In a heartfelt and candid reflection, Dana Perino, the renowned Fox News personality and former White House Press Secretary, has shared an intimate glimpse into the life she and her husband, Peter McMahon, have crafted together. The couple, married since 1998, made the deliberate choice to forgo having children, instead channeling their love, energy, and resources into creating a breathtaking $4.5 million retreat in the serene landscapes of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Far more than a luxurious vacation home, this sanctuary embodies their shared values, deep bond, and commitment to a life filled with purpose and joy. From a cozy dog haven for their beloved Vizslas to sustainable design elements inspired by Wyoming’s natural beauty, the retreat is a testament to their unique journey. This article explores the story behind the Perino-McMahon Wyoming retreat, its thoughtful design, and the personal significance it holds for the couple.
A Life Without Children: A Conscious Choice
Dana Perino, now 53, and Peter McMahon, 70, have been open about their decision to remain childless, a choice that has shaped their life’s trajectory in profound ways. In her reflections, Perino has expressed that this decision was not made lightly but was rooted in a mutual understanding of their priorities and aspirations. “We never had children,” Perino shared in a recent interview, “but we built this instead.” The “this” she refers to is their Wyoming retreat—a physical manifestation of their shared dreams and a legacy they’ve chosen to create together.
For Perino and McMahon, the absence of children did not equate to a lack of fulfillment. Instead, it allowed them to focus on their careers, their relationship, and their passions, including their love for travel, adventure, and their dogs. McMahon, a British-born businessman with a career in medical manufacturing sales, and Perino, a prominent political commentator, have built a life that balances professional success with personal contentment. Their Wyoming retreat stands as a symbol of this balance, a place where they can escape the demands of their high-profile lives and reconnect with each other and the natural world.
The Jackson Hole Retreat: A Dream Realized
Nestled in the picturesque region of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the Perino-McMahon retreat is a masterpiece of design and intention. Valued at $4.5 million, the property is more than a status symbol—it’s a carefully curated space that reflects the couple’s values and lifestyle. Jackson Hole, known for its stunning mountain vistas, abundant wildlife, and tranquil ambiance, was the perfect location for their vision. Perino, who was born in Evanston, Wyoming, and grew up in Denver, Colorado, has always felt a deep connection to the American West. “Wyoming is in my blood,” she has said, and this retreat is a homecoming of sorts, a return to her roots.
The retreat itself is a blend of luxury and functionality, designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings. Spanning several acres, the property features a main residence, guest quarters, and expansive outdoor spaces that invite relaxation and contemplation. The architecture draws inspiration from the rugged beauty of the Teton Mountains, with clean lines, natural materials, and large windows that frame breathtaking views. “We wanted a place that felt like it belonged here,” Perino explained, “something that respected the land and celebrated its beauty.”
Sustainable Design: A Commitment to the Environment
One of the most striking aspects of the Wyoming retreat is its commitment to sustainability. Perino and McMahon worked closely with architects and designers to ensure that the property was as environmentally friendly as possible. The retreat incorporates energy-efficient systems, including solar panels, geothermal heating, and advanced insulation to minimize its carbon footprint. Reclaimed wood and locally sourced stone were used throughout the construction, reducing the need for resource-intensive materials and giving the home a rustic yet sophisticated aesthetic.
The couple’s dedication to sustainability extends to the landscaping, which was designed to preserve the native flora and fauna of Jackson Hole. Rather than imposing manicured lawns, they opted for wildflower meadows and natural pathways that blend seamlessly with the surrounding ecosystem. “We wanted to be stewards of this land,” McMahon noted, emphasizing their desire to protect the environment for future generations. This eco-conscious approach aligns with Perino’s earlier work as associate director of communications for the White House Council on Environmental Quality, where she advised on environmental messaging.
A Haven for Vizslas: The Heart of the Home
No discussion of the Perino-McMahon retreat would be complete without mentioning their beloved Hungarian Vizslas, who are at the heart of their family. The couple has owned three Vizslas over the years—Henry, Jasper, and Percy—and their love for the breed is well-documented. Perino even wrote a bestselling book, Let Me Tell You About Jasper: How My Best Friend Became America’s Dog, chronicling her bond with Jasper, who passed away in 2021. Percy, their current Vizsla, is a frequent presence on Perino’s social media and Fox News appearances.
The Wyoming retreat was designed with their dogs in mind, featuring a dedicated “dog den” that is as luxurious as it is practical. This space includes custom-built beds, climate control, and easy access to an outdoor play area where the Vizslas can roam freely. “Our dogs are our family,” Perino has said, and the retreat reflects this sentiment. The property also includes trails and open spaces perfect for long walks, allowing Percy and any future Vizslas to thrive in the Wyoming wilderness. For Perino and McMahon, creating a space where their dogs can feel at home was a top priority, underscoring the central role these animals play in their lives.
A Reflection of Their Journey
The Wyoming retreat is more than a beautiful home; it’s a reflection of the unique journey Perino and McMahon have taken together. Their story began in 1997, when they met by chance on a flight from Denver to Chicago. Despite an 18-year age gap and the challenges of a long-distance relationship—McMahon was based in the UK at the time—their connection was immediate and enduring. Less than a year later, McMahon proposed in front of the Washington Cathedral, and they married in 1998. Since then, they’ve navigated career changes, cross-continental moves, and personal losses, including the passing of their dogs, with unwavering support for each other.
Perino has often credited McMahon with being her “best friend and best guide,” noting that her accomplishments—including her tenure as White House Press Secretary and her success at Fox News—would not have been possible without his support. The retreat, in many ways, is a celebration of their partnership. It’s a place where they can slow down, reflect, and enjoy the life they’ve built together. “This is our legacy,” Perino said of the retreat. “It’s not about leaving something for children; it’s about creating something that represents who we are and what we value.”
The Emotional Resonance of the Retreat
For Perino, the Wyoming retreat carries deep emotional significance. In her reflections, she has spoken about the grief of losing Jasper and the joy of welcoming Percy, experiences that have shaped her perspective on life and love. The retreat has become a place of healing, a sanctuary where she and McMahon can process life’s highs and lows. “There’s something about being in Wyoming, surrounded by nature, that puts everything in perspective,” she shared. The quiet of Jackson Hole, the vastness of the landscape, and the comfort of their thoughtfully designed home provide a sense of peace that is hard to find in their busy lives.
The retreat also serves as a gathering place for family and friends, including McMahon’s two children from a previous marriage and their grandchildren. While Perino and McMahon chose not to have children of their own, they cherish their roles as stepmother and grandparents, and the retreat is a space where these relationships can flourish. Guest rooms, communal areas, and outdoor spaces are designed to foster connection, ensuring that the home is a place of warmth and togetherness.
A Legacy of Love and Intention
The Perino-McMahon Wyoming retreat is a testament to the power of intentional living. By choosing to forgo parenthood, the couple has created a life that is rich in meaning, adventure, and love. Their $4.5 million sanctuary in Jackson Hole is not just a home—it’s a legacy that reflects their values, their bond, and their deep connection to the natural world. From its sustainable design to its dog-friendly features, every detail of the retreat tells a story of a couple who have lived life on their own terms.
As Perino continues to inspire audiences with her poise, intelligence, and warmth on Fox News, her Wyoming retreat offers a glimpse into the personal side of her life. It’s a reminder that success is not measured solely by professional achievements or traditional milestones but by the ability to create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. For Dana Perino and Peter McMahon, their Jackson Hole retreat is the embodiment of that truth—a place where they can celebrate their love, honor their past, and embrace the future, with their Vizslas by their side.
