BOOK HISTORY | Two Anniversaries at the Carriage House

2 different journals in 2 different suites had a beautiful similarity. On the same day, each couple wrote about each other.

Both staying in the Carriage House, the outdoor fireplace brought them together as they celebrated their 40th and 10th Anniversaries. Two different couples from two different cities staying in two different suites, celebrated together around one fireplace, and strangers became friends.

In this special double feature edition of Book History, read how the Charlevoix Suite provided a romantic place for Keith & Bo’s 40th, and how the Fern Suite allowed Victoria & Douglas to reminisce about the wedding reception they held at Vrooman 10 years prior.

Choose to celebrate in a mansion.

Guest Review Double Feature!

Keith and Bo from Bunker Hill, Illinois

“Our 40th Anniversary, Thursday we weren’t alone. A kind couple celebrating their 10th Anniversary was fun. We celebrated at the grand fireplace outside together. So glad we met them, hope one day we will them again. Friday night we have the whole Carriage House to ourselves. We are enjoying the fireplace inside. So romantic. We went over to the mansion- the breakfast was so good. The owners are so nice & friendly. Our stay has been wonderful. A beautiful place here at the Carriage House and at the Mansion.”

~Keith & Bo

Victoria & Douglas from Chicago, Illinois

“We are so glad we returned and had a great time with another couple who just happened to be celebrating their 40th Anniversary! It was so fun hanging out by the firepit. What a beautiful place and a high-quality experience. Thank you!”

~Victoria & Douglas, Married 10 Years!

The Carriage House at Vrooman Mansion

While we have several decorative (non-working) fireplaces in the mansion, the Carriage House boasts two working fireplaces for those looking for a roaring romantic fire. Keith & Bo had the opportunity to use the indoor fireplace on the first floor, perfect for a romantic evening. But it was the outdoor fireplace where they met Victoria & Douglas who also happened to be staying in the Carriage House and celebrating their 10th Wedding Anniversary. The outdoor fireplace gave them a space to connect and develop new friendships.

But the outdoor fireplace isn’t just reserved for Carriage House guests. If you’re staying in the mansion and would like to have an evening outside, roasting s’mores, sipping wine and looking at the stars, just let us know and we’ll get you set up for new memories.

The Charlevoix Suite – King Bed & Private Bath

Located on the 2nd floor of the Carriage House, up a beautifully carved wooden staircase, you’ll find Charlevoix on the left. The only suite with a King sized bed, you’ll also discover the most luxurious private bath. Would you like a copper soaking tub? Or would you prefer a walk-in shower? Why not have both?!

Borrow the black robes and curl up on the leather sofa, or venture downstairs to the den. This suite is ideal for a wedding night, a honeymoon, or celebrating your anniversary with style.

The Fern Suite – Queen Bed & Private Bath

Located on the 2nd floor, turn right at the top of the stairs and be tucked away into your own private suite with a gorgeous walk-in shower, and antique elements throughout the space to transport you back to another era. Vintage elements paired with a comfy queen sized bed, free wifi, and free snacks back on the first floor give you all of the modern amenities you’ve come to expect when you travel.

Gourmet Breakfast Included for Overnight Guests

Our gourmet breakfasts are always built around the freshest flavors of the season. After all, being in the middle of the richest farmland in Illinois has its perks. We don’t provide a menu for you to choose from, rather we dream up the best combinations from the season’s available ingredients and surprise you with a new gourmet experience. However if you do have any dietary restrictions, please let us know and we’ll ensure that your experience is gourmet and meets your needs.

Read more about our seasonal ingredients and where you can dine on the mansion grounds to enjoy your meal with others or privately as a couple.

Weddings, Receptions, Showers and Events

Victoria & Douglas were celebrating their anniversary, but did you catch that they had their wedding reception at Vrooman Mansion? If you’re looking to host your wedding, reception or both we can accommodate up to 100 guests inside or out.

Send us an email and we can provide you with a welcome packet that explains everything that is included, as well as options for catering.

Some guests choose to have their ceremony by the beautiful bay window in the parlor.

Brides walk down the foyer staircase with the stained glass windows in the background.

Bridal parties get ready in the light filled Master Chamber with the mirrored armoire and groomsmen often choose the den at the Carriage House.

With so many vibrant spaces, you’ll love finding ways to incorporate them all into your love story. We have a few other blog posts to help you think through your special day. Please share with friends you know who are in the middle of wedding planning!

Book Your Stay

Whether it’s your first year, 50th year, or anything in between, choose to celebrate in a mansion!

Only 2.5 hours north of St. Louis and 2 hours south of Chicago, you’ll find a key stop on Historic Route 66 and a mansion built in 1869 with the character to fuel new memories together and the modern amenities you need to be comfortable.

Free WiFi, free parking, gourmet included breakfast, endlessly available free coffee and tea, and free snacks. View our 7 suites in more detail and find the one that fits your personalities.

Check availability online or give us a call, and let us help you make your anniversary celebration one for the record books. Gift Certificates are also available.