Business Spotlight features Madison Elyse Events. Founded and operated by local entrepreneur Qiana Turner, Madison Elyse Events Venue is a space designed to bring people together in style.
Located at 707 W Jefferson Street, Unit D, in Shorewood, the intimate event space can host up to 60 guests and offers a fully customizable setting for any occasion. From birthday celebrations and bridal showers to elegant dinners and corporate gatherings, Madison Elyse Events provides a warm, modern atmosphere where every event feels personal and unforgettable.
Madison Elyse Events celebrating their one-year anniversary, is a Shorewood Business Spotlight.
Visit the Madison Elyse Events website.
Qiana Turner, founder of Madison Elyse Events
What inspired you to pursue a career in event planning and then eventually open your own venue?
The inspiration came from attending large weddings and corporate events in Chicago. Every venue was beautiful, but I always had a different vision, something I could bring to life in my own space.
I started my first business in 2011, but it ran for about two years and ended right before my daughter was born. Still, I knew it wasn’t the end. Event planning requires networking and strong resources; skills I had to build over time. In 2017, I rebranded and named the business after my daughter, whose name means “a noble gift.” After putting effort into marketing and rebranding, Madison Elyse Events officially launched in 2018, and I opened my first event venue in November 2024.
Why in Shorewood?
I was actually going to Rosati’s to pick up a pizza, and when I heard music coming from the building next door. I didn’t realize it was an event space and decided to take a look. At the time, I was looking in the Chicagoland for a venue—Chicago, Naperville, and Plainfield—so it caught my attention. About 7 months later, I saw a “For Lease” sign in the window, and I knew it was a sign!
How has your journey as a business owner evolved since you started?
This journey has brought out so much in me personally. The drive, ambition, professionalism, and integrity—even when something goes wrong (because it does!) I’ve learned to grow through it all.
what makes your business unique?
Many venues have strict limitations, but I want clients to have creative freedom. They have the autonomy to decide the caterers, photographers, and food, making each event uniquely theirs. I’ve seen so many beautiful spaces, and when creating my own, I wanted it to feel warm and elegant. I added finishing touches like the chandelier and string lights but kept the space as a blank canvas for guests to come in and design their dream event.
Are there any services you offer that the community might not know about?
Yes! In addition to venue rentals, I offer event planning services. We help coordinate all the elements you need to bring your vision to life. We prefer at least 3 months’ notice to plan, but exceptions can be made. My business truly is a family affair; my husband, my daughter, my son, or daughter-in-law all help with operations, so if we are available, we’ll make it happen!
How do you collaborate with clients to bring their vision to life?
We want clients to fully express their creativity by choosing their own colors, shapes, florals, and table settings. We also partner with trusted sources in the industry to help the clients’ visions come to life. Recently, we added draping throughout the room for a styled shoot, and it completely transformed the space!
Do you have any events coming up?
Yes, we do! On December 6th and December 7th, we are hosting a Holiday Pop-Up Shop. We’re inviting businesses to come and sell their products during the event. Those interested can email me at qiana@madionelyseevents.com or sign up via the link on my Facebook page.
We are also hosting a Breakfast with Santa on December 13th. Bring your kids; bring your grandkids, to enjoy a breakfast with Dreezy Claus, play games, make crafts, and take pictures in the photobooth. Every child receives a gift, and there’s even a bike raffle!
What advice do you have for aspiring business owners?
Whatever it is, do it. If you need training, certifications, or mentoring, just get them done and go for it. Feel the fear and do it anyway.
What else do you want the community to know about Madison Elyse Events?
We’re here. We’re open for business. Come and visit us, come see the space. I like to leave it open and make myself available. Tell everyone about us—your friends and neighbors!
