There’s no doubt that planning an event of any size can be stressful. You want your guests to enjoy themselves but for that to happen, you have to do about a million other things. And the first of those is usually booking a venue!
Now, before you book your venue you’ll need to know a few things about your event. Let’s toss an easy one to you first…the type of event you’re hosting (ex. wedding, baby shower, retirement party, birthday party, etc.).
Next, you’ll need an estimate of the number of guests you expect to attend. This doesn’t have to be exact but having an idea will help you narrow down your venue choices.
Also, have a date in mind for your event. When my husband and I were first planning our wedding, we had June 2 stuck in our minds for the day we would get married. Then we started looking at venues and ended up changing our wedding date to June 9. This was not a big deal in our situation, because it was only a week later. But in some cases, a venue’s date availability can drastically change your plans.
The vibe you’re going for with your event. Do you want this to be outdoorsy? Whimsical? Masculine? Different venues have different aesthetics, so you’ll want to find the one that makes the most sense for the mood you want to achieve.
Lastly, you’re going to need a budget. Unless money is no object to you, it’s important to know how much money you can spend on a venue. Some venues require deposits upfront. Some require use of specific caterers or other vendors. Some charge for extras like decor. Do all your homework on the venues you like to make sure your budget can cover it. This is certainly not a financial blog post, but I’ll leave you with this…you should never go into debt from booking an event venue.
Now, for the reason you’re really reading this blog post. The list. This is a list of some of the venues I’ve worked with as a baker or attended events at in and around Cape Girardeau, Missouri. They are listed in no particular order and are by no means the only venues in the area. Many of them are multi-purpose, not only for large events like weddings, and I’ll break down some of their features for you.
City of Cape Girardeau Parks & Recreation
There are actually many venues you can book within the City of Cape Girardeau Parks & Recreation Department. Many of the spaces are perfect for smaller gatherings like showers and birthday parties and have a more laid back and casual vibe. I have hosted sugar cookie decorating classes at multiple venues with the city, and they have been great to work with!
Port Cape Girardeau Restaurant and Lounge
Port Cape is located in downtown Cape Girardeau and has two rental rooms available in their beautiful, historic brick building. The River City Yacht Club is on the second floor, overlooking the Mississippi River, can host up to 120 people and has its own bar and dance floor. The Wheel House is their second rental space and can seat up to 80 people.
Top of the Marq Rooftop Lounge
Sit high above downtown Cape Girardeau at this gorgeous restaurant and lounge. As it’s name would suggest, Top of the Marq is at the height of the historic Marquette Tower built in 1928 and has multiple rooms and spaces available for rent whether you want to host 12 or 150 people. The spaces are elegant and sophisticated without being stuffy.
This modern venue is located in midtown Cape Girardeau and can host 50-100+ people depending on the setup you need. It boasts multiple seating options for events like conferences, cocktail parties, and dinners with access to a full kitchen, outdoor patio area, 16-foot projection TV with videoconferencing capabilities, and a handicapped-accessible entrance and restroom.
Looking for a sleek and versatile space for your event? Check out the event center at The Arcadian Estates located on Highway 177 in Cape Girardeau. The main space can seat about 100 people and walks out to a beautiful courtyard. There is even an Air B&B with Bridal Suite on site if you want to add that booking to your event. Abbie, one of the owners, is quick to respond and incredibly helpful!
Located above Bon Bons of Cape Girardeau, Le Lounge is a hip bar where you can find great live music most nights. But you can also rent the space for special events and host about 50 people! The space is upscale with a fun atmosphere including board games and swings where you can relax and view the Mississippi River while having signature cocktails.
The Wooded Garden in Jackson, Missouri is a DIY venue, meaning you have flexibility to create the exact mood and style you want for your event all within a beautiful, natural backdrop. The owners won’t abandon you though! They have linens, furniture pieces, and some decor available for use. This space seats up to 150 people indoors and unlimited seating outdoors.
If you are looking for luxurious accommodations, look no further. Although Rusted Route Farms is often used as a wedding venue, they have 4 rental spaces, meaning they can host almost any type of event. Set up a tour at the property in Jackson, Missouri and be blown away by the beautiful farmhouse, market house, barn, and cabin.
Another historic building, which used to be a feed and seed store, in downtown Cape Girardeau is home to The Forge. A warm and inviting space seating 80-100 guests, The Forge maintains original pine flooring and exposed brick. The front space is a large open room and two sliding barn doors open up into the rear of the building which includes a bar and intimate lounge.
Located on Highway 25 in Cape Girardeau, Sweet Pecan Farms is a wedding venue with lovely country charm. Rent the cabin for the bride and her bridesmaids the night before the wedding, then move right over to the barn for the ceremony and reception. After the wedding, the cabin can be used as a honeymoon suite for the newlyweds. The ceremony can be held outside by the pond or inside the barn. It’s wood interior and high-vaulted ceiling makes a large space feel sophisticated yet intimate.
So there you have it! A few venues to choose from in the Cape Girardeau area no matter if you are planning a wedding or a family reunion.
And remember, if you need desserts for your event, I’m happy to help! I offer a variety of treats like cakes, cupcakes, and cookies and can tailor the designs to fit any theme. I also offer delivery and setup at most venues within the Cape Girardeau area to make the planning process that much easier for you. Need to request an order? Let’s get started.