Wade House

Wade House does offer preferred caterers who are contracted with Wade House. You may use a caterer outside of our preferred caterers, but they will be required to sign a single-day catering contract with Wade House Historic Site and adhere to all policies in said contract. External caterers will also be asked to provide a copy of liability insurance. There is a 12% catering commission due to Wade House from all caterers for all events.All food service, including pastry, dessert, or late-night snacks must come from a licensed establishment per Wisconsin Health Code. Homemade items are not allowed. If caterers leave the premises before the conclusion of the event, it is the responsibility of the client to remove/dispose of any remaining food. Late night food service/disposal must be discussed with the Event Coordinator prior to the event.

Yes, Wade House will provide all bar selections including spirits, wine, and beer, and all mixers and garnishes. Wade House will also provide disposable cups for all beverages. Our Event Coordinator will work closely with you to ensure that you have bar selections that fit you and your group. Bar selections must be finalized 30 days prior to the date of the event. All bars are subject to a $1,000 minimum. This includes both hosted and cash bar selections.

Pursuant to Wisconsin law, all alcoholic beverages must be purchased through Wade House—no alcoholic beverages from other sources, whether purchased or donated, may be brought onto the premises. Any alcohol not supplied by Wade House will be confiscated and disposed of.

Wade House staff will set up tables and chairs for indoor venues. Client is responsible for the set-up of outdoor venues. If an equipment rental company is required for set-up or installation (ie: tents, dance floors, etc.) client must communicate this to Event Coordinator in advance to allow time for coordination with the rental company. Client is responsible for removing all personal/rental items on the night of the event. This includes linens, centerpieces, and other decorations. If items are too large to be removed, or if a rental company is scheduled to come for removal, this must be arranged with the Event Coordinator in advance. Wade House staff will break down all tables and chairs in indoor venues, and will clean floors, restrooms, and other indoor areas. Client must remove items from outdoor venues.

We do not provide tents, but we are happy to recommend some vendors that we have worked with who do offer tent rentals

In case of inclement weather, your reception space doubles as a backup space. The Event Coordinator will work with you to develop a rain plan and an alternate floorplan in case of inclement weather. The decision to move an outdoor event indoors must be made two days in advance if set-up from Wade House’s team is required. Wade House does not have a set-up or teardown crew on site during events. There is an option to rent additional spaces as rain backups. Wade House does reserve the right to make decisions regarding weather if we feel that it poses a threat to the health/safety of our staff or guests.