Wendy and Shawn Bennewies are the owners of Grayson Mills, a gorgeous wedding/party space located at the corner of Erie and St Patrick. Emma Macneil has joined them in recent months as a business partner. Purchased just prior to covid settling in, to say the Bennewies have been hard at work to see their dream come alive is an understatement! From top to bottom, the three floors of the former Kalbfleisch building have been beautifully restored and renovated. Exposed beams, warm earthy tones, original floors and brick walls all lend themselves to creating the most exquisite space for a gathering of importance.
The name of this new business is a tribute to the original two owners. Built in 1884, the first owner of this heritage building was J Grayson Smith, a local lawyer. In 1887, ownership was transferred to George A Mills who operated a horse and buggy cab company for more than 20 years until it was purchased by the Kalbfleisch brothers, Henry and Georgia, in 1907. First bikes then cars were sold and repaired here until its closure in 2006. All this to say, many a memory has been made under this roof and so the perfect venue for a couple to begin their lives together!
For Wendy and Shawn this is a natural extension of the full service wedding business they have run for 20 years called Devine Wedding Design. While Wendy is the expert in styling a wedding, Shawn is the talented carpenter and all things building related expert. Emma has joined the team for her front of house experience. She has managed many a restaurant, event and wedding in her career and Wendy is so happy to have her on board! She also brings her amazing skills in digital marketing. Chef Bob Friessen – rated six stars by those who have had the pleasure of his services – of Gourmet Chef at Your Table, is the in-house catering for events.
An entire wedding from start to finish can take place at Grayson Mills. Upstairs is gorgeous for the ceremony with a terrace for cocktails and nibbles. Then the party moves to the main floor for dinner and dancing. Alternatively, two events can be taking place at the same time, one on each level. The main floor can accommodate 180 people seated or 256 standing. The upper floor can accommodate 140 seated or 180 standing. Large garage doors can be opened for fresh air and ambiance.
Grayson Mills though is more than just wedding so keep them in mind next time you need to book a venue for a special event. On the day the BIA celebrated its 50th anniversary in Market Square, the team here opened their doors to the public for tours. Two weeks ago GM hosted a Barbie Dance Party that was a massive hit for folks looking for some fun and a place to wear their prized pink! Coming up is a Halloween party taking place on Friday, October 27th. Dress up and enjoy a spooky dinner upstairs then afterwards partake in a mixology lesson on the main floor. Look for tickets on socials soon!
Grayson Mills | 114 Erie Street
@graysonmillsstratford | graysonmills.ca
