About Us
Our History
In 1950, James and Margaret Clifton purchased the property where The Virginia Cliffe Inn is now located in order to build a family home. The property on Mountain Road held a landmark farmhouse built in 1840. James who was a general contractor, dismantled the farmhouse, reclaimed the materials, and modeled the new home after George Washington’s former military headquarters in Newburgh, NY.
After raising their four children, Margaret and James Clifton opened their architecturally designed Georgian-style home as a Bed and Breakfast in 1997.
“My family considered recycling before it became the mainstream thing to do. The Virginia Cliffe Inn is constructed from wood reclaimed from an old farmhouse built on the property in the late 1800s.”
– Janice Clifton, Owner
The Virginia Cliffe Inn is Janice’s childhood home. She and her family have owned it since 1950. Janice loves to welcome all our guests and wedding couples and make them feel like part of the family. She learned the business of hospitality alongside her parents, working as the business administrator since 1998. Janice took over as CEO in 2007 and established the Inn as one of the region’s best loved wedding and event venues.
Janice also served for many years as director of St. Joseph’s Villa. Her passion is creating an excellent experience for each customer. Janice is very active in the local community and enjoys sharing The Virginia Cliffe Inn with our community partners.
Amanda Tolley
Event Director
As the Event Director at The Virginia Cliffe Inn, I am thrilled to be at the helm of creating moments that last a lifetime. With a wealth of experience in event management and a deep appreciation for the art of celebration, I am dedicated to making your dreams a reality.
My journey in event planning has been a labor of love, and I consider myself fortunate to have played a role in countless love stories and unforgettable gatherings. I understand that each event is a unique reflection of its hosts, and I’m committed to ensuring that your occasion is a true embodiment of your vision and style.
From weddings that radiate romance to corporate events that exude professionalism, I approach each occasion with precision, creativity, and a keen eye for detail. I aim to turn your aspirations into an impeccably executed event, where every element seamlessly weaves into your story.
In addition to my event management expertise, I find inspiration in the diversity of events and celebrations. From cultural traditions to contemporary trends, I am always eager to infuse new ideas and innovative concepts into my curated events.
I invite you to partner with me to create unforgettable memories at The Virginia Cliffe Inn. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, I’m here to ensure that your event is extraordinary.
Let’s begin planning your next remarkable occasion together. Reach out to me, and let’s turn your vision into a reality.
My goal at The Virginia Cliffe Inn is to create memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our door. With over 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry, my organizational skills and attention to detail ensure that the operations run smoothly and efficiently, from managing reservations to coordinating events. I thrive on building relationships with our guests and offering helpful advice on local attractions.
Event Manager
Andrew Melton is the Event Manager at The Virginia Cliffe Inn, where he oversees events to ensure smooth operations and an exceptional experience for all guests. With a master’s degree in education from VCU, Andy brings a unique perspective to his role, focusing on the details that make every event memorable. Having been involved in the wedding industry for most of his life, and as part owner of a second wedding venue, Andy has extensive experience managing events with care and precision. Outside of work, he enjoys gardening and finding peace and natural inspiration. Andy’s dedication to excellence is evident in every event he oversees at The Virginia Cliffe Inn.
Lesley Rae Schott
Social Media & Marketing Manager
Lesley is a dynamic social media and marketing professional with a passion for creativity and storytelling. Always up for a challenge, she brings fresh ideas and a keen eye for beauty to everything she does. As the driving force behind social media and marketing at the Virginia Cliffe Inn, Lesley crafts engaging content, builds connections, and ensures every event shines.
