Lillian Gardens, formerly Something Special Events, was built in 1859 just two years before the start of the Civil War and is rich with historical significance. The Davis family built the beautiful antebellum home that would serve as a makeshift hospital for soldiers during the war; however, the Davis family sold the home to the Banks family around the turn of the century. The wrap-around front porch, oak floors, stained glass windows, and the beautiful, winding staircase were added to the home at this time. One of the Banks children, Virginia, later married Dr. St. John and lived in the home for about 80 years. After their passing, the home was sold to Virginia Davis and her daughter, Martha Sue, who opened a tearoom and named it “Something Special” which enjoyed success for over a decade and became a cherished landmark within the Newnan community.

Michael Meyer purchased the home in 1996 and re-opened as “Something Special Events” in 1997, a venue that offered event services including weddings, parties, and community affairs. In 2000, Mr. Meyer performed extensive renovations and restorations by adding the ballroom, music room, and library. As a Master Gardener, Mr. Meyer also created the magnificent gardens surrounding the historic home. Restoration on the groom’s suite brought Something Special Events the Preservation of Trust Award by the Newnan-Coweta Historical Society. Something Special Events also received the Best Special Events Facility of the Southern Arc Award from the readers of Lifestyle Magazine. 

Ashley Keeley purchased the home in 2016 with the desire to continue offering special event services while preserving a piece of local history. Lillian Gardens was born. Before long it became the full-service venue Ashley had envisioned, the setting for numerous picturesque weddings which embraced the home’s history. 

In March 2021, an EF-4 tornado ripped through the small town, devastating many nearby homes and institutions. The home and gardens incurred extensive damages. With the help of a loving community and a few key individuals, Ashley and the Lillian Gardens family were able to pivot, get creative, and stay in operation. Although quite the challenge, a series of temporary solutions were put in place by May that allowed events to continue under tents in the new garden space while reconstruction was underway. It was a long year of recovery, but beautiful memories were made nonetheless. 

Lillian Gardens now boasts a new second story balcony in the New Orleans’ French Colonial style and beautifully preserved interiors. The grand old pecan tree that was once the centerpiece of the garden has been replaced with an elegant stone fountain that anchors the surrounding lush southern plantings. Although the choice was made in less than ideal circumstances, the renovations and changes have established a new layer of elegance and charm. While preserving historical integrity, a thoughtful chapter has been added to the home’s story.

Lillian Gardens is a full-service boutique event venue located just 25 miles south of the Atlanta airport in the historic downtown district of Newnan, Georgia. Built in 1859, Lillian Gardens is an architectural combination of the past and present. It combines the neoclassical architectural style characteristic of 19th century South with modern day additions of the French Colonial era. From the restored interiors and stained glass windows to the new second-story balcony and wrought iron railings, every detail has been thoughtfully designed. Lillian Gardens blends historical grandeur with elegant, timeless sophistication.