Donovan Manor

Jill Donovan is the visionary behind Donovan Manor and the founder of the Donovan Hospitality family of brands. Raised in a close-knit New York Italian family that relocated to Raleigh when she was 13, Jill grew up surrounded by the traditions of gathering, food, and celebrating together. Feore Hall, the estate’s central event space, is named in honor of her maiden name, a tribute to the family roots that first inspired her love of hosting. Throughout her career, Jill has focused on creating spaces where people feel welcomed, celebrated, and connected. That vision ultimately led to the creation of Donovan Manor, a place designed for meaningful gatherings and unforgettable celebrations. As a mother of three daughters who are often visiting the estate, family remains at the heart of her vision for Donovan Manor and the meaningful experiences created there.

Letty DeLallo is the Venue Manager at Donovan Manor and has been part of the estate’s story since its earliest days in 2023. After meeting Jill Donovan at a dinner party and discovering a shared vision for thoughtful, elevated hospitality, Letty joined the project before the first shovel touched the ground and became instrumental in bringing the estate to life. She played a key role throughout the building process, helping shape everything from the Main House dressing suites to the development of Feore Hall and the 15-acre property, ensuring each space was intentionally designed for unforgettable celebrations. Today, Letty leads the venue team while welcoming couples to experience Donovan Manor firsthand. She works closely with trusted vendor partners, introduces new offerings and experiences on the estate, and oversees the details that allow each celebration to unfold with the beauty and seamless hospitality that define Donovan Manor. In recognition of her leadership and impact within the wedding industry, Letty was named Event Professional of the Year in 2026 by the Triangle Chapter of the National Catering and Events Association.

Chelsea Head joined the Donovan Manor team before the estate’s grand opening and played a key role in bringing the business to life, helping shape both operations and the client experience from the very beginning. She was instrumental in managing early client relationships and building the team structure that allows for a high level of thoughtful, seamless hospitality. Through her dedication and leadership, Chelsea grew into the role of Operations Manager, where she oversees the bar team, day-to-day property management, and the behind-the-scenes logistics that keep the property operating effortlessly. With a strong background in event execution, she has managed hundreds of weddings and remains closely involved, leading the event team and ensuring every detail is carried out with care and precision.

Shannan Weller brings a warm, knowledgeable presence to the Donovan Manor team as a Sales Representative, with a background in bridal boutiques and extensive experience helping clients navigate meaningful decisions with confidence. She guides couples through the sales process and works closely with events on the property, ensuring every detail needed for a successful celebration is clearly understood.

Catherine Blazer began at Donovan Manor on the opening event team, bringing a background in textiles and event production along with hands-on experience working weddings as an event host. Today, as Manor Concierge and Client Relations Manager, she guides clients through the planning process and helps ensure every Donovan Manor event runs seamlessly.

Zoe Bonwell joined the Donovan Manor team full-time in 2025 and quickly became an essential part of the client experience, bringing a background in case management and exceptional organization to the role. As Manor Concierge and Client Relations Manager, she guides clients through the planning process while ensuring every Donovan Manor event runs smoothly with care and attention to detail.