Meet the Team

A Tribute to Our Richwood Team

As the owner of Richwood on the River, I have the privilege of working alongside a truly incredible team who go above and beyond to ensure that every couple’s special day is nothing short of perfection. They are the heartbeat of our operations, and their dedication is what transforms our space into a beautiful, seamless celebration for every bride, groom, and their loved ones.

Let me take a moment to introduce the hardworking members of our venue team and highlight the roles they play in making each wedding day memorable.

Event Specialists

Our event coordinators are the backbone of the day’s success. From the first consultation to the final farewell, they are there every step of the way, ensuring that every detail is in place. On the big day, they’re the ones overseeing the entire schedule—timing the ceremony (if you did not hire a wedding planner), coordinating with vendors, and making sure everything runs smoothly. Their calm, organized approach ensures that the couple can relax and enjoy every moment without worrying about logistics.

Kelsey Spence

Event Specialist

I was born and raised in a small town in Southeastern Indiana, now I live in Cincy (yes, I make the 1.5 hour drive to Richwood every other weekend). A graduate of Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, NC, I majored in baking and pastry arts with a concentration in event management. Working in events quickly became a passion of mine.

After meeting Colleen in 2015, I began assisting her with weddings for her business Ava Rose Event Design. That October, Colleen purchased Richwood and I was thrilled to join her next business venture.

My husband and I were married at Richwood in 2018 and welcomed a baby girl in 2021. Richwood holds so many special memories for my family and I, all thanks to the hard work and love of Colleen and Ward. It’s been wonderful being a part of this incredible journey at Richwood.


Lucy Higgins

Event Specialist

Though a native of central Kentucky, my family and I moved to Madison, IN going into my freshman year of high school. I was familiar with the beauty of Richwood and as its reputation grew as a top notch wedding venue with Colleen at the helm, I had my heart set on getting married there. So the day after my now-husband proposed, I called Colleen to book our dream day. And it was exactly that – one of the most fun, relaxed, and love-filled days of our lives.

Following that, my husband and I relocated from coast to coast (literally – Indiana to Washington to North Carolina) for my job as a sport psychologist on contract with the US Army. Our daughter was born in North Carolina and we quickly decided family was what we needed most. Though I once vowed I’d never move back to Indiana, we are so thrilled to be back close to family and in an area we love. What’s made it all the more exciting for me has been my chance to reconnect with Colleen. I now work as an Event Specialist at Richwood, which gives me the chance to learn from the best and get paid to do things I just love to do – plan, organize, decorate, help others and, most importantly, ensure people have some of the BEST moments they can imagine.



Wedding Assistants

The wedding assistants are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, making sure that everything looks flawless. From setting up the ceremony and reception spaces to ensuring the smooth flow of the evening, they handle every task with precision. Whether it’s talking with a vendor, placing decor in just the right area, or helping with last-minute adjustments, our venue assistants make sure the venue is ready to host a perfect celebration.

Annette Troescher

Wedding Planner / Ladyhawk Events

Hi, I’m Annette — event and wedding planner with 15+ years experience. I believe every event should feel like *you* — full of joy, personality, and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a dreamy wedding, a chic corporate gathering, or a fabulous birthday bash, I’m here to make sure it’s stress-free, stylish, and oh-so-fun.

With a passion for details (and a soft spot for sparkly things and feathers), I’m all about turning your vision into reality — and making the planning process just as exciting as the big day itself. Let’s dream big, laugh a lot, and create memories that last a lifetime!

When I’m not planning epic events, you can find me hunting for the best coffee shops, attending car shows and road tripping.

Contact Annette
PH: 513-675-3268
LadyhawkEvents.com


Melissa Lohr

Wedding Planner / Beautiful Memories Wedding & Event Planning

Melissa is a Professional Wedding Planner and Travel Advisor. With nearly two decades of experience, I bring a deep understanding of the wedding and romance industry. I possess a logistical talent for wedding and event planning, offering personalized and seamless coordination from conception to execution, with a focus on attention to detail, client satisfaction, and overall guest experience. Skilled in multitasking, time management, and navigating complex situations, I thrive in high-pressure environments, balancing both technical precision and creative vision to deliver exceptional results. I value connection and inclusion.

Contact Melissa
PH: 419-944-0157
BeautifulMemoriesWedding.com



Lead Bartender

Our lead bartender is the one who keeps guests happy throughout the event. From serving signature cocktails to pouring champagne, she ensures that every drink is served promptly and with care. Her attention to detail and friendly demeanor help create an atmosphere where everyone feels well taken care of, making the reception feel like a seamless extension of the love and joy in the air.

Helenna Hayes

Lead Bartender

My name is Helenna Hayes, and I am a cocktail specialist and business owner with a passion for crafting unique beverage experiences. As a world traveler and adventurous spirit, I embrace new cultures and flavors, which inspires my cocktail creations. I’m also a wife, mother and grandmother who loves spending time with friends and family, along with the fur babies on my farm. Always fun and outgoing, I strive to bring positive energy and creativity into everything I do.



Room Amenities Specialist

One of the key ingredients to creating a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience is attention to detail—and that’s exactly what this role brings to the table. As the person responsible for ensuring that all the room amenities are perfectly placed and thoughtfully arranged, they are the unsung heroes who elevate the overall guest experience in ways that may go unnoticed by most, but are truly appreciated by all.

Lexi Pender

Room Amenities Specialist

Hello! My name is Lexi. It’s a pleasure to be a part of this amazing team here at Richwood. I have been at Richwood since 2019. I was raised most of my life right here in Trimble County along the beautiful Ohio River and I loved seeing this property as I grew up. Little did I know that years down the road I would be given the opportunity to help couples dream weddings come true. Working here has been an amazing journey and I look forward to helping all of our guests create lasting memories of being at Richwood on the River.



Personal Assistant and Linen Specialist

At Richwood on the River, every member of our team plays a pivotal role in crafting unforgettable experiences for our couples and their guests. This team member goes above and beyond to ensure that everything is in perfect order and that our couples’ visions come to life seamlessly. They play an integral role in the success of our weddings, and we are beyond fortunate to have them as part of our team. Hard work, passion, and attention to detail elevate every event we host, and we are so grateful for everything they have done to make each couple’s day a dream come true.

Aubree Turnbull

Personal Assistant and Linen Specialist

Hello! My name is Aubree and I was raised in beautiful Madison, IN right across the bridge. I started working at Richwood in 2022 as needed and officially brought onto the team in 2024. I want to make sure that your day goes as smoothly as possible. I also assist Lexi to ensure that your rooms are fresh and look amazing. Your day being its best is my job! I love working in this industry and getting to work with everyone here at Richwood. Richwood is like a second home to me and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.




UPCOMING RETREAT

An Invitation to Return to Yourself

June 12-14, 2026

1233 Hwy 36 Milton, KY

Rest. Recharge. Reconnect.

A soulful retreat at Richwood on the River.  Curated & Hosted by Colleen

You are lovingly invited to step away from the noise, the pressure, the constant giving—and come home. This retreat is a sacred pause. A space to rest your body, quiet your mind, and hear your own soul again.

We’ll gather at this river-hugged sanctuary to slow down, soften, and breathe.

Together, we will explore:

  • Intentional rest and unhurried quiet
  • Vulnerability and safe, gentle sharing
  • The art of manifestation through reflection, creativity, and voice
  • Meditation, yoga, sound, and stillness as sacred tools for reconnection
  • Food that nourishes body, mind, and spirit
  • The feeling of coming home—to yourself, to Source, to your truth

Private Room: $1,500.00

Shared Room (double occupancy): $1,100.00

Commuter “Day Pass” (no lodging): $500.00
Friday evening Soundbath / Meditation and all day Saturday after breakfast

Spaces are limited, to preserve intimacy

For inquiries and details email Colleen: colleenRsutton@gmail.com


You don’t need to be “ready.” You don’t need to be fixed. You only need to arrive—exactly as you are. Come be held. Come be witnessed. Come remember who you are.

An Invitation to Return to Yourself

June 12-14, 2026

1233 Hwy 36 Milton, KY

Rest. Recharge. Reconnect.

A soulful retreat at Richwood on the River. Curated & Hosted by Colleen

You are lovingly invited to step away from the noise, the pressure, the constant giving—and come home. This retreat is a sacred pause. A space to rest your body, quiet your mind, and hear your own soul again.

We’ll gather at this river-hugged sanctuary to slow down, soften, and breathe.

Together, we will explore:

  • Intentional rest and unhurried quiet
  • Vulnerability and safe, gentle sharing
  • The art of manifestation through reflection, creativity, and voice
  • Meditation, yoga, sound, and stillness as sacred tools for reconnection
  • Food that nourishes body, mind, and spirit
  • The feeling of coming home—to yourself, to Source, to your truth

Private Room: $1,500.00

Shared Room (double occupancy): $1,100.00

Commuter “Day Pass” (no lodging): $500.00
Friday evening Soundbath / Meditation and all day Saturday after breakfast

Spaces are limited, to preserve intimacy

For inquiries and details email Colleen: colleenRsutton@gmail.com

You don’t need to be “ready.” You don’t need to be fixed. You only need to arrive—exactly as you are. Come be held. Come be witnessed. Come remember who you are.

Agenda


Day One:

Arrival | Coming Home to Self
Theme: Grounding. Softening. Opening.

2:00–4:00 PM – Arrival & Check-In
• Gentle welcome, herbal tea or infused water
• Scented towel, grounding essential oil ritual
• Select Intention Candle
• Private time to settle into rooms and surroundings

4:30 PM – Opening Circle: Intention & Vulnerability
• Candle-lit circle, gentle introductions
• Invitation to speak into existence what’s ready to shift

6:00 PM – Nourishing Dinner
• Seasonal, intentional meal designed to calm the nervous system
• Candlelight, soft music, minimal conversation

7:30 PM – Evening Ceremony: Guided Meditation & Sound Bath
• Settle the body, quiet the mind
• Guided Visualization on Setting Intentions & Breathwork / Amy Noel
• Sound Bath Immersion / Amy Noel

9:00 PM – Return to Silence & Rest
• Optional journal prompts, herbal sleep support


Day Two:

Deepening | Receiving and Releasing
Theme: Stillness. Listening. Transformation.

8:00 AM – Morning Movement & Meditation / Amy Noel
• Gentle yoga or embodied breathwork
• Meditation focused on receptivity

9:00 AM – Nourishing Breakfast
• Wholesome, simple, intentionally served

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Workshop: The Art of Manifestation / Colleen
• Visioning practices, journaling, collective wisdom
• Speaking desires aloud, co-creation circle

12:30 PM – Lunch
• Light, vibrant, cleansing foods

2:00–4:00 PM – Solo Reflection Time
• Choose your own adventure: journal by the pool, nap, walk the grounds, optional bodywork

4:30 PM – Group Practice: Yoga Nidra / Lucy Higgins
• Guided meditation centered around what your body needs and sensations received
• Calming the nervous system through deep relaxation

6:30 PM – Dinner & Connection
• More communal, optional deeper sharing

8:00 PM – Fire Ceremony: Letting Go
• Write and release what no longer serves
• Ritual by fire, under the stars
• Guitarist / Communal Singing / Amy Noel


Day Three:

Integration | Remembering Your Path
Theme: Clarity. Integration. Renewal.

7:30 AM – Sunrise Meditation or Optional Silence / Colleen

8:30 AM – Breakfast & Gentle Conversation

10:00 AM – Closing Circle: A Clearer Path / Colleen
• Guided reflection
• Personal next steps and spoken commitments
• Closing blessing, small take-home tokens or notes

12:30–2:00 PM – Departures



Richwood on the River 2026 SCROLLTEST


Richwood on the River 2026

KENTUCKY ESTATE WEDDING VENUE

A Historic Wedding &
Event Venue

Richwood on the River is a wedding & event venue located near Madison, IN ~ offering the rare experience of a space that is entirely yours for the whole weekend.

Created to host

At Richwood on the River, hosting isn’t just a service – it’s our nature. Since 2015, we’ve walked intentionally alongside every couple and client who has chosen these historic grounds, honoring not just their timeline, but their story. The heart of Richwood is simple: we create space for you to be fully present, to trust the process, to exhale, and to celebrate surrounded by beauty that feels both grand and deeply personal.

MOBILE SLIDER START

MOBILE SLIDER END

Weddings

From the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony and reception, every moment takes place on one beautiful property, so you and your guests never have to leave. Let us cater to you as we bring the wedding of your dreams to life.

RICHWOOD WEDDINGS

Retreats

This historic property offers a collection of tranquil spaces set against sweeping views of rolling hills and the Ohio River, creating the perfect setting to unplug, reconnect, and gather with intention. Every corner invites reflection, meaningful conversation, and moments you’ll cherish long after you leave.

BRING YOUR GROUP

Events

With a mix of open-air gathering spaces, historic accommodations, and room to shape the event your way, Richwood is designed for meaningful moments-whether you’re hosting a retreat, celebration, or private event.

EVENTS AT RICHWOOD

Our Team

The heart of Richwood is truly the team behind it.

MEET THE TEAM

Our Team

The heart of Richwood is truly the team behind it.

MEET THE TEAM

Lodging & Amenities

Lodging & Amenities

Richwood offers the unique experience of a venue that can accommodate up to 50 overnight guests. Our property provides the opportunity to host your event and guests all in the same place!

  • 13 sleeping rooms
  • Wireless internet
  • Indoor & outdoor gathering spaces
  • Carriage House event space
  • Variety of tables
  • Mahogany Chiavari chairs
  • Outdoor pool & hot tub
  • 2 Outdoor Fireplaces
  • On-site venue manager
  • Beautifully manicured grounds
  • 13 sleeping rooms
  • Wireless internet
  • Indoor & outdoor gathering spaces
  • Carriage House event space
  • Variety of tables
  • Mahogany Chiavari chairs
  • Outdoor pool & hot tub
  • 2 Outdoor Fireplaces
  • On-site venue manager
  • Beautifully manicured grounds

Please Note:

Check in is between 2pm and 5pm on the day of your arrival. Early and late check in’s need to be approved by management in advance.

Breakfast is served in the main house between the hours of 9am and 10am

Richwood Event Guest Roster

Richwood on the River honors all people with respect, compassion, and grace and holds themselves to the highest standards of customer service. We help create memories that will last a lifetime .

Rooms & Suites


Riverview Mansion Room

Riverview Mansion Room

Richwood Mansion Suite

Richwood Mansion Suite

Tasha Mansion Suite

Tasha Mansion Suite

McKinley Mansion Room

McKinley Mansion Room

Rosemary Mansion Room

Rosemary Mansion Room

Cabins & Cottages


Summer Cottage

Summer Cottage

Bunkhouse Cabin One

Bunkhouse Cabin One

Bunkhouse Cabin Two

Bunkhouse Cabin Two

Bunkhouse Cabin Three

Bunkhouse Cabin Three

Mountain View Cabin One

Mountain View Cabin One

Mountain View Cabin Two

Mountain View Cabin Two

Apartments


Carriage House Apartment One

Carriage House Apartment One

Carriage House Apartment Two

Carriage House Apartment Two

Check in is between 2pm and 5pm on the day of your arrival. Early and late check in’s need to be approved by management in advance. 

WINTER RATES 25% DISCOUNT

Breakfast is served in the main house between the hours of 9am and 10am

*Please Note: We do require a two night minimum stay. We do this to ensure that guests have a relaxing and enjoyable stay at our inn, without the noise and commotion of housekeeping, and guests checking in and out throughout the day. Our Peak Season includes the day and/or weekend of: Valentine’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July Fourth, Ribberfest, Labor Day, Chautauqua, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Please inquire about special pricing for these holidays.


Retreats

Retreats & Events

Richwood on the River is perfect for an array of event and retreat styles:

Richwood on the River is the destination retreat facility right in your own backyard. The historic property offers many tranquil spaces with beautiful views of rolling hills and the Ohio River which is just across the street. There is an in-ground swimming pool, a hot tub, and other amenities for your comfort.

  • Celebration Retreats
  • Corporate Retreats
  • Couples Retreats
  • Crafts & Writing
  • Educational
  • Family Reunions
  • Health & Wellness
  • Leadership Retreats
  • Non-Profit Events
  • Religious & Spiritual
  • Team Building
  • Weddings

Tour our facility

Take a private tour of our facilities to view all that Richwood on the River has to offer. Tours are by appointment only. Contact us for availability

Download our printable Retreats Brochure

Richwood on the River honors all people with respect, compassion, and grace and holds themselves to the highest standards of customer service. We help create memories that will last a lifetime .

Richwood Retreats Photo Gallery


Contact

Contact us

We look forward to making your stay special

Contact via email:

Send inquires to colleenRsutton@gmail.com

Contact us by Phone

Call us anytime: 502.663.2748

Our address

1233 Highway 36
Milton KY 40045


 

About us

About us

Owning Richwood on the River is truly a blessing. Let me share part of that story with you.

My first visit to Richwood was back in 2009 when I was assisting a very good friend with a wedding on the property. I immediately fell in love … how can you not??!! I even mentioned to the innkeeper that if he ever wanted to retire, to PLEASE contact me! Fast forward a few years and I was lucky enough to be hired by a couple that booked Richwood on my recommendation and I was so excited to be able to come back and help create beautiful memories at this location. My mother was in town visiting and I knew that she would also appreciate the beauty that Richwood holds and we decided to take a day trip to Milton, KY and Madison, IN.

As soon as we pulled into the driveway, she held her breath and took in the sights of the property. We enjoyed time walking the property and speaking to the groundskeeper. When we were done and getting back into the car to continue our day with lunch in Madison, IN, my mother became very quiet and seemed reflective about something or some thought. I quietly asked her if everything was okay. She looked at me and reached over to touch my arm and quietly said, “You are going to own this place someday.”

Well mom … you were right. Sadly, my mother passed away on November 27, 2012 and did not witness the whirlwind adventure of becoming the owner of this incredible venue … however it is my truth that she had a hand in every step that it took to make my dream a reality. With her guidance and the faith in GOD that we were moving in the right direction, on October 1, 2015 … Richwood on the River became my Dream Come True.

I have been in the events industry since I was 14 years old. It is in my blood and there is nothing else that I would rather do. I believe that if everyone did what brings them JOY … this world would be the most incredible place! I look forward to serving as your host here at Richwood on the River, whether you are coming for an overnight B&B getaway or staying the weekend to celebrate a most wondrous occasion, we hope that you arrive in awe and leave with memories to last a lifetime.

Meet the Team


Colleen Sutton

Owner/Operator

Being the owner/operator for Richwood on the River is a dream come true. A wonderful friend said to me during this process, “If your dreams don’t scare you, then you are not dreaming BIG enough!” I hold on to those words daily. Thanks Tania!

I hope to inspire my daughter, Ava Rose, to fully understand to follow her dreams and to always do what truly makes her happy. The money will follow. Hearing the laughter in the walls of the mansion from guests enjoying the warmth of a fire and the love of family and friends … is exactly what my hopes were and are for this property.

I love sharing my home with you and hope to have my small part in creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Kelsey Spence

Event Manager/ InnKeeper

Kelsey Spence (Stenger) was born and raised in a small town in Southeastern Indiana. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, NC, she majored in baking and pastry arts with a concentration in event management. While in school, she took courses in wedding planning and special events and immediately fell in love with the industry.

Kelsey met Colleen in 2015 after she moved back to Indiana and began assisting Colleen with weddings for her business Ava Rose Event Design. That October Colleen purchased Richwood and Kelsey was more than happy to join the team.

Fast forward to 2018- Kelsey got married (at Richwood of course) and moved to the Cincinnati area to be closer to her husband’s job. She left her position at Richwood and started working in downtown Cincy. However, she missed working with all of our amazing wedding couples and guests, and decided to return! She has now resumed her role as Event & Social Manager and couldn’t be more thrilled to be back with her Richwood family and friends.


Alexus “Lexi” Pender.

Venue Manager

It’s a pleasure to be a part of this amazing team, we have here at Richwood. I’ve been a part of this team since 2019. My duties here include being an Events Manager/ Innkeeper.

I love the opportunities I have been given, to be able to work all the different events. It’s a blessing to be able to meet with everyone and to be able to make their day very special! We look forward to seeing you, and to help in any way possible!

I have lived in Trimble county almost all of my life. I am in my 20’s currently getting a degree in visual communications mainly focusing on graphic design at Ivy Tech Community College. I am a lover of animals, art, and flowers!


CHERISH PACKAGE

Cherish Package

Richwood on the River is your ideal destination for your Week Day Wedding. Experience everything Richwood on the River has to offer with two full days on the property! Our Cherish Package entitles you to the private use of Richwood on the River from noon on Tuesday until noon on Thursday.

Richwood on the River can accommodate:

  • 170 guest maximum for indoor winter events (December-March)
  • 220 guest maximum for indoor Carriage House events
  • 300 guest maximum for outdoor tented events (tent rental not included)

Your Rental Includes:

  • Initial planning meeting and property walk
  • Final details meeting scheduled 30 days prior to your event date
  • Our newly-renovated Carriage House Event Space & breezeway with 2 outdoor fireplaces
  • Seasonal in-ground swimming pool & pool area and all-season hot tub
  • Event Specialist with access to timeline & layout software
  • Continental breakfast for up to 50 guests on Saturday
  • Outdoor wedding ceremony sites on our beautifully manicured grounds
  • Coffee & donuts for up to 50 guests on Sunday
  • Suites for getting ready
  • Set up and tear down tables and chairs for ceremony & event areas
  • Standard poly floor-length linens & poly napkins for up to 220 guests
  • Durable white garden chairs for outdoor ceremony (220)
  • Mahogany Chiavari chairs (220)
  • 6ft banquet tables (5)
  • 5ft round tables (22)
  • 4ft round cake & sweetheart tables (2)
  • 8ft banquet tables (4)
  • High cocktail tables (4)
  • Ice for all scheduled events
  • Restroom Amenity Baskets
  • Card box & table numbers
  • Parking Attendants
  • Exclusive Caterers & Preferred Vendor List

Richwood on the River is in close proximity to local vineyards, eateries, shops, and additional lodging for you and your guest’s convenience.

Cost: $12,000 – plus 7% tax and $750 booking fee

DOWNLOAD OUR PRINTABLE BROCHURE & PRICE LIST

AVA ROSE PACKAGE

Ava Rose Package

With this serene location on the Ohio River, our versatile amenities, and historic accommodations, Richwood on the River is the perfect setting for your extraordinary event. Let us cater to you as we create the wedding of your dreams. Our Ava Rose Package entitles you to the private use of Richwood on the River from Friday noon until Sunday noon. This package includes overnight accommodations for up to 50 guests for 2 nights.

Richwood on the River can accommodate:

  • 170 guest maximum for indoor winter events (December-March)
  • 220 guest maximum for indoor Carriage House events
  • 300 guest maximum for outdoor tented events (tent rental not included)

Your Rental Includes:

  • Initial planning meeting and property walk
  • Final details meeting scheduled 30 days prior to your event date
  • Our newly-renovated Carriage House Event Space & breezeway with 2 outdoor fireplaces
  • Seasonal in-ground swimming pool & pool area and all-season hot tub
  • Event Specialist with access to timeline & layout software
  • Continental breakfast for up to 50 guests on Saturday
  • Suites for getting ready
  • Outdoor wedding ceremony sites on our beautifully manicured grounds
  • Coffee & donuts for up to 50 guests on Sunday
  • Set up and tear down tables and chairs for ceremony & event areas
  • Standard poly floor-length linens & poly napkins for up to 220 guests
  • Durable white garden chairs for outdoor ceremony (220)
  • Mahogany Chiavari chairs (220)
  • 6ft banquet tables (5)
  • 4ft round cake & sweetheart tables (2)
  • 5ft round tables (22)
  • 8ft banquet tables (4)
  • High cocktail tables (4)
  • Restroom Amenity Baskets
  • Card box, table numbers, & easels
  • Ice for all scheduled events
  • Parking Attendants
  • Exclusive Caterers & Preferred Vendor List

Richwood on the River is in close proximity to local vineyards, eateries, shops and additional lodging for you and your guest’s convenience.

May- October: $18,500*
April & November: $14,000*
December- March: $12,000*
*plus 7% tax and $750 booking fee

DOWNLOAD OUR PRINTABLE BROCHURE & PRICE LIST