Gala Affair — Planning the Perfect Wisconsin Party

Twinkling lights, a stylish atmosphere, gourmet food — all critical ingredients for an unforgettable gala. Of course, that kind of elegance doesn’t just happen. It takes long months of planning, coordination, and about 10,000 decisions. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next gala, we’d like to suggest you consider some of these Wisconsin venues and service providers. You’ll see why we think they’re the cream of the crop.

Back to Nature

There’s something quietly sophisticated about a nature-inspired venue, no matter what the season. Badger Farms in Deerfield is nestled amongst the natural beauty of 500 acres of Wisconsin farmland, offering the perfect backdrop for your event. The gathering space offers room for up to 200 guests in either the Barn or the Shop. The Barn features three levels of custom-designed hardwood floors, log staircases and railings, vaulted ceilings, large windows, and attached deck. The Shop is an enclosed pavilion with large open spaces, tall ceilings with fans, chandelier, and no pillars for unobstructed views.  

Glacier Canyon Conference Center at Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells can accommodate groups as large as 1200 people. The 56,000 square foot conference center offers versatile banquet options and beautifully landscaped outdoor areas.  The Sandstone Ballroom, Wilderness Ballroom, and Wild Rock Clubhouse offer you the option of beauty, versatility, breathtaking views, and warm and inviting rustic interiors.

Vennebu Hill Wedding Barn & Event Venue in Wisconsin Dells is a striking event venue for up to 335 people. The Gothic barn space dazzles with a large chandelier, state-of-the-art AV equipment, WiFi, and banquet seating with room for 180 of your special guests. The venue’s Lean-To located below the barn has a casual vibe with flat screen TV and fireplace, AV and WiFI, and accommodates 350 people.

Find Peace

Relaxation abounds in spaces created to celebrate and incorporate healing and peace. Located in breathtaking Lake Geneva, The Abby Resort & Avani Spa offers beautiful harbor views and expansive green spaces on 90 acres of perfectly manicured grounds directly on the shores of Lake Geneva. The relaxing and inspiring setting offers outstanding culinary staff and dining options in multiple on-site event spaces. The newly renovated West Shore Pavilion is adorned with chandeliers and surrounded by lush greenery. The Harbor Ballroom features floor-to-ceiling windows with gorgeous harbor views, while Port is a historic wooden A-frame with views of the harbor and a beautiful fireplace.

The Heidel House Resort & Spa is tucked away on the shores of tranquil Green Lake and offers multiple event spaces for up to 300 guests. Dartford Ballroom invites guests to enjoy magnificent views of the lake, sparkling brass chandeliers, and a large lobby and veranda. Sandstone features a covered veranda with lovely lake views, and Gray Lock Lawn overlooks the lake and scenic shoreline.

Something Special

Unique venues welcome guests to posh surroundings, mouthwatering menus, and polished professional service. EAA Aviation Center in Oshkosh offers event space with exquisite views of Leeward Plaza and EAA’s Pioneer Airport. The catering kitchen is adjacent for quick meal service. The unique Eagle Hangars accommodates up to 1000 guests and provides a unique backdrop of history with World War II aircraft on display.

The Potawatomi Hotel & Casino in Milwaukee boasts several different event spaces to accommodate groups of up to 2750. The Event Center is one of the biggest venues in Milwaukee with complimentary WiFi, flexible AV, and controllable lighting. The Woodland Dreams Ballroom combines sophistication with style, accommodating up to 550 people in 1200 square feet of space.

Catering to Your Every Need

Choosing a caterer can be one of the most important tasks you undertake when planning your gala. You’ll make a lasting impression with guests when you choose Blue Plate Catering. Their talented chefs will prepare inspired cuisine infused with fresh ingredients sourced locally. Choose your mouthwatering meal from a wide-ranging menu, including such treats as Apricot Glazed Chicken or Roast Beef Tenderloin.

Innovative and creative, Lee John’s Catering will help you design the perfect menu for your gathering. From passed appetizers at your opening reception to buffets and plated entrees, every creation is prepared with passion and imagination. Start with Brie, Pear, and Almond Phyllo Purse then move on to a Cavatelli or Char-Grilled Veal Rib Chop. So many wonderful choices, you’ll wish you could order them all.

All the Trimmings

First impressions are so important. When your guests arrive at your event, you want them to look around the space and say, “Wow!” not “ho-hum.” The pros at Event Essentials, know exactly what you need to make your party a smash hit. Choose from tenting chandeliers, staging, flooring, tables, seating, linens, and so much more!