There’s a new kid on the block in Prince George’s County Maryland, and with the name Wellspring Manor & Spa, I want to be their new friend. Nestled in a quiet suburban neighborhood only 15 miles from downtown DC, hidden down a long private driveway, and sitting on 7+ acres of natural bliss, Wellspring Manor & Spa is the newest and only all-inclusive luxury retreat property in this affluent MD county.
PG County is the second-most populous county in Maryland (according to the U.S. Census) and one of the richest upper-middle class African-American majority counties in the United States. I was thrilled to be invited for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the new black-owned property before their official grand opening this Fall.
I wouldn’t have even known it was there, as I passed the entrance the first time and circled back around the neighborhood cul-de-sac. Before reaching the end of the street, I eyed a mailbox at the end of a white fence and driveway, and noticed the correct address reflected on its side. As I drove slowly down the wooded pathway, a large inviting manor with a bright red door greeted me around the bend. A few more standalone structures sat on the property, which I would later learn were The Barn – a multipurpose event space and The Spa Sanctuary – a serene guest-only boutique spa for the “well-ness” to happen.
Though the property was still putting the final touches on the guest rooms and spa during my tour, I could see the vision that owners and hosts Lisa and Kevin Alexander have in store for their guests, taking shape within each uniquely appointed room. This husband and wife team are avid business and community leaders in Prince George’s County.
This boutique property has 5 luxuriously appointed guest suites consisting of 1 King Suite, 3 Queen Suites, and 1 Double-Bedded Suite, which can ultimately sleep a total of 12 guests if booking the entire manor for an intimate group gathering. Each suite has a different amenity or feature that sets it apart from the others. For example, the Alexander Suite boasts a deep soaking tub and fireplace, while the Serenity Suite is technology free for the traveler who wants to unplug.
Common areas such as the Living Room, Dining Room, and Baldwin Room (library named after the American novelist and playwright James Baldwin), provide an opportunity for guests to socialize, or find a quiet space to themselves. The lowest level of the property has a jazz club vibe to it and houses the Coltrane Room, for live jazz performances, and the Wine Cellar. During the summer months, the in-ground pool and outdoor patio areas are sure to be a guest favorite. The destination also houses a wide collection of art, featuring local and national artists.
![Screenshot_2018-11-05 Wellspring Manor and Spa on Instagram “Curious where this beautiful #workofart can be found Visit us [...]](https://hisincorporated.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/screenshot_2018-11-05-wellspring-manor-and-spa-on-instagram-e2809ccurious-where-this-beautiful-workofart-can-be-found-visit-us.png?w=418&h=401)
I wanted to learn more about the inspiration behind Wellspring Manor & Spa, so I had a Q&A chat with the hostess, Lisa Alexander:
“Wellspring: It’s a word that evokes wellness, restoration, and relaxation.”
Q1: What was your inspiration behind opening a luxury retreat destination?
A1: My question back to you would be “why not?”, as opposed to why. I like doing things that haven’t been done before, and PG County is a great destination, it is currently without a luxury retreat destination and is a great place to visit.
Q2: Who is your target traveler?
A2: Affluent travelers of color. The industry does not currently reflect that clientele, in the music, food, and overall experience does not currently reflect an appeal to that demographic in the luxury retreat destination market.
Q3: What will make Wellspring different from traditional retreat destinations?
A3: It will be a cultural destination that showcases art, music, literature, and creates a diverse cultural environment.
Q4: What does Wellspring mean to you? What’s the meaning behind the name?
A5: It’s a word that evokes wellness, restoration, and relaxation. Spring reflects water, there is a creek on the property, and water has a healing property to it. Wellspring is a place where people can relax, rejuvenate, and creates a space for promoting health and wellness amongst guests with organic, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free cuisine options, in addition to a wellness spa.
Q5: What types of treatments and products can guests expect from the spa?
A5: We are currently in discussion with local and national product line vendors. Looking to feature high quality packaging and products, and to keep the menu options simple. We will also plan special spa themed events.
Wellspring has hosted a few special events, such as an evening of Jazz, Art, and Wine, and a Jamaica Independence Celebration and Art Exhibit, but doors officially opened to its first round of guests on Friday, November 2, 2018.
The Wellspring Experience opening weekend itinerary included a welcome reception with cuisine by Executive Chef Danielle Harris, rejuvenation day at the Spa Sanctuary, live jazz performance in the Coltrane Room, and a sumptuous Sunday brunch.
Check out my short video compilation that highlights the relaxing and jazzy vibe at Wellspring Manor & Spa:
Ready to book your own Wellspring Experience retreat? Learn more about the property at: www.wellspringmanor.com.
The H.I.S Agency, LLC 