A huge English manor house surrounded by massive trees, sprawling green lawns, flowers and fountains, known as Stonebridge Manor, hides just north of McDowell Road between Greenfield Road and Val Vista Drive.
The massive ivy-covered red brick mansion was originally built in 1979 amid a citrus grove as a home for a large local family. In 1998, Michael Mills acquired the property. He refurbished it, and created a fantastical wedding venue, which continues in operation today.
“Our wedding packages are so complete, that all the couple needs to do is invite people and show up in their wedding finery,” said Event Coordinator Lindsay Hoff.
Lindsay, who just got engaged herself, said, “Most people would never say they wanted to spend the most special day of their life at their workplace, but when my fiancé and I get married, it will be here at Stonebridge, because I know I would be disappointed if I had to get married anywhere else.”
“The greenery, the architecture, the creative romantic lighting and the amount of private space available makes the day so special,” Lindsay continued. “There are beautifully appointed private dressing rooms for the bride and groom, and the usually bored groomsmen can hang out in the billiards parlor while waiting for the ceremony to begin.”
When Lindsay says their packages are complete, she means it. Each couple is assigned its own executive staff to take care of details from the start and throughout the entire wedding day. Couples can choose from indoor or outdoor venues—ballrooms with gleaming hardwood floors, a grand staircase and marble fireplace, or outdoor pavilions, complete with fountains, flowers and waterfalls. The 6,000-square-foot white tent in the Pavilion, on the back lawn, can accommodate up to 350 guests.
The staff also assists in helping the couple choose the color scheme and the included details of the package, such as decorations, centerpieces, lighting, linens and tables and chairs, as well as photographers, music and cake selections.
“One of the best features of our weddings is the food,” Lindsay stated. “We have our own executive chef, Stephanie Petersen, aka Chef Tess Bakeresse, and culinary staff, and all the food is prepared right here. Stephanie has published several cookbooks, and will appear in a new TV series,” she continued. “You will not find dried out, tasteless chicken on our plates. Couples can choose from several gourmet menu options, served either buffet-style or plated.”
Service also includes a complimentary wine and beer hors d’oeuvres hour, with butler-passed trays.
If you want to try the unique menu, Lindsay, who also serves as manager of the A’ la Mode Bistro, on one wing of the property, invites everyone to visit for lunch between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., to sample their exquisite pastries and beverages, or enjoy sandwiches, salads and a variety of mac and cheese combos. Since the menu changes frequently, Lindsay promises it’s never boring.
“Our wedding packages are very competitive if you remember that it includes everything,” said Lindsay. “We’d like to make your special day the most special.”
Stonebridge Manor is located at 4000 E. Palm St. For more information, call (480) 641-3131, or visit www.stonebridgemanor.com. Visit the open house every Wednesday, from 6 to 8 p.m. A’ la Mode Bistro is located at 4012 E. Palm St. Call (480) 641-4148.