Check out Katie's interview with Emily…
How long have you been in business?
We hosted our first wedding on July 24th, 2010; about an hour before the couple arrived, we were pounding the final nail into the back deck! Even though the venue’s owners had been dreaming of creating Rustic Oaks for approximately 30 years, the real transformation (from farmstead to wedding and event venue) truly began in late January of 2010 – only six months prior to the first “I do!”
What got you interested in starting your business?
I wish I could take credit for starting Rustic Oaks – but the vision and inspiration came from Anne and Dave Larson; they deserve all of the credit! However, I am honored to say that I have been part of the Rustic Oaks journey from the beginning! Long story short: My husband and I had both been working for the Larsons at Anytime Fitness; that’s where Ryan and I first met! In January 2010 we got engaged. After hearing the news of our engagement, Anne and Dave showed us their property (the future home of Rustic Oaks) and offered to host our wedding! We immediately fell in love with the venue and their vision for Rustic Oaks; I also fell in love with the idea of working out there! I figured I had nothing to lose – so days after our first visit to the venue, I presented a job proposal (and invited myself along for the ride)! They’ve been stuck with me ever since…!
What do you feel sets you apart from other venues in the local wedding industry?
Oh wow…where should I start!? We are unique in so many ways! Rustic Oaks is primarily an outdoor venue and I believe the opportunity to celebrate in congruence with nature is truly special. The beauty and serenity of the property make it such a magical (and peaceful) place to get married. Also, we are starting to be recognized as the “home of the weekend wedding.” We rent the whole venue for entire weekend; our couples can do everything in one place: rehearsal and groom’s dinner on Friday…ceremony, reception and dance on Saturday…and gift opening and/or brunch on Sunday; the bridal party and family can stay right on site in the Rustic Oaks Inn! We take pride in event exclusivity and flexibility. Other unique aspects: our beautifully renovated barn, the 900 sq. ft. deck that overlooks the river, pontoon cruises, campfires, the vast amount of prairie and wildflowers, and so much more!
What do you enjoy most about working in the wedding industry?
The people! We work with the most amazing couples and families! We realize that in the wedding industry there are endless options of venues and vendors – so we always feel honored when couples choose Rustic Oaks! The owners and I absolutely love what we do; our work at Rustic Oaks truly brings us joy!
What current trend in weddings are you personally loving the most?
“Greener weddings” and eclectically coordinated décor! I think brides and grooms are starting to be more environmentally mindful (and friendly) when it comes to wedding planning and decorating; I think that is such an awesome trend!
What type of clients do you typically find yourself working with?
Awesome ones! Again, I have to compliment all of our clients, as I truly feel we get to work with some of the most quality and charming couples! I also love the fact that clients are attracted to Rustic Oaks for a variety of reasons; we attract couples that are environmentally friendly, or outdoorsy, or country…we get couples that feel more spiritual when they’re surrounded by nature…we draw interest from clients who want outdoor elegance…we attract clients looking for a venue that’s more simple, relaxed, and serene…and we definitely attract clients that are simply “looking for something unique.”
What should a bride and groom look for and consider when looking at venues?
I believe couples should choose the venue that offers their “must-haves” and that feels the most special, magical, and peaceful; they should seek out an atmosphere that makes them feel joy and happiness! They also should make sure it’s a place that offers them and their guests a lot of fun and flexibility! Finally, I feel that it’s important for couples to choose their venue as a team; both the bride and groom should feel the magic of the venue! And in my opinion, knowing you’ve found the perfect wedding venue – should be a lot like knowing you’re in love – you will just feel it!
Is there anything else we should know about your venue?
After 30+ years, Anne and Dave are finally living their dream of owning a wedding and event venue; I am so blessed (and honored and thankful) to be a part of the journey! We all truly love sharing the magic of Rustic Oaks! And I absolutely love working with so many amazing brides and grooms! I encourage anyone who’s even slightly curious about our venue to get in contact with me; I love chatting on the phone, connecting via email, meeting for coffee, and taking couples on personalized tours! I truly feel that we have something special to offer everyone at Rustic Oaks!
