Villa on Verona Bed & Breakfast Celebrates Opening

Pictured from left are Liz Woods, Southern Michigan Bank & Trust; Jane Reid, MAEDA; Hannah Banfield, Villa on Verona; Doug DeVine, Party Time Tents; Kathy DeVine, Party Time Tents; Katy Banfield, Owner and Innkeeper of Villa on Verona; Jason DeVine, co-owner of Party Time Tents; Mark Loyer, co-owner of Party Time Tents; and Vic Potter, Bud’s Towing.

New owner and Marshall native, Katy Banfield, has transformed the majestic Italianate style home with paired arched windows and cupola into an inviting bed and breakfast and distinctive event destination.

The home is versatile enough for a private, romantic get-away, but also contains multiple community spaces and porches for those girls’ weekends, family gatherings or corporate meetings. Katy has found the perfect balance of honoring the history of the grand home that offers 12-foot ceilings and fireplaces but has artistically made it a welcoming and comfortable retreat where guests can unwind.

Thoughtful touches include an elegant dressing room for brides and bridesmaids, but also features a Gentleman’s Room that is perfect for groomsmen or a poker game. Banfield plans to enhance the 8 acres that already houses a pool and pool house, gazebo, tennis court, fountains and wooded area, into an inviting event venue. The first planned event is a serene yoga retreat weekend in February 2019.

“I’m honored to share this stately home with guests and be part of its incredible past,” stated Katy. “I want to preserve the history while adding modern, comfortable touches.” The rich history began when the land was purchased by James Fennimore Cooper, author of Last of the Mohicans. The house was once the home of William D. Boyce, the founder of the Boy Scouts of America.

Make plans for a memorable get-away, party or retreat at Villa on Verona, 1110 Verona Road in Marshall. Contact Innkeeper and owner Katy Banfield, 269-832-1796 or [email protected]. For more information visit their website, villaonverona.com.