Dan Jacobs, a contestant on the newest season of “Top Chef,” is gaining national attention for his soups, cheese treats, and elevated snacks, as well as his public battle with a rare degenerative disease. Despite this publicity, his Milwaukee restaurants, DanDan and EsterEv, are not seeing an increase in bookings for events ahead of the Republican National Convention in just three months.
Other prominent venues in Milwaukee, such as Birch, Pabst Theater, Riverside Theater, and the Rave, Eagles Club, and Eagles Ballroom, are also struggling to secure bookings for the expected events surrounding the convention.
Various theories are circulating in Milwaukee regarding the slow start of bookings, including turnover of convention staff, lack of event infrastructure in a smaller city, and reluctance from potential attendees to participate in an event featuring former President Donald J. Trump and his supporters.
Despite these challenges, Republicans involved in the convention planning remain optimistic, citing ahead-of-schedule fundraising and active negotiations between groups and venues. Some venues, such as the Bradley Symphony Center, have confirmed bookings, indicating progress in the planning process.
While Milwaukee is facing slow progress in securing bookings for the convention, Chicago, which will host the Democrats shortly after, is experiencing a higher demand for venues and events. The contrast in the level of preparation between the two cities is evident.
Delegates, corporations, and other organizations may have been waiting for hotel assignments before finalizing contracts for events in Milwaukee. As the planning process progresses, more bookings and agreements are expected to materialize.
While some concerns and uncertainties remain, there is hope that business in Milwaukee will pick up soon, showcasing the city’s capabilities and potential.
The impact of the slow start in bookings could have consequences for Milwaukee’s economy and local businesses. The city’s vibrant summer atmosphere may be affected by the convention, with locals possibly leaving town if business does not pick up.
Overall, there is a mix of optimism and challenges surrounding the preparations for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, emphasizing the importance of successful planning and coordination in the coming months.
