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DonateVirginia Zoo’s New Events and Catering Team
Looking for an unforgettable venue to hold your next event? With thousands of happy clients, including more than 500 animal residents, the Virginia Zoo boasts 11 unique and captivating venues on grounds.
Located just two miles from Downtown Norfolk and nestled on the Lafayette River, the Virginia Zoo is the perfect escape from the ordinary. Under new leadership, the Events and Catering Team has developed a comprehensive Private Events Guide showcasing each venue, highlighting daytime or evening events and accommodating small groups to large functions.
Jenn VanLeuvan, who joins the Virginia Zoo with more than 15 years of event management and logistics experience, now leads the Events Team. Her involvement with a wide variety of industries and clients, to include corporate, higher education, government and non-profit sector as well as her experience from the event production side of the industry, makes her a great resource for events at the Virginia Zoo.
In conjunction with its revamped Private Events Guide, the Zoo is also unveiling its full-service Catering Team as the exclusive provider of all food and beverage services, including bar service. From boxed lunches to action stations, there is something for every event. All menus are fully customizable, and vegan and gluten free options are available upon request.
Wayne Adams has been an Operations Manager at the Zoo for 10 years overseeing retail operations and concessions, but has recently expanded his focus to catering services. With more than 25 years of food service experience, Adams previously worked for a Fortune 500 company managing NFL stadium catering operations. His experience with the facility and the staff are indispensable in creating flawless events for clients.
From intimate gardens to open spaces, animal exhibits to train rides, the Zoo captures a setting that perfectly fits a company-wide picnic, cocktail party, networking function or wedding. The experienced Zoo Events and Catering Team can create a unique and lasting experience for guests by adding animal ambassador encounters, bounce houses, mascot appearances, train rides and more.
Bookings for 2018 private events have begun. To reserve your date, call the Events Team at 757.441.2374, ext. 250 or email events@virginiazoo.org. For more information about private Zoo events, visit https://virginiazoo.org/plan-an-event-at-the-zoo/.