Two children in festive clothes are using cookie cutters on dough on a floured table, with a rolling pin nearby.

Cookies, Cocktails & Cherished Traditions: Our Team Shares Their Holiday Favorites

Published on December 12, 2024


The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and cherished memories, and nowhere is that more evident than at Stonewall Resort.

For our team, the season is about more than just decorations—it’s about creating magic moments for our guests and embracing the traditions that make this time of year so special.

We’d love to share some of our favorite holiday memories and traditions with you from the people who bring the resort to life.

A Magical Holiday Wonderland

When the holiday season begins, our talented design team works its magic to transform the grand lobby into a festive wonderland.

For Sales Manager Shelley Gutta, the reds and golds of the holiday trees bring her back to childhood. “There’s just something classic about those colors,” she reflects, “and it reminds me of all those warm memories.”

Festive Gatherings and Family Moments

Many Stonewall Resort staff find that the holidays are about spending quality time with loved ones.

For Director of Golf Mike Rogers, Christmas Eve dinners and opening presents at his grandparents hold a special place in his heart. Outdoor Services Manager Charles Mullins echoes this sentiment, recalling the joy of gathering for dinner at his grandma’s house.

Meanwhile, Food & Beverage Director Joe Corcoglioniti gets into the holiday spirit as our resident Santa Claus, welcoming families and bringing smiles to children year after year. "It gives me so much pride and pleasure to care of the families and show them Stonewall," he says.

Crafting Memories Together

The holidays are a time for creating memories, and for Conference Services Supervisor Matt Stoddard, that means handmaking ornaments with his daughters at Amber Arts. “Each one is dated and added to our tree, making it extra special,” he shares. Similarly, Catering and Conference Planner Joseph Lanzy finds joy in decorating and wrapping presents, a tradition that makes every gift feel personal.

Spreading Cheer Beyond Our Walls

The holidays are also a time to give back, and Catering and Conference Planning Manager Reagan Goldberg finds meaning in doing just that.

“Every Christmas morning, my dad and I would visit the hospital where he worked and deliver treats and presents to the staff,” she recalls. “It was our way of showing appreciation for those working on the holiday.”

Celebrating Through Food and Festivities

For Executive Chef Corey Pickens, the holidays revolve around sharing good food and creating memorable meals.

“Sitting down for a fabulous meal with my family is my favorite part of the season,” he says. His passion extends to the incredible dishes his team creates for our guests, ensuring every visit feels like a celebration.

Adding a playful twist to holiday traditions, Conference Floor Supervisor Mason Lovett enjoys concocting new Christmas cocktails—a festive way to bring cheer to the season.

Music, Memories, and Nostalgia

Music is another beloved part of the holidays for the team. Sales Manager Robin Poling fondly remembers singing Christmas carols with her neighbors.

“Back in the day, we had horses, and so we would hook up the horses to the wagon and put a little straw on, and gather the neighborhood kids and go around our little neighborhood and sing Christmas carols,” she says, painting a picture of holiday nostalgia.

Whether it's carols or family gatherings, the season is full of opportunities to create lasting memories.

Holiday Traditions That Spark Joy

General Manager Andre D’Amour summarizes the season perfectly: “For me, the holidays are about decorating the resort and seeing the joy on our guests’ faces as they take it all in.” His passion for creating memorable experiences reflects the heart of Stonewall Resort’s holiday spirit.

Join Us for a Holiday to Remember

From the warmth of our lobby’s holiday décor to the heartfelt traditions of our team, Stonewall Resort is the perfect place to celebrate the season. Whether you’re here to sing carols, sip festive cocktails, or soak in the magic of the holidays, we can’t wait to share this special time with you. All of us at Stonewall Resort wish you and yours a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and cherished traditions.

Image of a promotional banner for Stonewall Resort, West Virginia's lakeside conference center, with a call to action.


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