Fête, Inc. offers a rare combination of industrial scale and rustic warmth, defined by its soaring ceilings and massive glass walls. The design opportunity here lies in the vertical space; the architecture is impressive, but without intentional floral height, the room can feel cavernous rather than curated.
The Spaces
Outdoor Ceremony
The outdoor site is a minimalist lawn framed by a pond and Wisconsin fields. It is a blank slate that relies entirely on the floral design to create a sense of place.
- What works: A ground-based semi-circle or “meadow” installation. This anchors the couple without competing with the natural horizon line or the water feature.
- Skip: Lightweight, spindly pedestals. The wind exposure near the water will topple anything without a significant, weighted footprint.
- Watch out: The ground can be uneven. Ensure your florist uses adjustable bases or shims for any hard-structure arches.
- Budget hero move: Invest in a lush, freestanding floral arch that can be moved (with a team) to frame the sweetheart table or the entrance to the Main Hall after the ceremony.
Main Hall
This is where the venue’s industrial-barn aesthetic shines. The exposed wooden beams are the most significant asset for a floral designer, allowing for installations that would be impossible in a standard ballroom.
- What works: Hanging installations. Whether it is a full floral cloud over the dance floor or simple greenery vines trailing from the beams, filling the “air” is essential.
- Skip: Small, low centerpieces on every table. In a room this tall, petite arrangements get lost.
- Watch out: The venue has strict rules against nails, tacks, or tape. All hanging designs must be secured using approved rigging methods on the beams.
- Budget hero move: Focus your budget on two or three high-impact beam installations rather than spending on expensive linens or wall decor. The beams are the focal point.
Additional Suite
A quiet, styled space often used for the wedding party or as a transition area.
- What works: A single, lush arrangement on a console table or a small “growing” floor installation in the corner for photos.
- Skip: Over-decorating. This space is functional; keep the floor clear for movement.
- Watch out: Ensure the floral style here matches the Main Hall to create a cohesive guest experience as they move through the venue.
What Works at Fête, Inc.
Verticality is non-negotiable. The distance between the floor and the peak of the Main Hall is significant. Use tall glass trumpets, elevated stands, or hanging installations to bridge that gap.
Organic, textural palettes. The mix of wood, metal, and glass at Fête leans modern-industrial. Soften these hard lines with “wilder” floral textures—think sprawling branches, delicate vines, and varied greenery like smilax or Italian ruscus.
Monochromatic or high-contrast colors. Because of the immense natural light, subtle pastels can sometimes wash out. Deep, moody tones or crisp, high-contrast whites and greens hold their shape and impact against the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Repurposing the balcony. The mezzanine level provides a unique vantage point. Placing greenery or floral clusters along the balcony railing creates a multi-dimensional look that benefits guests on both levels.
Meadow-style aisles. For ceremonies held indoors in front of the windows, a “growing” aisle of ground-level florals creates a stunning path that doesn’t block the view for seated guests.
Budget Guide
| Tier | Investment | Floral Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Essentials | $1,750 - $3,500 | Focus on high-quality personal flowers and a repurposed ceremony focal point. Minimalist bud vases on reception tables. |
| Sweet Spot | $4,000 - $7,000 | A full ceremony arch or meadow, a mix of tall and low centerpieces in the Main Hall, and greenery accents on the balcony. |
| Full Experience | $7,500 - $11,000 | Includes a significant hanging installation on the central beams, a lush ceremony setup, and elevated floral designs for all reception tables. |
| Statement | $12,000+ | Multiple beam installations, a fully flowered ceremony structure, “growing” aisle treatments, and premium floral varieties throughout the venue. |
The architectural strength of Fête means you don’t need to “hide” anything; your floral budget should be used to emphasize the height and light that already exist.
Tips
Abide by the flame and petal rules. LED candles are mandatory for any floor-level decor; real flames are strictly for table tops. If you want a petal-lined aisle, use real petals outdoors and artificial indoors per venue policy.
Plan for the wind. If you are hosting an outdoor ceremony by the pond, ensure your floral team is prepared with sandbags or heavy steel plates for any freestanding structures.
Utilize the beams for lighting and florals. Coordinate with your lighting vendor to ensure floral installations and pin-spotting work together to highlight the designs after the sun goes down.
Think about the “flip.” If you are repurposing ceremony flowers into the reception hall, ensure there is a clear path and a dedicated team to move large pieces while guests are at cocktail hour.
Check the season for the pond. The landscape changes significantly from spring to fall; choose your floral palette to either complement the lush summer greens or the golden autumnal tones of the surrounding fields.