9 FAQs to help you plan your dream event at Overture Center

Planning a wedding or special event at Overture Center means saying “yes” to a one-of-a-kind space in the heart of downtown Madison. Our venues blend timeless elegance with modern amenities, giving you and your guests an unforgettable experience. We know event planning comes with lots of questions, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the ones we hear most often. We hope this helps you on your event planning journey.  

When can I secure my date? 

Because Overture is first and foremost a performing arts center, our booking calendar looks a little different than other venues. We can only book event spaces once our performance calendar is finalized. Right now, we’re booking through August 2026, with fall 2026 dates opening March 16, 2026. 

We can also place up to two complimentary holds for you on future dates not yet open for booking. If your date is still available once the booking window opens, you’ll have priority. 

Here’s a quick snapshot of booking timelines: 

• September 2025 through May 2026 - Open now
• June 2026 through August 2026 - Opens December 16, 2025
• September 2026 through May 2027 - Opens March 16, 2026
• June 2027 through August 2027 - Opens December 16, 2026

Do you provide décor items in-house, or do I need to rent décor? 

We offer a few items in-house, such as cake stands, taupe chairs and champagne buckets, all available to rent for an additional fee. 

We also have décor packages that can be professionally installed by our IATSE stagehands. Options include string lights, lanterns, chandeliers and drapes, perfect for creating an atmosphere that feels just right. 

You’re also welcome to bring in rentals from any company you choose. If you see a photo and are curious about where a particular item came from, feel free to reach out so we can point you in the right direction. 

Can I use an outside caterer? 

Food and beverage service at Overture is exclusively provided by Catering a Fresco. Their team brings creativity, local flavor and impeccable service to every event. You can explore menus and more information directly on their website. 

Do you have a preferred vendor list? 

You’re free to work with whichever vendors you love. While we don’t have a preferred list, we’re happy to share contacts of those we’ve partnered with before. We also recommend checking out WedPlan Madison for excellent vendor recommendations.

When will I have access to the space? 

We guarantee access to your event space starting at 11am on the day of your event. If you need earlier access, we can try to accommodate depending on building availability. Just note that additional labor fees may apply. 

Is there a bridal suite or green room? 

Absolutely. You have a few options: 

Promenade Lounge: You can add this on as your dedicated “getting ready” suite. It can be draped for privacy, catered with breakfast or lunch, and it doubles as storage throughout the day. 

Promenade Hall & Terrace: If you book your wedding in this space, a private dressing room is included. 

Other Dressing Rooms: We have lots of rooms throughout the building, subject to availability six weeks before your date. 

Where can my guests and vendors park? 

There are two nearby public garages that are most convenient: Overture Center Garage (318 W Mifflin Street) and the State Street Capitol Garage (214 N Carroll Street), which is the closest option to our State Street entrance. 

Street parking is also available. If you’d like reserved metered spaces for vendors, we can arrange that with the City of Madison for an additional fee. 

Where can we take pictures? 

On your wedding day, you may take photos in any available space within the building, and your event manager can assist you with access. 

For engagement sessions or other pre-wedding photos, you’re welcome to use our public spaces, including our Rotunda Lobby and galleries, during regular business hours. We don’t charge rental fees for professional photography for under two hours in these public areas. 

If you’d like access to private spaces like theaters, additional labor fees apply, including an event manager and stagehand for support. 

When should we start our ceremony and what are the fees? 

Ceremonies in open-air spaces like Promenade Terrace and Upper Lobby must end by 3:30pm. Enclosed spaces like Wisconsin Studio have no time restrictions. Our ceremony fee includes a dedicated event manager and a rehearsal during the week of your wedding in an available space. 

Do I need a wedding planner if Overture provides an event manager? 

Great question! Here’s how the roles differ: 

Event Services Coordinator provided by Overture: Works with you in advance to design floorplans, coordinate vendor load-in/out and arrange in-house rentals, décor and catering details. 

Event Manager provided by Overture: Present the day of your wedding to assist vendors, manage venue logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. 

External Wedding Planner/Day-of Coordinator: Manages ceremony cues, family logistics, timelines and all those little personal details—from pinning boutonnieres to making sure your favors are placed. 

We always recommend having either a planner, a day-of coordinator or a trusted friend or family member to be your “go-to” person so you can relax and enjoy your day. 

Whether you’re saying “I do,” celebrating a milestone or hosting a conference, Overture offers not just a venue, but a truly unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

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