We see a lot of different venues through our event photography. There are many new spaces opening up in every kind of style. We wanted to take a moment to highlight one of our favorites: Jan Serr Studio. We actually had the honor of shooting the very first wedding in this space, before it was even developed as the concept you see here today. It is on Milwaukee’s East Side, which makes it unique unto itself. There aren’t a lot of venues in that area. But, the uniqueness doesn’t stop there. It is one of the rawest spaces in the city, a blank slate that can take on many looks. And it has a great view!
History of Jan Serr Studio:
Jan Serr is a space rooted in industry. It was erected in the 1920’s as a Ford Model T plant. They made Model T’s in the upper levels and then sold them in their showroom gallery. During World War II the space was converted into an ammunitions factory where they made torpedos. The building was acquired by UWM in the 1950s. Now, Saz’s is managing this property for private events.
Why are companies drawn to your space?
Probably the biggest reason people chose us is the view. Also, the capacity. There aren’t a lot of large spaces in Milwaukee and we have easily host between 350 and 450 people. Besides the big hall on the 6th floor we have two different spaces available. There is a huge space with an outdoor patio on 3d floor and a big gallery on the 1st floor. People who really want to have a party love this space. Also very creative people are drawn to this space because it’s like a blank slate, a little raw. The company has to have a creative vision, to picture the event happening, to decorate it to their own taste.
Types of corporate events you host?
We do holiday parties, fundraisers and galas, even a few mitzvas. There are so many fantastic to use this space it is great for just about everyone’s needs.
Fab feature companies might not know about?
The third floor balcony is very large. You can create an outdoor space there with an amazing view to the city on one side. Then, people can move across the balcony and have a cocktail hour with the view to the Black Cat Alley and The Frog mural. It’s pretty trendy.
What services are available in-house?
Being Saz’s, we obviously take care of the catering. We also provide tables, chairs, and bars. One thing we don’t have here is AV or sound, so people have to bring that in.
What is your favorite dish on the menu?
Szechuan beef from East Asian station. And the Lo mein is great too! Our chef does really nice job with that.
What is your favorite thing about events at your space?
That’s kind of an easy question. I love that every event is different. It’s not like being in a banquet hall with a set up that is generally the same. Here there is no formula, people can set it up as they wish and it’s pretty fascinating to see. The look and layout of the space is totally different. It’s going to be a long time before we see a duplicate event here.
What important question do companies forget to ask you?
We spend a lot of time with people showing them the space and going over all the details, so hopefully not much! But I think parking is usually the biggest question. We do have a secured parking structure on the second floor. You can get about 50 cars here. But it needs to be pre-rent with a parking attendant. There is also a public parking on the Farewell st. There are about 30 spots there. So the logistics of that might be a little tricky.
What is your favorite trend that you are seeing for events this year?
Industrial chic! I’m a big fan of it being in this space. Industrial works great in the city of Milwaukee with its history and look. Our ballroom looks raw, but you put beautiful things in this room and they really pop.
Do you have special packages?
Not yet. We are working on bringing on together a special corporate menu. I think there’s going to be more lunch type options involved. Right now our current menus are mostly for dinners. It might be a little too formal for some corporate events.
Do you do corporate event planning as well? Or do you suggest hiring a local planner?
We can handle all the rentals and be a one stop shop. One thing we are not really get involved is actual decor. In these cases I always recommend having, at minimum, a day-of planner.
To see more of our event photography, please check out our portfolio!
