The following story was written by Denise Schultz and published in the November, 2010 issue of The Spirit of Geneva Lakes.

“OMG!” Have you heard about Lake Geneva’s new hot spot? Well, actually, the destination isn’t new at all. In fact, it happens to be the most historic mansion town, built in 1856. But, having been transformed several times over the years, Golden Oaks Mansion is now the new home of Lake Geneva’s first authentic Tea Room, first specialty cupcake shop, and first martini lounge. And, as if that’s not enough, there are also luxury overnight accommodations and private event rentals available. Since 2002, owner Nancy Golden Waspi has been listening to and evaluating feedback from her inn and restaurant clientele, as well as the community at large, and applying her business acumen to reinvent the destination that she has heard people are seeking. And for those who have been following her story, I am pleased to report she has slightly reinvented, or perhaps more appropriate – reclaimed herself in the process. As I visited with Nancy in front of a cozy fireplace in the newly renovated Tea Room, I looked into the crystal blue eyes of a strong business woman with renewed clarity and a positive vision of her future. She has a dedicated team in place and is pleased to offer this combination of unique hospitality options for both local residents and visitors.

“Both the locals and our out of town guests have expressed interest in the increasing trends toward specialty teas and the health benefits they offer, as well as elegantly served scones, cupcakes and fresh baked goods,” Nancy says. “With the amount of traveling I do, I can really appreciate how much people enjoy the ability to enjoy their favorite beverages and appetizers in our relaxing atmosphere and feel as if it’s a home away from home,” she adds.

Once a formal dining room in which historical figures such as Dr. Philip Maxwell, Ulysses S. Grant and Former First Lady Nancy Reagan dined, The Tea Room at Golden Oaks Mansion is a delightful intermingling of historic charm and trendy tea house atmosphere. While some guests enjoy browsing the selection of antique tea pots, cups and more throughout the Tea Room and grand parlor, others may prefer to sit near one of the cozy fireplaces with their laptop computers and take advantage of the available WIFI and jazzy music playing from the Bose system. Tea cups, canisters, gift baskets, loose leaf teas and specialty gift items are available for purchase.

The Tea Room carries over 14 loose leaf teas from around the world, each served with a pot of water, boiled to the perfect temperature, with a timer set to steep the tea for the recommended time for that specific blend. Each guest chooses his or her own cup from a variety of styles and sizes inside a lovely antique pantry. Those who order tea also receive a complimentary homemade lavender butter cookie, courtesy of OMG Cupcakes. What is that?

On October 15, The Tea Room at Golden Oaks Mansion became the home of the new OMG Cupcakes, featuring decadent cupcakes, scones and muffins by expert bakers Cathy Felleti and Nan Cacciato. Daily cupcake flavors include chocolate, red velvet, vanilla buttermilk and carrot, available in standard and mini sizes. Fresh baked scones are served with homemade clotted cream, lemon curd and homemade jam.  For those who don’t have time to relax and enjoy these delicious treats while sipping tea at the mansion, they may also be beautifully gift packaged for loved ones, business associates, or a special occasion. Call (262) 745-3560 to order customized gifts or specialized for occasions such as birthdays, babies, congratulations, anniversaries or holidays.

“This is only the beginning for the Tea Room and OMG Cupcakes,” says Nancy. “We want to hear what our customers are looking for as we expand.” Immediate plans include holiday high tea experiences. Why leave town when you can enjoy high tea at Lake Geneva’s most historic mansion?” Nancy asks warmly. Adult and children’s holiday teas are scheduled for the weekends of November 20-21; December 4-5, 11-12, and 18-19. “High tea service is a luncheon tea,” she explains, adding that these events will include finger sandwiches such as cucumber and smoked salmon as well as scones, decadent desserts, a selection of teas and exotic extra options like Kir Royale. Stay tuned by visiting the website and/or Facebook pages referenced at the end of this story for full details. “Or give us a call with any questions,” Nancy invites.

The Juicy Olive Lounge, currently open Friday and Saturday evenings from 4:00 until midnight, welcomes the public to enjoy mingling in the martini lounge, the elaborate grand parlor, and even the adjacent outdoor deck as weather permits. Brent, the cheerful bartender, welcomes everyone with a smile, and invites guests to enjoy their favorite beverages and tasty appetizers in this comfortably unique atmosphere. Where else can you feel at home in anything from your favorite blue jeans to a sequined ball gown or tux after a formal event?  A wall of windows is bordered with an eye-catching collection of shot glasses Nancy has collected during her travels all over the world, and a mirrored wall provides the perfect backdrop behind the beautiful oak bar. The impressive wine list and top shelf martinis are as delicious as a cold beer and a warm pizza. And the reasonable prices are often a surprise to first time guests.  It’s all about you enjoying a comfortable experience at Golden Oaks Mansion. Be sure to register as a VIP to receive special offers like drink discounts and invitations to special VIP-only events. “Of course we value all of our customers,” says Nancy. “But we do hold a special place in our hearts for our VIP customers due to their continued support.” How do you become a VIP? “Stop in and ask!” the smiling owner says with a sparkle in her eyes. This season’s martini menu includes returning favorites like the delicious Pumpkin Crème and “The Grinch Who Stole My Martini.” A new delicious discovery to honor the tea aficionados includes naturally infused exotic cocktails – such as vodka infused with Lavender Citrus Essence tea or other herbs and spices.

Being able to grab a drink at the bar and meander to The Grand Parlor which features the original marble fireplace, ornate crystal chandelier and crown molding is undoubtedly a unique experience. Guests may choose to lounge in comfortable couches, gather together at tables, or play a challenging game of chess in front of the fireplace. “I want everyone to be comfortable here,” Nancy says. And she means it. I have invited several friends to enjoy the mansion during this renaissance period and they are most often shocked at the level of comfort, and the fact that they can “come as they are” and feel right at home in Lake Geneva’s first mansion! When they first drive up and see the maidens at the water fountain surrounded by lovely gardens and seasonal décor, they sometimes hesitate, half-expecting to see Scarlett O’Hara descend the grand staircase and open the door. But once they are welcomed by the warm smiles of the Innkeeper Barb or Nancy herself, likely in blue jeans or casual slacks, they instantly relax and can’t believe they haven’t visited before.

Once near complete destruction, the mansion has been a labor of love for Nancy since she purchased it in spring of 2002. She modified the former name of “The Oaks”, to incorporate her family name when she renamed it Golden Oaks Mansion. The complete history may be found on the web site, since we intentionally aren’t covering that in this story. “I am ready to look forward,” Nancy says with renewed energy many of us are pleased to see. As Scarlett looked forward to “another day”, so does everyone involved at Golden Oaks Mansion.

It is important to note that the mansion does still operate as an inn with overnight accommodations, since we are mainly focusing on the new developments of the Tea Room, OMG Cupcakes and the Juicy Olive Lounge. The ability to enjoy the private serenity of the expansive suite and cozy upstairs sleeping rooms is certainly a unique lodging opportunity when visiting Lake Geneva. Each room includes a private bath with toiletries, luxurious bath robes, towels, linens, air-conditioning, hair dryer, CD player/clock radio, cable TV, a selection of movies, and breakfast served on a delightful sun porch. The opportunity to spend the night in this historical beauty is certainly amazing, and rates are surprisingly affordable.

Whether you’ve been curious about the beautiful mansion near the YMCA on Wells and Baker, or you are surprised to learn about it offers, please do make time to treat yourself to a visit soon. Golden Oaks Mansion is located just blocks from downtown Lake Geneva at 421 Baker Street, off Wells Street. Visit online at: www.goldenoaksmansion.com ; call (262) 248-9711 and be sure to “Like” Golden Oaks Mansion on Facebook to stay up to date on the latest events and offerings.