The Mason Jar Gathering Barn

Posted by Lindsay Hodge, Public Relations Volunteer

Photo Courtesy of JZ Photography.

Kevin and Christy Anderson officially opened The Mason Jar Gathering Barn for business early in 2015. Christy's plans for their barn had been rolling around in her head for some time before that, and she even hosted events before they opened for business. However, it was her daughter's wedding that gave them the catalyst they needed in order to turn their old-fashioned barn into what it is today. They ripped out old fluorescent lights, dressed up the inside and made their barn into an event center.

Just three months after that first event, the Anderson's property was threatened by the fire that ripped through the area last year. Christy and Kevin both feel like God had spared them for the purpose of bringing families and friends together at The Mason Jar. What a blessing it is, too! The Mason Jar can host just about any event, from a baby shower to a prom to a wedding or luncheon. There are many different amenities that you can add on, including a bride's room.

Christy and Kevin try to keep things real and easy. They offer a no-pressure experience and their motto is to try to cater to every clients need. “We don't want anyone to leave here and say, 'Man, I wish I had asked for (fill in the blank).'”

The Mason Jar Gathering Barn is quickly becoming the most popular event center around. They are booked nearly every weekend until Christmas and they even have a few reservations for early next year! As their popularity grows, so will the barn. The couple has big plans for expanding the barn and putting in a beautiful gazebo.  

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Here's an excerpt from my interview with them:

How long have you been in Onalaska?
All in all, about 22 years. My family has all kind of migrated to the area all around us.

What's your most favorite part about hosting these events?
The people. Families. Getting to know their stories. It's maybe even seeing that there are two families that don't get along with each other and being able to help folks get through issues. You get to see so many family dynamics and we've felt like we have been here to help and share our faith. Even if its a couple of seconds, we get to share these moments and our love for Jesus Christ with folks. That is the best part.

What's your least favorite part about it?
It is time consuming, and some times it takes away from my family. We both work full-time jobs outside of the barn, and nearly all of our weekends are booked into January of next year. We've had to bring in my daughter-in-law, Samantha Hutchison, and my daughter Karlee to help with different things so that I don't get overwhelmed.

Why did you decide to call it The Mason Jar Gathering Barn?
Well, I have a thing for mason jars. My mom always had jars around and so do I. A friend at work, suggested it because of that, and really it just fit. We decided to have the “Gathering Barn” bit because we really want it to be a place for families to come together.

What makes you different from other event centers?
We are a little different than most places because we aren't so focused on making money. We want to provide a really great experience. We want folks to come together and really enjoy themselves. We also try to find local businesses that will work with our clients and give them good deals.

For more information about The Mason Jar Gathering Barn, visit their Facebook page by clicking here, or by copying and pasting the link below.
www.facebook.com/The-Mason-Jar-Gathering-Barn-730677430379559/