The Desoto House Hotel Wedding Band for Events
Trusted by wedding planners, corporate planners, and luxury event producers nationwide since 2009.
THE DESOTO HOUSE HOTEL WEDDING CEREMONIES
Spacious Ballroom and Four Story Atrium Courtyard
Ceremonies are available in select indoor and nearby outdoor event spaces at DeSoto House Hotel, offering a historic and charming setting in the heart of downtown Galena. As Illinois’ oldest operating hotel, The DeSoto House features classic ballroom spaces, vintage architectural details, and convenient access to Galena’s iconic Main Street—perfect for couples seeking a timeless and intimate wedding experience.
Lost Wax Band is a premier Galena wedding band and corporate event band, delivering high-energy live music that elevates every moment—from elegant ceremonies to packed dance floors at The DeSoto House Hotel.
Included in the Ceremony Fee
- ✓Rental of selected ceremony space (indoor ballroom or approved nearby outdoor locations)
- ✓Access to designated gathering areas for guests before or after the ceremony
- ✓On-site hotel event staff and coordination support
- ✓Staging or preparation areas for wedding parties or vendors
Not Included in the Ceremony Fee
- –Décor and specialty installations (subject to hotel approval)
- –Ceremony chairs and furniture rentals beyond standard offerings
- –Live musicians or entertainment (such as wedding bands or DJs)
- –Tenting or weather structures for off-site or outdoor ceremonies
- –Reception-related costs (separate rental, food & beverage, staffing, etc.)
Planning Considerations
- Outdoor ceremonies in Galena may utilize nearby scenic locations but require weather contingency planning
- Any tenting or weather coverage must be coordinated and approved in advance
- Due to the historic nature of the property, on-site preparation space may be limited; many wedding parties opt for nearby accommodations or suites
- A professional wedding coordinator or planner is strongly recommended
- Ceremony spaces are often reserved in conjunction with a reception at The DeSoto House
The Desoto House Hotel Wedding Receptions
Stand-alone receptions and full wedding celebrations are available at The DeSoto House Hotel. Rental fees vary based on guest count, selected event space, timing, and overall production needs.
Reception venues primarily include the hotel’s classic ballroom spaces, which feature historic charm, warm interiors, and a central location that makes it easy for guests to explore downtown Galena before and after the celebration.
The DeSoto House provides in-house catering and bar service, offering customizable menus designed for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and private events.
Included in the Rental Fee
- ✓Use of selected event space for a designated rental period (typically 4–6 hours depending on contract)
- ✓Hotel event staff and coordination support
- ✓Standard banquet setup (varies by package and space)
- ✓Access to select in-house amenities depending on event design
Not Included in the Rental Fee
- –Food and beverage (customized through The DeSoto House catering team)
- –Décor, floral, and specialty production elements
- –Live entertainment (bands, DJs, performers)
- –Upgraded rentals such as specialty linens, chairs, or décor enhancements
- –Specialty china, glassware, or upgraded service items beyond standard packages
Considerations
- Service charges, taxes, and administrative fees vary by contract
- Outside wedding cakes may be permitted with prior approval
- Outdoor or off-site elements require weather backup planning
- Final layouts and event production details must be approved by the hotel’s event team
Pick Your Desoto House Hotel Experience
Whether you're planning a ceremony, a full reception, or a corporate event at The DeSoto House Hotel, choose your path below and Lost Wax will show you the right collection for your celebration.
Our signature live band and packed-dance-floor energy, tailored to your day.
Full-scale production and our largest ensembles for black-tie and marquee celebrations.
Elevated live entertainment for galas, conferences, and premium corporate events.
Venue FAQ
The Desoto House Hotel Wedding FAQ
What kind of venue is The DeSoto House Hotel?
The DeSoto House Hotel is Illinois’ oldest operating hotel, offering a spacious ballroom and four-story atrium courtyard in the heart of historic downtown Galena. It’s well-suited for couples seeking a timeless, intimate wedding setting with walkable access to Galena’s iconic Main Street.
What is the maximum guest capacity for a wedding at The DeSoto House Hotel?
Guest capacity depends on the layout and space selected. Couples should confirm current capacity directly with The DeSoto House’s events team.
What’s included in The Desoto House Hotel’s rental fee?
Rental fees generally include use of the selected event space for a designated rental period, along with hotel event staff, coordination support, and standard banquet setup. Catering, beverage service, décor, and entertainment are arranged separately.
Does The DeSoto House Hotel provide in-house catering, or can we bring outside vendors?
The DeSoto House provides in-house catering and bar service, offering customizable menus designed for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and private events. Outside wedding cakes may be permitted with prior approval.
Does weather affect outdoor ceremonies at The DeSoto House Hotel?
Yes. Outdoor ceremonies in Galena may utilize nearby scenic locations but require weather contingency planning, and any tenting or weather coverage must be coordinated and approved in advance.
How do we contact The DeSoto House Hotel to book our ceremony or reception?
Reach the hotel’s events team at 815-777-0090, visit 230 S Main St, Galena, IL 61036, or start online at desotohouse.com.
The Original Mash-up Party Band Brings the Party To The Desoto House Hotel Weddings
Hosting your wedding or corporate event at DeSoto House Hotel offers a timeless and historic backdrop in the heart of downtown Galena. Known as Illinois’ oldest operating hotel, The DeSoto House features classic architecture, elegant ballroom spaces, and walkable access to Galena’s iconic Main Street, creating an unforgettable setting for both intimate weddings and sophisticated corporate events.
Lost Wax is a trusted Galena wedding band and corporate event band, delivering high-energy live music that perfectly complements the warm, vintage atmosphere of The DeSoto House Hotel. Whether you're planning a romantic wedding reception or a refined corporate gathering, our band provides customizable setlists, professional MC services, and a seamless event flow from start to finish.
With premium sound and lighting production and extensive experience performing at top venues throughout Galena and Northwest Illinois, Lost Wax ensures your event at The DeSoto House Hotel is engaging, elevated, and completely stress-free. From cocktail hour sets that enhance the historic ambiance to packed dance floors in the ballroom, we create a high-energy entertainment experience your guests will remember long after the celebration ends.
Building on our tailored approach, Lost Wax Band delivers a personalized performance experience as a premier Galena wedding band for The Desoto House Hotel, working closely with couples and planners to match the venue’s historic charm and inviting energy. Whether you prefer timeless classics, modern hits, or a dynamic mashup-style performance, we keep the celebration flowing seamlessly from the first song to the final encore.
See Why Planners at The Desoto House Hotel Choose Lost Wax for Luxury Events
