From Floral Designer to Venue Owner: The Creative Passion Behind The Lageret

Tucked away in the heart of Stoughton, WI, The Lageret is an event venue that blends historic charm with modern functionality. Housed in a former 1885 tobacco warehouse, its stunning architecture and spacious layout make it a sought-after location for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. But The Lageret is more than just a venue—it’s the realization of a dream for owner Jamae Ramsden, who has seamlessly combined her passion for flowers, design, and community into a thriving business. Recently, Jamae sponsored and hosted St. Ann School’s Monte Carlo Casino Night Fundraiser at The Lageret, further demonstrating her commitment to both her business and her local community. As a proud supporter of St. Ann School, Jamae’s son Noah, a second grader there, is also an integral part of the tight-knit St. Ann family.

Jamae recently took time out of her busy schedule to share her journey—from her roots in Edgerton to the challenges and rewards of running a successful floral and event business. Here’s an inside look at what makes The Lageret so special and the inspiring story behind it.

From Floral Designer to Venue Owner

Jamae’s passion for flowers has been a constant throughout her career. Originally from Edgerton, WI, she has always had an eye for design, especially when it comes to florals. She started her career working in retail floral and national floral wholesale before becoming an independent floral designer, focusing on weddings and large events.

Her floral business, Flora Designs by Jamae, operates out of The Lageret’s on-site floral studio. “I host over 60 weddings a year, along with social and corporate events, which keeps me happily busy,” Jamae shares. “The venue and the floral design business are the perfect match for me.”

Building a Family-Centered Business

Jamae and her husband, Micky Ramsden, have called Stoughton home for 20 years. Micky works as an Insurance Product Analyst for American Family, and together they raise their three children: Eva (18), a senior at Stoughton High School who will be attending Edgewood College in the fall; Lydia (15), a sophomore at Stoughton High School; and Noah (8), a second grader at St. Ann School. "My children spent a lot of time in my studio when they were little, and now my oldest girls work as event staff at the venue,” Jamae shares.

Jamae places a strong emphasis on work-life balance: “Success for me is building a healthy, creative business that serves my clients while allowing me to be present for my family.”

Why Stoughton?

While Jamae’s experience as a floral designer exposed her to event spaces across Dane County, it was the unique charm of The Lageret’s historic building that drew her to open her business in Stoughton. “The scale of the building made so many things possible. Its historic beauty and welcoming warmth make it a perfect space for events,” she explains. “I’ve been designing in the space for 10 years, and I never grow tired of reimagining it.”

Navigating Challenges and Rewards

Running a business isn’t without its challenges. Reflecting on the pandemic, Jamae recalls the difficulties of rescheduling events as safety guidelines constantly shifted. “The stress of rescheduling events without knowing what the requirements would be was harrowing. But we made it work!”

Despite these challenges, Jamae finds fulfillment in the rewards of her work: “Being part of people’s lives during these special days is incredibly moving. Handing a bride her bouquet or lighting candles for a grand dinner—it’s a special way to spend my workdays.”

The Lageret’s Impact on the Community

Jamae’s commitment to Stoughton goes beyond her business. She has embraced The Lageret as a space for community engagement. One notable event was St. Ann School’s Monte Carlo Casino Night Fundraiser, which The Lageret generously sponsored and hosted on February 22, 2025. The event brought together community members for an evening of fun and fundraising, showcasing the venue’s flexibility and its commitment to supporting local causes. In 2023 and 2024, The Lageret also hosted St. Ann School's Adult Prom and the Wedding Crasher Fundraising events, further cementing its role as a space for community connection and support.

Looking ahead, Jamae plans to host more business and community events. This year, The Lageret will host Stoughton High School's prom for the first time, further solidifying its role as a community hub.

Staying Inspired and Motivated

Jamae’s love for beauty and design is a constant source of inspiration. Whether traveling to museums or scrolling through Pinterest for fresh ideas, she knows the importance of staying refreshed: “Beauty keeps me motivated,” she says. “When I’m feeling drained, I seek out beauty to fill my creative well—it’s the foundation of my business.”

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those thinking about starting their own business, Jamae has this advice: “Make sure you are passionate about the process because the days can be long. If you love the work, it’s worth it.”

The Lageret: More Than Just Weddings

While weddings are the core of The Lageret’s business, it’s a versatile venue that also hosts corporate events, conferences, large social gatherings, and even Commercial photoshoots. With its expansive and flexible space, The Lageret is the perfect choice for those seeking a venue that can accommodate diverse events.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, celebrating a milestone, or hosting a corporate event, The Lageret offers a unique space and personalized service. For Jamae Ramsden, it’s not just about running a business—it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.

For more information about The Lageret or to book your next event, visit their website or contact Jamae directly. You won’t be disappointed.

We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to Jamae for hosting St. Ann School's Monte Carlo Casino Night at The Lageret. The decor and layout were absolutely stunning—Jamae's attention to detail created an inviting, festive atmosphere that elevated our event. Our guests had an unforgettable experience, and the warm, welcoming space at The Lageret set the perfect tone for an evening of fun and fundraising.

We are so thankful for Jamae's dedication to making this event a success and for her continued support of St. Ann School. She is an invaluable part of our community, and we are lucky to have such a passionate and talented partner!