By Lisa Collins-Haynes

In a recent chat with Stonewall Golf Club Director of Sales Jeanna Hilton, I discovered a few tidbits on why brides should really have Stonewall at the top of their venue list. Not only is it a beautiful setting and backdrop for weddings, but the longevity of their staff helps them excel in both service and satisfaction for each client.

BW: Can you tell me a little about your background and how that helps with working with your bridal clients?

Jeanna Hilton: I have been at Stonewall Golf Club for nine years. Before working for Stonewall I was the Director of Sales at Heritage Hunt Golf and Country Club and previously I was in men’s fashion and PR. I think my background helps me in this business because I understand the need for personal relationships. Wedding planning is such a personal thing and I understand the importance of trust and caring during that time.

BW: Can you tell me a little history about the Stonewall Golf Club?

JH: Stonewall Golf Club broke ground in 2001, on land formerly owned by the Trust of King Kamehameha of Hawaii. They owned all of the land on Route 29 from beyond Wegmans to Virginia Oaks. Stonewall was the last piece of property they sold several years ago.

BW: How many people can your wedding venue accommodate?

JH: 160 with a dance floor and 200 with dancing in the Brass Cannon restaurant.

BW: What's the "wow" factor that makes Stonewall an irresistible venue to book for a wedding?

JH: The view is unmatched in this area. Our ballroom and terrace have sweeping views of Lake Manassas.

BW: What's the most challenging special request you ever received, and were you able to accommodate it?

JH: I have seen and been asked all kinds of fun things. Something that always sticks out was when a client asked if her husband could parachute out of an airplane onto the 18th green. Unfortunately he couldn’t get the county permit to make it happen. We have had fireworks over the lake and helicopter golf ball drops, though!

BW: Do you have a preferred list of vendors that brides have to stick to, or do brides have the freedom to bring in their own vendors?

JH: They can use whom they like but I have a list of highly recommended vendors.

BW: Is there a catering department at Stonewall?

JH: Yes, we offer full-service catering in house. We like to be able to offer clients an easy one-stop shop catering experience.

BW: Do you offer an exclusive wedding planning service or day of wedding coordination?

JH: We have a Catering Manager, Erin, who will be onsite the day of the event to ensure everything we promised and that the bride's vision for Stonewall will come to life. If a professional wedding planner is not hired to be onsite for the event, we will do our best to help with favors, place cards, etc.

BW: How early should a bride book your venue?

JH: About a year out.

BW: If a bride was on the fence about booking your venue or another one, what key points about Stonewall would you make to sway her decision in your favor? 

JH: The majority of our banquet staff have been here going on 10 years which is a major feat in the hospitality business, and I think that says a great deal about the management and experience that Stonewall provides to customers and employees. And of course the beautiful view and amazing food courtesy of Andrew Schwarz, our chef, who has also been here for nine years.

BW: What other kinds of events do you host at Stonewall?

JH: Everything! Golf outings, dinners, birthdays, corporate meetings, etc.

There you have it, brides-to-be, I’ve done all the legwork for you. Now all you have to do is contact Jeanna Hilton at Stonewall Golf Club and schedule a time for a tour and bridal consultation. She'll be excited to meet you and show you around!