How Elysian Came to Be
The Beginning
This property was formerly known as “The Toasted Marshmallow,” I saw it in an email that I receive everyday, with potential investment properties.
Any time I saw one in Virginia, I would take a look at it because that’s where I am from.
It caught my attention with its unique architecture, so we went to see it. In fact, we stayed in it as guests because it was previously a live short-term rental.
We fell in love. With the creeks. With the quirkiness. With the fire pit. With the reading shack. With the dome. All of it.
So we made an offer. 🤍✨
And the rest, they say, is history.
Meet the Founder
Ali is the founder of Elysian and the creative force behind its artful, family-centered retreats.
She is heavily involved in the short-term rental world, creating brands and marketing strategies for properties across the United States under her other brand, Brand & Market, as well as hosting The Brand & Market Podcast.
She named the property Elysian because it felt like a quiet little slice of paradise the first time she visited.
She has been hosting for almost seven years, across three states. She designs every stay to feel less like a rental and more like a story you get to step into.
Luna, the first rental at Elysian, is just the beginning.
Meet the Team
Caleb, my husband, has installed the dishwasher, repaired floor joists, set up a stargazing dome in 12 degree weather.
Huxley, our daughter, has created artwork for the walls.
Jackson, our middle son, has gathered sticks and loaded trash.
Emerson, our youngest, has pressure tested every form of kid-proofing we have.
Even our parents have a hand in making this property come to life. If you or your children enjoy the bunk beds - thank the world’s best Pop, my dad!
What’s Important to Us
Every detail is chosen with care, so guests feel held, welcomed, and at ease from the first message to the final farewell.
Intentional Hospitality
Connection Over Consumption
We prioritize shared moments and meaningful experiences over more, encouraging families to slow down and be fully present together.
Story-Led Design
From hand-painted murals to quiet corners, our spaces are shaped to invite imagination, calm, and connection.
Explore our other properties.
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The Commonwealth
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky bourbon country, The Commonwealth offers a gracious home base just minutes from some of the Bourbon Trail’s most celebrated distilleries.
With spacious living areas and room to reconnect, it’s an inviting stay made for large groups, annual trips, and memorable moments shared together.
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Homestead at Cunningham Creek
Nestled in Fluvanna County just outside Charlottesville, The Homestead at Cunningham Creek is a warm, family-friendly retreat in the heart of Virginia wine country.
Surrounded by rolling countryside and just minutes from local wineries and wedding venues, it’s designed for gathering — with spacious living areas, cozy porches, and plenty of room for both kids and grown-ups to feel like they’re living their own “good ole days.”
