Your journey begins at
About Us

A Magical Location Located Just South of Topeka, KS

Located on 30 acres on the Water’s Edge of Strowbridge Reservoir near Carbondale, KS sits Willows Bend Wedding & Event Venue. The venue is surrounded by water on 3 sides that create a peaceful and tranquil setting unlike any other venue. Many brides and grooms refer to Willows Bend as a country but elegant destination wedding.

The venue is located on family property homesteaded back in the late 1800’s. There is a lot of tradition that surrounds Willows Bend and the owners Jim & Michele Shively live across the cove from the venue.

Jim & Michele love to help each bride and groom create a one of a kind wedding tailored to meet their vision and dreams. 

“Your Dreams begin on the waters edge at Willows Bend”

Your Dream Event

At Willows Bend, we can provide you with all of the resources you need to plan your perfect day.

  • Comprehensive Vendors List
  • Hotel Accommodations
  • Shuttle Service
  • Wedding Planner Recommendations

Your Dream Venue

Bridal Suite

A beautiful 800 sq ft bridal suite located upstairs featuring three barber chairs at the hair and make-up station, bathroom, love seat, couch, ottoman and an elevator for those who may need it.

Groomsmen’s Room

We have a spacious groomsmen room located downstairs for all the men in the bridal party to prepare for the big day.

The Balcony

The bridal suite has a balcony that overlooks the entire seating area and is used for the bride and groom’s surprise entrance. Above the balcony is a wedding bell the bride and groom can ring after their entrance.

The Space

Downstairs the venue can comfortably seat 300 guests, leaving the center section open for dancing. The room is fully automated, with the push of a button the venue goes dark with the latest in sight and sound with the colored lights and the most modern sound system specifically designed for the room.

All Inclusive

Your Perfect Day

Wedding Reviews

I cannot recommend this venue highly enough! From start to finish, our experience was nothing short of perfect. The venue itself is absolutely stunning — every corner is beautiful and thoughtfully designed, creating the ideal setting for a memorable celebration. Whether you’re looking for something classic or modern, the venue has an elegance that will make your wedding day truly special. What truly made our experience exceptional, though, was the incredible service from the owners, Jim and Michele. They were hands-on from the very beginning, offering expert advice, answering every question, and providing thoughtful suggestions to help make our wedding day seamless. Their attention to detail and genuine care for us as a couple was clear throughout the entire planning process. On the big day itself, Jim and Michele were there every step of the way, ensuring everything went smoothly and that we didn’t have to worry about a thing. Thanks to their support, our wedding day was completely stress-free, and we were able to fully enjoy every moment. If you’re looking for a beautiful venue with amazing owners who truly care about making your wedding day perfect, look no further. I’m beyond grateful for Jim and Michele and the wonderful experience they provided!

Haileigh M. Married on 09/13/2024
Haileigh M.

Jim, Michele,
I would like to thank you for helping us bring our daughter Becca’s wedding dreams coming true. Steven and Becca knew from the second they laid eyes on your beautiful venue that is where they were getting married. I want to thank Jim and Michelle for covering every detail we needed. Even if I thought I’d forgotten something. They assured me I hadn’t and everything was covered. As the mother of the bride I’m grateful to Bri ! I didn’t have to worry about one single thing throughout the entire day. I was able to enjoy my only daughter’s wedding. Our entire family and friends have sent us messages saying it was the funnest wedding they’ve ever attended. Thanks to the wonderful DJ.
You have our eternal gratitude for the great memories!
Everyone should be married there.
You know how to treat your guest make them feel at home.

Steve and Tina W Wedding on 6/7/24
Steve and Tina W

My (now) husband and I had our wedding here a couple of weekends ago, and it was an amazing experience! The venue is beautiful, and many of our friends and family commented on how beautiful it was! There were also lots of fun options to choose from, such as fireworks and a cold sparks send-off that many other places don’t have. Further, the owners were very helpful and quick to respond to any questions that we had. All of the vendors that we chose have worked with this venue before, and it made the whole evening flow seamlessly. If anything went wrong, I had no idea. (It was pretty windy and some rain storms came through later in the night, but we all worked together to come up with a plan that allowed us to still go outside for the fireworks and cold sparks!). I HIGHLY recommend this venue if you are looking for a beautiful venue out by the lake!

Larissa Married 2024
Larissa

We just had our daughter’s wedding (and rehearsal dinner) at Willows Bend. Absolutely beautiful venue with wonderful spaces… bridal suite, grooms room, kitchen, plenty of restrooms, and the scenic and private outdoor space!! Jim and Michelle were excellent to work with … helpful the whole process! They recommended vendors who were also top notch. It was a truly perfect experience! I would gladly recommend Willows Bend!

Lisa S. Wedding on 6/24/22
Lisa S.
Your Journey Begins At

Willows Bend

Book a tour today or read through our Frequently Asked Questions for more info.
See you at the water's edge!

Willows Bend
S Berryton Rd E 141st Street,
Carbondale, KS 66414

Jim & Michele Shively
(785) 633-7334 or (785) 633-7335
info@wbwed.com