Oct. 30, 2019

The owners of the first event barn in the Sioux Falls market are taking a little different approach with a bigger, more modern venue they plan to open next year.

Josh and Amanda Nelson opened Blue Haven Barn and Gardens in 2016 west of Sioux Falls at 46594 268th St. near Wild Water West.

Last year, the venue hosted more than 130 weddings along with other events.

“We’re still very busy. We have a ton of demand for our services,” Amanda Nelson said. “I think this new venue will make people excited for something new and different.”

As more event barns have come into the market, customers have told Nelson they’re looking for a fresh alternative, she said.

She took that into consideration when developing The Atrium at Blue Haven, a more than 10,000-square-foot venue east of Blue Haven on 10 acres.

“We’re taking a very modern approach with this one,” she said. “And we’re doing a bigger version.”

While Blue Haven can accommodate up to 300 guests, The Atrium will serve up to 500. It also will have a dedicated on-site caterer – chef Tyler Honke of Catering by Cleavers – and include a full-service approach.

“So everything is included – tablecloths, plates and silverware – so we’re taking more of a hotel approach,” Nelson said. “He customized the menu for The Atrium, and it’s to die for.”

There also will be “huge bathrooms” and bridal suites.

“We’re trying to do a greenhouse-look inside,” Nelson added. “There’s one wall with all windows with a little brick in between, and the big fireplace I think will be the centerpiece.”

The outdoor space will include terrace seating for ceremonies and a yard and patio area set up for cocktail hours.

She plans to add another event coordinator to help with the new space and ramp up staffing starting in the spring. She’s taking reservations now for events at The Atrium starting after July 4, 2020.