Located on the historic 58th Street in Downtown Kenosha, Élan Events Venue offers a unique and vibrant setting for any occasion. With its Caribbean-inspired décor, warm hospitality, and festive atmosphere, it’s more than just a place to host an event – it’s a tropical escape. I sat down with the owner, Chantel Young, to discuss her journey from Trinidad to Kenosha, the inspiration behind the venue, and her vision for the future.
A Journey from Trinidad to Kenosha
Chantel’s story begins on the beautiful island of Trinidad, where vibrant celebrations, music, and family gatherings were a central part of her life. When she and her husband, Aaron, moved to the U.S., they wanted to bring that same warmth and connection to Kenosha. With years of experience in hospitality, they saw an opportunity to create a space that blended the festive spirit of the Caribbean with the needs of the local community.
“We wanted to bring the energy and vibrancy of the Caribbean to Kenosha. There was a need for a venue that offered a unique experience, and we knew we could create something special.” - Chantel
Caribbean Influence at Every Turn
From the moment you walk into Élan Events Venue, it’s clear that the Caribbean influence is strong. The venue’s colorful décor, tropical ambiance, and island-inspired atmosphere create a welcoming and festive environment. Chantel and Aaron wanted every detail of the venue to reflect their roots.
“Our backgrounds influence everything we do here,” says Chantel. “From the décor to the atmosphere, we aimed to create a space that feels warm and inviting, a place where people can celebrate and enjoy themselves just like we did growing up.”
Transitioning from Hospitality to Business Ownership
For Chantel and Aaron, transitioning from working in hospitality to owning their own business was a dream come true. They wanted to create a space that not only reflected their love for hospitality but also provided a personal connection to every guest.
“We knew we wanted to own a space where people could celebrate life’s special moments affordably. It’s all about creating a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable and valued.” - Chantel
The Meaning Behind "Élan"
The name “Élan” perfectly embodies the energy and passion that Chantel and Aaron bring to the venue. The word means “vigor, enthusiasm, and style,” which reflects their approach to hospitality and event hosting. It’s a name that evokes both elegance and the lively spirit of the Caribbean.
“We wanted a name that would capture the essence of what we want our venue to feel like – energetic, stylish, and full of life,” Chantel shares.
A Space with Character and Charm
One of the standout features of Élan Events Venue is its ability to tell the story of Chantel and Aaron’s journey while allowing guests to personalize their events. The vibrant décor, cozy atmosphere, and attention to detail set the venue apart, making it the perfect place for any celebration.
“We’ve worked hard to make the space unique and personal. We wanted it to feel like an extension of ourselves, a place where people can have fun and make lasting memories.” - Chantel
Serving the Community
Élan Events Venue has hosted a wide range of events, from micro-wedding receptions and bridal showers to corporate gatherings and Halloween parties. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, especially when it comes to the venue’s welcoming and festive atmosphere.
Chantel and Aaron are also passionate about giving back to the community. They’ve partnered with local entrepreneurs, hosted women’s empowerment events, and even collaborated with businesses and charities, offering the venue at discounted rates for community initiatives.
The Downtown Kenosha Experience
Élan Events Venue is proud to be part of the vibrant Downtown Kenosha scene. With new businesses emerging and the area rapidly evolving, Chantel and Aaron are excited to contribute to the continued growth of the community.
“We love being a part of this thriving community. There’s so much energy here, and it’s exciting to see the changes happening around us. We’re looking forward to seeing how the area grows in the coming years.” - Chantel
Affordable Luxury for Every Occasion
One of the key goals of Élan Events Venue is to offer an affordable yet luxurious experience. With different pricing packages, Chantel and Aaron have made it their mission to ensure that the venue is accessible to a wide range of customers without compromising on quality.
“We want people to feel like they’re getting a high-end experience at an affordable price,” Chantel explains. “Everyone deserves to have a beautiful and memorable event, and we want to make that possible.”
A Basement with a Speakeasy Vibe
One of the most exciting additions to Élan Events Venue is the redesigned basement, which now features an old-time speakeasy-inspired game room. This underutilized space has been transformed into a cozy, fun area for guests to relax and enjoy during their events.
“The basement has become a favorite part of the venue,” Chantel says. “It’s a great place for guests to unwind and enjoy a more intimate setting while still feeling the vibe of the venue.”
Looking Ahead
As Chantel and Aaron look to the future, they hope to expand their services, deepen their community involvement, and continue offering a space where people can celebrate life’s special moments.
“We want to continue to grow and provide a place where people can feel connected, celebrated, and truly special. Our vision is to create a space that’s not just a venue, but a place where memories are made.” - Chantel
Advice for Aspiring Business Owners
For anyone looking to start a business in Kenosha, Chantel’s advice is simple: focus on the community and build strong relationships.
“Understand what people need and find a way to provide it,” Chantel says. “Build relationships with your customers and fellow business owners, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Stay true to your vision, and success will follow.”
Balancing Family and Business
Running a business with her husband, Aaron, while balancing family life has its challenges, especially after the recent addition of their baby girl. But Chantel and Aaron make it work by prioritizing communication and setting boundaries.
“We make sure to communicate and carve out time for our family,” Chantel says. “It’s all about finding balance and making sure we enjoy our time together.”
A Memorable Beginning
One of the most memorable moments for Chantel was the venue’s opening party, where family and friends came together to celebrate the completion of their dream.
“The opening party was so special,” Chantel recalls. “It was incredible to share the space with the people who supported us from the beginning. Seeing everything come together was truly rewarding.”
Final Thoughts
Chantel is grateful to be part of such a supportive and vibrant community. She thanks everyone who has booked with Élan Events Venue, referred them to others, or attended their events. Looking forward, Chantel is excited about what the future holds for the venue and its role in Kenosha’s community.
Élan Events Venue isn’t just a business – it’s a labor of love for Chantel and Aaron. It’s a place where their roots, passions, and vision come together to create something truly special for the Kenosha community. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Élan offers a warm, inviting space that feels like home, with a touch of tropical flair.
If you’re looking for a venue that goes beyond the ordinary, where every event feels like a celebration, Chantel and Aaron invite you to experience the magic of Élan Events Venue. With their dedication to making each moment unforgettable, you’ll quickly see that for them, it’s all about creating memories and connections.
For more information or to book your next event, visit Élan Events Venue, and don’t forget to follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Here’s to making your next event one to remember – Élan’s way!
Élan Events Venue
720 58th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 914-0353
