Wisconsin Union Event Spaces – Staff Picks
Across the Wisconsin Union, there are countless spaces for events. Ranging from the Fluno Center for Educational Excellence to Union South, there is certainly a space for each event. To find out the inside scoop, I asked some Wisconsin Union staff members about their favorite Union event spaces.
Wisconsin Union Marketing Associate Director Tammy Schwartzer doesn’t have just one favorite event space; she has two. She mentioned both Play Circle Theater and Tripp Commons as her favorite spaces, both located in Memorial Union. She is drawn to the intimacy of Play Circle Theater. She considers it a space where you can connect with the performers and said it creates a sense of community, no matter the event. As for Tripp Commons, she appreciates the historical features of the space.
“Tripp Commons is like stepping into history with each visit,” Tammy said. “It just feels like it has a story to tell.”
Tammy acknowledges the centuries of people that came before her when she steps into Tripp Commons. Whether it be a business meeting or a wedding reception, Tammy appreciates the details of the space, from the woodwork to the painting accents.
Another staff member that has a unique perspective regarding event spaces is Sam Mack, the Wisconsin Union general manager of weddings. Sam also said his favorite event space is TrippCommons. He mentioned how the Tripp Deck that runs alongside Tripp Commons holds a special place in his heart.
Sam loves the opportunity to be a small part of a life-changing moment for the couples that choose to have their ceremonies in Tripp Commons and other Wisconsin Union spaces.
“It is incredibly magical to see a couple exchanging vows and seal them with a kiss while being met with cheers from the entire Memorial Union Terrace crowd,” said Sam about his experience at weddings held on Tripp Deck.
Wisconsin Union Public Relations and Communications Officer Shauna Breneman shared her thoughts on Varsity Hall at Union South when asked about her favorite Wisconsin Union event spaces.
“Varsity Hall is neutral, versatile and filled with natural light during the day,” Shauna said. “It can be transformed to fit a wide range of themes and color palettes, thanks to its honey brown elm plank flooring and warm tan and brown walls. It’s actually surprisingly difficult to find event venues that are neutral enough to complement so many styles.”
Varsity Hall has hosted everything from elaborate weddings to large conferences with multiple breakout sessions. The space can be partitioned for more intimate gatherings or opened up to accommodate hundreds of guests.
The last staff member to share their favorite event space is Wisconsin Union Deputy Director Susan Dibbell. Susan’s favorite events space is also Tripp Commons and Tripp Deck.
Susan loves how both Tripp Commons and Tripp Deck offer something different. She mentions that when you’re inside of Tripp Commons, you can tailor the space to any event possible. Once you step outside, you get one-of-a-kind views of the Terrace along with its bustling activity along the water.
“Add in a perfect summer day, and it’s the icing on the cake,” Susan said.
Overall, I think it’s safe to say that the Wisconsin Union staff knows what they’re talking about. Personally, I’m going to take their advice and consider visiting some event spaces across campus that I haven’t seen before.
Learn more about the event spaces that could be suitable for any event of your choosing!
