GLYNDON, Minn. - Nineteen years ago, Roy and Teresa Gilbertson said “I do” during a Renaissance-themed wedding at their home seven miles east of Moorhead.
Today, they want to offer up the location for others to do the same. The five-acre property is home to a renovated horse barn, outdoor chapel and a new 3,600-square-foot event center.
The Romantic Moon Events Center is also available for functions such as reunions, Christmas parties and corporate retreats.
The Gilbertsons decided to build the event center after noticing a demand for venues outside the city limits similar to Rustic Oaks near Moorhead.
“We’re just trying to utilize our property the best way possible.” Roy said.
The couple spent two years trying to get a permit for the business. The Minnesota Department of Transportation fought the project because of their property’s proximity to the Highway 336 on-ramp to Highway 10, they said.
Teresa looks at it as though they were just being tested to see how much they wanted it.
“Most people would have probably given up, but I’m pretty stubborn,” Roy said.
The Gilbertsons know a thing or two about determination. Both are longtime taekwondo instructors at local Northwest Martial Arts studios.
Roy is a seventh-degree black belt and has earned 14 national medals, four of which were gold. Teresa has won 12, with four gold as well.
Romantic Moon
The renovated barn was previously home to their Arabian horse showing and breeding program. The Romantic Moon name was derived from the names of their first two mares, Romantic Lee and Scarlet Moon. The couple decided to sell the horses in 2002 after Roy was injured in a motorcycle accident.
Today the structure seats 100 and can be used for rehearsal suppers or smaller weddings. It also hosts changing rooms for bridal parties.
The chapel sits near a grove of trees just down the hill. Gilbertson modeled the design after an antique Norwegian church door. Red cedar benches will soon surround the chapel to provide amphitheater seating.
Gilbertson also designed the new event center. Aside from the frame and roof, he and Teresa and their family did all of the work themselves.
It seats 320 for a reception, but it can also be used to host the wedding in the event of rain. Large windows provide a beautiful backdrop for any event.
The Romantic Moon provides everything but the decorations, table linens and food.
The couple is waiting for an answer from the state as to whether people can provide their own food. For now, they prefer customers secure a licensed caterer.
While construction will be complete this summer, Roy said he will be busy adding extra touches around the property for the foreseeable future.
“Somebody asked me the other day ‘Is there anything you won’t do?’ ” Gilbertson said. “My answer was ‘Is there anything I don’t want to try?’ I’ll try anything once.”
BUSINESS PROFILE
What: Romantic Moon Events Center
Where: 158 80th St. S., Glyndon, Minn.
Phone: (218) 233-3025
Website: romanticmoonevents.com
