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Southern Wisconsin Staycation Wedding Venues

8/4/2023

 
With years of experience planning weddings in Southern Wisconsin, have a the insight to help you find the perfect venue for your staycation wedding venue in the area. 

Here are my top recommendations for staycation venues in the area.

​The Wilderness Resort

Website: WildernessResort.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/WildernessResort
Instagram: Instagram.com/WildernessResort
Capacity: Up to 1000 Guests
Pricing: Click here to request more information including the price. 
​

If you are looking for a beautiful place to not only have your wedding, but also stay. You will love the experience of getting married at the Wilderness Resort in the Wisconsin Dells. 

This resort has so much to offer from gorgeous outdoor areas for your ceremony and massive ballrooms to host your reception. Go beyond giving your guests a day to remember, but rather an entire week or weekend. I have no doubt that everyone will have a great time here!

This venue features:
  • On-Site Catering
  • On-Site Restaurants
  • Beautiful Golf Course
  • Large Wedding Capacities
  • On-Site Waterparks
  • On-Site Spa

​Cave of the Mounds

Website: CaveOfTheMounds.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/CaveOfTheMounds
Instagram: Instagram.com/CaveOfTheMounds
Capacity: 250
Pricing: Contact Tate Phillip: [email protected] 

If unique is something that you want for your big day than Cave of the Mounds might be exactly what you are looking for. This event space gives you the option of having your wedding ceremony in a cave!

This beautiful cave system has been explored for the last 80 years and offers amazing views and photographs as well. 

You can even stay nearby at one of these hotels or campsites and make a getaway out of it as well. There are also some other really great attractions within the area to keep your guests busy and happy throughout the stay! I personally love the Botham Vineyards. 

​This venue features:
  • Barn with a bar
  • Party Tent Available
  • Outdoor Fire Pits
  • Tables Available
  • Tablecloths Available
  • Candles Available
  • Chairs Available
  • Restrooms On-Site

​Prevailing Winds Lodge

Website: PrevailingWindsLodge.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/PrevailingWindsLodge
Instagram: Instagram.com/PrevailingWindsLodge
Capacity: None
Pricing: $2,000 - $6,000

If you want a gorgeous place to host everything from your rehearsal dinner to your gift opening this is the place for you and your guests. This 74-acre lodge has breathtaking views for small and large weddings. 

Enjoy the lodge with your guests for the entire weekend and plan to make everlasting memories with everyone including your other half. I can’t think of a more intimate setting to bring your lives together with everyone you love and care for. 
​

This venue features:
  • Open Vendor Policy
  • Staff On-Site
  • Golf Carts for use
  • On-Site Parking - use the golf carts as a shuttle service for guests and catering
  • Hardlined power at ceremony and reception areas

Over the Vines ​

Website: OverTheVines.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/OverTheVines
Instagram: Instagram.com/OverTheVinesWI
Capacity: 200
Pricing: $3,500 - $6,500 (Contact for Weekday Rentals)

This venue offers many different locations to get the perfect wedding shot. You have exclusive access to the entire property and are encouraged to explore it. They provide you with a golf cart to get around the property for your photos. 

They also a offer a list of local lodges and attractions so that you and your guests can make the whole weekend into a life experience you won’t soon forget. You can check them out here. 

This venue features:
  • Full Bars On-Site and a Portable Bar 
  • Golf Cart Available for use
  • 80-acre property and vineyard 
  • Fire Pit 
  • Staff On-Site
  • Tables and Chairs
  • Two Dressing Suites

Plan Your Wedding With Piece of Cake Consulting

Every wedding I do is unique and personalized to fit my client’s style.  For this reason, I do limit the number of weddings I do each year.  This allows me to dedicate the appropriate amount of time and attention needed to my clients.

​
If you are planning an upcoming wedding in the area, reach out for a free wedding planning quote and learn more about what Piece of Cake Consulting can offer.

The Best Wedding Venues in Lake Geneva, WI

7/12/2023

 
My name is Betsy Pearson. I am the owner and manager of Piece of Cake Consulting, LLC, a wedding and event planning company serving the Lake Geneva area.

With my extensive knowledge of local vendors and various price points, I guide my clients and make suggestions, but never dictate.  I love fashion and style and enjoy helping with those meticulous touches that have a big impact. 
​

While every wedding is unique and personalized, there are a few venues that work well for most couples and really stand out. Here’s a list of the best wedding venues in Lake Geneva, WI.

​Hawk’s View Golf Course

Website: HawksViewGolfClub.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/HawksViewGolfClub
Instagram: Instagram.com/HawksViewGolfClub
Capacity: Up to 350
Pricing: Request pricing here. 
​

Hawk’s View Golf Club offers two location options for wedding ceremonies. Choose from a beautiful covered patio for large ceremonies and receptions, or the clubhouse during the winter months or for smaller ceremonies and receptions. 

Hawk’s View Golf Course also has The Redtail Ballroom on-site for receptions. This ballroom has an amazing rustic look and feel, but it can also be made to look very elegant with the vaulted ceilings. 

This venue also offers smaller rooms that can be added to the main ballroom for an exceptionally large wedding. These smaller rooms are also great for the bridal shower and rehearsal dinner. 

The gorgeous views of the well-maintained golf course, the 95-year-old rustic barn, and the covered bridges are among my favorite parts of this venue. Not only do they add beauty to the day, but make for great photo opportunities. 

Amenities you’ll appreciate include:
  • 60” round tables and chairs included
  • Dance floor is movable
  • Built-in cocktail bar
  • Row seating available for the ceremony
  • Canvas sides and heaters available for inclement weather
  • Beautiful holiday decorations (December through mid-January)
  • Contracted shuttle service to local hotels
  • Bridal Suite Available
  • Free Parking

​Grand Geneva

Website: GrandGeneva.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/GrandGeneva
Instagram: Instagram.com/Grand_Geneva
Capacity: Up to 800 
Pricing: Request pricing here 

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa has everything to offer from a place to stay, golfing, spa, and of course a place for your ceremony and reception. Get your nails, hair, and make-up done at the spa for the special day. Come here to make an entire weekend or even a week out of your perfect day!

There are 9 different venues that can be utilized for your ceremony and reception with one that can accommodate up to 800 guests. Each one offers its own unique beauty and amenities. You can also use one of two ceremony lawns with beautiful views of the lake and golf course. The Greenview can accommodate up to 150 guests while the Fairview can accommodate up to 400.

If you want a complete package and ease of being on-site for your special day, I can not think of a better venue than the Grand Geneva. With so much to do in the Lake Geneva area, you and your guests will have an unbelievable experience that no one will soon forget!

​
Amenities you’ll appreciate include:
  • Discounted Room Blocks
  • Gift for the Bride and Groom
  • On-site Cuisine Options
  • Indoor and Outdoor Service Options
  • Full-Service Spa On-site

Maxwell Mansion

Website: StayMaxwell.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/MaxwellMansion
Instagram: Instagram.com/MaxwellMansion
Capacity: 100 
Pricing: Request pricing here

If you are looking for an experience that will take you and your guests back in time, consider the Maxwell Mansion.

Although this space is better equipped to handle smaller weddings, it is a stunning venue. The look and feel of the mansion make an intimate, romantic setting.

I recommend keeping the guest count lower as there is only room for 40 in the ballroom for a sit-down meal. Otherwise, there is plenty of space to venture around the gorgeous mansion and the stunning gardens. 

Amenities you’ll appreciate include:

  • Breathtaking architecture and gardens
  • Full-service bar
  • Bring your own licensed caterer
  • One-of-a-kind venue

Lake Gevena Cruise Line

Website: CruiseLakeGeneva.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/LakeGenevaCruiseLine
Instagram: Instagram.com/CruiseLakeGeneva
Capacity: 300 on Pier 290 and 225 on a cruise line
Pricing: Request pricing here 

Are you a seafaring couple or just a couple that dreams of the idea of a wedding on a boat? This is an amazing option that allows you to be wed on one of their many available boats. This venue also offers Pier 290 available for larger ceremonies and receptions.

Get a private boat tour and photos taken on the lake before the ceremony or after! 

I think this is such a fun and exciting experience for any couple looking to get married in the Lake Geneva area. 

Amenities you’ll appreciate include:

  • 8 Boats to pick from
  • Catering available
  • Table, chairs, linens, and candles available 
  • Bar and beverage options

Plan Your Lake Geneva Wedding with Piece of Cake Consulting

​Every wedding I do is unique and personalized to fit my client’s style.  For this reason, I do limit the number of weddings I do each year.  This allows me to dedicate the appropriate amount of time and attention needed to my clients.

​
If you are planning an upcoming wedding in the Lake Geneva area, reach out for a free wedding planning quote and learn more about what Piece of Cake Consulting can offer.

The Best Event Spaces in Madison, WI

7/12/2023

 
My name is Betsy Pearson. I am the owner and manager of Piece of Cake Consulting, LLC, a wedding and event planning company serving the greater Madison, Wisconsin area.  I have lived in the Madison, Wisconsin area my entire life.

With my extensive knowledge of local vendors and various price points, I guide my clients and make suggestions, but never dictate.  I love fashion and style and enjoy helping with those meticulous touches that have a big impact. 
​

While every event is unique and personalized, there are a few venues in the area that I would put above the rest and work well for a wide variety of events. Here are my top recommendations for Madison, WI event venues.

Aldo Leopold Nature Center

Website: AldoLeopoldNatureCenter.org
Facebook: Facebook.com/AldoLeopoldNatureCenter
Instagram: Instagram.com/AldoLeopoldNatureCenter
Capacity: 150 people
Pricing: Starting at $4,175

The Aldo Leopold Nature Center is truly a beautiful venue for a wedding, retreat, family reunion, or party. The prairie is simply stunning! This property sits on ancestral Ho-Chunk Nation land and is rich in history.

The natural beauty this venue has to offer is unmatched. If you’re looking for a natural, open space for an upcoming event, I highly recommend the Aldo Leopold Nature Center.

Another benefit of having an event at ALNC is that it is a non-profit and the money goes to support environmental education programs! 
​

Reservations Include:
  • Chairs
  • Tables
  • Cocktail Tables
  • Outdoor and Indoor Sound Systems
  • Staff On-site
  • String Lights

The TinSmith

Website: TheTinSmith.com
​
Facebook: Facebook.com/TinSmithEvents
Instagram: Instagram.com/TinSmithEvents
Capacity: 200 people
Pricing: Starting at $3,500
​

The Tinsmith is a was built in 1925 by the Trachte Brothers and has since been transformed into one the area’s most beautiful and unique wedding venues. The building features over 9,000 square feet of open floor plan, 23’ ceilings, and a 4-season climate controlled solarium. 

The industrial design and modern feel of this venue make it easy to host any event. The building is beautiful even without additional decor.

The Tinsmith is also located within walking distance of some of Madison’s best restaurants, hotels, and bars.

Reservations Include:
  • 200 chairs
  • 15 Cocktail Tables
  • Ceremony Backdrop
  • Speakers
  • Microphone
  • Projection Screen
  • Wi-Fi
  • Dimmable Lights
  • On-site Staff
  • Private Suite and Private Patio Space
  • Custom Bar and Mobile Bar

Old Sugar Distillery

Website: OldSugarDistillery.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/OldSugar
Instagram: Instagram.com/Old_Sugar_Distillery
Capacity: 120  people
Pricing: $125/hour with a three hour minimum

Old Sugar Distillery’s “The Rickhouse” offers event space at their facility. Whether you are looking for a space for markets, fundraisers, meetings, holiday parties, a wedding venue, or simply a place to get a bunch of friends together, they have you covered.

They have several seating layouts depending on how many people will be attending your event.
The Rickhouse has amazing floor to ceiling windows for excellent lighting for daytime events and warm constellation lighting for an intimate night time setting. I love the energy of Old Sugar Distillery!
​

Some amenities at Old Sugar Distillery include:
  • Full Bar Service
  • Bluetooth Stereo
  • Video Projector
  • Seating arrangements for your needs

Monona Terrace ​

Website: MononaTerrace.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/mtccc
Instagram: Instagram.com/MononaTerrace
Capacity: There are 30 rooms for events of any size.
Pricing: Must request a proposal. Price depends on the space that you would like to rent.

Monona Terrace is truly a one of a kind convention and event center. Whether you are looking for a place for a convention, business retreat, wedding, or celebration of any kind, Monona Terrace will have a space for your needs. 

Frank Lloyd Wright first proposed the design for Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in 1938. The curvilinear design links the shores of Lake Monona and the State Capitol. I am still amazed at the architecture of Monona Terrace at each event I attend and it’s rich history is a great talking-point for party conversations.
​

Some amenities available at Monona Terrace include:
  • Wireless Internet Access
  • Courtesy In-house phones
  • Food and Beverage Service
  • Concessions
  • ATM Machine
  • Event/Facility Security
  • Audiovisual and Sound Services 

Plan Your Madison Event with Piece of Cake Consulting

If you are planning an upcoming event in the Madison area, reach out for a free event planning quote and learn more about what Piece of Cake Consulting can offer.

The Best Wedding Venues in Madison, WI

7/12/2023

 
My name is Betsy Pearson. I am the owner and manager of Piece of Cake Consulting, LLC, a wedding and event planning company serving the greater Madison, Wisconsin area. I have lived in the Madison, Wisconsin area my entire life.

With my extensive knowledge of local vendors and various price points, I guide my clients and make suggestions, but never dictate.  I love fashion and style and enjoy helping with those meticulous touches that have a big impact. 

​
While every wedding is unique and personalized, there are a few venues that work well for most couples and really stand out. Here’s a list of the best wedding venues in Madison, WI.

The Edgewater Hotel

​Website: TheEdgewater.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/EdgewaterMadison
Instagram: Instagram.com/TheEdgeH2O
Capacity: Up to 780 people. Smaller venues are available at the Edgewater Hotel.
Pricing: Prices start around $16k

If you are looking for an elegant, iconic wedding in the Madison area, look no further than The Edgewater Hotel. The shore of Lake Mendota provides a beautiful setting for a wedding. They also offer unmatched indoor and outdoor venues, excellent dining options, and a dedicated staff.
I find the rooftop view from the Sky Bar of the State Capital and Lake Mendota absolutely stunning every time I see it and it makes the perfect backdrop for photos. The on-site spa is perfect for wedding prep as well.

Some amenities of The Edgewater Hotel include:
  • Full-Service Bar
  • Full-Service Catering
  • Audio and Visual Services
  • Chairs, Tables, Linens, Glass, China, and Silverware
  • 202 guest rooms available at the hotel
  • On-Site Spa

​The Madison Club

Website: MadisonClub.org
Facebook: Facebook.com/TheMadisonClub
Instagram: Instagram.com/TheMadisonClubWI
Capacity: Up to 200 people
Pricing: Prices start at $5,560 for 50 guests
​

The Madison Club offers an elegant site for your wedding with multiple floors for event spaces to choose from. From the moment that you walk in, your guests will be blown away. 
If you’re looking for timeless architecture and award-winning cuisine, this is the place for your wedding. 

Some amenities included with a wedding at The Madison Club:
  • Professional Event Planner
  • Award-winning cuisine
  • Tables
  • Votives
  • Chairs
  • Linens
  • Hotel 
  • Parking Ramp connected to the club
  • Rehearsal Dinner Space

Olbrich Gardens

Website: Olbrich.org
Facebook: Facebook.com/OlbrichBotanicalGardens
Instagram: Instagram.com/OlbrichGardens
Capacity: 150 people
Pricing: $3,700 to $4,600

Olbrich Gardens provides a gorgeous setting for any wedding. If you are looking for an outdoor wedding venue in the Madison area, I guarantee you will love this one. If the weather doesn't go as planned, the indoor space is absolutely beautiful as well. 

With sixteen acres of gardens and the Bolz Conservatory (available for wedding ceremonies up to 30 people) you will be surrounded by beauty that your guests won’t soon forget. I absolutely love the blooming orchids and tropical plants here. They make such amazing backdrops for wedding photos.

​Some amenities included at Olbrich Gardens:
  • Tables and chairs
  • One-hour rehearsal included
  • Photo opportunities throughout the gardens
  • One-year Garden Family membership
​

​Bishops Bay Country Club

Website: Bishopsbay.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/BishopsBayCC
Instagram: Instagram.com/BishopsBayCountryClub
Capacity: Up to 300 people
Pricing: Need to contact the club for pricing

Bishops Bay Country Club is located on the shore of Lake Mendota and provides a beautiful location for a wedding. The large event tent makes for an excellent space for your reception and has a large dance floor area!

Ceremony locations are available right at the shore edge which offers an amazing backdrop with the State Capitol on the horizon. If you’re looking for a whimsical, lakeside wedding, this venue is certainly one to consider. 
​

Some amenities at Bishops Bay Country Club:
  • Wireless Internet
  • Covered Outdoor Spaces
  • Award-winning culinary creations
  • Gorgeous view of the Madison skyline

Plan Your Madison Wedding with Piece of Cake Consulting


Plan Your Madison Wedding with Piece of Cake Consulting​Every wedding I do is unique and personalized to fit my client’s style.  For this reason, I do limit the number of weddings I do each year.  This allows me to dedicate the appropriate amount of time and attention needed to my clients.

If you are planning an upcoming wedding in the Madison area, reach out for a
free wedding planning quote and learn more about what Piece of Cake Consulting can offer.


The Secret to Planning A Wedding Under 10K

2/20/2022

 
1. Choose a venue without a financial minimum required. Make sure it includes tables and chairs. Consider options such as city parks and recreational areas, VFW's, Bowling Alleys and even historial buildings.
2. Minimize complimentary alcohol options at the bar. Often times couples feel pressured into offering a full bar and this gets extremely expensive fast. If you offer one domestic, one import and two wines (one red, one white) with a cash bar option guests are still able to find something to their liking.
3. Send out electronic invitations and RSVP's. This will eliminate the cost of both the invites and postage. There are multiple apps available via the web that offer this service for a minimal flat rate fee.
4. Eliminate the late-night snack. When serving a full meal a late night snack is not necessary. When my husband and I go to dinner we don't eat an appetizer, full meal, have desert, drink endless alcohol and then turn around and eat again 3-4 hrs. later. Thats alot of food! 
5. Have a friend officiate you're wedding. If you have a friend or family member whose a great public speaker have them get ordained and speak at your wedding.
6. If your able to bring your own soda purchase them when large grocers offer holiday discounts such as Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, etc. They often times run fantastic savings. 
7. Don't provide favors. This can easily add up to a few hundred dollars and can be eliminated. No one expects them and they won't go missed. 
8. Bridal shops typically have trunk sales once a year in the summer. This is by far the best time to purchase your dress and bridesmaid dresses.  Sign up for email and instagram alerts to stay in touch.
9. Grab some bouquets from your local farmers market for your tables, cocktail tables and the corner of the bar. Put them in Dollar Store vases or better yet bring vases from home that you've collected over the years. 
10. Setup your timeline to skip cocktail hour and go straight to dinner. If you do a first look, it's not necessary because your pictures are already done. Carving cocktail hour out of your timeline can save you thousands in food and drink. 



DIY, Quick & Easy Rehearsal Dinner

12/16/2021

 
Often times I get asked for quick and easy rehearsal dinner ideas. Unfortunately, this tends to get lost in all the mix of wedding planning. Traditionally the groom's family pays for the rehearsal dinner but sometimes that's just not in the cards. Like I tell all of my clients, the new traditional is non-traditional. That being said if catering is out of your budget or your just hoping for something very chill with family and friends, here are a few easy prep suggestions that can be made in advance and are relatively inexpensive.

Taco Bout a Great Time: A walking taco bar with doritos and/or fritos, precooked hamburger and/or shredded seasoned chicken, cheddar cheese, jalapenos, sour cream, salsa, tortilla chips and chili to top it off.

Soup, Salad & Breadsticks: Prep two signature soups in crockpots along with a full-scale salad,  fresh baked garlic bread sticks and alfredo dipping sauce for a tasty dinner. 

The Spaghetti Dinner:  Prep spaghetti in a crockpot along with a premade delectable side salad for the ultimate italian food frenzy.

Baked Potatoe Bar: Precook all the potatoes and place them in the crockpot to stay warm, provide sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, black olives, tomatoes and seasoned hamburger. 

The "I DO" BBQ: Grill some hamburgers, hotdogs and brats. Include some simple premade sides such as veggies and dip, cut up fruit, chips and cookies along with ice-cold beer. 

Classic Pizza Party: Order specialty pizzas from your favorite hometown pizza joint. 

Helpful Tips to Keep in Mind During COVID

11/29/2021

 
Ive definitely felt a trend that couples are feeling more comfortable getting married again. At this point, its safe to say that any wedding in the near future will look differently. Here are just a few ideas that come to mind if your planning during the pandemic. 

You might consider decreasing your guest count. I know this can be difficult to navigate however; slimming your guest count down to just immediate family and friends can be helpful.

Be certain your event space has plenty of space for guests to sprawl out. If you can opt for outdoors its definitely the way to go.  Make sure all tables are a minimum of six feet apart.

When assigning your seating, plan to put those living in the same house together. This may mean more tables, but its worth the peace of mind.

When available avoid buffet and opt for plated meals. If buffet is your only option, make signs reminding guests to wear a mask while in line for the buffet, pay the catering company to serve the line vs. all the guests handling the utensils, put hand sanitizer at the beginning of the line. 

Consider more individually served items in sealed containers when possible, such as individually bagged popcorn or prepackaged cupcakes in clear clamshell style container with a monogramed sticker.

Regulations vary by state and even sometimes county, so stay informed as to your local guidelines in your wedding location. 

10 Fun Corporate Event Ideas

10/4/2017

 
Picture
A close-knit corporate environment is one of the keys to a successful business. It encourages accountability, employee commitment, productivity, and motivates workers.
​
One of the best ways to achieve a close-knit corporate environment is to hold corporate events and team-building activities. Team building activities will boost morale around your workplace. Corporate events are a way to let employees know they are appreciated and important to the company.

If you’re looking for great ideas for your business, Piece of Cake Consulting can help you put together ideas and plan your upcoming even. Here are some great ideas to help your workplace be a place your employees can’t wait to work at.

Read More

Planning a Corporate Halloween Party

9/11/2017

 
Picture
Want to throw a party your employees will remember for years to come? Let us help plan the perfect Halloween party for your business.

Read More

Wedding at Olbrich Gardens

9/4/2017

 
Picture
We were so happy to work with Ann and Victor to plan their special day at Olbrich Gardens. The day couldn't have turned out more perfectly. Take a look at more pictures from their wedding in their Gallery. ​

Read More
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  • About
    • Blog
    • FAQ
  • Services
    • Wedding Packages
    • Corporate Events & Party Planning
  • Areas Served
    • Madison, WI
    • Lake Geneva, WI
  • Portfolio
    • Weddings
    • Corporate Events & Parties
  • Testimonials
  • Contact