For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Lisa Alford

Owner

St Joe River Lodge

lisa@stjoeriverlodge.com

TIMELESS CHARM MEETS MODERN LUXURY: ST. JOE RIVER LODGE DEBUTS IN BUCHANAN

Community invited to attend the official ribbon cutting on August 20 at 5:30 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

July 8, 2026

 

Buchanan, MI — The community is invited to celebrate the official grand opening of St. Joe River Lodge with a Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony and a Niles Chamber Third Thursday networking event on Thursday, August 20th, from 4:30–6:30 PM, located at 2801 Niles Buchanan Road, Buchanan, MI 49107. Remarks will begin at 5:30PM.

 

This special event will introduce community leaders and other guests to the new owners of St. Joe River Lodge and the new event venue at the pavilion. The Lodge in Buchanan was built in 1921, but Roger and Lisa Alford have designed a new space for larger gatherings for weddings, live music, corporate events, and church retreats.

 

Nestled along the tranquil St. Joseph River, St. Joe River Lodge spans 55 acres of breathtaking natural beauty paired with refined, thoughtfully designed spaces. This historic estate blends timeless charm with modern amenities, featuring eight beautifully appointed en-suite guest rooms with vintage-inspired décor.

 

The lodge provides an ideal setting for a wide range of gatherings—from elegant weddings and upscale corporate retreats to private celebrations and relaxing getaways. Guests will enjoy serene landscapes, elevated accommodations, and curated experiences that create a memorable stay, where comfort and sophistication meet the beauty of nature.

 

St. Joe River Lodge has always felt like a place meant to be shared,” said Lisa Alford, owner. "This ribbon cutting marks not just the opening of a new business, but the beginning of a new season of hospitality, celebration, and community. We are excited to welcome weddings, retreats, families, businesses, and ministries to experience the beauty and peace of this special place.”

 

Community members, local leaders, and guests are encouraged to attend and be part of this exciting moment. The ribbon cutting marks not only the opening of a new venue but also the beginning of countless meaningful experiences to come.

 

We look forward to celebrating with you—don’t miss the opportunity to experience this remarkable property and help us officially cut the ribbon!

 

To learn more or book an experience, visit: St. Joe River Lodge's Official Website

 

 

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About the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber: The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is a non-profit business advocacy and collective-impact organization serving Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. Established in 1954, the Chamber works to strengthen regional assets, advocate for regional priorities, and cultivate an economic ecosystem that prepares the region for future opportunities.

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Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber

811 Ship St., Ste. 303, St. Joseph MI 49085

269-932-4042 | info@smrchamber.com | www.smrchamber.com

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