Cheers! You're engaged. Congratulations! After you are finished with the initial celebration of your engagement, it's time to start thinking about all the details that go into your special day.
Rolling hills, historic buildings, and charming venues makes Mount Horeb a favorite wedding destination. This guide offers tips and recommendations from a local's perspective. From venues to catering and everything in between, you are in the right spot for everything wedding.
the venue // floral // wedding attire & jewelry // beauty services // catering // photography // videography // sweet treats // celebatory outings // lodging // music/DJ
First off, let's start with the venue. Mount Horeb offers a wide variety of venues to fit every style and taste. Here are some highlights to help you find the perfect fit:
Bridle Barn & Gardens* is located on fourteen estate-like acres just south of Mount Horeb. Named by Wisconsin Bride as one of Wisconsin’s 10 Outstanding Outdoor Venues, Bridle Barn & Gardens offers historic charm on beautifully maintained grounds. Their restored 1870s horse barn has been carefully repurposed into an elegant event venue while preserving its history. Acres of manicured gardens & landscaping are picture-perfect, and a charming farmhouse provides space for the bridal party to gather. They offer several unique amenities, such as parking attendants, staff-driven golf carts to escort guests, free use of décor items, Wi-Fi, and even bathrooms cleaned every thirty minutes. Large weddings can enjoy additional space with their large tent, allowing for groups of up to 250. Make sure to ask about their All-Inclusive Package!
Visit thebridlebarn.com or email pam@bridlebarnandgardens.com.
Cave of the Mounds* is a truly unique option for adventurous couples! A National Natural Landmark, this geological formation is more than a million years old. The Cave offers an ambience you won’t find anywhere else. Candles illuminate the natural crystals, stalactites and stalagmites cast beautiful shadows, and live music can be enjoyed in the cave’s perfect natural acoustics. Say your vows in front of an intimate group in the cave’s Cathedral Room, and then celebrate with a larger group in the historic barn just up the hill.
Visit caveofthemounds.com, email jan@caveofthemounds.com, or call (608) 437-3038.
The Century Barn* is tucked away amongst rolling hills on the edge of Mount Horeb. The 100-year-old Century Barn and its 200 acres of surrounding hills have been lovingly maintained, restored, and refurbished to create a scenic event venue. The Barn features a full kitchen, rustic wood bar, stage area, pergola with water fountain, gardens, sunset views, a guest house option, and Wi-Fi. If you are looking for something really special, add their Horse and Carriage Package.
Visit centurybarn.com or call (608) 437-4227.
Deer Valley Lodge* is a hotel, golf course, and waterpark that features a 5,000-square-foot Banquet Hall just down the road from Mount Horeb in Barneveld. The space can hold approximately 350-400 people, and the entire Banquet/Meeting Facility can accommodate more. Deer Valley's on-site chef can cater to your special needs with a buffet-style meal, a formal sit-down affair, or an hors d’ oeuvres spread. The Banquet Facility consists of a full-service bar area and a dance floor for your entertainment needs. Step out onto the patio and enjoy the view of the beautiful Deer Valley Golf Course and the rolling hills of southwestern Wisconsin. Deer Valley Lodge offers a wide variety of rental items to their couples, including cocktail tables, mirrors, table numbers, head table décor packages, signs, arches, and more.
Visit deervalleylodgewi.com or call (608) 924-1600.
The Eloise is Mount Horeb's newest venue, scheduled to open summer of 2020. This modern venue sits along a picturesque forest, which offers an ideal backdrop for your outdoor ceremony or pictures. The two-story, 11,000+ square-foot venue features indoor and outdoor ceremony sites and offers the perfect combination of modern luxury and elegance. The Eloise can accommodate up to 200 at the ceremony and 250 at the reception.
Visit theeloiseweddingbarn.com.
Hi Point Steakhouse* is located just down the road in Ridgeway and offers breathtaking views of the area’s Driftless terrain and some of the most memorable sunsets around. Hi Point Steakhouse is a favorite local supper club, and their brand new Grand Ballroom offers a true Wisconsin experience. Your package can include table design set up, clean up, cloth linens, cake service, microphone/PA system, bar service, and a projector. You can even enjoy assistance from an event coordinator on-site during your event. They also offer a variety of on-site catering services, including buffet service or plated service.
Visit hipointsteakhouse.com or call (608) 924-2819.
Martinson Hall* is a historic wedding venue located right in the heart of downtown Mount Horeb. The renovated building is full of vintage charm while providing modern conveniences. Martinson Hall can provide services such as bartending, setup of events, and wedding planning. The maximum capacity of the venue is 175 guests. Packages include tables and chairs, and barware, flatware, china, and linens are also available.
Visit centurybarn.com/martinson-hall or call (608) 437-0920.
Prevailing Winds Lodge* offers several intimate settings for micro weddings as well as an expansive prairie for large weddings of up to 400+ guests. Located in a beautiful wooded area in neighboring Blue Mounds, your guests will enjoy the calm and tranquility of a truly private setting. The Lodge offers a number of packages, depending on the size of your group and your vision for your special day. They offer wedding/event planning assistance from the moment you reserve the lodge to your big day. Host your rehearsal dinner at the lodge the night before your ceremony, or invite your guests to a gift opening brunch the next morning. Staff members will be on site to help coordinate vendors and keep everyone on schedule. Golf carts will help transport your guests around the property, including back and forth to their vehicles. There are a number of utility items available for use, including hardline electrical power, extension cords, tents, tables, speakers, and more. Set the scene with their rustic centerpieces and décor. Don’t miss the horse trough for beverages!
Visit prevailingwindslodge.com, email stay@prevailingwindslodge.com, or call (608) 443-7440.
Tyrol Basin* offers a unique wedding experience just 10 minutes north of Mount Horeb. In the skiing and snowboarding offseason, Tyrol Basin transforms into a beautiful rustic venue in a picturesque valley. Their scenic chairlift can bring your guests to the top of Tyrol Basin for stunning views. There are indoor and outdoor seating options, a changing area, on-site catering, and a DJ or band. You can even conduct your ceremony on the hill – talk about a memorable experience!
Visit tyrolbasin.com or email events@tyrolbasin.com.
Next up, let's focus on the flowers. Mount Horeb has many florists that offer a wide variety of arrangements, packages, and services. They are all locally owned and dedicated to making your day beautiful:
Olson's Flowers* has been proving the Mount Horeb community for many years. A family-run business, Olson’s will provide you with beautiful, quality arrangements and prompt, friendly service. Their employees are professional and dedicated, and they will always go out of their way to make sure you are satisfied.
Visit olsonsflowers.net or call (608) 437-3017.
Sunborn Gardens is a small family flower farm and floral design studio in Mt. Horeb. They love unusual color palettes, textures, and lots of layers to give their flowers a lush garden feel. They offer different floral packages or a-la-carte options.
Visit sunborngardens.com or email sunbornstudio@gmail.com.
Victoria's Garden is a home-based, green floral studio that specializes in weddings. Victoria's Garden florists and designers will help you bring your vision to life for your big day, while not blowing your budget. They make sure each couple gets the individualized attention necessary for your flowers to be exactly what you want.
Visit victoriasgardenmh.com, email vistoriasgardenmthoreb@gmail.com or call (608) 509-2261.
Wedding attire and jewelry is such an important part of your day! When you choose to purchase these items at local shops, you will have an entirely different experience than if you were to explore big box stores. Your experience is 100% about you. Here are two local shops you should consider visiting:
Marah's Elegant Bridal is an award-winning wedding dress boutique nestled in quaint downtown Mount Horeb. Their collection of hand-selected wedding dresses are elegant, exclusive to the area, and have a realistic price tag. Ask about their exclusive Every Body Every Bride plus size wedding dress collection by Essense of Australia. Sip a glass of champagne and enjoy a customized experience designed especially for you.
Visit marahelegantbridal.com or call (608) 437-6107.
Bergey Jewelry* is a family-owned and operated small-town jewelry store. Located in downtown Mount Horeb, Bergey Jewelry prides itself on its knowledgeable staff who are friendly, trustworthy, and easy to work with. Wedding bands are available in platinum, titanium, tungsten-carbide, stainless steel, and sterling silver. They have many different styles to choose from, including plain, designed or with diamonds. They are available in white or yellow gold and platinum. Bergey Jewelry also has a large selection of engagement rings in stock, as well as special orders and custom design.
Visit bergeyjewelry.com, email bergeyjewelry@gmail.com, or call (608) 437-8155.
We are fortunate to have many local options for all your beauty services. From mani-pedis to hair and makeup, you don't need to leave the village area. We recommend researching multiple options so that you can make the best decision for your specific situation.
Catering is something that can really set your event apart from others. You can show your and your partner's personalities through your cuisine choices. We are lucky to have phenomenal local chefs right here in Mount Horeb:
At Hi Point Steakhouse* their talented, courteous and professional staff are able to cater to your every need, whether it be a casual picnic-style pig roast or the most elegant reception. At Hi Point Steak House, your high expectations are quietly met. They have an extensive hors d'oeuvres menu as well as three different catering packages. Their choices range from sirloin tips to fried chicken to almond crusted tilapia. There is something for everyone on their menu.
Visit hipointsteakhouse.com, email highpointsteakhouse@hotmail.com, or call (608) 924-2819.
Millers & Sons Supermarket* is Mount Horeb's go-to spot for all things grocery. For a low-key option, they offer a variety of platters including fresh fruit, shrimp, cheese, cheese and sausage, sandwiches, and vegetables. They ask for 24 hours’ notice and are often flexible with custom requests.
Visit millerandsonssupermarket.com or call (608) 437-3081.
When your special day is over, you’ll want to relive it through your photos and videos. The Mount Horeb Area is lucky to have many talented photographers and videographers. Browse through their portfolios to find someone who fits your style. And a helpful tip! Get to them know them ahead of time. It’s important to feel at ease with the person who will be capturing some of your most intimate moments:
Caitlin Jefko of cJefko Photography is a photojournalistic lifestyle photographer specializing in weddings and portraits. You can trust Caitlin to capture the moments that will tell your story with authenticity and beauty.
Visit jefko.com and check out her work on Instagram.
Errin Hiltbrand Photography shoots lifestyle photography. Errin loves to capture emotions during life’s most important milestones. She especially loves to play with light and is certain to capture something special on your special day.
Visit errinhiltbrandphotography.com and check out her work on Instagram.
Larissa Marie Photography takes a photo-journalistic approach to wedding photography, with an aim to bring out each couple’s unique personalities. They want to capture every detail of your big day so you can relive it for years to come.
Visit larissamarie.com and check out their work on Instagram.
Melissa Winters is a portrait photographer based in Mount Horeb. Melissa loves to connect with people through her camera, and her photographs will pull you into the moment
Visit melissawintersphotography.squarespace.com and check out her work on Instagram.
Ron Lutz II* is an experienced professional photographer based in Mount Horeb. Ron will capture the events of your day while they unfold without too much direction. He believes in letting your big day happen naturally, capturing the emotions as they come.
Visit ronlutzii-photographer.com and check out his work on Instagram.
Silver Tree Studio* is a portrait photographer and residential studio in Mount Horeb. They love to collaborate with couples when it comes to designing the romance and emotions of the day.
Visit silvertreewi.com, email silvertreewi@gmail.com or call (608) 225-9451.
Jay of Ever Heart Productions is a wedding videographer based in Mount Horeb. He has several packages available, including wedding videos, ceremony videos, and reception & toast videos. You can watch some of his wedding videos on his website and read testimonials.
Visit everheartproductions.com and check out his work on YouTube.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect wedding cake or a unique feature at your reception, wow your guests with these sweet treats:
Icki Sticki* is Mount Horeb's local ice cream shop. Their shaved ice bar is available for special events and will be a real crowd pleaser! This is a great way to surprise your guests and keep them cool on a warm day.
Visit ickisticki.com email jackson@ickisticki.com or call (608) 640-7470.
Miller & Sons Supermarket* boasts a friendly bakery that can bake custom cakes or cupcakes for your reception.
Visit millerandsonssupermarket.com, email bmiller@mhtc.net, or call (608) 437-3081.
Purple Plum Bakeshop has a passion for creating beautiful and delicious desserts. Cupcakes and wedding cakes are available for custom order.
Visit purpleplumbakeshop.com or check out their desserts on Instagram.
Your special day begins long before you say, “I do.” Celebratory outings, like Bachelor(ette) parties or rehearsal dinners, are your opportunity to thank everyone who is helping you make your upcoming nuptials unforgettable. Check out these great spots for a fun social event:
Board and Brush Creative Studio* is a place for creating fun and unique wood decor projects from scratch while enjoying a fun instructor led atmosphere. Never used a hammer, sandpaper, or a power tool? Never added picture hangers to a home décor sign to hang on your wall? Never waxed wood to protect it from the elements and make it glisten in the light? Don’t worry! Board & Brush's friendly instructors will teach you all of these skills. B&B works with top graphic designers from all over the country to provide you with farmhouse, vintage designs that will adorn your walls for years to come. In addition, their custom stencil process allows you to personalize your piece with your surname, monogram, the year of your special event or the names of your beloved children … the possibilities are endless and design choices are expansive.
Visit their website https://boardandbrush.com/mthoreb/, email bbmthoreb@gmail.com, or call (608) 419-0253.
Visit the tasting room at Botham Vineyards* and sample their wines, and learn more about their uncommon approach to winemaking in Wisconsin. Schedule a tour or a tour and private tasting and get an up-close-and-personal, insiders view into the vineyard, facilities and the winemaking processes. Your tour will be led by the guy who founded the business and is the winegrower and winemaker; no memorized a scripts or video recordings here. Authentic through and through. Pack a picnic and enjoy it with a glass or bottle of wine on the expansive terrace, in the popular Back-barn Lounge or in the COMFY-lounge.
Visit bothamvineyards.com, email info@bothamvineyards.com, or call (608) 478-9463.
Brix Cider LLC* is a startup cider company in downtown Mount Horeb. Their goal is to make the best cider you have ever tasted, featuring local, sustainably grown ingredients. The tasting room menu features true farm-to-table foods to pair with their ciders. Brix Cider products are not just locally made; they’re locally grown and part of a sustainable farming community. Brix Cider's tasting room can be rented out for private events like your rehearsal dinner.
Visit brixcider.com, email matt@brixcider.com, or call (608) 437-2749.
Cave of the Mounds* is a great option for those looking for a unique experience. Self-paced tours of this geologic wonder depart every day of the year (except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve and Day). Visitors enjoy the Cave’s constant 50-degree temperature that makes the cave feel cool in the summer and warm in the winter. You can purchase your tickets ahead of time online or when you arrive.
Visit caveofthemounds.com, email jan@caveofthemounds.com, or call (608) 437-3038.
Campo di Bella is a family-owned farm-to-table and winery in the countryside. Sip a glass of delicious wine, pair it with appetizers grown on the farm, or dish up a generous helping of home-cooked Italian-style cooking. Book your rehearsal dinner ahead of time.
Visit campodibella.com.
The Grumpy Troll Brew Pub* is located in the heart of downtown Mount Horeb. They are an award-winning brewery that offers their very own handcrafted ales & lagers - all made right on site! The family-friendly, two-story restaurant serves a full lunch & dinner menu and offers outdoor seating. They have a large event space upstairs that can be rented for rehearsal dinners.
Visit thegrumpytroll.com, email info@thegrumpytroll.com, or call (608) 437-2739.
Norsk Golf Club* – Book your tee time and eat lunch on the green. You don’t need to be a member to golf or enjoy the clubhouse. Try the pizza – it’s delicious!
Visit norskgolfclub.com, email norskgolfclub@gmail.com, or call (608) 437-3399.
Skål Public House* offers a modern take on the traditional Norske style beer hall. Bringing upscale pub food, craft cocktails, and a large selection of craft beer to blend with the rich Norwegian heritage of Mount Horeb. They are located in downtown Mount Horeb on Main Street. They have an option for everyone between their craft cocktails, a variety of beer, and wine. Plus their cheese curds are to die for!
Visit skalpublichouse.com, call (608) 437-1011, or connect on Facebook @SkalPublicHouse,
The Walk-On Bar & Grill* is a newly renovated family-friendly sports bar. Their upstairs space is available to rent for rehearsal dinners. The menu consists of their famous burgers, sandwiches, Friday Night Fish Fry, wraps, soups, salads, and appetizers.
Email info@walkonbar.com, call (608) 437-5733, or connect socially @WalkOnBar.
A few other ideas:
Your friends and family are coming to celebrate with you – make sure their time in Mount Horeb is enjoyable and memorable. These lodging options will provide your guests with clean, safe, and welcoming accommodations:
Deer Valley Lodge* is a medium-sized hotel located alongside a banquet hall and golf course. Hotel rooms feature custom-designed and hand-built furniture, including some rooms with bunk beds, whirlpool tubs, and balconies. Themed suites show off antler sconces and trim, and all rooms offer cable TV. The kids will love the 12,000-square-foot waterpark with slides, and the adults will love the golf course, which is known as one of the most beautiful and most challenging in southern Wisconsin.
Visit deervalleylodgewi.com or amber@deervalleylodgewi.com, or call (608) 924-1600.
GrandStay® Hotel & Suites* is a beautiful modern hotel that offers an outstanding range of amenities to ensure a pleasant stay right in Mount Horeb. The GrandStay has a selection of rooms and suites and features a complimentary breakfast, indoor pool and hot tub, exercise room, free Wi-Fi, and is pet friendly. Wedding groups who book a block of rooms with the GrandStay enjoy special pricing on hotel rooms, a 15-passenger van shuttle rental with a staffed driver, a complimentary bridal suite based on the number of rooms reserved in your block, and meeting spaces that are perfect for a bridal party preparation space the morning of the wedding or an intimate gift opening the next morning.
Visit grandstaymounthoreb.com, email mounthoreb@grandstay.net, or call (608) 437-5200.
Gonstead Guest Cottage is a Prairie style guest cottage designed by notable architect Herb Fritz, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright. The cottage was built for famous Mount Horeb chiropractor Clarence Gonstead, inventor of the Gonstead Methodology. Enjoy lannon stone and cypress interior finishes, and a large yard. Two people can enjoy this hidden gem, which features a queen bedroom, full kitchen, living room, entertainment room with pull-out sleeper, bathroom, and fireplace. Bicycles, a grill, and a fire pit are available for guest use. This property provides a unique experience for couples looking for something other than a standard lodging experience.
Call (608) 437-4374 and find the Gonstead Guest Cottage on VRBO.
Sunniva Inn Bed & Breakfast* is a beautifully restored 1903 Victorian Four Square home in a quiet neighborhood, just one block off Main Street Mount Horeb. They have four rooms available for guests, including the luxurious Gables Suite which is the entire 3rd floor with a tub/shower room featuring an air bubble tub for relaxation and rejuvenation. Their goal is to make your stay as enjoyable as possible from homemade breakfasts to local recommendations. This cozy bed & breakfast is a great spot to spend your first night as a married couple or treat VIP guests to a unique lodging experience (like parents or grandparents). The charming historic home creates a beautiful background for getting ready photos as well.
Visit sunnivainn.com, email innkeeper@sunnivainn.com, call (608) 437-4427.
The Little Village* is a quaint, modernized, historic 12-room hotel, nestled in the middle of Mount Horeb. Right out back you will find access to the popular Military Ridge Trail (walking, biking, and bird watching). The hotel is a short 5 minute walk to unique shops, bakeries, coffee shops, and restaurants. From the moment you arrive, you will enjoy a clean and cozy room, beautiful oak trees out the back window, and the charm of the downtown only 3 blocks away. This is a great option for guests looking for an affordable option with just the basics.
Visit littlevillagemh.com or call (608) 437-3350.
Prevailing Winds Lodge* is a custom-built five-bedroom full-log lodge that provides a truly unique experience for your wedding weekend. There is full chinking between every log, and the reclaimed wood countertops, local barn wood mantle, coins integrated into the hardwood floors, and handcrafted moose and elk antler chandelier set the rustic ambience. Your guests will love the dragon sculpture by local artist Michael Feeney, as well as the 180-degree view from the cozy sunroom. They can explore the library or relax on the wrap-around deck, the secluded front porch, in a hammock, or in front of one of the two outdoor fire pits. You can rent the entire lodge for your wedding group and enjoy exclusive access to the kitchen and outdoor grill. The hosts, Jen and Steve, are always available and are dedicated to ensuring your group has a memorable stay.
Visit prevailingwindslodge.com, email stay@prevailingwindslodge.com, or call (608) 720-8710.
Music is a huge part of your day! Whether you chose to go for live music, a DJ, a friend with a Spotify playlist, or a little bit of everything we have some great resources listed here for you.
Live music:
DJs:
Spotlight Events consists of talented entertainers with 25 years of successful events and hundreds of happy clients. DJ services start at $895. Their average couple receives a great night of entertainment for $1,495. Contact Spotlight Events to design the DJ, videography, lighting, photobooth entertainment that will spotlight the day the way you want.
Midwest Sounds has provided wedding DJ entertainment with a clear vision of quality performances and customer satisfaction for over 43 years. Last year alone, their entertainers performed at over 1900 wedding receptions. Wedding receptions are their focus. They use an easy yet comprehensive process for their couples to convey their desired level of interaction from the DJ, taste in music, activities, and special events.
When you book Over the Moon Weddings Midnight Divas DJ Services for your event, you're not just getting entertainment, you also get piece of mind. They will help you every step of the way! They are known for being professional, trained, and very friendly. They know how to read the crowd and get everybody involved. Officiant Services now Available!
Live Music:
Based out of Mount Horeb, Wisconsin, Alpha Romeos quintet brings blues, R&B, funk and classic soul covers. Drummer Christopher Morkri and bassist Stan Gregory whip up a tasty groove cake. Keyboardist Jeff Ingbritsen and guitarist Tom Heaney bring on the frosting with rambunctious chords and tasty leads. Lead singer Shekinah King brings light to sound with her sweet vocal range. Together, Alpha Romeos makes desert the main course.
Sharona & Ray Ray are former members of Charm School Rejects that are branching off to form an acoustic duo. Do you ask, wait, didn’t Sharona “retire”? Sharona has hung up her skirt but not her voice. During her time away from the music scene, it gave her time to learn guitar that she is excited to share. Did anyone believe her when she said she was retiring anyway? Ray Ray is a seasoned veteran in the music scene and is a member of the Foo Foo Dolls, a 90’s cover band (a must see if you haven’t checked them out yet). He brings his strong guitar roots and killer vocals. The duo is eager to bring you acoustic style music from their CSR song list and many new songs as well. Top 40’s rock, pop, and country are their main genres, but you’ll also hear some folk and Americana in their sets just to keep you on your toes. Artists covered include: Lady Gaga, Katie Perry, P!nk, Rhianna, Evanescence, Neon Trees, Sia, Creed, First Aid Kit, Taylor Swift, Bad Wolf, Sia, Ed Sheeran, Fun!, Judah and the Lion, One Republic, Elle King, Shinedown, Metallica…and many more! Sharona & Ray Ray’s natural energy and musical talent on stage will keep you coming back for more.
Old Oaks encompasses the acoustic music of Mount Horeb Singer-Songwriter, Frank Laufenberg. The music ranges from 12-string renditions of classic tunes like Purple Haze and Heart of Gold to melodious folk-jazz originals. Frank is frequently joined by saxophonist Daniel Haschke and upright bassist/vocalist Claire Kannapell.
Feralcats are a SW Wisconsin band featuring Honky Tonk, old country, outlaw country, rock & roll music.
Overall, the Driftless Area is full of potential to make your wedding day memorable and unique. From venues to accommodations and everything in between, we have it! All we need now is you and your special someone. At the end of the day, your wedding shouldn't be about the guests, the decor, the favors, etc. It should be about you. We hope this guide has helped you explore some options you may not have considered at first glance. From everyone here in Troll Town, congratulations!
For most up-to-date information, please contact businesses directly. Info/pictures via businesses' websites.
*Asterisk indicates a Chamber member. Chamber members are a crucial part of keeping Mount Horeb a great place to live, work, and visit.