July 23, 2025

This piece is sponsored by Carpenter Bar Group.

There are more reasons than ever to book your event at a downtown venue known for curated events, cocktail culture and incredible customer experiences.

Monick Yards at 605 E. Eighth St. quickly has gained a reputation for its fun, guest-focused approach to events.

“I think the thing that sets Monick Yards apart from many venues in the region is that we’re based in a hospitality company first,” said Michael Mohr, a member of the leadership team for The Carpenter Bar Group and Monick Yards.

“Service and hospitality are paramount to us, so within Monick Yards, we’re transitioning that guest experience and that guest satisfaction.”

With 12,000 square feet, the space can hold up to 400 for seated events or can be subdivided.

New event sales manager Claire Litzen takes a concierge-style approach to working with event planners. A Sioux Falls native who gained experience in the downtown hospitality industry, she began her new role at Monick Yards earlier this year.

“I love the fast-paced, dynamic environment that surrounds events,” Litzen said.

“When I saw this role open up,  I immediately felt drawn to it and knew I had to throw my name in the hat.”

Having worked in the downtown event and service industry, she already was familiar with the owners and had enjoyed previous collaborations with them.

“Once I sat with them, it was clear that trust and support were at the core of their leadership,” Litzen said. “What I enjoy most is celebrating with our community. It’s an incredible honor to be part of our clients’ biggest moments — whether it’s a wedding, a nonprofit fundraiser, a family celebration or a corporate gathering. Our clients trust us to deliver a seamless venue and bar experience, and that’s a responsibility I take to heart.”

As a venue, Monick Yards “truly serves as a blank canvas,” she said.

Jewl Photo

“While weddings are a major part of what we do — and absolutely some of the most meaningful events we host — we’re also excited to grow our presence in the corporate and nonprofit sectors. The space is incredibly versatile — it can be transformed into something bold and elaborate or kept minimal and refined, depending on the client’s vision.”

Events receive all-inclusive pricing, customized floor plans, a dedicated day-of-event manager and full setup and teardown of all Monick-provided items, making the planning process simple and stress-free.

“During the venue’s design and construction, each room was carefully and intentionally crafted to provide guests with a modern, elevated experience,” Litzen said.

Kelsey Carleen Photography

Guests at Monick Yards are served by the same team that delivers memorable cocktail and social experiences at Carpenter Bar, The Treasury and Highball in downtown Sioux Falls.

You’ll be assisted in creating custom cocktail menus with popular options from each of the three locations.

“We’re seeing a lot of his-and-hers cocktail offerings at weddings. And we’re even seeing a third ‘pet cocktail’ offered if they can’t decide on just two and want to name it for their pet,” Mohr said.

Think of an Old-Fashioned in honor of your golden retriever or a margarita for your chihuahua. It happens here.

“We’re setting people up for success to make sure you’re enjoying your event,” Mohr said. “We include adequate staff with your fees, and the goal is no lines anywhere – including the restrooms.”

The team is dedicated to the venue and the broader hospitality industry, he added.

“We take care of guests with staff who work in the space day in and day out. We’re not hiring people who come in once a month to make a Jack and Coke,” he said. “We’re here delivering a professional product every time.”

Because the team members are so familiar with Monick Yards, they also can offer suggestions to make events extra memorable.

“As far as entertainment, we’ve seen a lot,” Mohr said. “We’re happy to assist and guide you to ideas.”

Corporate holiday parties can incorporate scavenger hunts or raffles to win prizes, for example.

Weddings have brought everything from virtual reality experiences and Super Mario Kart Xtreme to kid-size tables with interactive activities for young guests.

“With nonprofits, we’ve seen casino nights with black jack, craps and roulette,” Mohr said. “Really, we want to work and help coordinate whatever you need to make your event as easy as possible.”

Litzen suggests reaching out soon because the 2025 calendar is nearly full.

“We do still have a handful of availability for fall and winter events,” she said. “For businesses and nonprofits, now is definitely the time to start planning, especially if you’re considering a 2025 or early 2026 holiday gathering. We also encourage groups to start looking ahead to 2026 and 2027 to secure preferred dates.” 

Submit an online inquiry or reach out to Claire Litzen directly for a tour. Email her at Claire@monickyards.com.