Celebrations 2018

Celebrations March 2018

GET THE PARTIES ROLLING with this guide to Wausau-area resources

a supplement of

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CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | 2018

GET YOUR party on T

his Celebrations special section of City Pages has taken on a few different forms since we started it a few years ago. It began with a Love & Marriage theme, but we came to realize that most local resources and good-to-know info apply to nearly any kind of gathering, even business-related events. Food, venue options, attire and décor, for example, all go into planning a party, whether it’s a graduation celebration or wedding reception. A company outing even for only, say, 50 people requires wrangling a lot of logistics. A momentous wedding anniversary party can feel a lot like pulling together a big wedding.

Look around this booklet-sized magazine and you’ll find a lot of really cool options. Some surprised us. For example, did you know that several local public park shelters have a kitchen? The YMCA’s Camp Sturtevant lodges allow overnight stays, as does Treehaven retreat center near Tomahawk. Did you know you can take photos on the beautiful grounds of the Woodson Art Museum?

I always say that City Pages, especially its special sections, is about helping people get the most out of living in the Wausau/Central Wisconsin area. Celebrations is a topic that fits this well. Most of us at some point or another are involved with putting on a celebration. It’s all about creating a reason to bring people together. 

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THE CONTENTS LOCAL TIMES AND DATES

THE STAFF

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to keep in mind when planning your soirée

PHOTOGENIC PLACES

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around the Wausau area

PARK & OUTDOORSY VENUES

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for the perfect event space

BLOCK AND PARK PARTY .................... 24 logistics to consider

BRUNCH PARTY

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lessons from a lovely anniversary party

COMMON SNAGS

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and pitfalls to watch out for

PARTY ATTIRE ................................................ 32 dos and don’ts

THE FINAL WORD

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Memorable moments and things

Publisher & Editor Tammy Stezenski, tammy@thecitypages.com News Reporter B.C. Kowalski, brian@thecitypages.com Matt Gardner, matt.gardner@thecitypages.com Big Guide Kayla Zastrow, bigguide@thecitypages.com Marketing & Advertising Sales Director Tom Neal, tom.neal@thecitypages.com Advertising Executives Lisa Lanier, lisa.lanier@thecitypages.com Tiffany Bonham, tiffany.bonham@thecitypages.com Advertising Graphic Artist & Customer Assistance Colette Fritz, ad-dept@thecitypages.com Graphic & Layout Designer Alex Eichten, alex@thecitypages.com City Pages is a locally owned and operated independent weekly, published Thursdays, serving the central Wisconsin area. The publication City Pages is the property of City Pages, Inc. and is available free for its intended use—to read. Tampering with the publication for any other purpose is not permitted. ©2016-17 City Pages, Inc. All rights reserved. Celebrations is a supplement published March 15, 2018

300 Third St., Washington Square, P.O. Box 942 Wausau, WI 54402-0942 Office 715-845-5171 | Fax 715-848-5887 | Website thecitypages.com

Nobody does formalwear better.

campbellhaines.com | 715.842.9520 | Downtown Wausau

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CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

Missie’s Beverage & Bartending WEDDINGS & EVENTS

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ADVERTISERS INDEX AbbyBank...................................... 14

Hot Waters Spa ................................9

Mountain Edge Restaurant ............. 31

Bayfield Chamber ......................... 37

Inspired By Design ........................ 10

Munson Bridge Winery ................ 24

Campbell Haines Menswear .............4

Jefferson Street Inn ........................ 39

Northwoods Goldsmith ................ 40

Center for the Visual Arts .............. 7

Jennison Travel............................... 33

Pinewood Supper Club ................ 21

City Grill ............................................6

Kase Styles ..................................... 15

Sewing Room ................................. 35

Clay Corner Studio ....................... 30

Lake DuBay Lions Club ................ 17

Starwood Farm .............................. 25

CJ’s Catering.................................. 29

Lighthouse Salon ..............................3

Travel Leaders ................................ 13

Dayspring Health Spa .....................6

Lisa’s at Lakeside ........................... 19

Valley Communities Credit Union .. 35

ENT & Allergy Associates .............11

Marathon Co. Historical Society 19

Wausau Labor Temple ................. 29

Everest Party Rentals ..................... 23

Merle Norman .............................. 15

Willow Springs Garden ..................9

Evolutions in Design .........................2

Missie’s Beverage Service ..............5

Wine Painting Party by Pouneh ......9

Grand Theater ..................................7

Monk Gardens .............................. 17

Zillman’s Meat Market.................. 27

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CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

715-849-D’SPA (3772)

Create the Ultimate Wedding Registry One-of-a-kind artful household items sure to add personal style to your home and last for years to come!

The CVA Gift Shop also offers a variety of artful gifts for your Bridal Party and Grooms Men! Sales benefit the local artists and the CVA as a non profit.

Located in Third Street Lifestyle Center | 715.298.9190 | cvawausau.org

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LOCAL DATES & TIMES to keep in mind Different kinds of gatherings pose different timing considerations. Here’s a list of Wausau-area dates that might impact your plans, including a few variable-date holidays

EASTER SUNDAY

The date changes each year, sometimes quite drastically, because this Christian holiday is observed on the Sunday after the full moon occurring on or after the equinox (March 21).

APRIL 1, 2018 APRIL 21, 2019 APRIL 12, 2020

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

(May change due to snow day make-ups)

Wausau JUNE 6, 2018 | WEDNESDAY JUNE 6, 2019 | THURSDAY DC Everest JUNE 7, 2018 | THURSDAY JUNE 6, 2019 | THURSDAY Mosinee JUNE 8, 2018 | FRIDAY Stevens Point JUNE 5, 2018 | TUESDAY JUNE 6, 2019 | THURSDAY Merrill JUNE 6, 2018 | WEDNESDAY JUNE 7, 2019 | FRIDAY

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CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

BALLOON & RIB FEST, AND CHALKFEST

Thousands of people attend the annual balloon/rib festival, which runs Thursday evening to Sunday morning at the Wausau Municipal Airport. It’s a beloved event with spectacular fireworks Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. So this might pose a conflict if you’re planning a party those days. On the other hand, all those kid games and bouncy rides might make for a good birthday party. Meanwhile, hundreds participate in creating sidewalk art that fills downtown’s 400 Block Sat.– Sun. So wedding photos on the square that weekend might be difficult.

JULY 12-15, 2018 | THURS.-SUN. JULY 11-14, 2019 | THURS.-SUN.

BIG BULL FALLS BLUESFEST

It’s held on Fern Island in Wausau every August, and though the adjacent Oak Island Park remains open to the public, expect a lot of traffic and loud music.

AUG. 17-18, 2018 | FRI.-SAT. 2019 TBA, but always occurs mid-August

WISCONSIN VALLEY FAIR

Not only do tens of thousands of people attend, especially for the big evening Grandstand shows, this annual event essentially closes down Marathon Park and its rentable facilities.

JULY 31-AUG. 5, 2018 | TUES.-SUN. JULY 30-AUG. 4, 2019 | TUES.-SUN. continues on 10

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Willow Springs Garden LLC A historic site surrounded by beautiful gardens for your special day.

Have your ceremony, reception, dinner and dance all in one place!

A historic site surrounded by beautiful gardens for your special day. Have your ceremony, reception, dinner and dance all in one place!

AVAILABLE I TEMS Gazebo Wedding Arch White Wedding Chairs Picnic Tables

We want you to use the entire garden and let your guests spread out.

We also have photo opportunities We want you to use the entire garden your guests spread out. with and our let vintage We also have photo opportunities with our vintage and rustic elements. and rustic elements.

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Fire Ring Volleyball Court Table Linens & Skirting Large outdoor grill Patio Bar Tents Available Outdoor sound system Indoor sound system, microphone, and video/

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LABOR DAY

Observed the first Monday in September 2018 | SEPT. 3 2019 | SEPT. 2 2020 | SEPT. 7

K-12 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

Per state law, public schools cannot begin until after Labor Day. So you can pretty much count on all of them to begin that Tuesday. Here are the official start dates for Wausau, DC Everest, Mosinee, Stevens Point & Merrill: SEPT. 4, 2018 | TUESDAY SEPT. 3, 2019 | TUESDAY

ARTRAGEOUS WEEKEND

This huge, annual city-wide celebration in Wausau occupies several venues around town: the Woodson Art Museum; downtown streets, sidewalks and the 400 Block; the Center for Visual Arts; and Marathon Park.

SEPT. 8-9, 2018 | SAT.-SUN. SEPT. 7-8, 2019 | SAT.-SUN.

2019 date TBA, but typically falls on the weekend following Labor Day

K-12 SCHOOL SPRING BREAKS Wausau & DC Everest: MARCH 25-29, 2019

Stevens Point & Merrill: MARCH 18-22, 2019

SUNRISE AND SUNSET

These times matter, but they aren’t markers most people just “know” with much accuracy. For example, September days can feel like summer, but the sun goes down way earlier, and it’s full-on dark by 7:30 pm. Conversely, days in May can be chilly, but they last until 8:30 pm.

Note that you have enough “working” daylight in the twilight time about 30 minutes after sunset. Here are Wausauarea rise and set times sampled midmonth. You can extrapolate from there: APRIL 15 6:13 AM | 7:43 PM MAY 15 5:29 AM | 8:20 PM JUNE 15 5:11 AM | 8:46 PM

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JULY 15 5:26 AM | 8:42 PM AUG. 15 6:00 AM | 8:04 PM SEPT. 15 6:37 AM | 7:08 PM OCT. 15 7:14 AM | 6:13 PM Daylight saving time ends Nov. 4, 2018, clocks fall back one hour NOV. 15 6:56 AM | 4:29 PM DEC. 15 7:29 AM | 4:17 PM JAN. 15 7:33 AM | 4:43 PM FEB. 15 6:58 AM | 5:26 PM Daylight saving time begins March 10, 2019, clocks spring forward one hour MARCH 15 7:10 AM | 7:04 PM

FULL MOONS

Why does it matter? It doesn’t for most people, and even if moonlight is a thing for you, clouds can’t be planned for in advance. But a big moon over the horizon can make a great photo backdrop, and bright moonlight adds magic to an outdoor party.

A full moon rises in the east at sunset.

Because moonrise happens about 40 minutes later each day, the nearly full

moon appears before sunset the days previous, and after sunset the days following full.

Below, two dates are noted when either night’s moon appears full (because the exact “full” position occurs during day hours for our location).

2018: APRIL 29 | SUNDAY MAY 28-29| MON.-TUES. JUNE 27 | WEDNESDAY JULY 27 | FRIDAY AUG. 25-26 | SAT.-SUN SEPT. 24 | MONDAY OCT. 23-24 | TUES.-WED. NOV. 22 | THURSDAY DEC. 21-22 | FRI.-SAT. 2019: JAN. 20 | SUNDAY FEB. 18-19 | MON.-TUES. MARCH 20 | WEDNESDAY APRIL 18-19 | THURS.-FRI. MAY 18 | SATURDAY 

EIGHT LOCATIONS: WAUSAU, ANTIGO, MEDFORD, STEVENS POINT, RHINELANDER, WESTON, WISCONSIN RAPIDS, HURLEY

(715) 847-2021 • entwausau.com 11

Photogenic

Wedding portrait at Pavilion Park, Rothschild ELLIE AND ANDREW WELLES THE MCCARTNEY’S PHOTOGRAPHY

PLACES

PHOTOGENIC places

BY B.C. KOWALSKI

M aybe that big wedding day is on the horizon, or you need a portrait to go with a momentous anniversary or birthday. Maybe you want a group photo for a graduation party.

Whether you hire a pro or borrow a friend who’s handy with a camera, it’s not always as easy as just walking up and taking photos for an hour. Some places charge a fee, even public parks. Who knew Rib Mountain had a photo policy?

Some fees apply only to professional photographers; others charge everyone.

When in doubt, call the venue and ask.

But don’t overlook the possibilities around your own home, says Butch McCartney of The McCartney’s studio in Wausau. Many times Butch

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Check out our guide to some hotspots in the Wausau area

and Kelsy McCartney will shoot photos at residences, which are unique to the subject and add character to the photo, Butch says. Plus, sometimes all you need is a simple, natural background says Kelsy. In tight portraits, only a small amount of background will show.

Perhaps most important is time of day, says Kelsy. While planning the exact hours around sunrise or sunset might seem like a pain, the difference is worth the effort. There’s a reason photographers call it “golden hour.” Light when the sun is low takes on a golden, softer hue that can render an otherwise dull scene gorgeous, and a gorgeous one even more so.

Monk Botanical Gardens Cost: Professionals pay $25 per two-hours, $15 additional hour Where: 1800 N 1st Ave., Wausau It’s hard to find a spot here that’s not photogenic. If you’re taking photos for free, or just paying a semi-talented relative, there’s no fee, Monk Gardens staff say. But professional sessions need to respect the fee structure.

Stevens Point Sculpture Park Cost: Free Where: 1800 N. First Ave., Stevens Point This park is basically an extension of the Green Circle Trail, and the large-scale sculptures provide a great backdrop. It’s a woodsy trail system, but for a real photogenic treat, head left from the trail head to the pond for some great scenery.

Yawkey House Garden and Woodson House Cost: $50 photo fee or $50 family membership to society, which includes unlimited photography Where: 403 and 410 McIndoe St., downtown Wausau

These are lovingly restored historic mansions owned by the Marathon County Historical Society. The Yawkey House serves as a museum, so photo shoots are not allowed inside. But its splendid gardens—with a sunken pool, grand pergola, grapevines and flowers—create one of the most photogenic places in town. The fee includes the Woodson House, where the grand interior is becoming more popular for indoor shoots.

The 400 Block and Third Street Cost: Free Where: Downtown Wausau The 400 Block’s urban architectural scene sets it apart from any other park in the city. The wide-open space provides plenty depth of field, making a cool blurry backdrop, including that stage structure.

Nearby on the 300 block of Third Street you’ll find (depending on time of year) the famous umbrellas overhead. These are probably the most photographed places in the city. continues on 14

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Grand Theater zen garden Cost: Free to those renting facilities Where: Jefferson and Fourth street side This cool little garden area behind the Grand Theater contains lovely vegetation and cool rocks within a black iron fence. Management wants to reserve its use for photos to people renting ArtsBlock facilities, such as the Great Hall or the Center for the Visual Arts.

Wedding portrait at the Yawkey House Garden, Wausau MARIE AND JOE KRAUSE/THE MCCARTNEYS PHOTOGRAPHY

Rib Mountain State Park Cost: $50 per year for compensated photographers Where: 4200 Park Road Talk about depth of field! There are a ton of options here, including a view of Wausau below in the distance, rock formations, and treelined trails. Anyone taking photos for compensation, even a few bucks, needs to observe the fee.

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Wausau Whitewater Park Cost: Free Where: 200 River Dr., Wausau The area near Whitewater Park is super photogenic, and maybe not terribly obvious since it’s somewhat hidden. Walk down behind the library to find a rocky river scene complete with rusty railroad trusses.

Eau Claire Dells Cost: Free Where: 2150 CTH Y, Aniwa It’s a bit of a drive, but totally worth it to have waterfalls in the background. Get here early or during the week if you don’t want a ton of people in your shots. Or take a walk—people become more sparse the further you hike the trail.

Washington Square (Third Street Lifestyle Center) Cost: Free Where: 300 Third Street, downtown Wausau Hardly a week goes by when someone isn’t conducting a photo shoot of some kind inside this historic building with an open staircase, high ceilings, exposed brick, skylights and wrought iron details. The light is awesome just about any time of day.

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Rothschild Pavilion Park Cost: Free Where: 1104 Park St., Rothschild A set of stairs leads down to the Wisconsin River, leading to a trail and peninsula. There are lots of great places to take photos, especially toward sunset with the light reflecting off the water.

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Woodson Art Museum gardens Cost: $35 for professional outfits Where: 700 N. 12th St., Wausau Not only do the grounds have probably the best-kept flower gardens in the area, there are mature trees, gates, rock walls, and statues around every corner. Professional outfits must pay a fee, but the average person can take photos there. No photography allowed inside. 

merle

© 2018 Me

300 Third St., Suite 102 • 715.842.3450

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PARK & OUTDOORSY venue rentals

BY KAYLA ZASTROW

RIB MTN. STATE PARK Friends Gathering Space

You’d be surprised at the variety of facilities at parks and park-like settings around Central Wisconsin for gatherings of any size—many can handle hundreds of people.

Some even offer kitchen facilities and overnight lodging, because they’re set up to handle summer campers and adult retreats. Many would be perfect for a company function. And did you know you can reserve your own summer private pool party? Yes you can.

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Wausau/Marathon County

Some shelters can be reserved up to a year in advance, online or in person. Prices listed are non-commercial costs per day (unless otherwise noted) for 2018. Reservations for 2019 cost slightly more. Parks open 8 am-midnight. For deposit information and details contact 715-261-1550, co.marathon.wi.us/parks Note: Many Marathon Park facilities cannot be reserved during major events such as the 4th of July Fair, Artrageous Weekend in Sept., and the Wisconsin Valley Fair during end of July- early Aug. Bluegill Park Shelter #4 · Open shelter no electricity and 75 person capacity.

Available May 1-Oct. 31. $56 Big Eau Pleine Park Enclosed Shelter · Enclosed shelter with electricity and 90 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $91 Big Eau Pleine Park Shelter · Open shelter with electricity and 75 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $73

Cherokee Park Shelter · Enclosed shelter with electricity and 80 person capacity.

Available May 1-Oct. 21. $91 Eau Claire Dells Park Enclosed Shelter #1 · Enclosed shelter with electricity and 70 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $103 Eau Claire Dells Park Shelter #13 (Next to the beach) · Open shelter with electricity and 75 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $73 Eau Claire Dells Park Shelter #14 (South of river, west of HWY Y) · Open shelter, no electricity, 60 person capacity.

Available May 1-Oct. 31. $49 Marathon Park Big Kitchen · Enclosed shelter with electricity, 500 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 21. Less than 200 people $141; 201-300 people $255, 301-500 people $376 Marathon Junction · Enclosed shelter with electricity, 50 person capacity.

Available June 1-Sept 1. $215 all day (8 am-midnight), $63 11 am-2:30 pm, $152 5 pm-midnight Marathon Park Meeting Hall · Enclosed shelter with electricity, 75 person capacity.

Available May 1-Oct. 21. 2018: $141 Marathon Park Shelters #1-4 · Open shelters with no electricity and 60 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $49 Marathon Park Bandstand · Open shelter with electricity, 60 person capacity.

Available May 1-Oct. 31 (Reserved Thursday nights in summer for Wausau Concert Band.) $56 Marathon Park Open Shelter #5 · With electricity, 60 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $56. (Reservable only 30 days in advance, not online) Marathon Park East Gate Hall · Available year round with electricity, 800 person capacity. $437 for 1-300 people, $715 for 301-800 people. Not reservable online Marathon Park Multi-Purpose Building 1 & 2 · Electricity available, 1000 person capacity. Available April-Sept. Cost based on number of people, not reservable online.

Mission Lake Park Open Shelter · No electricity, 75 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. 2018: $56

h

Wedding EVENTS in the GARDEN

Engagements • Weddings • Receptions • Anniversaries Rehearsal Dinners • Engagement Parties • Wedding Photos

Reserve the Gardens for your special event!

715-261-6309 1800 N. 1st Avenue, Wausau www.monkgardens.org

Lake DuBay Lions Park 1640 County Highway DB Knowlton, Lake DuBay We are taking Reservations for 2018

Have your event at our park Weddings • Showers • Company Picnic Graduation Parties Reunions • Birthday Parties

JOIN US FOR

Farmers Market Thursdays, June – October 2-6 pm

Summerfest Music Event July 20, 21st

Visit our website: www.dubaylions.org

Call to see if your date is still available

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715-693-1121 after 5pm

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Nine Mile Chalet · . Enclosed shelter with electricity, 175 person capacity. Available April 16-Nov. 20. $255 Oak Island · Enclosed shelter with electricity, 75 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 21. 2018: $146 Pleasant View · Enclosed shelter with electricity, 50 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 21. 2018: $98 Riverside Park · Enclosed shelter with electricity, kitchen and restrooms; 150 person capacity in winter, 500 summer. Available year round. Less than 200 $217, 201-300 $361, 301-400 $510 Sylvan Hill · Enclosed shelter with electricity, kitchen, bathrooms and wood burning fireplace. 200 person capacity summer, 100 winter. Available year round. $217 Wausau Pools · Kaiser, Memorial, and Schulenburg pools may be rented for private parties June 11-August 10, Sat.-Sun. 9 am-noon. $400. Reservations must be made in person at 212 River Dr., Wausau Marathon Park Splash Pad · Available to rent 10-11 am except during Wisconsin Valley Fair. For children 10 and under with accompanying adults. Toys, food and beverages welcome. $98 an hour for 1-30 people, $119 for 31-100 people

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▲ Monk Botanical Gardens, Wausau Rentable areas include the event lawn, wildflower woods, Memory Garden & Plaza, Treehouse, Kitchen Garden & Shelter, and Meditation Garden. Maximum 200 people. $250 deposit to secure. Rates for initial four hour block, additional four hour blocks at half-price. $25 per hour for set-up and break-down of event. Details and information visit monkgardens.org: Weekend (Friday 4 pm-Sunday Dusk) First area: $350 up to 50 attendees, $550 for more · Additional area (each): $100 up to 50 attendees, $200 for more · Entire grounds: $1000 up to 50 attendees, $1,800 for more Weekday First area: $250 up to 50 attendees, $400 for more · Additional area (each) $75 up to 50 attendees, $150 for more · Entire grounds: $750 up to 50 attendees, $1,350 for more

Yawkey House Garden and Carriage House Sunken garden with fountain focal paint; carriage house offers indoor space. Rental is for three hours including service of Marathon County Historical Society staff, set up and take down of 25 chairs, and electricity for soft music. $50 into each hour after three hours. Pricing based on number of guests. Contact 715-842-5750, marathoncountyhistory.org for details.

Woodson YMCA Camp Sturtevant, Weston ▼ Facilities rented year round, except weekdays May 15-Sept. 1 due to summer camp programs. Summer weekend reservations can start Friday night. To reserve and check available dates contact Sammy Johnson at 715-845-2177 ext. 162 or sjohnson@woodsonymca.com: Riverside Lodge · Main building of the expansive grounds. Features large communal area with fireplace; plus kitchenette with fridge, freezer, microwave, and pizza oven.

Full functioning bathhouse with running water toilets, sinks and showers. Overnight use $330 per night for 20 people or less, $17 per person for 21 people or more. The two bunk wings with closing doors have 56 beds

Yawkey House Garden

A Dream Come True Summer Dates Available

Book Today! 715-842-5750 Family Lodge · Features full kitchen and running water toilets and sinks, no showers.

Sits 60-70 in main room; outdoor fire area sits approx. 150. Field space available for tents and outdoor setups. Daily use: $40 per hour for 6 hours or less, $300 per day.

Overnight: $320 per night for 20 people or less, $16.50 per person for 21 people or more. No beds, but sleeping mats available.

Tent Accommodations · $15 per tent with access to bathhouse and fire rings. No extra fee for tent camping if also renting a lodge.

Rib Mountain State Park Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. State park admission stickers required on all vehicles. Facilities may not be occupied before 6 am and must be vacated by 11 pm, unless otherwise noted. Go to ribmountain.org, and Dnr.wi.gov: Amphitheater · Available May 1-Sept. 30. $300 day, 9 am-5 pm.

Lisa's Sweet Shoppe Bakery & Catering “No Party Too Big or Too Small!”

Serving all of Central Wisconsin Buffets • Luncheons Wedding Receptions Wedding Cakes

RESTAURANT & BANQUET HALL

715-253-2500 continues on 20

410 Howard Street, Wittenberg, WI 54499

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Friends Gathering Space · Three-season building built in 2016. Has commons area, restrooms, gas fireplace and stone patio. Seats around 75 people. Available May 1-Sept. 30.

Rental fee determined by user group classification, time, and day of the week.

Northern Vista Shelter · Open shelter, no electricity, seats 20-25 people. $40 CCC Gazebo · Open shelter, no electricity, seats about 10 people. $40.

Town of Rib Mountain

Doepke Park Shelter · Enclosed shelter with picnic tables, sink and kitchen countertop with electricity, heat for extra fee. 50 person capacity. Rental hours: 10 am-10 pm. $80 security deposit. $80 residents, $100 non-residents; $40 non-profit, $100/$120 business. Details: 715-842-0983, townofribmountain.org

Mosinee

For available dates, details and reservation contact City of Mosinee at 715-693-2275.

Costs listed are per day.

River Park VFW Shelter · Open shelter with electricity, 100 person capacity. $5 River Park MAAC · Open shelter, no electricity, 30 person capacity. $5. Enclosed shelter to be built in summer 2018.

River Park Gazebo · Open shelter with electricity, 30 person capacity. $75 Rec Center Park · Enclosed shelter with electricity, 1,440 person capacity. $125 for family-sized events; call about large events. (Not available during hockey season, typically April 1-Nov.) Dessert Park · Enclosed heated shelter with electricity, 60 person capacity. $75.

(Not available during softball tournaments)

Weston

Park shelters at: Kennedy Park, Yellow Banks #1-2, Sandhill Park, Robinwood Park, Kellyland Park and Machmueller Park: All have restrooms, water and electricity. Resident family groups $60 per day, non-resident $85; non-profits $60/$110; business $160/$310 per day. Security deposit required. Call 715-359-6114 or stop

by Weston Municipal Center for available dates. All reservations must be paid in person to guarantee. Westonwi.gov

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Weston Aquatic Center · Pool rental includes water slide. Can be rented in morning or evening. Prices per hour: $125 for 1-50 people, $150 for 51-75 people, $175 for 76-100 people. Details contact 715-359-9988 or 715-241-7946

Rothschild

Shelter rentals typically open mid-April or when weather permits, 8 am-11 pm. Security deposit required. Some costs vary depending on residency and type of group/organization. Details and availability at rothschildwi.com, 715-359-3660 Pavillion Park Shelter · No electricity. $25 River Park · Enclosed prep area, 6 picnic tables, electricity. $100-$175 Gaska Park Shelter · No electricity. $50-$175 George Street Park · Enclosed prep area, 6 picnic tables, electricity. $75-$175 Rothschild Aquatic Center · Can be rented after hours. Costs are per hour: $125 for 1-50 people, $150 for 51-75 people, $175 for 76-100 people; over 100 people is $1 per person per hour.

Schofield

For reservations and details contact 715-359-5230, cityofschofield.org: Schofield Park Shelter · Kitchen and electricity available with approx. 250 max capacity inside. Available April-Oct. $75 resident, $100 non-resident with $100 security deposit. 7 am-10 pm.

Kronenwetter

Park shelter rentals available during park hours 7 am-10 pm. $50 security deposit.

Details and dates visit Kronenwetter.org or call 715-693-4200: Norm Plaza · Electricity available. $40 resident, $60 non-resident. 18 person capacity.

Gooding Park· No electricity or running water. $40/$60. 50 person capacity.

Municipal Center Shelter · Electricity available. $40/$60. 40 person capacity.

Sunset Park· Electricity and water available. $50/$70. 16 person capacity.

Friendship Park· Electricity and water available. $50/$70 non-resident. 34 person capacity.

Stevens Point

Open shelters at Iverson and Mead Park free on first come, first served basis. All reservable facilities have electricity; $100 security deposit. Several parks have lodges available with volleyball or horseshoes for rent for $1 with extra $25 deposit. Prices and reservation contact: 715-346-1531: Bukolt Park Lodge · Enclosed shelter with kitchen, fireplace, restrooms and electricity.

150 person capacity. Available May 1–midOct. $195 per day Iverson Park All-Purpose Lodge · Enclosed shelter with kitchen, restrooms and electricity.

120 person capacity. Available April-Nov. $195 Iverson Park Boy Scout Lodge · Enclosed shelter with kitchen, fireplace, restrooms and electricity. 50 person capacity.

Available May 1–mid-Oct. $165.

Iverson Park Girl Scout Lodge · Enclosed shelter with kitchen, fireplace, restrooms and electricity. 20 person capacity.

Available May 1–mid-Oct. $155 Pfiffner Park Building · Enclosed shelter with kitchen, restrooms and electricity. 150 person capacity. Available May 1–mid-Oct. $195.

Portage County

Lodge reservations must be made online, up to 11 months in advance. $100 security deposit. Costs listed are per day. Tent rentals available for $25 a day. Reservations and details at Co.portage.wi.us: Collins Park Lodge · Attached open shelter with indoor plumbing, kitchen and electricity, 32 person capacity inside, 64 outside. Available May 15-Sept. 30. $110 DuBay Park Lodge · Attached open shelter with electricity, no plumbing, 40 person capacity inside, 40 outside. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $85 Jordan Park East Lodge · Attached open shelter with electricity, no plumbing, with kitchen, 48 person capacity inside, 40 outside. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $110 Jordan Park West Lodge · Attached open shelter with plumbing, kitchen and electricity with 80 person capacity inside, 72 outside. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $160 summer, $185 winter

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Lake Emily Park East Lodge · Attached open shelter with kitchen and electricity, no plumbing. 32 person capacity inside, 32 outside. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $85 Lake Emily Park West Lodge · Attached open shelter with plumbing, electricity and kitchen. $160 summer (May 1-Oct. 31), $185 winter (Nov. 1-Dec. 31).

80 person capacity inside, 64 outside Lake Helen Park Lodge · Attached open shelter with kitchen and electricity, no plumbing, 72 person capacity. Available May 1-Oct. 31. $65 Standing Parks Lodge · Attached open shelter with kitchen, electricity, no plumbing, 80 person capacity. $160 summer (March 15-Nov. 15), $185 winter.

Merrill

Park shelters open for reservation May 1-Oct. 1. $50 security deposit. To check available dates call Parks and Recreation office at 715-536-7313. Reservations must be made in person at 1100 Marc Dr., Merrill.

Kitchenette Park · Features kitchen, serving area and restrooms, with electricity. 100+ person capacity. $65 resident, $75 non-resident

22 CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

Treehaven’s dining room

Ott’s Park · $55/$65 Riverside Park · Open space with restrooms and electricity, 100+ person capacity. $55/$65 Stange Park · New shelter with kitchen area, restrooms and electricity added in 2018. 100+ capacity. $55/ $65 Normal Park · Newly constructed restroom and kitchen area with electricity.

50+ capacity. $55/$65

Lincoln County

Open shelter reservations begin after Jan. 1 for summer months. $25 security deposit. Photos and details visit co.lincoln.wi.us: Tug Lake Park Shelter · $60, electricity and water available New Wood Park Shelter · Two shelters available with water, no electricity. $45

Lake DuBay

Lake DuBay Lions Club Park · Enclosed Shelter with kitchen and bathrooms. $150 security deposit: Fri.-Sat. $300; Sun. $150; Mon.-Thurs. $100.

Open shelter $35 security deposit: $100, $50 fee to use bathroom facilities. For availability and details call 715-693-1121 after 5 pm. dubaylions.org

Village of Maine

Lions Club Park · Next to village hall, on 44th Avenue off CTH K, just north of Wausau. Shelter with electricity, volleyball court and horse shoes. $125 per day. For details contact 715-470-7577.

◄ Treehaven, near Tomahawk

This UW-Stevens Point facility on 1,400 acres of wilderness features a beautiful lodge with dining hall, stone fireplace, lounge area with pool table, 100-person auditorium, outdoor deck, overnight rooms, outdoor amphitheater stage with hillside seating, audio-visual setup, wifi, and more. Features miles of hiking trails and cross country ski and snowshoe trails.

For pricing, available dates and details contact 715-453-4106 ext. 2438, or email Treehaven@uwsp.edu. Facilities include: Bear Track Lounge · Features a piano, TV, laundry room and wood-burning fireplace

WinterBerry Dining Room · Seats up to 65 with additional seating in adjoining room.

Special menu choices include vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free.

Osprey Nest (Library) · Nature library with quiet lounge and small group space Vallier Classroom Center · Auditorium with elevated stage, projection facilities, meeting rooms for 15-125 people, outdoor deck with built-in seating and computer lab Ed Okray Aspen Lodge & Birch Lodge · Carpeted rooms with bunks and private bathrooms for up to 112. $80 single room, $40 per person 2-4 per room Fern Young Cottage · Six carpeted bedrooms, three shared bathrooms, common living room for up to 11. $80 single room, $40 with 2 per room.

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BLOCK & PARK party logistics

BY MATT GARDNER

Do you need a permit for that? Probably. Especially if you’re closing off a street and playing music after dark. And what about special setups at municipal parks? There are some rules about that, too.

Wausau

Block party permit $31.50. Block party must be done before sunset and street must be open before dusk. Alcohol allowed on public right-of-way during block party, waiver with city needed. Picnic license needed for alcohol sales, must be eligible to receive. Live music is allowed, but must not disturb the peace per city ordinance.

Temporary structures such as tents or blowup bouncy houses require city permission for block parties. Special events permit needed for events that require city services, ranging from $40-$400.

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Weston

Special event permit $100. Alcohol allowed on public right-of-way during block party. Picnic license needed for alcohol sales. $25 fee for tents more than 240 square feet. Live music allowed, must have village permission to exceed noise level ordinance from 9 pm-7 am.

Rothschild

Block party permit $50. Alcohol allowed on public right-of-way during block party.

Temporary alcohol license needed for alcohol sales. Temporary structures such as tents require extra permit $25. Live music exceeding noise level ordinance not allowed between 9 pm-7 am.

Schofield

There is no standard for block party permits; any request would be considered on a case-by-case basis. Temporary structures are allowed at city parks without permits. Permits required for live music and temporary alcohol license required for alcohol sales.

Rib Mountain

Block party permit $35. Permits for live music considered on a case-by-case basis. Alcohol allowed on public rightof-way during block party. Temporary alcohol license required for alcohol sales. Additional $35 fee required for tents exceeding 100 square feet set up at Doepke Park shelter.

Mosinee

No fee for block parties. Residents considering a block party must notify city staff at least two weeks in advance. Alcohol allowed on public right-of-way during block party. No fee for temporary structures. Live music allowed from 7 am-11 pm. Special event permit required for alcohol sales.

Kronenwetter

Street/special event closure application $75. Alcohol permits, additional structure permits for a tent and live music would be considered on a case-by-case basis. ď Ž

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BRUNCH party

Lessons from a lovely, Sunday anniversary party

BY TAMMY STEZENSKI

S

ome celebrations can be nearly as complicated in scope as a wedding. At least that’s how I felt last year when arranging a 50th wedding anniversary party for my parents.

My parents’ many friends and big family—all my aunts, uncles and cousins—meant that even a pared down guest list would be over 80 people. A dinner party at a restaurant, or even a casual party at my parents’ house, was out of the question given that sized crowd. My mother was wise enough to know she wouldn’t enjoy herself if it all happened at their home, even if a caterer were involved.

Plus, many of the invitees were in their 60s and 70s, which was a big consideration. Seating has to be a priority, not lawn games.

A banquet hall or rentable space in Shawano, where they live, were the logical choices, but there wasn’t much to choose from. And though momentous, nobody really was expecting this occasion to rise to the level of wedding expense. Like a lot

26 CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

of celebrations, it fell in that “in-between” level—not quite a wedding, but bigger than a birthday party.

The solution we stumbled on by accident was perfect, and I’d recommend it for all kinds of celebrations: Sunday brunch.

The restaurant we found offered a Sunday brunch buffet to the public anyway, but had space for a separate section where our people could converse, mingle, and comfortably see a slideshow program.

The establishment needed a close (but not exact) head count so staff could prepare enough food to stock the buffet. All this made the food arrangements nearly as easy as making a normal reservation. My mother and her friend simply made an advance visit to eye the set up so they knew where to put a photo table and some flower arrangements.

This open buffet also allowed guests to not miss out if they couldn’t make it exactly on time. A few families arrived late, but no problem. They helped themselves to the buffet already operating for all the other patrons.

Most big, semi-formal celebrations like this don’t happen on a Sunday, because for most people Sundays are for quieter family time. In our case, this was all about family and close friends. Few people had a scheduling conflict; nearly everyone invited was able to attend.

The best Sunday effect happened later. People stayed around for hours afterwards to hang out at the bar and the restaurant’s patio for a relaxed but eventful summer’s day. It was a chance for everyone to reconnect and reflect back on the whole extended family.

One major conversation starter was the meal program. I had spent dozens of hours putting together a PowerPoint presentation around photos that spanned my parents’ lives—to tell the story of their marriage and life, which included images and fun stories around several of the guests. I mention the time commitment as a warning: This kind of project takes a helluva lot of time: hours to collect the photos, hours to sort through them and get an accurate background, hours to scan and

download, and more hours to create the slideshow itself, complete with text.

And it was so worth it. That retrospective program spurred many conversations that afternoon, we talked about this long history, about other momentous occasions and funny anecdotes in our extended family and friends circle. It’s incredible how much we don’t know about people we’ve been close to all our lives. Several of my cousins expressed amazement at the details of how my parents’ met and married (he was in the Army stationed in Korea; she was one of the locals working at the base; they fell in love and rushed to get married when he was reassigned).

I can’t imagine those wonderful conversations happening at an evening party where loud music and dancing take over after dinner. The relaxed time allowed my brother, who has lived in Florida for many years, to catch up with everyone and even arrange to take some of the young cousins fishing the next day.

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COMMON SNAGS and pitfalls

BY TAMMY STEZENSKI

There’s a lot to think about when throwing a celebration.

Here are 11 things to beware of.

Under-estimating costs.

People generally try to stick within a working budget, which will cover obvious large expenses. But those smaller extras can pile on and be the killer, says Clint Schultz, owner of Urban Street Bistro, which provides catering services for gatherings of all sizes and types. He has seen clients’ budget get blown by unaccounted things like a tent or canopy rental, extra dishes, lighting, etc.

Even for main expenses like food, people underestimate (or are too hopeful about) the cost of food and drink for a crowd. You might hope to stay under $10 a person, but as Schultz gently reminds, consider how far ten bucks would go at a place like Culver’s.

Prioritizing time to enjoy.

Being present should always be your priority, agrees Kasey Greenheck, who owns the party planning and styling company Kase Styles in Wausau. She has this warning: The host sets the tone. If you’re running around in a panic, your guests will feel you’re on edge, and that will affect the entire affair.

Over-reaching, especially in a partial or fully DIY event.

Use the K.I.S.S. mantra: Keep It Simple, Stupid. For events that Urban Street Bistro does just a portion of (rather than a full-service catering arrangement) Schultz often sees clients running around, so nervous and harried during the party that they have no time to be a good host or even enjoy the celebration.

More often than not, it’s because people have grand ideas and “want to crush it, Martha Stewart style” with complicated food and drink. For anyone looking to do at least a part of the celebration themselves, Schultz recommends the book Taming the Feast: Ben Ford’s Field Guide to Adventurous Cooking, which has great advice on easy-to-manage food to serve a crowd.

Got a first aid kit?

If something’s happening outside, someone always gets hurt: bee stings, bug bites, a scraped knee, bloody nose, torn fingernail, cut toe, a run-in with thorns or prickly plants.

Always have a first aid kit—or at least BandAids and antibacterial wipes.

28 CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

Kasey Greenheck

Not enough help.

Following the “be sure to enjoy yourself” theme, consider spending a few bucks for some helping hands. Booking a full-service venue means someone will take care of most all the details on the day-of. But there are a multitude of “in between” venues and types of events in which you are responsible for a lot of logistics before, during and after the party. And if the celebration is at home or a simple rented facility, it’s all you. But it doesn’t really have to be just you. Schultz suggests paying a neighbor kid, for example, to help out a few hours for set up, clean up, and minding supplies of ice, plates, food, garbage cans, etc. You could even ask someone to work the drink and refreshments table.

For a major event, a party planner and/or full-service venue might be the best option. continues on 30

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Enough seating and tables.

Multiple families = more complications

This comes up with anniversary parties and multi-honoree graduation parties, Schultz says. Planning can become enormously complicated whenever a number of different families are involved in the same event, and that can bog down scheduling as well as logistics. There’s probably not one clear solution here, except maybe to prepare for communication glitches and disagreements, with some kind of system and schedule.

Good dog, bad dog.

If you’re hosting, you might think your pet can socialize with guests without causing a disturbance. But even an otherwise well behaved dog gets excited at parties, what with all that food around at easy-to-reach heights. I’ve seen it happen more than once.

Disasters can range from mild (taking a child’s hotdog) to egregious (scarfing up an entire plate of hors d’oeuvres) to dangerous (jumping or nipping). Party animals should not include the four-legged furry kind. You want all your attention on your guests.

Always have extra chairs and table settings in case more people come than expected, Greenheck says. And even if your gathering doesn’t include a sit-down meal, be sure there’s adequate surfaces for people to set their drinks and food—even ledges and stand-around bistro tables will do. It’s awkward to stand around juggling a plate of hors d’oeuvres and a drink.

Overwhelmed by “ideas.”

Don’t fall down the Pinterest rabbit hole. Know when to pull back. Because more often than not, too many ideas leads to chaos, stress and decision paralysis. Nearly all party planners warn about this, so you know it’s a thing.

Kasey Greenheck says to embrace the concept of imperfection—known as Wabi-Sabi.

“When it comes to décor, I say less is more,” she says. A few branches in vase makes an aesthetic impact. A gathering doesn’t need elaborate details to be beautiful, Greenheck advises. Plus, an overly decorated table might not leave enough space for guests to enjoy their meal and each other.

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Not enough time to create a personal program.

compiled into a presentation that brings deep meaning to the celebration.

Your guests might not remember the food or décor long after, but they will remember that heart-warming video, slideshow, or personalized trivia game based on the honoree.

These take a lot of time to create, which you won’t have when you’re bogged down by event logistics. Which are necessary of course. So, looking ahead at a wedding?

Graduation? A momentous birthday or anniversary? Start very early to gather the photos and family/friend lore that can be

Helping everyone connect.

Celebrations are about people coming together. Make it easier for everyone. As the host, stay off your phone, and Greenheck even suggests that guests put their phones into bowls to help them disconnect digitally and focus on the people around them. Offer conversation starters (you can find premade cards at TableTopics.com), and set out games. 

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PARTY ATTIRE dos and don’ts

Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.

—Mark Twain

M

ark Twain was right. What you wear matters, and it’s especially true when heading to a special event such as a wedding, a black tie affair or a function that may involve a church. It’s potentially awkward to show up in jeans and a flannel shirt to a barn wedding that’s actually an elegant occasion.

Both men and women can be confused figuring out what to wear, but there are some easy, common guidelines and tips to follow to reduce the stress of sporting the appropriate clothes. No matter what the occasion, it’s important that you dress with intent. What you wear becomes part of the décor, the atmosphere your hosts are trying to create. It’s not all about you.

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BY GINA CORNELL

A tuxedo is required for white tie and black tie occasions. Black tie optional means a tuxedo or other dark dress suit with a white shirt. Traditional tuxedos include satin lapels and trim, but contemporary tuxedos can more resemble a sharply tailored suit, and come in lighter, brighter colors.

If you’re invited to an event, the hosts want you to be there to celebrate with them, says Raissa Dupuis, owner of Poppy’s Boutique in downtown Wausau. “And if they choose to have a really swanky event, do the best you can to accommodate them.”

The first clue of what’s expected may be right in front of you already, printed on the invitation. When a certain level of formality is requested, there are four categories you’ll typically see. Let’s start at the top of the fashion food chain and work our way down:

• White tie events are the fanciest of all occasions. “There are only three times when you wear a white tie,” says Ken Haines, co-owner of Campbell Haines Menswear in downtown Wausau. “At a state event, if you are in a wedding or if you are going to be knighted.”

Think proper, says Raissa Dupuis, owner of Poppy’s Boutique in downtown Wausau. “A floor length gown with fine jewelry is considered appropriate dress for women.”

• Black tie optional is more common in this area, and for men means a tuxedo or dark (black, navy or charcoal) dress suit with a white shirt and tie, says Haines.

Party hosts usually are pretty specific in their expectations, says Nicole Chickering owner of Nicole’s Boutique in Wausau. But for formal events, attendees “tend to take a lot of liberty, sadly. Just because it’s a long dress, doesn’t mean that it’s formal, or just because a dress has sparkle or sequins doesn’t mean it constitutes a black tie appropriate outfit.”

• Black tie is next in line. “Black tie doesn’t actually mean the partygoer should just don a black tie, but rather it means a tuxedo is required,” says Haines.

“Black tie events don’t happen a lot, but we do have some in the area.”

For women, black tie indicates formal attire, with room for something playful but not too revealing. “Women can wear a longer or a shorter dress, with accessories, and adding a bit of sparkle is fun.”

• Cocktail attire means dressy but not strictly formal, and more fun than business casual. A tuxedo or a formal floor-length gown is too much, but both men and women should absolutely wear dress shoes.

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Nicole Chickering of Nicole’s Boutique, with a few choices for attire at less formal parties. One basic tip to remember for women: Balance how revealing an outfit is at the top with a more modest bottom, and vice versa. In other words, don’t wear a plunging neckline and short skirt.

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Other cues

Attire at weddings can be all over the map, depending on venue, formality, expectations, and personality of the bride and groom.

Often there’s no “suggested attire” note, so what you wear should be dictated by the venue and theme of the wedding, says Haines.

Sometimes even those two cues are vague. A barn wedding, for example, could be casual or elegant. For most barn events, Haines recommends men choose dress shoes, dress pants, with an open collar shirt and a sport coat for cooler weather or evenings.

Dupuis says, “I will typically dress in cocktail attire for an evening wedding and more of a garden attire for an afternoon, outdoor wedding.”

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And if you feel things are in a gray zone, dress yourself up with accessories and great shoes.

“I would always rather be more dressed up than too casual,” Dupuis says. But be careful to not go overboard at a wedding or other party specifically celebrating a person or couple, because you “never want to take attention away from the special day.”

If there is any doubt, Dupuis says you can always ask the host or hostess what they prefer for attire.

At any event, how the food is served usually is a big cue.

If a formal meal is served, Dupuis would assume the event to be at least cocktail attire, which for women generally means a dress, and for men slacks and a button up shirt with dress shoes.

Location also usually dictates what to wear. “Garden attire is great for outdoor or beach events. For women this means more of flowy dress with great accessories and shoes,” Dupuis says. “Casual is more of date night attire, but keep in mind the venue; you don’t want to be caught underdressed.”

Graduation parties are typical garden or casual attire, she says, but even these can vary, as some graduation bashes are quite elaborate. Depending on the venue, women could choose a tea- or cocktail-length dress, or even a snappy jumpsuit or romper for more casual events.

For any momentous birthday or anniversary party, venue plays a key role and, “I would keep in mind the host,” says Dupuis.

Evening parties are great for cocktail attire. Wearing a bit of something sparkly or an off-the shoulder dress can be fun for women, says Dupuis.

Day parties, garden parties or brunch can be a great time to try out that flowy boho dress or even a jumpsuit with statement accessories depending on the venue,” she says. “It’s way more fun to get colorful for garden parties.”

In general, men are safe wearing khakis and a button up shirt or polo to more of a casual event, says Haines.

At an event where lots of photos are taken to document someone’s day, remember you might just be the backdrop or add to the overall feel of the event.

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Basic presentation first

No matter what you choose to wear, your clothes must be comfortable, clean and fit well.

“If you are wearing uncomfortable shoes, or a top that won’t stay up, you may not be the best guest because you feel uncomfortable,” Dupuis says.

Keep in mind that “comfortable” here means well-fitting, not what you feel comfortable in lounging around the house, or those comfortable old athletic shoes.

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Hey guys: Here’s your Campbell Haines example of how to dress up jeans for a party with a crisp shirt, sports coat, and nice pair of shoes.

36 CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

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“You can always dress appropriately and still show off some of your personality,” Dupuis says. “But having your host in mind when you get dressed is respectful.”

For women who like risqué or revealing articles of clothing, one rule of thumb is balance: If you’re showing a lot on top, go modest on the legs, and vice versa.

“A dress with a plunging neckline and a short hemline is too much,” Dupuis says.

“There isn’t anything wrong with being a bit daring, but choose your focus, and remember your host.”

Nicole Chickering agrees that balance is key. “If the dress is fitted and with a bare shoulder, you might choose the hemline to be a bit longer,” she says. “If the hemline is very short, it would create better balance to have sleeves or a bit higher neckline… You don’t want to look like you are going to the Vegas strip.”

One of the most important things, says Haines, is to wear clothes that are neatly pressed and clean. “It shows respect to the host.”

He adds that shoes should be in a good condition and the belt should match the shoes. “And pants should be at a length that doesn’t touch the ground.”

If there are budget concerns, a good microfiber washable pant and a cleaned, ironed shirt is always a good bet, says Haines, and “you don’t need to spend a lot of money.”

Updating an outfit with accessories or another layer is a great way to notch up your attire on the budget. “Adding a kimono, statement jewelry, and shoes can change the look of something you already have in your closet,” says Dupuis.

Men can swap out a tie for an easy and inexpensive update and look change as well, says Haines.

When in doubt, Chickering says to ask for advice from professionals or even Google a reference. “If you are unfamiliar with an event space or the occasion, look it up,” Chickering says. 

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MEMORABLE MOMENTS and things

Cake marks the occasion

Thrift store wow

Space for kids

Birthday theme party

Every year a group of my girlfriends gather for a celebration we call Bitchin’ Milwaukee.

And this traditional party always begins with mimosas and a special cake (with candles!). Which goes to show that cakes aren’t just for weddings and birthdays.

One year my class reunion included a portion of the day for families with children.

I’ve also been to weddings that included a dedicated time and area for families. It’s awesome for grownups to connect—or reconnect—around their kids.

Overnight wedding on the lake.

Our wedding was held at a camp retreat on a lake. Because we had rented the entire facility, guests were welcome to stay overnight if they brought their own bedding.

As it turned out, the party lasted well into the early morning hours, and even people who weren’t planning to stay overnight did so, finding a spot on the floor where needed.

In the morning, everyone still smelled like the campfire from the hours before. It was gloriously rustic and memorable.

38 CiTY PAGES | Celebrations | MARCH 2018

Giving a unique touch to any gathering is as simple as a visit to your local thrift shop to find glasses in every shape and color, as well as unique plates and serving platters.

It’s a chic touch that I’ve found can wow any crowd at a low cost.

Momentous birthdays are cause to celebrate. My friend threw one of those at Jefferson Street Inn around a costume theme of retro celebrities, and that extra twist created a super fun atmosphere. People were dressed as Madonna and other famous singers, Sonny and Cher, Richard Gere and Julia Roberts (a la Pretty Woman), and a wide range of characters that spanned the pop culture of this person’s life.

A touch of music

At a graduation party, one of the parents sang a song (or part of it at least) for the graduates, with the help of the band. It was totally sweet in its awesomeness. Every party like that should have karaoke so people can sing to the guest of honor. 

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