ABOUT: COMPANY AND STAFF
Gracious Events is a boutique catering and full-service event design company specializing in bringing you a unique customized event.
Gracious Events started solely as a catering company in the 1950s (then known as Grace Smock Catering) with the primary goal of surpassing clients' expectations on all levels. In 1995 Gracious Catering became Gracious Events, but the goal remains the same. In bringing each client a unique event Gracious starts with an individualized menu of fresh seasonal ingredients, then layers in design to heighten all the senses through food presentation, floral and table design, space planning and decor, as well as music and entertainment to truly make your event special.
Vesna Madunic, Proprietor
Vesna began as an employee of Gracious Catering during college and in 1995 bought the company and expanded its services and vision to provide full-service event design. From her creative and fresh menu ideas, Vesna and her sister, Marija, won the bid to run the first and only cafe at the Milwaukee Art Museum in 2001 when it opened the new addition designed by internationally renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. After running the cafe Vesna and her sister became interested in owning their own restaurant and in 2003 they opened Bjonda, a high-style restaurant and bar in Wauwatosa. Bjonda had a successful run, however, in 2007 Vesna decided to take the restaurant in a different direction and appeal to the more casual yet stylish trend in dining. Bjonda became Firefly Urban Bar and Grill, which has proven to be not only a favorite restaurant, but also an excellent and popular venue for weddings and private parties.
Vesna's passion for culinary excellence has grown to encompass every element of event design, capturing the beauty in even the smallest details to stimulate all of the senses during an event. Her uncompromised commitment to providing clients with innovative and fresh approaches to catered events is the driving force that keeps Gracious Events an industry leader. Vesna is an active member of the International Caterers Association and retains relationships with catering and event professionals nationwide.
Gracious Planning and Event Design Team
Our team of dedicated and talented professionals has education and experience in design and business organization and shares the company's vision of creating a wonderfully unique experience for each and every client. Uncompromised standards and an atmosphere filled with creative momentum is our recipe for outstanding customer service and exceptional events.
Culinary Team
Creating foods that are both delicious and visually stunning is the focus of our culinary team. From modern interpretations of the classics to fun and funky ethnic or theme parties, you can be sure our chefs will create a stimulating menu that will leave you and your guests raving.
