The allure of Bunny Mellon’s legendary estate, Oak Spring, is drawing an exclusive crowd to Virginia’s Hunt and Wine Country this June. Members of the VERANDA Design Society Gold are invited for an extraordinary insider journey, taking place from June 14 to June 16, 2026. This unique experience promises guests a deep dive into not just the stunning property, but the soul of design and American style that Bunny Mellon embodied.
Attendees will be granted exclusive access to explore the historic estate, which is nestled in the picturesque landscapes surrounding the Blue Ridge and Bull Run Mountains. With activities spanning tours of Bunny Mellon’s house, library, and gardens, participants can expect a blend of creativity and culture tailored just for them. From summer entertainment workshops to lectures about design, each moment is crafted for inspiration. Guests will also indulge in seasonal flavors of the Piedmont cuisine—nothing short of a culinary celebration awaits!
Exclusive Insights from Experts
Adding to the richness of the event, speakers include Peter Crane, President of the Oak Spring Garden Foundation, and Tony Willis, Head of the Library. Their insights promise to deepen the understanding of Mellon’s contributions to garden design and style, and the importance of the foundation she established. Each participant will also receive a copy of “The Enchanting Interiors of Bunny Mellon: Paintings by Snowy Campbell,” offering a take-home piece of the magic from Oak Spring.
The ticket price for this exclusive event is $3,500, which includes an opening reception hosted by VERANDA Editor in Chief, Steele Marcoux, expert-led workshops, and all meals (excluding dinner on June 14). It’s worth noting that the event will be held at various locations throughout Middleburg, highlighting the area’s charm. However, participants should prepare for additional hotel costs; accommodations have been specially reserved at The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, where a preferred rate can be attained with the booking code “VERANDA.”
Restoration and Growth at Oak Spring
In addition to this exciting event, the Oak Spring Garden Foundation is poised for growth and transformation. Founded by Rachel “Bunny” Mellon, the foundation aims to promote horticulture and landscape design, continuing Mellon’s legacy and inviting the community to engage with nature. For instance, the transformation of the Children’s Garden, originally laid out by Mellon herself, is underway to create a more child-friendly learning environment. Under the direction of Ginger Anderson, an education specialist with OSGF, children will have the opportunity to learn hands-on skills, such as harvesting and preserving seeds.
Moreover, the foundation is gearing up for a series of engaging events, including a Butterfly Walk featuring Monarch tagging on September 6 and the second Rokeby Community Festival on September 27. These gatherings will not only entertain but also educate attendees about nature and horticulture. There’s truly something to be said for reconnecting kids with the natural world, and this initiative aims to do just that.
As the Oak Spring Garden Foundation continues to enhance its programming and facilities, including new accessibility features and improved spaces for learning, it remains committed to fostering a love for the environment and gardening in the community. This aligns perfectly with Oak Spring’s overarching goal: bringing children and families closer to nature and enhancing their overall well-being.
For those who wish to partake in the wonders of Bunny Mellon’s estate and contribute to the ongoing legacy of the Oak Spring Garden Foundation, make a note of those key dates and reservations. This could be an enriching journey through history, nature, and design that no one will want to miss.