Come down to Castalia Farms

MARGARETTA TWP. — As a real estate agent, Shawna Hodges lives for finding hidden gems and then showing them to her clients. But when she came across a majestic 204-acre ranch-like site, it's a property she simply couldn't pass on to someone else. She wanted it for herself and her family's next life venture. Along with her husband, Matt Stencil, Hodges acts as the co-owner of Castalia Farms off Heywood Road in Margaretta Township. Due to name recognition, Hodges didn't change the land's branding. For many years, CEOs and other corporate executives traveled to the area and stayed at Castalia Farms for retreats. But Hodges aspired to transform the land into a premier event venue, where people can book for weddings, parties, family photo shoots and other intimate gatherings. She and her family recently debuted the grounds for such occasions. "When you book here, you are booking an estate and, really, you are booking a whole experience," said Hodges, who has experience in coordinating large events and hosting fundraisers. "While there is a great history and nostalgia here, it needed to be brought back to life." The property prominently features a centerpiece attraction: an 1800s-era two-story barn, a perfect place for receptions and rehearsal dinners, Hodges said. Upon exploring the area: • Inside, within various structures, Castalia Farms offers overnight lodging accommodations and provides many amenities, such as guest access to a kitchen, bathrooms, game room, conference room and more. It's suited for bridal parties staying onsite before or following a ceremony, Hodges said. • Outside, people can explore along the trails, allowing pedestrians to pass by various willow trees, a pavilion, a body of water, a playground and even various animals "It truly is a unique, full estate," Hodges said. The animals — cows, horses, alpacas, goats, pigs, bunnies, tortoises and chickens, among other creatures — factor into Hodges' nonprofit called Downs on the Farm. "It's a two-part mission," Hodges said. "We rescue animals and place them here in our sanctuary, and we also focus on bringing people together with the animals, especially those with disabilities and special needs. They can learn how to care for animals, like feed them, and also play together." Hodges explained why interacting with animals can help people. "It seems to calm a lot of anxiety that they have," said Hodges, who established the nonprofit in honor of her son, Grady, 14, who has Down syndrome. "It teaches them compassion and responsibility." The Hodges family also farms on the property. Shawna's other son, Mitchell, will harvest hay and produce there. "What we grow will help sustain our business and also will feed the animals," Hodges said. For more information on Castalia Farms or Downs on the Farm, people can search for these names on social media sites. "Those who appreciate nature, peacefulness and country life, you'll like it here," Hodges said. "It's a different feeling and setting than what you might be used to, but you're still close to experiencing what you need in Sandusky and Port Clinton."