About Us
It all started in 2021 when our daughter Haley came to us with the biggest question – she wanted to know if she could have her wedding reception at this property that we had just listed for sale. We figured if any offers were made, we would make the closing date for October 11th, the Monday after her wedding.
Haley convinced us that with some renovations, the empty building could be transformed into the perfect party spot. So we got to work as a family, putting in long hours with the help of friends to get it wedding ready. The big day was even better than we imagined – seeing the happy couple dance the night away was worth every trip to Home Depot and the late nights working.
After the celebration, guests kept telling us what a great venue we had and that we should open for more events. So we took the building off the market, and now work as a team to continue creating memorable moments for others to enjoy for years to come.
So that’s how The Gathering Event Center was born. Now our family works as a team to bring each renter’s vision to life. We put our heart into making every celebration special, just like Haley & Jason’s was.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to the questions we receive the most about our venue.
If we missed anything, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to help!
How do I reserve my date?
Venue investment is based on day and month. To secure and reserve your event date at The Gathering Event Center, we require a $1,000 non-refundable deposit. The deposit goes towards your rental balance and is non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Once we receive the deposit and a signed rental agreement, the date will be officially held for your event.
What is the capacity for The Gathering Event Center?
The maximum capacity we can accommodate at The Gathering Event Center is 250 guests. However, for the most comfortable experience and adequate space for your event, we recommend limiting guest counts to 225 people.
We have tables and seating for up to 250 guests. For events at the higher end of our capacity, guests may find it tighter than preferred for things like dancing, mingling, or moving between seating and other activities.
If you anticipate a guest count closer to our maximum, we would be happy to discuss floor plans and set up options with you. But for the best overall experience, we generally suggest limiting numbers to 225 to allow generous space per person. Of course, we can still accommodate more if necessary – just keep comfort and flow in mind for planning purposes.
If you are utilizing the outdoor ceremony space, you are responsible for renting additional seating for your guests. We are happy to provide recommendations for rental services!
Party Time Rental ($2 per white folding chair, other chairs & seating available, delivery & set up available at extra cost)
Party World Rental ($2 per white folding chair)
Is there a damage deposit?
A $750 damage deposit will be collected prior to your event and refunded if there is no damage.
Renter must provide a check or have credit card on file to be charged if there are any damages.
Who can cater my event? Can I bring in my own alcohol?
We do allow outside caterers to be used for events at our venue. We understand that guests often have their own preferences when it comes to food and beverages, so we want to give you the flexibility to choose any caterer that best suits your needs. There are many excellent catering companies that we work with regularly in the Brainerd Lakes Area, so you’ll have no shortage of options. These caterers are experienced in serving events of all sizes and budgets. Our goal is to make the planning process as easy and stress-free as possible.
You are able to bring in your own alcohol for your event. We have two options for doing so:
1. You can arrange for your alcohol to be provided through your licensed and insured caterer. Many caterers are able to obtain the proper liquor licenses and insurance to handle alcohol service on your behalf.
2. If you do not have a caterer and would like to provide the alcohol yourself, we do require you to purchase liquor liability insurance for your event. We’ll need to see proof of this insurance prior to your event date. You’ll also need to hire a bartender with the proper alcohol serving license to dispense drinks for your entire event. We do not allow self-service of alcohol. Please note that if you bring in your own alcohol, we do not provide ice or bartending supplies. You will also need to arrange for the proper clean up and removal off all beverages and supplies at the end of your event.
We want to reiterate that if you choose to provide your own alcohol for your event, rather than going through a caterer, it must be hosted rather than sold to your guests. By hosted, we mean the alcohol is provided free of charge to your attendees rather than charging per drink. We are unable to allow events that involve the sale of alcohol without the proper liquor license.
Do you have decorations available?
Gathered Gold Co. runs their wedding rental and styling business out of The Gathering Event Center.
You are able to share your vision for your day & they can help bring it to life. GGC offers rentals, styling, wedding planning and day of coordination. With an extensive back room of inventory, you are able to walk into the wedding of your dreams without having to set any of it up.
Special “The Gathering Bundle” Package: Starting at $950
valued at $2,500
- free 30 minute consultation + 2 follow up meetings
- includes access to all inventory + styling
- set up & take down of rented decor (ONLY)
Hours of Operation
Renters will discuss schedule of rental, with unlocking as early as 9:00 am. All guests and vendors must be out of the The Gathering Event Center by 12:00 am.
Everything must be cleaned and removed from the property unless also renting the following day.
Where should I stay?
We have an Airbnb 10 minutes from The Gathering on Ox Lake that sleeps up to 6 guests. Book our Airbnb
The Gathering Lodge is located less than 3 minutes away from The Gathering Event Center and sleeps up to 16 guests. Perfect for bridal parties, family, and large groups!
Click here to view & book! The Gathering Lodge Rental
Do you provide linens?
We provide two black 6 ft table cloths for the serving tables, one white 6ft table cloth for the card/gift table, and one white 6ft table cloth for the dessert table.
We rent 120″ white or black table cloths for $10 a linen. Inquire about adding this on to your rental package.
We also have gold & black chargers available to rent for $0.50 a charger.