The Beacon is a wedding venue located in Topeka, Kansas. When the former Topeka Woman’s Club went up for auction in 2020, sisters Courtney Stemler and Shelby Irick decided to take a chance on the property. Along with their husbands, Chris Stemler and Nic Irick, they have renovated the building with modern updates while restoring its original beauty from 1924.

Facilities and Capacity

The Beacon offers a charming atmosphere for couples and their loved ones celebrating their special day. With over 25,000 square feet, the building contains a number of versatile event spaces that can be adjusted to fit your vision. After walking up the property’s grand staircase, you will find the dining room. This bright hall features original art deco lighting fixtures, 13-foot ceilings, and large windows. 300 loved ones can celebrate with you here, and up to 400 people can join you when it's rented with the adjacent library space. There is also an attached catering kitchen, allowing reception meal services to flow as seamlessly as possible. Another event space, the ballroom, showcases century-old features such as its barrel ceiling and pendant lights. Here 300 guests can create long-lasting memories on Kansas’s last remaining coil-spring maple dance floor. There are two balconies on the east and west side of the ballroom overlooking the space, allowing loved ones to relax and enjoy a drink above the crowd. Located on the third floor, its windows provide a view of the Kansas State Capitol. Ceremonies can also be held in the venue’s theater with up to 450 people. With original stained glass windows and wooden seating, this historic space offers an ornate setting for you and your partner to say “I do.”

Services Offered

To reduce stress on your big day, the staff at the Beacon are happy to set up and clean up your event. Tables and chairs will be arranged according to your vision. Lighting and sound equipment throughout the venue allow you to set the mood of your celebration. For a vibrant reception, a wide variety of bar services are also available.

Other Facilities

For intimate weddings, this venue has a number of smaller event spaces. The Founder’s Room is embellished with deep blue walls and a 15-foot ceiling. At the center of the room is a circular bar with a terrazzo surface, surrounded by 15 barstools and arranged under an antique chandelier. Up to 100 guests can join you in this cozy setting and enjoy the comfortable lounge furniture and original fireplace. Another event space, the library, can be used with the dining room or on its own. The room can accommodate up to 100 loved ones and features original art deco skyscraper lights, a sound system and microphones, and a 12-foot ceiling.