A significant aspect of this country’s beauty is found in the opportunity to work hard and pursue your individual version of the American Dream. For years, Steve Magiera had a desire to retire, but not in the traditional sense. He wanted to break free from the corporate life and build a legacy of his own by starting and cultivating his own business. His goal was to further secure his family’s future while providing jobs in and having a meaningful impact on his community.
Through careful research, Steve discovered a notable lack of affordable event options for the residents of North Florida. The region was in need of an accessible, yet elegant venue that could be easily converted for daytime or evening events, hosting an array of experiences from private parties to corporate gatherings to the most memorable of weddings. Having found the perfect piece of land, Steve simply needed a financial partner to stand behind him. North Avenue Capital stepped in with a loan structure that allowed Steve to see his vision become reality. Steve recalls,
“I feel so fortunate to have found NAC in 2017, as traditional lending options weren’t going to meet the unique requirements of this project.”
The subtleties of this rural business prevented Steve from gaining traction with traditional banks and financing sources. But after careful consideration, NAC caught his vision. After a thorough review and working closely with the USDA to fund a Rural Development loan, NAC Founder, Ben Chatraw, believed The Manor’s future could be something special.
“We take pride in the success of our borrowers and believe The Manor will have a lasting impact on the community and surrounding areas. Not only will Steve and his team create lasting memories for their guests, but they will contribute greatly to job and revenue growth for Clay County.”
NAC was ready when Steve found his diamond in the rough: a 42-acre, private woodland property located in Green Cove Springs, Florida. The rustic and natural setting was blessed with majestic southern oaks, an equestrian farm, a picturesque lake, and an elegant home that will be central to making memories for years to come. Steve remarked,
“I couldn’t imagine a better place to build my business. The grounds of The Manor feature lush landscaping, vibrant gardens, waterscapes, and a breathtaking stone terrace. Brides and visitors alike are stunned by the beauty that is tucked away in the rural areas of North Florida.”
Today, The Manor is North Florida’s newest premier wedding and event venue, combining elegant refinement and rustic beauty for one-of-a-kind celebrations. Weekends and weekdays are booking up fast with weddings and corporate events, team-building outings, and business meetings. Anyone interested in visiting the grounds or scheduling space for a private, corporate, or wedding event should visit https://themanor12oaks.com to inquire about booking.
