Lilydale sits along County Highway N, just outside Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, surrounded by beautiful Chippewa County farmland, open countryside, and some incredible opportunities for wedding photography.
And if you're searching for a wedding venue near Eau Claire or Chippewa Falls that offers plenty of room to celebrate, beautiful indoor and outdoor ceremony locations, and a reception space built for a packed dance floor, Lilydale deserves a spot on your list.
Plenty of barn wedding venues exist throughout western Wisconsin, but few are built quite like Lilydale.
Most barns were built for hay. Lilydale was built for dancing.
After photographing multiple weddings here in the summer, fall, and winter, I can tell you this venue knows how to throw a celebration.
Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a large Wisconsin wedding with a guest list that seems to grow every week, Lilydale offers a wonderful combination of countryside charm, thoughtful amenities, and flexibility.
As the photographer behind Andrew Samplawski Photography, I've photographed more than 700 weddings throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, and beyond. Having my photography studio in downtown Chippewa Falls means I'm especially familiar with the wedding venues throughout the Chippewa Valley.
And Lilydale is one I've genuinely enjoyed returning to.
From the beautiful natural light in the bridal suite and the incredible sunsets to the spacious reception hall and an amazing venue team led by owner Elizabeth DeCook, there's a lot to appreciate about this property.
If you're considering Lilydale for your wedding, here's what I'd want you to know before scheduling a tour.
Lilydale Wedding Venue at a Glance
Venue: Lilydale Dance Hall & Event Venue
Address: 6343 County Highway N, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
Location: Countryside setting just outside Chippewa Falls, approximately 20 minutes from Eau Claire, depending on your starting point
Venue style: Upscale country dance hall with rustic warmth, hardwood flooring, and surrounding farmland
Ceremony options: Outdoor ceremony location, covered lean-to area, and indoor ceremony arrangements
Reception: Spacious main hall with a hardwood dance floor
Getting ready: Dedicated mezzanine bridal suite and private groom's lounge
Additional spaces: Parlor, full-service bar, veranda, and outdoor gathering areas
Catering: Licensed professional caterers, subject to venue approval
Seasonal availability: Summer, fall, winter, and year-round wedding celebrations
Website: https://www.lilydalewi.com/
Wedding information: https://www.lilydalewi.com/weddings.phtml
Lilydale's published 2027 wedding rental pricing covers up to 350 guests at its base rate, with additional guest fees possible for larger events. Couples planning a particularly large wedding should confirm the current maximum capacity and approved layout directly with the venue.
Why Couples Love Getting Married at Lilydale
Several things make Lilydale different from other wedding venues in the Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls area.
For starters, the building was designed around a beautiful hardwood dance floor.
And I love that.
Some wedding venues are designed primarily around the ceremony, while others focus on the building's appearance.
Lilydale gives the celebration itself a prominent place.
There's room for guests to gather, enjoy dinner, celebrate with family and friends, and eventually kick off their shoes and warm up those dancing feet.
Or, as we say in Wisconsin, do a little rug-cutting.
The property also offers several different spaces, which makes the wedding day feel less confined to a single room.
Guests can move between the main hall, parlor, veranda, and outdoor areas, depending on the event arrangements and weather.
From a photography standpoint, that variety is wonderful.
It allows me to document the entire atmosphere of a wedding rather than photographing every moment against the same background.
And with the surrounding countryside, there's plenty of opportunity to create beautiful portraits without leaving the property.
The Main Hall: A Wedding Reception Built for Dancing
One of Lilydale's most recognizable features is its spacious main hall and beautiful hardwood dance floor.
This is where wedding receptions come to life.
The main hall provides room for dinner, speeches, first dances, and the celebration that follows.
I particularly appreciate the character that the hardwood flooring brings to the room.
When combined with the reception lighting, decor, and atmosphere, it creates a warm, inviting setting for photographs.
And because the room has such a large open floor, there's an opportunity to capture both the excitement of a packed dance floor and wider photographs showing the overall celebration.
As a wedding photographer, I love documenting the moments that happen once the formalities are finished.
Grandparents dancing.
Friends celebrating together.
The wedding party completely letting loose.
Those are the photographs that remind couples what the evening actually felt like.
Lilydale gives those moments a wonderful setting.
The Bridal Suite: One of My Favorite Getting-Ready Spaces
Let's talk about the bridal suite, because this is genuinely one of my favorite features at Lilydale.
The natural light in this space is absolutely beautiful.
The bridal suite sits on the mezzanine level above the foyer and features a Juliet balcony overlooking the main hall.
It's a thoughtfully designed area for the bride and bridal party to spend time together before the ceremony.
But from a photography standpoint, the amount of natural light coming into the room is what really stands out.
Good window light allows us to create beautiful, flattering photographs without constantly introducing additional lighting equipment.
It's wonderful for photographing makeup finishing touches, wedding details, candid moments, and bridal portraits.
Some of my favorite getting-ready photographs are the quiet moments that happen before the ceremony.
A mother helping her daughter into her dress.
Bridesmaids laughing together.
Someone adjusting the final details.
Or simply a bride taking a moment to herself before walking down the aisle.
These moments deserve just as much attention as the ceremony itself.
My Photography Tip for the Bridal Suite
Keep the area closest to the windows relatively clear of bags, clothing, food containers, and other belongings.
You don't need to make the entire room spotless.
But having a clean area near the best natural light gives us a beautiful setting for getting-ready photographs.
I also recommend gathering your invitation suite, rings, jewelry, shoes, and meaningful details before photography begins.
That way, we can photograph everything without interrupting the morning.
The Juliet Balcony: A Unique Photography Opportunity
The Juliet balcony overlooking the main hall is another feature I love.
It creates a different perspective that isn't available at every wedding venue.
Depending on the room setup and accessibility, the elevated viewpoint can let you photograph the reception space from above.
Imagine a wide photograph showing the tables, decorations, dance floor, and the people you've invited to celebrate.
Those photographs can help tell the larger story of the wedding day.
I especially appreciate opportunities to capture the full room before guests enter or while the reception is underway.
This perspective complements the close-up, emotional photographs we create throughout the celebration.
And because the balcony is connected to the bridal suite, it's another detail that makes Lilydale's architecture distinctive.
The Groom's Lounge: A Great Space for the Guys
The groom and groomsmen aren't forgotten at Lilydale.
The venue has a dedicated groom's lounge, giving the guys a comfortable place to hang out, get dressed, and enjoy the beginning of the wedding day.
And it's a pretty cool setup.
I love that both sides of the wedding party can prepare at the venue rather than coordinating transportation between several different locations.
That makes the day easier to organize and can create additional photography opportunities.
The groom putting on his jacket.
Groomsmen helping with ties.
A few laughs before the ceremony.
Or a quiet moment before everything gets started.
When a couple chooses one of our wedding photography collections that includes a second photographer, we can document both sides of the wedding party getting ready at the same time.
That creates a more complete wedding gallery without requiring anyone to rush between locations.
Wedding Ceremony Locations at Lilydale
One of the things I appreciate most about Lilydale is that couples have multiple ceremony options.
I've photographed weddings using the outdoor ceremony location, the covered lean-to area, and indoor ceremony arrangements.
Each offers a different look and atmosphere.
And that flexibility is especially important in Wisconsin, where wedding weather can change quickly.
Outdoor Wedding Ceremonies
For couples who love the countryside, Lilydale's outdoor ceremony setting provides a beautiful natural backdrop.
The surrounding farmland and open landscape help create that classic western Wisconsin wedding atmosphere.
Outdoor ceremonies also offer opportunities for wide photos that capture the entire setting, along with close-up moments during the vows and exchange of rings.
I always encourage couples to consider the ceremony time when planning an outdoor wedding.
The sun's position can make a noticeable difference in guest comfort and photography.
A ceremony location that looks beautiful in the morning may have very different lighting in the late afternoon.
That's why it's worth discussing your ceremony plans with both your venue and photographer before finalizing the timeline.
The Covered Lean-To Ceremony Area
Another ceremony arrangement I've photographed at Lilydale is the covered lean-to area.
This provides a different look from the fully outdoor ceremony location.
I appreciate how the covered structure adds architectural character while still letting couples enjoy the property's atmosphere.
It can also create opportunities for photographs with more controlled natural light, depending on the time of day.
Couples should confirm the current availability, capacity, and weather limitations of this area directly with Lilydale.
Indoor Wedding Ceremonies
One of Lilydale's biggest advantages is the ability to hold an indoor wedding ceremony.
This is especially valuable for winter weddings, rainy days, or couples who simply prefer the comfort of an indoor celebration.
I've photographed indoor ceremonies at Lilydale, and having that flexibility is a tremendous advantage.
Instead of feeling like the entire day depends on perfect weather, couples can work with the venue team to create an indoor ceremony arrangement.
If you're touring Lilydale, I recommend asking to see the indoor ceremony layout.
Discuss where guests would sit, how the ceremony would transition into the reception, and whether any room changes are needed.
Those details can make a big difference when planning your wedding timeline.
The Parlor, Grand Piano, and Veranda
Lilydale offers more than just its main reception hall.
The parlor features a grand piano and a bar, giving guests another space to gather throughout the celebration.
I love venues that allow people to move between different environments.
Not everyone wants to spend the entire evening on the dance floor.
Some guests prefer to visit with family, enjoy a drink, or step away from the music for a few minutes.
The parlor provides that opportunity.
From a photography standpoint, the grand piano adds another distinctive architectural detail.
Depending on the room arrangement and available light, it can also provide a setting for portraits.
The veranda is another feature worth appreciating.
Covered outdoor areas can be especially helpful for portraits when the sun is harsh or when light rain changes the original photography plan.
I also love the opportunity to use the patio and surrounding areas for family photographs and candid moments.
Lilydale provides several different looks without requiring couples to travel across town.
The Best Wedding Photography Locations at Lilydale
After photographing multiple weddings here, I've come to appreciate how much variety the property offers.
And while the best photography locations always depend on the season, weather, and time of day, there are several areas I especially enjoy.
1. The Bridal Suite and Natural Window Light
This is one of my favorite locations for getting-ready photographs and bridal portraits.
The natural light creates a beautiful setting for those quieter moments before the ceremony.
2. The Juliet Balcony
The elevated perspective overlooking the main hall creates opportunities for wider reception photos and images that capture the venue's overall atmosphere.
3. The Veranda and Covered Areas
These spaces can provide different backgrounds for portraits and offer some flexibility when the weather or midday sunlight isn't ideal.
4. The Countryside and Open Fields
The surrounding landscape is one of Lilydale's greatest photography assets.
I love having the opportunity to incorporate open skies, countryside scenery, and natural backgrounds into wedding portraits.
It gives couples something different from the photographs taken inside the venue.
5. Sunset Portrait Locations
And then there's sunset.
If you've followed my wedding photography for any length of time, you know how much I love beautiful evening light.
Lilydale has provided some absolutely incredible sunset opportunities.
The open farmland, particularly the views toward the parking area and surrounding countryside, can offer wonderful evening light.
When conditions cooperate, we can create portraits with warm sunlight, open skies, and beautiful natural backgrounds.
And sometimes we only need 10–15 minutes.
6. Nature and Farm Animals
Another aspect of the property I enjoy is the opportunity to incorporate the surrounding nature into photographs.
I've even had opportunities to include farm animals in wedding portraits around the property.
Those little moments can create something fun and unexpected.
Of course, animal access and photography outside designated event spaces should always be coordinated with the appropriate property owners.
7. Nighttime Portraits
Wedding photography doesn't have to end when the sun goes down.
I've photographed nighttime scenes at Lilydale and enjoy creating something a little different once the evening celebration is underway.
With appropriate lighting, we can create portraits that complement the natural-light photographs captured earlier in the day.
It's another opportunity to add variety to the final wedding gallery.
Sunset Wedding Photography at Lilydale
Sunset deserves its own section because it's one of my favorite photography opportunities at this venue.
The open countryside around Lilydale creates beautiful opportunities for evening portraits.
And when the weather cooperates, the results can be incredible.
One thing I always tell couples is that you don't need to spend an hour away from your reception to create beautiful sunset photographs.
Often, 10–15 minutes is enough.
We'll step outside, find the best available light, and create a few portraits that look completely different from the ones we captured earlier in the day.
The key is planning ahead.
Sunset changes significantly throughout the wedding season in Wisconsin.
A summer wedding may have daylight well into the evening, while a late-fall or winter wedding will have a much earlier sunset.
That's why I help couples build their photography timeline around the actual sunset time for their wedding date.
And if the weather doesn't cooperate?
We'll make the most of the light and conditions available.
Beautiful wedding photographs aren't dependent on having a perfect sunset.
But when Lilydale gives us one, I absolutely want to take advantage of it.
Summer Weddings at Lilydale
Summer is a beautiful time to celebrate a wedding in the Chippewa Valley.
Longer daylight hours provide more flexibility for outdoor ceremonies, wedding party portraits, and sunset photographs.
I've photographed summer weddings at Lilydale and appreciate the opportunities to use the grounds throughout the day.
A few things I recommend considering include ceremony timing, afternoon temperatures, guest comfort, and the possibility of strong midday sunlight.
Wisconsin summers can be hot and humid.
That's why it's helpful to have access to comfortable indoor spaces while still enjoying the countryside setting.
And with later summer sunsets, couples may have the opportunity to step outside for evening portraits after dinner.
Fall Weddings at Lilydale
Fall weddings are incredibly popular throughout western Wisconsin, and Lilydale provides a beautiful setting for the season.
I've photographed fall weddings here and love how the surrounding countryside changes as the season progresses.
Depending on the weather and timing, autumn colors and natural scenery can create beautiful backdrops.
One thing couples need to remember is that daylight disappears much earlier during the fall.
A ceremony time that works beautifully in June may leave very little daylight for portraits in October.
That's why I recommend discussing your ceremony time, first-look preferences, and family portrait schedule with your photographer before finalizing the day.
A little planning can make a tremendous difference.
Winter Weddings at Lilydale
Winter weddings deserve more attention.
And having photographed winter weddings at Lilydale, I appreciate the flexibility the venue offers during Wisconsin's colder months.
The indoor ceremony options, comfortable getting-ready spaces, and spacious reception hall allow couples to celebrate without relying entirely on favorable outdoor weather.
Winter wedding photography does require some additional planning.
Daylight hours are shorter, and outdoor temperatures can make lengthy portrait sessions uncomfortable.
I typically recommend planning important outdoor portraits earlier in the day and keeping those sessions efficient.
And if we're fortunate enough to have fresh snow, it can create a beautiful backdrop for a few photographs.
Winter weddings can be incredibly memorable when couples embrace the season and plan accordingly.
Working With Elizabeth and the Lilydale Team
One of the most important parts of any wedding venue isn't necessarily something you'll see in photographs.
It's the people working behind the scenes.
And this is an area where Lilydale has consistently impressed me.
Elizabeth DeCook, Lilydale's owner, is absolutely amazing to work with and one of my favorite wedding coordinators to work with in the Chippewa Valley.
After photographing multiple weddings at the venue, I've seen how Elizabeth and her team operate throughout the day.
What stands out is how well they work together.
They're organized, attentive, and genuinely in sync.
As a wedding photographer, I appreciate working with a venue team that communicates well and understands how all the different parts of a wedding day fit together.
The ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, speeches, and dancing all involve different moving pieces.
When the venue team and wedding vendors communicate effectively, the entire experience becomes more enjoyable for the couple.
And Lilydale has a team that understands that.
Beautiful venues are wonderful.
But beautiful venues with great people behind them?
That's what makes a wedding day even better.
How Much Does a Wedding at Lilydale Cost?
Wedding venue pricing can vary based on the season, day of the week, guest count, and event arrangements.
According to Lilydale's published 2027 wedding pricing, base venue rental rates range from approximately $6,000 to $7,900.
Those rates are based on up to 350 guests, with additional fees potentially applying to larger guest counts.
The venue rental includes specified amenities and services, but it does not represent the total cost of a wedding.
Couples should also budget for catering, beverages, photography, entertainment, flowers, attire, and other wedding-related expenses.
I always recommend requesting the current pricing information directly from Lilydale.
And while comparing venues, pay attention to what's included rather than looking only at the rental fee.
Having getting-ready spaces, tables, chairs, and other amenities available can make a meaningful difference in your overall wedding budget.
A Sample Lilydale Wedding Photography Timeline
One of the things I help couples with is building a timeline that allows them to enjoy their wedding day without feeling rushed.
Because Lilydale offers getting-ready spaces, ceremony locations, and a reception hall on the same property, it's possible to keep much of the day in one location.
Here's an example of how a fall wedding might flow.
This is an illustrative timeline for an early October wedding with approximately 250 guests, a first look, and an outdoor ceremony.
Adjust timing for your wedding date, sunset, dinner service, and venue arrangements.
11:30 a.m. — Hair and Makeup
Continue getting-ready preparations in the bridal suite.
12:00 p.m. — Wedding Photography Begins
Details, candid getting-ready moments, and photographs of both sides of the wedding party.
1:15 p.m. — Final Getting-Ready Photographs
Wedding attire, final preparations, and individual portraits.
1:45 p.m. — First Look and Couple Portraits
A private moment together followed by portraits around the property.
2:00 p.m. — Wedding Party Photographs
Traditional group portraits and candid wedding-party moments.
3:00 p.m. — Family Photographs
Immediate and extended family portraits while natural light remains.
3:45 p.m. — Guests Begin Arriving
Final ceremony preparations and guest arrivals.
4:30 p.m. — Wedding Ceremony
Outdoor ceremony, weather permitting.
5:00 p.m. — Cocktail Hour and Reception Details
Guests enjoy cocktail hour while we document the reception space and details.
6:00 p.m. — Reception Entrance and Dinner
The celebration moves into the main hall.
Sunset Window — Optional Couple Portraits
If sunset falls during dinner, we can plan a short portrait break at a natural pause, coordinate with catering, or adjust the earlier schedule to prioritize portraits before dinner.
7:15 p.m. — Toasts and Formal Dances
Speeches, first dance, and other reception traditions.
8:00 p.m. — Open Dancing
Time to celebrate and warm up those dancing shoes.
Later in the Evening — Optional Nighttime Portraits
If the couple wants them, we can create a few additional photographs after dark.
Every wedding is different.
Some couples want a first look.
Others prefer to keep the first time they see each other for the ceremony.
Neither approach is wrong.
The key is creating a timeline that reflects your priorities while leaving enough time for the photos that matter most.
Where Can Wedding Guests Stay Near Lilydale?
Lilydale's location outside Chippewa Falls makes it convenient for guests traveling from around the Chippewa Valley.
Chippewa Falls offers several hotel options, while Eau Claire provides additional accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment.
For couples hosting out-of-town guests, consider room blocks and transportation options.
You may also want to consider hotels in downtown Eau Claire, including The Lismore Hotel and The Oxbow Hotel, depending on availability and your guests' preferences.
If you're expecting a large number of guests traveling from outside the area, ask Lilydale whether they have preferred lodging or transportation recommendations.
Is Lilydale the Right Wedding Venue for You?
Lilydale is worth considering if you're looking for:
A countryside wedding venue near Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire
A spacious reception hall with a beautiful hardwood dance floor
Indoor and outdoor ceremony options
Dedicated bridal and groom getting-ready spaces
Beautiful sunset and countryside portrait opportunities
Room for a substantial wedding guest list
A venue team experienced in coordinating wedding celebrations
A setting that works for summer, fall, and winter weddings
If you're planning a very small wedding or prefer a modern, minimalist aesthetic, it's worth comparing Lilydale with other venues throughout the Chippewa Valley.
But I wouldn't rule it out based on appearance or guest count alone.
Tour the property, discuss your plans with Elizabeth, and see how the space feels.
Sometimes the venue that surprises you the most ends up being the perfect fit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lilydale Weddings
1. Where is Lilydale wedding venue located?
Lilydale Dance Hall & Event Venue is located at 6343 County Highway N in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. The venue is situated in the countryside outside Chippewa Falls and is approximately 20 minutes from Eau Claire, depending on your starting location.
2. How many guests can Lilydale accommodate?
Lilydale's published 2027 wedding rental rates cover up to 350 guests at the base rental price, with additional guest fees possible for larger weddings. Couples should confirm the current maximum guest capacity and available ceremony and reception layouts directly with the venue.
3. Does Lilydale offer outdoor wedding ceremonies?
Yes. Lilydale offers outdoor ceremony options, and I've photographed weddings at its outdoor ceremony location and covered lean-to area. Couples should confirm the current arrangements and availability with the venue.
4. Can you have an indoor wedding ceremony at Lilydale?
Yes. Lilydale offers indoor ceremony arrangements, making it a practical option for couples planning winter weddings or wanting a backup plan for unfavorable weather.
5. Does Lilydale have a bridal suite and groom's lounge?
Yes. The bridal suite is located on the mezzanine level and features a Juliet balcony overlooking the main hall. The groom's lounge provides a dedicated space for the groom and groomsmen to prepare on-site.
6. Can you bring your own wedding caterer to Lilydale?
Lilydale allows licensed professional caterers to use its catering kitchen, subject to venue approval and its catering policies. Couples should discuss their preferred caterer with the venue before making arrangements.
7. Is Lilydale a good wedding venue for sunset photographs?
Absolutely. I've photographed some beautiful sunsets at Lilydale. The open countryside provides opportunities for evening portraits, and I recommend allowing approximately 10–15 minutes for sunset photographs when the weather and timeline cooperate.
8. Can you have a winter wedding at Lilydale?
Yes. Lilydale offers indoor spaces and ceremony arrangements suitable for winter celebrations. I've photographed winter weddings here and appreciate the venue's flexibility during colder months.
9. Who owns Lilydale wedding venue?
Lilydale is owned by Elizabeth DeCook. I've worked with Elizabeth and her team during multiple weddings and have consistently appreciated their communication, organization, and professionalism.
10. Do you photograph weddings at Lilydale?
Yes! Andrew Samplawski Photography has photographed multiple weddings at Lilydale during summer, fall, and winter.
With more than 700 weddings photographed throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, and beyond, I help couples create a comfortable photography experience while documenting the meaningful moments, beautiful details, and genuine emotions that make their wedding day unique.
Planning Your Wedding at Lilydale? Let's Connect!
If you're considering Lilydale for your wedding, I'd love to hear more about what you're planning.
Having photographed multiple weddings at this beautiful Chippewa Falls venue, I know how much variety the property offers.
From the incredible natural light in the bridal suite and the countryside portrait locations to the sunsets, spacious reception hall, and wonderful venue team, Lilydale provides so many opportunities to create a meaningful wedding experience.
At Andrew Samplawski Photography, my approach combines candid storytelling, thoughtful direction, and true-to-color imagery.
I want your photographs to feel like your wedding day.
The people.
The emotions.
The moments you planned.
And the moments you never saw coming.
I'll also help you build a photography timeline that works with the venue, your ceremony plans, and the available daylight, so you can spend more time enjoying your celebration.
Explore wedding photography with Andrew Samplawski Photography: https://samplawskiphotography.com
Learn more about Lilydale or schedule a venue tour: https://www.lilydalewi.com/weddings.phtml
Want to see the venue through my camera? Explore my Lilydale Wedding Photos and Real Wedding Inspiration guide, featuring photographs and insights from summer, fall, and winter weddings.
Andrew Samplawski Photography is based in downtown Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, serving Eau Claire, Menomonie, the Chippewa Valley, western Wisconsin, Minnesota, and destination weddings throughout the country.
Or learn more about my wedding photography in Wisconsin.
Here are a few other resources to check out to help make wedding planning easier:
6 Standards I Follow here at Andrew Samplawski Photography