Meet the team

In the beginning, the land was home to Germans migrating to the area. It was organic, rocky, had a creek running along one side, and offered shade on hot summer days. Back then, it was the perfect place to settle and raise a family. Today, this land continues to remain the perfect place to plant families. Mary Perlitz, the owner of Park 31, grew up around the kitchen table, listening to family members share memories while also creating new ones. It was the heart of her childhood: family. Her heart for the family is what guides the Park 31 experience. You become part of the family and everyone has a seat at the kitchen table. Rooted in scripture, prayer, and love, the grounds of Park 31 carry a peace that is felt each time you step onto its property. The rock exterior of the venue honors its history and charm while the steel beams and industrial features highlight the new world. By honoring the past, and bringing forth the new, Park 31 pays tribute to the roots planted here, both then and now, and continues to plant and raise families for generations to come. 

Visionary. Family-oriented. Servant's heart. 

Julie has spent years working with people in different positions with the common goal focused on building relationships. She is a former teacher and carries the title of Proud Army Mom. She has been with Park 31 since it first opened to weddings in 2018 and loves working behind the scenes and seeing our Park 31 couples celebrate their wedding days. Julie has been married for 30 years and loves spending time with her family and friends. She loves all things dogs and especially dachshunds and GSP’s. She has several of her own and from time to time foster’s with a local rescue group to help fur babies find their forever homes.
Julie’s advice to couples? Take time to soak in all of the
day’s love and memories.

Passionate, committed, loyal. Serving others with a joyful heart.

Julie - venue manager

The proud wife of Police Officer Scott Ristow, married here at Park 31 on December 22, 2018. You may remember her from the Hit Show of American Idol, where she earned her spot as a Season 6 finalist. She appeared on Regis and Kelly, Ellen, Jay Leno, to name a few as a guest artist. It was until she was diagnosed with Metastatic Thyroid Cancer. Throughout their journey fighting cancer, he proposed and she started planning for the big day. That was when she came across the beautiful Park 31 and met the owner, Mary Perlitz. What a blessing this was for them! They were able to have the most beautiful wedding ever imaginable, while she gained a friend and a new career. She recently wrote and recorded her song for her groom “I Choose You”.
Haley's advice? Do a private last dance as a couple... Just you two together as husband and wife.

American Idol. Newlywed. Wife of Police Officer. Cancer Survivor

Mary perlitz - owner

haley - venue manager