Since Alan and I got engaged on November 3rd, our lives carried on as usual with work and home obligations, with the newly added stress of wedding planning. We didn’t really take any time to revel in our decision to commit to one another for a lifetime, and that didn’t feel just right. Just after the new year, we had the opportunity to check out one of Lexington’s newest of only a handful boutique hotel experiences. Origin Hotel is located in The Summit at Fritz Farm – about 45 minutes from our home in Winchester. In a relaxing and warm atmosphere, we enjoyed a little staycation away from home to really celebrate each other.
Treating Ourselves in Style
Origin has modern flare rooted in homey elements. Murals and cozy furniture weave together seamlessly with bourbon country elements. Our room, a corner king, had so much refreshing natural light that made the room a place we actually wanted to retreat to. Between the cozy king bed, sleek bathroom design, and extra casual seating, our room had some added surprises. One of the most unique parts about Origin Hotels is that they are dog friendly. That’s right – Frank got to experience his first staycation. The Pup Pack (shown below) gave him sweet treats and toys to keep him occupied in our weekend hideaway. The bowtie collar was also a nice touch. For just a $50 add-on, you can bring your furry friend with you during your stay. The package covers a room cleaning fee (our friends do have accidents some times!), dog bed + bowls, and a thoughtful guide showing pet-friendly businesses nearby.
Since February is the month of love, Origin offers a package to treat yourself and/or your travel buddies with a little bubbly and chocolate covered strawberries upon arrival. We took full advantage of popping the champagne to share as soon as we dropped our bags. Overall, the rooms are spacious, though not excessive, and the perfect fit for a night away.
A Night Out on the Town, Kind Of
After changing clothes, we headed to Happy Hour at 33 Staves. I had one of my favorite appetizers – maybe of all time – in the Chorizo Fritters. Plot twist – they were so delicious we ordered them again at brunch. We also tried the beer cheese which was served with toast and veggies. This quick stop made for the perfect fuel to do some shopping around The Summit at Fritz Farm. Before we closed our tab, we each had a cocktail of choice. Alan tried their signature drink, The Summit, made with Woodford, sorghum, and red wine. It packs a punch! After the break, we both got pedicures at Anthony Vince’ Nail Spa and I was lucky enough to try a blowout at Blo Blow Dry Bar. We did a little more damage at Ariat, Kendra Scott, Draper James, and Lululemon before heading back for dinner.
Someone got a little tired after all that shopping excitement, however, so I enjoyed a dinner at the bar with an awesome Maker’s Mark flight. I didn’t want to forget to mention 33 Staves’ awesome allergy menu. I have severe food allergies, but cannot stand being the obnoxious person who has to ask what’s safe for me to eat. Many restaurants flounder, bring out a chef, or create a really dramatic and embarrassing experience. 33 Staves has a very thoughtfully made binder that made it abundantly clear what was appropriate for my restrictions – with no shame.
After a seriously restful night’s sleep (thanks black out curtains), we got up to take on Sunday brunch. Before, however, I indulged in Origin’s in-room yoga kit. On many weekends, Origin has in-person yoga classes for only $5 led by esteemed community teachers. Still tired and a little groggy from the prior day’s bourbon tasting, I opted to receive the in-room kit – complete with a mat, straps, and blocks – to get in some stretching before our meal. This option is a remarkably thoughtful addition for those traveling who still like to think about their wellness. Origin’s hotel gym is also pretty special. Complete with the standard set up you would expect, they also have a TRX system and are working to bring in a Peloton bike. This news warmed my heart because hotel workouts are always my best ones!
A Weekend to Remember
Check out was at noon, just before we enjoyed brunch at 33 Staves. I had one of the best fried chicken salads, and Alan tried both the shrimp + grits and loaded omelet. We had more food than either of us knew what to do with. We certainly left Origin with full bellies and full hearts after a truly thoughtful retreat away from life’s responsibilities to celebrate together. It’s worth noting here that this wasn’t my first stay at Origin Lexington. On New Year’s Eve, we spontaneously booked a stay last minute so we could enjoy midnight celebrations without the pressure to call an expensive Uber ride home. After that celebratory evening, we packed up in a hurry to head off to pick up our pups and I walked out without my prized possession – my primary camera. After a moment of panic a few hours later, I was so grateful for the hotel staff who located my camera that had been tucked away in a dresser drawer and kept it safe until I could retrieve it. It wasn’t my finest moment, but I was extremely grateful for kind staff who went above and beyond to make sure I got back what I lost.
Ultimately, both Origin Hotel and The Summit at Fritz Farm are destinations for travels and staycationers alike. With so much to see, experience, eat, and drink, you certainly won’t be bored. It’s a change of pace to consider staying outside of downtown Lexington – where nice hotels have traditionally been located – and I am so thrilled to see this option come to Lexington with prime proximity to the Bluegrass Airport and Keeneland. I’ll be back at Origin in a few short weeks for a brunch and yoga series – you can’t keep me away!
This post has been sponsored, in part, by Origin Hotel and The Summit at Fritz Farm. Thank you for continuing to support the brands that make Space, Place & Southern Grace possible!
