An Exciting New Chapter for Hilltop Wedding Center

There are some updates that feel purely operational and then there are updates that truly mark the beginning of a new chapter. Today is one of those moments!

We are incredibly excited to share that Hilltop has officially entered its next era, with new ownership in place and an exciting future ahead. While change can sometimes feel uncertain, this transition has been built on something far more meaningful: legacy, community, and the continued care of a property that holds a special place in so many people’s lives. At its heart, Hilltop has always been about people.

A Legacy Built Over Generations

For decades, the property formerly known as Top O' the Hill Golf Course has been part of the local landscape, first as a golf destination and later evolving into one of the region’s most recognizable wedding venues.

As second-generation owners, Brian & Marlis Hansen have poured an incredible amount of care into both the property and the community around it. What began as a family-run golf course grew into a place of celebration, connection, and shared memories.

Over the years, Hilltop Wedding Center has hosted thousands of guests, hundreds of weddings, and countless milestones but what has always set it apart is something harder to define. It is the atmosphere.

There is a warmth to the property that people feel the moment they arrive. It comes from years of intentional hospitality, genuine relationships, and a commitment to creating experiences that feel welcoming, relaxed, and meaningful.

Beyond the venue itself, Brian and Marlis have also become pillars within their community quietly supporting local events, businesses, and families along the way. That spirit of showing up for people is deeply woven into what Hilltop has become.

Carrying the Hilltop Spirit Forward

When the time came to begin planning for the future, one thing mattered most: finding the right

people to carry that spirit forward. We are thrilled to share that Brenda Tim Walter are stepping into that role.

Brenda is already a familiar face at Hilltop Wedding Center, having spent the past several years working directly with weddings and events on the property. Through that experience, she developed a deep appreciation for the couples, the team, and the energy that makes Hilltop so special.

Both Brenda and Tim are experienced business owners and are deeply rooted in their community. Their values centered around hospitality, connection, and showing up for others align naturally with the culture that has been built here over the years.

They bring fresh energy while fully respecting the legacy that already exists.

And perhaps most importantly, they understand that Hilltop has never just been about the space, it is about the people who gather here.

A Thoughtful Transition

This transition has been intentionally planned to ensure continuity for couples, guests, and the team behind the scenes.

Brian and Marlis will remain involved during the transition period, offering guidance and support as Brenda and Tim step into ownership. Many of Hilltop’s returning seasonal staff will also continue to be part of upcoming wedding seasons, helping maintain the experience couples have come to expect.  This includes Jennie as our Sales Manager, whom many of you have likely interacted with at some point. 

Hilltop is not starting over—it is continuing forward.

Looking Ahead

With this new chapter comes excitement for what is to come.

Hilltop will continue to focus on what it has always done best: creating relaxed, beautiful, and memorable celebrations in a setting that feels both elevated and welcoming.

There is something rare about a place that has been shaped by generations of care. It cannot be manufactured or redesigned, it is built over time through people, experiences, and community.

We have no doubt that this next chapter will continue that tradition.

And we cannot wait to see the celebrations ahead.