A Victoria Event: The Art of Entertaining

Colonial Williamsburg
Governor's Mansion, Williamsburg
Nation Builders interpreters, Colonial Williamsburg

*Postponed until further notice*

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
November 4–7, 2020

Single Occupancy: $1,950
Double Occupancy: $3,500

We cordially invite you to escape to Virginia for an unforgettable getaway designed to bring the gracious milieu of our pages to life. Amid the resplendent charms of Colonial Williamsburg, join Editor-in-Chief Phyllis Hoffman DePiano and other members of the editorial team November 4–7 to celebrate the bliss of gathering around a beautiful table to create lasting memories.

As a prelude to the holidays, retreat to the Williamsburg Lodge, conveniently situated near an array of storied sites. Amid the pampering comforts of this charming Autograph Collection hotel, sample chef-prepared, locally sourced cuisine and garner inspiration from our impressive panel of speakers: calligrapher Allison R. Banks, Crown Linen Designs owner Victoria Fanning, Vietri founder Susan Gravely, and silver dealer Mimi Bremer Woodruff. Plus, shop our cache of gifts, including favorite titles and exclusive branded products.

Along with an array of inspiring sessions featuring our speakers and staff, the event schedule affords plenty of free time for exploring. Although automobiles are not permitted in the Historic Area, complementary transportation through the Colonial Williamsburg Bus System will be included with our accommodations. Experience early America through interactions with Nation Builders, a cast of interpreters who portray real historic figures, and skilled craftspeople who demonstrate a range of trades prevalent in the eighteenth century.

Please note: Expected attendance for this event must be filled by October 1, 2020, for the retreat to take place. Don’t wait! Register today.

What’s Included

  • Hotel accommodations for one at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Welcome afternoon reception at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Breakfast Thursday and Friday mornings at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Lunch Thursday at a local tavern
  • Dinner Friday evening at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Complimentary transportation through the Colonial Williamsburg Bus System with accommodations
  • All event activities
  • Bag of Victoria treasures

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare/travel to Williamsburg
  • Airport transfers
  • Dinner on Thursday evening
  • Lunch on Friday

What’s Included

  • Hotel accommodations for two at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Welcome afternoon reception at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Breakfast Thursday and Friday mornings at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Lunch Thursday at a local tavern
  • Dinner Friday evening at the Williamsburg Lodge
  • Complimentary transportation through the Colonial Williamsburg Bus System with accommodations
  • All event activities
  • Bag of Victoria treasures

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare/travel to Williamsburg
  • Airport transfers
  • Dinner Thursday evening
  • Lunch on Friday

Have a question about this event? Contact us.

*Postponed until further notice*

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND SESSION LEADERS


Editor-in-Chief
Phyllis Hoffman DePiano

Reviving Victoria more than a decade ago signified a return to loveliness. As host of this event, she encourages attendees to explore the myriad joys of cultivating a gracious spirit of hospitality.

READ MORE »


Calligrapher
Allison R. Banks

Whether developing a custom monogram, bespoke stationery, or an invitation suite, putting pen to paper to create lasting keepsakes brings a sense of fulfillment to this gifted artisan.

READ MORE »


Crown Linen Designs Owner
Victoria Fanning

Exclusive treasures made from fine European linen now retail in more than eight hundred boutiques across the United States, as well as through her company’s online store.

READ MORE »

Vietri Founder
Susan Gravely

Inspired by artisans discovered in Italy, the dinnerware company she founded nearly four decades ago with her sister and mother continues to bring the vibrant authenticity of Amalfi Coast craftsmanship to tables around the world.

READ MORE »

Silver Dealer
Mimi Bremer Woodruff

Building on the legacy that her mother began forty years ago with the establishment of Beverly Bremer Silver Shop in Atlanta, this expert in the curation and care of sterling extols the enduring charms of this beloved collectible.

READ MORE »


Replacements, Ltd.

Representing the largest retailer of china, crystal, and silverware in the world, entertaining experts speak to the value of passing on exquisite patterns that have been cherished for generations.

READ MORE »


Wednesday, November 4
Escape to Virginia to discover the charms of Colonial Williamsburg. Arrive at the Williamsburg Lodge, a charming Autograph Collection hotel conveniently situated near an array of storied sites, for check in and event registration. After settling in, join Editor-in-Chief Phyllis Hoffman DePiano and the Victoria editorial staff in late afternoon for a welcome reception and meet and greet to open The Art of Entertaining. Afterward, you are free to enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Note: Complimentary transportation through the Colonial Williamsburg Bus System will be included with our accommodations.

Thursday, November 5
Morning begins at the Williamsburg Lodge with a hearty breakfast and the opportunity to shop a dazzling assortment of gifts, including signed books by favorite authors, exclusive branded items, and a cache of treasures perfect for entertaining.

Keynote speaker Susan Gravely, founder of beloved dinnerware company Vietri, leads our first morning session, sharing her entrepreneurial journey and extolling the values of bringing loved ones to the table. Following a short break, step into the past with a visit from a Nation Builders interpreter who will enlighten us on traditions of hospitality in early America. In an inspiring hands-on demonstration, our second keynote speaker, calligrapher Allison R. Banks, will use her talent for designing details that leave an indelible impression to have us put pen to paper to create a lasting memento.

We will enjoy lunch together at a local tavern. Afterward, you are free to enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Complimentary transportation through the Colonial Williamsburg Bus System will be included with our accommodations, allowing participants to explore the Historic Area with ease.

Friday, November 6
After a hearty breakfast at the Williamsburg Lodge and an opportunity to shop the Victoria store, immerse yourself in the fascinating history of vintage and modern dinnerware, crystal, silver, and collectibles on offer from Replacements, Ltd., with demonstrations from the company’s entertaining experts for setting beautiful and memorable tables. Following a short break, step into the past with a visit from a Nation Builders interpreter who will enlighten us on traditions of hospitality in early America. Believing every person’s life should be filled with beauty, keynote speaker Victoria Fanning, founder and owner of Crown Linen Designs, will share how fine linens add grace notes to every occasion—and everyday life.

A break in the event schedule affords free time for shopping, enjoying hotel amenities, or pausing for lunch, if desired, at an on-site or area restaurant. Complimentary transportation through the Colonial Williamsburg Bus System will be included with our accommodations, allowing participants to explore the Historic Area with ease.

In the evening, we will gather for a celebratory dinner at the Williamsburg Lodge. Our final keynote speaker, Mimi Bremer Woodruff of Beverly Bremer Silver Shop, an expert in the curation and care of sterling, will speak to the enduring value of this cherished collectible.

Saturday, November 7
Check out of the Williamsburg Lodge and depart for home.

Colonial Williamsburg
Vietri Collection
Colonial Williamsburg


Accommodations
Relax in boutique luxury at the Williamsburg Lodge, a charming Autograph Collection hotel in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg. On a historic street lined with Old-World houses, this elegant, country-style retreat is a 10-minute walk from storied sites. Complimentary transportation through the Colonial Williamsburg Bus System will also be available with your accommodations.

Who You Will Meet
Editor-in-Chief Phyllis Hoffman DePiano and the Victoria editorial staff
Calligrapher Allison R. Banks
Crown Linen Designs owner Victoria Fanning
Vietri founder Susan Gravely
Silver dealer Mimi Bremer Woodruff
Entertaining experts from Replacements, Ltd.

Booking
Attendees have an option to pay 50% of their registration costs at booking and the remaining balance 60 days before the event or pay in full at the time of registration. Your reservation will be confirmed upon receipt of payment. Please note: The event fee is nonrefundable, and failure to pay remaining balance will automatically forfeit your place. We accept payment by American Express, VISA, Mastercard, PayPal, and Amazon Pay.

Travel to and from Williamsburg
Guests are responsible for getting themselves to Williamsburg and to the Williamsburg Lodge on Wednesday, November 4, when the event commences. At the conclusion of the event, guests will be responsible for getting themselves from the Williamsburg Lodge to their airport or next destination on Saturday, November 7.

Costs
The price of the trip includes hotel accommodations, complimentary transportation throughout the Historic Area of Colonial Williamsburg, a welcome reception, two breakfasts, one lunch, one dinner, and all speaker sessions. It does not include airfare or ground transportation from or to the airport. Single- and double-occupancy rates are available.

Since the trip is nonrefundable, we suggest buying trip insurance through a company such as Travelex. You can also check with your credit card company to see if they provide travel insurance. If you don’t purchase travel insurance, you agree to indemnify us against any charges that might otherwise be covered by your insurance. You further agree that we are not responsible for any costs of cancellation by you.

Your credit card will be charged by Hoffman Media, the parent company of Victoria.

Cancellation
We will cancel the event if fewer than expected participants have signed up by October 1, 2020. If Victoria initiates the cancellation, we will refund all payments. If cancellation is initiated by Victoria, Victoria is not liable for any other expenses incurred in the event of trip cancellation.


Have a question about this event? Contact us.

Williamsburg Lodge
Colonial Williamsburg
Nation Builders interpreter, Colonial Williamsburg


How do I register for the event?
If you have not yet registered, you may do so through our online shop. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up for your spot before it’s filled!

What happens if the event is canceled or I cannot attend after I have registered?
If for some reason Victoria must cancel the event, you will be notified via email and refunded your payment. However, we will be unable to refund any guest for an individual cancelation due to an emergency or sudden change in plans. Since the event fee is nonrefundable, we suggest buying trip insurance through a company such as Travelex. You can also check with your credit card company to see if travel insurance is provided. If you don’t purchase travel insurance, you agree to indemnify us against any charges that might otherwise be covered by your insurance. You further agree that we are not responsible for any costs of cancellation by you.

What is the cost of the event?
A single occupancy registration, including one single room and event access for one attendee, costs $1,950. A double occupancy registration, including one double room and event access for two attendees, costs $3,500.

Will I have to pay for airfare separately, or is it included in the event cost?
Travel to and from Williamsburg is not included in the cost of the event. Whether you fly, drive, or already live in town, it will be your individual responsibility to arrive at the Williamsburg Lodge on the afternoon of November 4, 2020.

What expenses will and will not be included in the event?
While the cost of the event does cover any provided meals, hotel lodging for November 4–7, speaker sessions, three-day access to Colonial Williamsburg, and various gifts, there are a few expenses that you may need to cover out-of-pocket. These include transportation to and from the Williamsburg Lodge, hotel parking, meals that are not provided with the event, shopping, alcohol, and any additional hotel amenities.

When is final payment due?
Final payment is due October 1, 2020. If you put down a deposit instead of paying in full, you will receive an email notification alerting you when the remaining payment is due, and a link to your account will be provided. Payment must be completed by this deadline in order to secure your place at the event. Failure to do so automatically forfeits your place, and your deposit will not be refunded.

How do I make my hotel reservation for the event?
Your hotel room will be reserved automatically when you register for the event. If you have any special requirements for your room, they should be noted in your registration. If you have already registered, please contact us with any change requests. Please note that we may not be able to accommodate late changes.

What are check-in and checkout times at the hotel?
Check-in time is at 4:00 p.m., and checkout is at 11:00 a.m. Guests arriving before 4:00 p.m. will be accommodated as rooms become available. The Williamsburg Lodge guest-service staff can check baggage for those arriving early.

I live in the area and won’t need a hotel room in order to attend. Can I register as a commuter?
We are not accepting commuter guests at this time. If you are interested in attending, we ask that you join us in the pleasurable accommodations of the Williamsburg Lodge for the duration of the event.

What is the nearest airport? How can I get from there to the event?
Three airports are located near Colonial Williamsburg. These include Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (20 minutes), Norfolk International Airport (45 minutes), and Richmond International Airport (45 minutes). Each airport has car rental agencies available on site, in addition to the option of hiring a taxi or ride-share service.

How do I get to the Williamsburg Lodge?
Both the event and guest accommodations will be located at the Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection, located at 310 South England Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185. View an interactive map of the hotel’s location within the historic resort at ColonialWilliamsburgHotels.com.

Does the Williamsburg Lodge have a valet? Do they charge for parking?
On-site covered parking is provided for all Lodge guests, as well as valet parking for a fee. There is also complimentary parking available at the Colonial Williamsburg Regional Visitor Center, conveniently located on the resort’s shuttle route.

Will transportation be provided for exploring Williamsburg Village?
The three-day ticket to Colonial Williamsburg provided as part of your event registration includes access to the complimentary shuttle buses, which run in the Historic Area from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Shuttle routes begin at the Visitor Center and include stops at the Williamsburg Lodge and other highlights. Learn more specifics at ColonialWilliamsburg.com.

Will my dietary restrictions be accommodated in the provided meals?
Please note any dietary restrictions in your registration, and we will do our best to accommodate your food needs. If you have already registered, please contact us with your request. Remember that we may not be able to accommodate late changes.

I want to bring a travel companion, but he or she doesn’t want to attend the event. What room should I book?
If you plan to bring a spouse or other companion to Williamsburg, but this person does not wish to take part in the event, you will need to register for a single-occupancy room. If you and your guest plan to have separate beds, you will need to contact us so that we can ensure you are given correct accommodations.

I want to bring a travel companion, but he or she doesn’t want to attend the event. What is available for this guest to do?
The Williamsburg Lodge is conveniently located on the trolley route in Colonial Williamsburg, which allows access to myriad shopping and historical exhibits. Please note that any travel companions who are not registered for the Victoria event will have to purchase their own ticket to access certain attractions. Golfing, dining, and spa services are among the amenities available to guests staying at the hotel. For a full list, visit ColonialWilliamsburgHotels.com.

Who will I meet at the event?
Along with Victoria Editor-in-Chief Phyllis Hoffman DePiano, members of the magazine’s editorial staff  will also be present, and we are eager to meet you. To learn more about the panel of experts who will be joining us, preview our speakers.

What if I can’t make it to part of the event?
While we hope you are able to enjoy the entirety of the activities we’ve planned for our guests, we understand that there may be some time conflicts. You are free to arrive late or leave early from the event if you need to do so. However, there will be no discount to the cost of the event.

Does the Williamsburg Lodge have a pet policy or other restrictions?
While the hotel allows pets with the completion of a signed form and the payment of an additional fee, we ask that guests of A Victoria Event: The Art of Entertaining leave their furry friends at home with a loved one.

Is the event handicap accessible?
The Williamsburg Lodge is fully wheelchair accessible. If you require an ADA accessible room for your overnight stay, please indicate this in your registration form. If you’ve already registered, please contact us with your information. Please note that we may not be able to accommodate late changes. When exploring Colonial Williamsburg, many areas are accessible, but the resort recommends guests with disabilities contact them at 888-965-7254 for assistance.

What is the weather typically like in Williamsburg this time of year?
Williamsburg in November typically has an average high temperature of 62 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 40 degrees. We hope not to experience rain but suggest you check weather forecasts before packing. Please note that our activities will continue, rain or shine.


Have a question about this event? Contact us.

Colonial Williamsburg
Mimi Bremer Woodruff Collection
Colonial Williamsburg

*Postponed until further notice*