Dan Jacobs, a contestant on the newest season of “Top Chef,” is making a name for himself with his soups, cheese treats, and elevated snacks, as well as his open struggle with a rare degenerative disease.
Despite this national exposure, his Milwaukee restaurants, DanDan and EsterEv, are not seeing an influx of bookings ahead of the Republican National Convention in just three months.
Other prominent venues in Milwaukee are also experiencing a slow start in event bookings surrounding the convention.
Some theories suggest reasons for the slow start, including turnover in convention staff, lack of event infrastructure, and potential reluctance to participate in an event associated with former President Donald J. Trump.
Republicans involved in the convention planning are optimistic, citing ahead-of-schedule fundraising and ongoing efforts to secure bookings between groups and venues.
Despite the slow start, some venues like the Bradley Symphony Center are reporting confirmed bookings and additional events in progress.
While Chicago, hosting the Democrats after Milwaukee, has seen a more successful booking process, Milwaukee businesses are hopeful that bookings will pick up soon as delegates and organizations finalize their plans.
Potential delays in signing contracts may be attributed to the recent assignment of delegates to various hotels in southern Wisconsin.
Despite uncertainties, businesses like Central Standard Distillery are already seeing bookings and proposals for events during the convention week.
Venue managers in Milwaukee acknowledge challenges but are hopeful for the city to shine during the convention.
As preparations continue, concerns remain about the impact of the convention on the city of Milwaukee and its businesses during the peak summer season.
Despite the slow start, there is hope that Milwaukee will see increased support and business leading up to the convention.
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