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October 14, 2024
MERRILL – Every bride dreams of their wedding day and all the details that go along with it, which includes choosing a spot for the ceremony and reception.
For Terry and Jill Gaeu, that bride was their daughter, Cohrtney, who through planning her own big day, led her parents to inadvertently become entrepreneurs.
Rusty Moon Acres comes to life
Nestled just north of Wausau in Merrill, Rusty Moon Acres LLC (W4754 County Road Q) is a new wedding and event venue surrounded by nature, fresh country air and a rather special story behind its creation.
The couple said the area boasts sweeping views and is “dusted with rustic charm and touches of elegance.”
Terry said though the venue only officially opened to the public in August – a memorable family celebration commemorates its start the year prior.
“Our daughter got married in 2023 and wanted to be married on our property, so we remodeled,” he said.
Terry, a general contractor and retired dairy producer, said he owns a sawmill where he processed and fabricated all of the wood for the venue.
Jill, a registered nurse, said she happily worked alongside him to ensure it all came together with a “whimsical and luxurious feel.”
The venue, she said, features an outdoor ceremony area, as well as an indoor space with tables that can accommodate up to 200 guests.
Rusty Moon also has an on-site bridal suite, indoor restrooms, a kitchen area for caterers and a bonfire pit.
Jill said the property also has a pond, gazebos and groomed landscaping.
“Our daughter inspired us to create this magical place,” she said. “This is a beautiful venue that is a must-see – pictures do not do it justice.”
Teamwork makes the dream work
Despite its only recent opening, Jill said work at Rusty Moon Acres has been ongoing for quite some time – and like many other businesses, she said its success is a true testament of teamwork.
“Terry and I are local residents and work to make each and every wedding or event very special,” she said. “We have a labor of love that has defined the distinctive features we put into our property.”
The materials used, the grounds and the layout itself, Terry said, are all unique aspects of Rusty Moon Acres.
“The venue’s charm stems from its construction – where all the wood used in the buildings has been sourced from our own property,” he said.
The structures, the Gaeus said, are further accented by the grounds – which Terry said they are continually working to beautify even more.
“We both still work in the community, and when we are done, we come home, maintain the grounds and create more beautiful settings to add to our venue,” he said. “(We encourage folks) to tour the facility and the grounds to see if its right for them.”
Space for inspiration, growth
Jill said Rusty Moon Acres plays host to more than nuptials.
In fact, it has hosted a high school prom, magic show and a comedy night, already in the few months it’s been open.
Next, the Gaeus said they are hoping to see more anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas parties and work meetings held at Rusty Moon Acres.
“With our personalized touch, community focus and beautiful natural materials, Rusty Moon Acres is set to become a cherished destination for memorable events in Wisconsin,” Jill said.
The co-owners said they enjoy meeting and working with their customers, but also strive to establish a strong relationship with their community, too.
“We are committed to giving back to the community with plans to host fundraising events and support local causes reinforcing our connection with the area we serve,” Jill said. “We would like to offer a spa experience for relaxation of body, mind and spirit in the future as well.”
Terry said they would also like to construct a cabin on the property for brides and grooms to stay in on their wedding night.
For more information, follow Rusty Moon Acres LLC on Facebook.
