Vendor Love: Givens Farm
When you first step foot on the Givens Farm property in Hortonville, WI, you’ll be transported to a place of relaxation, elegance, and class. Owners Jim and Mariann have carefully created a home and venue that reflects their elegant style and the sophistication and intimacy of an Italian villa. It encourages lingering, being present and enjoying the moment you’re in, and making memories. Givens Farm’s wedding coordinator, Sam, sat down with me and excitedly shared what makes this venue so incredible:
What makes Givens Farm so unique?
Givens Farm is a private home inspired by Italy. The home was built and furnished with many reclaimed items and family heirlooms; all with stories worth hearing. The property also has a vineyard, a peaceful pond adorned with a historic bridge and fed by artesian springs, and is home to several thousand honey bees who made their way to Givens Farm in the summer of 2017.
What areas do you consider yourself most successful in helping your wedding clients?
Communication. We strive to communicate throughout the planning process in the months and ultimately weeks/days leading up to their wedding day. We are available to answer questions, meet on site, or assist other wedding professionals the couple may be considering to ensure everyone is comfortable and knowledgeable the day of the wedding.
If you could give any advice to wedding planning couples, what would it be?
This is your day. Do not get caught up in what everyone else wants, take time to think about what you want and make it happen. And above all....take a few minutes to enjoy each other on the day of your wedding. No guests, no photos....just the two of you taking a moment as newlyweds!
How many years have you been providing services to wedding clients?
It’s hard to believe it’s been seven years already!
How many wedding clients do you take on each year? Do you take on other clients as well?
We work with twelve to fifteen wedding couples each year. In addition to weddings we also host private dinners, bridal/baby showers, corporate events, and culinary workshops (hosted and taught by owner Mariann!)
How many wedding guests can you accommodate (if applicable)?
We can accommodate up to 60 guests indoors and 150 outdoors.
What type of wedding client will be happiest with the services you provide?
Someone who is looking for a welcoming, home-y, family atmosphere.
What are some of the policies/rules of your services that you think researching couples should know right away?
We require all our couples to use one of our preferred professional partners in the areas of: catering, alcohol service and rentals (such as tents, tables, chairs).
What are some of your favorite wedding details to work with? What are some of your favorite, unique items/ideas you've seen couples bring into their wedding day/wedding planning?
It is always a joy to see how a couple's personality infuses into the details of their wedding day. From the bride who is a florist showcasing her amazing floral designs, to the bride having Grandpa walk her down the aisle or be the officiant, to the couple where the food served showcases the places the couple have lived in and traveled to. Each wedding is as unique as the couple getting married.
How far in advance do you recommend couples book your services? Are you available on short notice?
We will typically book 9-12 months in advance. We can be available on short notice.
What do you think is most important for wedding planning couples to consider when they are researching vendors in your field of services?
Not all weddings are the same, so not all "packages" should be the same. We do not offer wedding packages. Each proposal is specific to each couple and is based on what they would like to have at Givens Farm.
What do you think is potentially the most stressful part of wedding planning? Do you have any tips on how to avoid this or get through this easily?
We often see finances and opinions of others become points of stress. Tips to avoid: create a realistic budget and stick to it. Research various vendors that have styles similar to yours; know where you want to focus your budget. Try to avoid allowing too many others offer their personal opinions of how your wedding day should look. This is YOUR day.
Are there any items you don't allow couples to bring in (outside caterers, glitter/flower petals, pets, open flame candles, etc.)?
We do not allow outside caterers or alcohol providers; must be one of our preferred vendors. Also, no glitter, confetti, open flame candles.
What time of year do you think your venue is really at its best?
We love ALL the seasons at Givens Farm, but if we had to choose late May-early June and September/early October are some of the prettiest months at Givens Farm.
Do you have space on site for the bridal party to get ready? How early on the wedding day do they have access to that space?
Yes, we do have a private bridal area.
Do you have space for ceremony only, reception only, or both?
Both!
When you're not working, what are some of your favorite hobbies or past-times?
I love spending time with my family
Is there any other information you would like researching wedding couples to know?
Weddings at Givens Farm are not one-size fits all. We offer a proposal specific to each couple we meet. We love to show the space and discuss the various options we have available.
You can find out more about Givens Farm at www.givensfarm.com | 920.209.0246 | sam@givensfarm.com
