There’s a lot to consider when finding and booking your dream wedding venue. Are you looking for rustic or elegant? Simple or extravagant? Whatever the style, Schlitz Audubon is incredibly versatile at transforming your wedding vision into an ideal event. The scenic landscape along Lake Michigan and our gorgeous environmentally conscious building create a backdrop you’ll remember forever. Our dedicated events team provides an exceptional experience for couples interested in booking their wedding at our one-of-a-kind venue.
Planning Your Wedding
The first step to take on this wedding journey is to book a tour. Schedule one with a member of our events team by filling out the online form or emailing them at rental@schlitzaudubon.org. Book a time to walk through all the available spaces, go over your ‘day of’ timelines, look through sample photos for inspiration, and ask all the questions you have. If you can’t visit in person, a self-guided tour packet with photos and details for each wedding space can be provided. You will then be sent several documents with full details to review, which help you make the best decision for your personal needs!
Need help with budgeting and figuring out what your dream wedding may cost? Married in Milwaukee has featured a magical wedding at Schlitz showing a budget breakdown, beautiful photos, and a note from the bride and groom. Find reviews on the online wedding planning resources The Knot and Wedding Wire from couples who have hosted their weddings and receptions at Schlitz Audubon.
If you decide to book with us, check the online calendar for available dates, and let the team know your choice as soon as possible, planning 1 – 2 years in advance. Estimate your guest count and choose a bar package you’d like reflected in the contracts. Our events team will draw up a rental contract, then just pay the 50% deposit and start planning!
Building Your Team of Trusted Vendors
Once contracts are signed and the deposit is paid, you’ll receive a Welcome Packet that goes over everything you need to know about planning your wedding with us, including start times, ‘day of’ details, and more. Congratulations!
Whether you’re a DIY couple who prefers to create their own unique vision, or a couple who prefers the creative direction and help from different vendors, the options are endless. Schlitz Audubon has been fortunate enough to work with incredibly talented florists, photographers, musicians, DJ’s, and bakeries throughout the years. Our team will happily connect you with the perfect fit with our recommended vendors list, included in your Welcome Packet. The @SchlitzAudubonVenue Instagram account is another great place to find vendors. If you like the style of a wedding you’ve seen on a post, vendors are always included in the caption!
Additional Options Offered by Schlitz Audubon
We offer a variety of unique nature-inspired ‘extras’ that can be added to your wedding ceremony and reception, which can be considered during the venue booking process. A Raptor Meet & Greet gives your guests a chance to mingle with a selection of birds of prey from our Raptor Program, including Bald Eagles, hawks, owls, and a falcon. During your cocktail hour, our raptors will be accompanied by the Center’s raptor team member. If interested, inquire about availability, as their schedule books up quickly!
For the popular Unity Tree Ceremony, the Center will provide a white oak tree to incorporate into your wedding. This special commemoration of your day will support the local habitat for years to come. You receive a map of your tax-deductible donated tree’s location on our property after it is planted.
Looking for natural decor options to enhance your ceremony and reception? Schlitz Audubon has a gorgeous Ceremony Arch made from felled ash trees, tree slices for your centerpiece or table displays, an Aldo Leopoldo guest signing bench, and more.
Finishing Touches
Two to three months prior to your big day, you’ll meet with a member of the events team to do a final walk-through, review vendor selections, and make sure everyone is on the same page. While the team is available to you throughout the year for wedding questions, it’s so important to revisit the beautiful vision you’re bringing to life as your date approaches.
To ensure all goes smoothly on your big day, wedding ceremony rehearsals are scheduled for the day prior to your event, from 2:00pm – 3:00pm. Your Event Manager will be onsite to run through your ceremony and answer any last-minute questions. This provides an opportunity to see all your wedding spaces one last time and truly finalize all ‘day of’ details.
The Schlitz Audubon events team, paired with your trusted group of vendors, is here to help make planning your wedding a seamless and fun process. Book your dream venue then enjoy creating the celebration of your life!
Featured image credit: Brian Slawson
