12.6.2024

Built in 1898 by Philadelphia businessman William L. Elkins as his family's summer home, this historic manor boasts an impressive legacy. Elkins played a key role in forming the Philadelphia Rapid Transit Company, which later became SEPTA. Designed by renowned architect Horace Trumbauer, with interiors by French designer Allard et Fils, the mansion features beautiful frescoed ceilings, carved panels, marble columns, and breathtaking crystal chandeliers preserves the exquisite gilded age architecture. Situated on a picturesque 42-acre estate just outside Philadelphia, PA, the manor exudes beauty in every detail. In 1932, the Elkins family sold the estate to the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine de' Ricci, who transformed it into a women's religious retreat house. The Dominican Retreat House, at its closing in 2006, was the oldest retreat house for women in the United States, having operated for 75 years. Following years of financial uncertainty, foreclosure, and land conservancy efforts, the sisters sold the property to Landmark Developers in 2019. The manor has since been preserved and renovated, reopening as a wedding and event venue in 2023.

On a beautiful August day, Thomas booked a resort day pass at La Valencia Hotel in downtown La Jolla, just a short walk from our apartment. We headed to the pool for a day of cocktails and relaxing by the water. Then, took a walk down to Windansea beach just prior to sunset where Thomas got down on one knee on the rocky shores. A hidden photographer was there to capture our special moment. He surprised me with dinner reservations at Marisi, a local Italian restaurant I'd be wanting to try. A few short hours after dinner we flew back to the east coast and had a wonderful surprise party to celebrate with family and friends. We are looking forward to our big celebration with all of you! La Jolla, CA