The Venue

The Venue
In the fall of 2013, the Grafft family purchased an abandoned building in downtown Janesville with grand visions of turning it into an event facility. After a year of hard work and remodeling, Britten Langfoss, daughter of the developer and current general manager, was able to be the first bride to walk down the aisle at The Venue in June 2015.“The building is extremely unique,” Langfoss says. “It was built as a Methodist Church in 1870 and so many of the original features remain intact, such as the ornate woodwork, hardwood floors and tin ceilings. Because we have such beautiful features, the decor budget can typically be reduced.”

The Venue can host wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and engagement parties. Couples can invite up to 200 guests for a sit-down reception and up to 300 people for a ceremony. An on-site coordinator helps to keep everything running smoothly.

The Venue is hosting about 25 weddings this year, but Langfoss anticipates that number to grow in the future. Wedding dates are being reserved as far ahead as 2018, so Langfoss recommends booking The Venue at least a year in advance, but also noted there are still dates available for 2017.

Couples can choose any licensed and insured caterer for their special day. Guests can take advantage of free parking and modern amenities, such as beautifully decorated bathrooms and an elevator.

“Start to plan early by scheduling a tour,” Langfoss says. “If you are able, plan to attend our Bridal Open House on February 26, 2017 to see how some of our favorite vendors to see our beautiful space and some of our favorite vendors.”