You might have driven on I-94 and noticed the iconic smiley barn in Southeastern Wisconsin’s prestigious lake country. Just up the road, you’ll find one of the most comprehensive full-service wedding venues: Rustic Manor 1848.
The primary reason I am giving Rustic Manor 5 stars is because it stands out among Wisconsin venue options for having managers who are equal parts adept and personable — they know how to effectively work as a team with vendors which goes a long way in ensuring the seamless orchestration of the ceremony and reception timeline.
The venue itself, as the name suggests, embodies a rustic charm, shining uniquely at the time of my DJ performance (mid-October) amid the picturesque setting of peak autumn. The buildings and grounds are meticulously maintained, and the amenities are modern. From a distance, I saw that there was honeymoon suite and the lounge area being used by the bridal party to watch football games and listen to music.
Rustic Manor 1848 is located on just under 12 acres of wooded trails and meadows, surrounded by streams and extensive farmland. The barn itself is a grand 8,000+ square feet, comfortably hosting up to 275 guests between the lower level and hayloft. The venue features handicap-accessible restrooms, two bridal quarters with salon setups, a 30-foot handcrafted bar, a private vendor staging room, and a beautiful hayloft overlooking the main hall. The venue also offers a deck with a great view.
From a distance, I could see that the honeymoon suite and the lounge area where the groomsmen hung out to watch football games just seemed to really elevate the bridal party experience.
The outdoor ceremony space at Rustic Manor feels like a secret sanctuary.
It’s the little things that make the outdoor aspects of your event successful. The venue provides a wooden platform for the DJ on a hill and access to stable electricity, allowing optimal audio projection for outdoor ceremonies. This well-thought-out solution proves they are mindful of all the moving parts, not just aiming to wow customers.
With the pleasant October weather, the yard games were in full use, and the gas fire pit became a popular late-night hangout for those seeking a bit of social space and fresh air after a night of intense dancing.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-functioning venue with fantastic extras like an onsite honeymoon suite and a photogenic outdoor ceremony space, all nestled in the convenience of lake country, then Rustic Manor 1848 is a venue you’ll definitely want to consider.
