When it comes to creating lasting memories, The Shed Weddings and Events is here to make it happen.
The Shed is nestled in Wanatah, in LaPorte County. The unique country-style event venue is in the heart of Guse Christmas Trees, a farm full of fresh Frasier fir and Douglas fir trees. The farm makes for a magical experience, no matter what type of event you are having. 
The history of The Shed goes back to when sisters Jodie Funkhouser and Carrie Cusick, both of whom now run the Guse farm, worked on the farm growing up. The farm opened to the public in 1967. Years later, both knew they wanted to make the farm a destination for customers to have their special events, since it played such an influential role in their lives.
The sisters took this as an opportunity to turn the Christmas tree farm into more than just that. Fast-forward to 2020, and The Shed Weddings and Events was born. It was no easy task, as they had to work through the challenges of the pandemic the first year they opened their doors. Thankfully the sisters have a long history of understanding the ins and outs of running a business, since they grew up helping the family on the farm. In fact, the sisters say they grew up playing “business” even in their time away from the farm.
As they went off to college, Funkhouser received a degree in business and interior design. Cusick also received a degree in business, and with their combined creative and entrepreneurial skill sets, they opened The Shed.
The Shed consists of a private, custom-built cedar venue. Add in the natural beauty of the trees that surround it, and you are left with a truly original event space. Uses include baby showers, weddings, family gatherings, high school proms, anniversaries, bridal showers, corporate events, end-of-life celebrations and much more. The staff is extremely helpful in making the event space one that guests will enjoy and remember.
When it comes to catering, The Shed partners with Mission BBQ. However, they will allow customers to choose a different catering company if desired. The Shed does allow alcohol to be consumed on the premises. In fact, they even have a one-of-a-kid grain bin bar and four large wine barrels.
Parties of up to 250 guests are able to enjoy their event and leave the stress of planning up to the team at The Shed. They will provide tables and chairs, beautiful chandeliers and accent lighting. As the night goes on, you can request to have the overhead doors opened up so guests can enjoy the indoors and outdoors seamlessly. There is even a large wood-burning bonfire for friends and family to gather around and mingle.
Comfort is a priority for the team at The Shed and they make this possible by providing clean, indoor restrooms that are handicap accessible. Additionally, they have ample parking, making it easy for guests to come and go as needed.
What sets The Shed apart from other wedding venues is the long history of being a family-owned business. You will get the personal attention that other large venues sometimes struggle to provide. They are very upfront with discussing costs. All events involve a flat-rate fee, eliminating the possibility of costs increasing.
The Shed primarily hosts events during the months of May through October. The slots quickly fill up, so customers are urged to reserve event space in advance. During the months of November and December, you are invited to bring your family to the farm and make lasting memories of cutting down your very own Christmas tree and even taking photos in the beautiful setting.
Next time you are looking for a space for your special event, consider The Shed. They are located at 6177 West 1450 South in Wanatah. You can reach the team by phone at 219-733-9346. To learn more, visit gusechristmastrees.com or Facebook @theShedatGuses.
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