Welcome to Rixey Manor, where history meets modern love and inclusivity. Nestled in the heart of Virginia, our manor is more than just a wedding venue—it’s a safe and celebratory space where couples of all backgrounds can create lifelong memories. We’re proud to share not only the charm of our historic property but also our carefully curated Google Maps guide featuring some of our favorite local vendors, accommodations, and must-visit spots. Whether you're planning your dream wedding or simply exploring Culpeper’s vibrant offerings, we’re here to help make every moment extraordinary.
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My story with Rixey Manor
Born and raised in England, I’ve always had a love for history, charm, and dreaming big. After moving to Los Angeles in search of sunshine and a career in movies, I discovered that Hollywood’s sparkle wasn’t all it seemed. I longed for something more fulfilling, something real that I could build with my own two hands.
That’s when I stumbled upon Rixey Manor—not in some fairy-tale way, but as a derelict, foreclosed building I found on Zillow. It wasn’t glamorous, but I saw its potential, and I bought it. From day one, Rixey Manor has reflected my personal ethos of inclusivity and welcoming everyone with open arms. I’ve worked tirelessly to restore it, pouring my heart and soul into every brick and beam to transform it into the elegant, inviting venue it is today. Seeing it evolve into a place where love stories unfold has been the greatest joy of my life.
Life, of course, had its challenges. I built a life here, but when one chapter ended, I was faced with one of my toughest battles: holding onto Rixey Manor. It wasn’t just a building—it was my passion, my career, and the place I’d poured all my dreams into. With determination, resilience, and a lot of love, I came through stronger than ever.
Now, Rixey Manor is thriving, and so am I. I’ve built a life I love, surrounded by my animals, my incredible team (many of whom have been with me since the beginning), and friends who have become family. Every day, I get to do what I love—help couples bring their dreams to life—and I wouldn’t change a thing.
This manor isn’t just a business; it’s my heart, my soul, and my greatest joy. I can’t wait to share it with you and help make your story at Rixey Manor as magical as it deserves to be.
The Rixey Manor Team
Meet Grace – Our Behind-the-Scenes Dynamo
For over 10 years, Grace has been an essential part of our team, bringing dedication, precision, and heart to everything she does. Originally from New York State, she expertly juggles her role here with being a proud mom to her 11-year-old son. Grace thrives on the behind-the-scenes details, coordinating seamlessly with vendors and ensuring every aspect of an event runs like clockwork. Her meticulous approach allows us to offer a flexible catering policy, knowing she’ll dot every “i” and cross every “t” to perfection.
Grace is also affectionately known as our “grandmother wrangler.” Her warm and composed demeanor ensures that family members, particularly the excited grandmothers, feel cared for and included, allowing mothers to focus entirely on their daughters’ big day. She is the quiet force that ensures everything runs smoothly, and her ability to balance logistics with a personal touch is truly remarkable.
Grace’s contributions are the backbone of many of the events we host, and her impact is deeply felt by clients and colleagues alike. With Grace on our team, we know that every detail, no matter how small, will be flawlessly handled.
It's notoriously difficult to get Grace to pose for a photograph, but looking after a young partygoer was too enticing to resist.
The Bartending Team – Raising the Bar in Service
Our bartending team is an essential part of the Rixey Manor experience. Exclusively hired through us, they don’t just serve drinks; they embody the same values we teach all our staff—professionalism, attentiveness, and a genuine warmth that makes every guest feel welcome. Some team members have been with us since our very first wedding, while others are so connected to Rixey Manor that they chose it for their own special day. Together, they ensure that every toast, every laugh, and every guest interaction is unforgettable.
Among the team, you’ll often find Cousin Adam (who joined us after hiking the Appalachian Trail), a resident of the manor and a fixture behind the bar. Known for his sharp wit and occasional cynicism, Adam’s dry humor is a hit with many guests. While his personality adds a unique flavor to the team, his efficiency and reliability behind the bar are unmatched. Whether helping with setup, ensuring the perfect cocktail, or jumping in to troubleshoot, Adam is a vital part of what makes Rixey Manor tick.
From the first pour to the final farewell, our bartenders create a seamless and elevated experience, allowing you and your guests to focus on celebrating.
Rixey Manor's History
Rixey Manor's history is deeply rooted in the early days of our nation. Originally established on 15,000 acres granted to the Rixey family after the Revolutionary War, the estate later served as a pig farm—a unique chapter we’re proud to share. However, we also recognize that enslaved individuals likely played a role in building and sustaining this property during its early history. We cannot change the past, but we believe it is our responsibility to honor their memory by transforming Rixey Manor into a space of love, inclusivity, and equality.
When faced with decisions about how to shape Rixey Manor today, we often ask ourselves: “Would this make the estate's early stewards roll over in their graves?” If the answer is a resounding yes, we know we’re on the right track. We are committed to creating a space where all couples, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation, feel safe, celebrated, and loved.
Isadora purchased the property in 2014 and envisioned it as a wedding venue where love in all its forms could be celebrated. Over the years, we’ve worked to make this vision a reality.
The Rixey family’s legacy is deeply woven into the history of this estate, and we are incredibly honored to have their ongoing support. Today, the current Rixey family are not just our neighbors but also an integral part of our lives. They’ve worked with us, celebrated here, and even chosen Rixey Manor as the place to exchange their own wedding vows—a testament to the love and meaning this property holds. From the very beginning, their encouragement has meant the world to us, and we are humbled by their partnership and trust as we continue to transform this space into a venue where everyone feels welcome and cherished.
If you’ve studied at Marymount University, you may recognize the Rixey name from the iconic Rixey House on campus, a cornerstone building of the university. The distinguished Rixey legacy includes fascinating figures, from a university founder to Presidential doctors and even sports legends. Baseball Hall of Famer Eppa Rixey, for example, was born right here in Culpeper!