We are the fourth owners since Julia Vrooman passed away. My husband, Dana, and I first entered this spacious home in November 1999, and, like all of our guests, were amazed to see the craftsmanship and beauty of the details in every room.

We owned a small business at that time and briefly tossed around the idea of purchasing the mansion with our friends/business partners. Since our partners were not interested in the endeavor, we put the idea off for quite some time.

In April of 2000, we received a call from the real estate agent, stating there was an offer made and wanting to know if we were at all interested. We thought about trying to purchase it ourselves. Being young (32 years old) and somewhat naïve, we thought, “what do we have to lose?” We became the caretakers of Julia’s magnificent home on July 29th, 2000.

While holding down full-time careers and a house in the south suburbs of Chicago, we’ve managed to beat the odds. All of our hard work, perseverance, and vision has paid off. We have always experienced a positive energy regarding the home whether it is from a higher being, our neighbors and guests rooting for us, or Julia looking over us with approval. There have been days and times when it just seems overwhelming, impossible, overly idealistic, and that “we’re never going to make it”…

But here we stand. Proudly leading our team to embrace their work passionately and diligently. Teaching them the desire to help and serve others. And strengthening our community and other small local businesses.

We see beauty and inspiration all around us. Working with our guests is such an incredible gift and we feel very fortunate to be able to do what we love. Bringing people together to share in moments that create lifelong memories motivates us daily. We feel lucky to be a part of your story, and to have you as a part of ours. Giving joy, and giving it with a whole and open heart, is one of the clearest steps on the path to finding joy of our own.

Pam & Dana Kowalewski and the Vrooman Mansion staff