I'd been hearing about the Jefferson Hotel for years but, until this past weekend, hadn't actually had an opportunity to see it for myself. It is unlike any other place I've every seen... "grand" doesn't even begin to accurately express what this hotel is like. From the huge semi-circular entrance to the grand stairway and stained glass ceilings it is certainly one of the most upscale and beautiful buildings I've ever seen. Every detail of this hotel was obviously given a great deal of attention.

The Jefferson was first opened in 1895, built by land developer Lewis Ginter and no expense was spared in his creation. In 1901 and again in 1944 the hotel survived fire damage and was restored along the way and even used as a movie set. In 1993 the renovation and restoration that brought the Jefferson to it's current appearance and status as a five-diamond and five-star hotel were completed. If you are interested in a more complete history of this historic location plus stories about the alligators in the fountain at The Jefferson be sure to spend a bit of time on their website's history page.

Katherine and Jason's wedding was what gave me the opportunity to spend a bit of time at The Jefferson. Their 90 guests joined them for their ceremony in the Flemish Room and then gathered together in the Rotunda Lobby (under the beautiful domed stain glass ceiling) for cocktails while the bride and groom spent some time with their photographers. Although I did not stay for the evening's dinner reception and dancing it was set up in the Empire Room and was absolutely beautiful in every detail.

It is obvious that The Jefferson hosts many weddings, everyone on their staff that I came into contact with was extremely helpful and professional and no facet of Katherine and Jason's big day was overlooked. James Harris, the Catering Manager that planned and and facilitated Jason and Katherine's wedding with them handled every detail with grace and good humor.

If you are looking for a truly one-of-a-kind venue and are want the the best of the best in an historic Virginia venue I would recommend you visit The Jefferson. And if this isn't exactly your style or in your budget I would still invite you to visit the Jefferson because it is a beautiful Virginia landmark and a place worth experiencing.

You can contact The Jefferson at 804-788-8000 or 800-424-8014.