Many couples dream of a rustic barn venue for their wedding, especially with Door County having so many to offer. A new bill may make that more difficult, if not impossible in the next few years. 

Under the new bill, wedding barns that host more than six events a year would have to obtain a Class B liquor license, which would allow them to serve beer and wine. Originally, the venues would not need a liquor license, but that could soon change. An assembly committee quickly voted 12-2 to pass the measure, even with owners of wedding barns across the state saying it would put them out of business. 

Many wedding venues around Door County involve the opportunity to have barn weddings, including the Woodwalk Gallery and Northern Haus. Kewaunee County also has an option for barn weddings, in Heritage Farm. 

The main reason for the change is for a bigger crackdown on alcohol, and to level the playing field for banquet halls, taverns and others who must get liquor licenses. Farmers however find that the unique part about their venues, where friends and family can bring their own beverages and food. 

The next time the bill will be presented to the senate is in September.