COLUMN: Village News – Private events at MHV

The Mennonite Heritage Village continues to strive for excellence in everything we do, from collecting artefacts to curating exhibits, and from creating experiential learning opportunities for school groups to celebrating our heritage with large community festivals. Over the last 10-15 years, MHV has also developed our Private Events department, renting meeting spaces in the Village Centre and celebration spaces on our grounds. In order to get to know what MHV offers and how our museum is finding new ways to benefit our community, I have asked Elise Plessis, our private events coordinator to share about her experiences. Here are her thoughts.

“Working at the Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) as the Private Events Coordinator is both a privilege and a passion. My role is centered around creating meaningful experiences for guests by booking and coordinating events that bring people to the museum in personal and memorable ways. While artifacts and exhibits provide the historical foundation, our department adds a living element — bringing the grounds to life through gatherings, celebrations, and personal events.

“The Private Events Department is a bridge between history and community. We coordinate weddings, corporate functions, and other private events that invite the public to experience the museum beyond a traditional visit. Guests don’t just walk through exhibits, they celebrate milestones, share meals, and make memories here. This unique offering allows us to welcome people who may not initially come for history but leave with a deeper appreciation for the Mennonite story and MHV’s role in preserving it. We have many repeat clients.

“There are many reasons why I enjoy my role, but three stand out. First, I love being part of a team that values creativity and collaboration. Each event is a chance to try new ideas while having the support of a tightly knit team. Second, I get to witness joy and have the opportunity to work with so many community members, whether it’s a couple exchanging vows in the auditorium, families gathering at a milestone celebration, or colleagues reconnecting at a corporate function. Third, I take pride in knowing that the work we do helps sustain the museum financially and culturally, ensuring it continues to thrive for future generations.

“People are often surprised by the scope of MHV. Many expect a small local museum, but when they arrive, they find a full 40-acre heritage village with historic buildings, cultural exhibits, a restaurant, and scenery that brings the country lifestyle to the city. Another surprise is that our facilities, like the auditorium and the Peter Barkman Summer Pavilion, can be booked for weddings, conferences, and private events. (we even allow alcohol with a liquor permit) Guests are often amazed at the versatility of the museum, it’s not just a place to learn about history, but also a place to live it.

“The museum’s mission is to preserve and exhibit, for present and future generations, the experience and story of the Russian Mennonites and their contributions to Manitoba. Our department supports this mission by creating opportunities for people to engage in that story in modern and personal ways. A wedding in our auditorium may not seem directly connected to history, but it invites new people to experience the site, often leading them to learn more about Mennonite culture, traditions, and food. Private events like anniversaries, showers, birthday parties, and corporate functions also ensure that MHV remains a vibrant gathering place — just as Mennonite villages were historically the heart of community life.

“The coming weeks and months are full of exciting plans. We are always looking at new and exciting ways to bring the private events department into the public eye. Our department is committed to making MHV not only a place of history but also a living, breathing part of the community today.

“In the end, what I love most about my work is that it blends the past with the present. Many of our clients have mentioned how they have been “coming to the museum throughout their childhood” and through private events, we create space for people to celebrate, reflect, and connect during important milestones in their adult lives — continuing the story of community that has always been at the heart of Mennonite life”.

Thank you, Elise, for your enthusiasm and dedication to hosting family and company events and celebrations in a beautiful, heritage setting.

Upcoming events

Sept. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – ‘Writing Your Story’ Workshop – A workshop for all writers. Join celebrated local authors MaryLou Driedger, Betty Barkman, Doris Penner, and Sheila Braun as you create your story.

Sept. 30 – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. A day to reflect on our relationships with Indigenous friends and neighbours. Free Admission.

Oct. 2 – 7 p.m. – Volunteer Appreciation Evening. All volunteers who have helped us this year are invited to attend.