You’ve heard of Hazeltine National Golf Club as an internationally recognized golf course, but did you know you can host your wedding in their space even if you’re not a member? They host stunning celebrations in a spacious ballroom with top-of-the-line service and culinary expertise. Get to know the Director of Sales & Catering, Jan Hillius, and discover why this may be your perfect wedding venue.
Q: Let’s get to it, what’s your business’ specialty?
A: We are known as an Internationally-recognized championship golf club, but we also offer high-end full-service wedding, meeting, and events spaces.
Q: Where can we find you?
A: We are located in Chaska, MN, a convenient 25-minute drive from Minneapolis.
Q: Tell us when and how Hazeltine National Golf Club began.
A: Hazeltine opened in 1962 as a golf course and clubhouse to service the member’s needs. With the professional staff that has joined over the years, Hazeltine has vamped into a facility that also offers our spaces to non-members for their events.
Q: What makes your company unique from others?
A: We are unique for a few different reasons, we will be the only golf club in the country to host golf’s biggest event, the Ryder Cup, for a second time. We also are a full-service event venue to make your event and planning seamless.
Q: How long have you been in the industry? What do you think has changed the most since then?
A: I have been in the industry for 18 years and 9 of those years with Hazeltine. One of the biggest changes has been weddings shifting to a less traditional style. Brides and Grooms are shifting their focus more towards their guest experience and they’re becoming more original with their planning.
Q: Walk us through your average workday.
A: That’s the fun of the business, there is no average workday but I love the interaction with excited brides and grooms!
Q: What would you want couples searching for their wedding venue to know?
A: We are here for you to make your day everything you have dreamed. Our full-service operation will help assist you with all of your planning needs to make your special day effortless.
Q: How far in advance should a couple book with you?
A: We recommend as soon as possible but traditionally 12-18 months to ensure you can align our venue with your other services such as your photographer, DJ, florist, etc.
Q: What is the biggest crowd-pleaser at Hazeltine National Golf Club?
A: Our biggest crowd-pleaser is our culinary experience both in the way of food and service. We are also excited to unveil our new patio as we are sure that it will be a big hit!
Q: What are your other hobbies and passions besides creating beautiful wedding days?
A: I love to spend time with my two teenage girls and their activities such as soccer, dance, and hanging out with family and friends.
Q: What is the history behind your venue?
A: Our venue was built to host nationally recognized golf championships for the world’s best golfers. That high level of service has transferred over into our meeting and events spaces.
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Q: What show are you binging right now?
A: A few of my favorite shows are on Netflix. So far Yellowstone and Gilmore Girls are what I’m watching right now.
Q: You’re in charge of the lineup for your dream concert. Who are your headliners?
A: I’m all over the place with my music and it really depends on my mood. From country to acoustic coffee house to 90s grunge, I cannot pick a favorite.
Q: Black Tie or Casual?
A: If I’m helping to plan the event, I like black tie. If I’m attending, I prefer casual!
Q: You’re at brunch. Are you going for something sweet or savory?
A: I’m more of a savory fan and would lean towards the lunch and dinner over breakfast foods offered.
Q: Favorite board game?
A: My family and I love to play cribbage and various card games. However, my goal is to be on Wheel of Fortune because I love watching the show with my daughters.
Q: Mountains or Beach?
A: I love the beach even though my summer months are busy with events.
If you’re ready to check out Hazeltine and have their team bring your vision to life, check out their website!
All images courtesy of Hazeltine National Golf Club
