, and every staff member who took such good care of us.

We had three spectacular rooms for the weekend, all with big beds and modern bathrooms. The grounds are gorgeous, and the restaurant serves food on par with high-end city restaurants while keeping a country feel.