How We Survived the Pandemic and Built Something Beautiful: Oscar Barn Wedding Venue Opens
How We Survived the Pandemic and Built Something Beautiful: Oscar Barn Wedding Venue Opens
The story of Oscar Barn Wedding Venue begins with a phone call that changed everything. Dan Lagueux was attending a wedding venue conference in Las Vegas when Valerie called to tell him that Governor Sununu had ordered all New Hampshire restaurants to close their dining rooms. The Oscar Barn renovation — which had been moving forward with profits from the Tap House — came to a halt. In a single afternoon, the most ambitious project we'd ever undertaken was suddenly on hold, and our entire team was out of work. Union Leader columnist Christopher Thompson profiled this moment in his 2021 "Closing the Deal" column, noting that what happened next was what defined the character of this family business.
How We Got Through It
We pivoted to curbside and outdoor dining as restrictions allowed. We leaned on the community that had supported us since 2013, and they showed up — ordering takeout, buying gift cards, and sending messages of encouragement that kept the team motivated. As outdoor seating became possible, revenue began to recover, and we resumed planning for Oscar Barn. The pandemic had done serious damage, but it hadn't stopped us. If anything, it clarified what we were building and why it mattered.
Introducing Oscar Barn Wedding Venue
Oscar Barn Wedding Venue officially opened in 2021 at 191 West River Road in Hooksett, NH — the same property as Hip Peas Farm. The barn itself is an 1860 timber-frame structure, fully restored to honor its original craftsmanship while providing a stunning backdrop for weddings and events. Named for Valerie's grandfather Oscar, the venue represents the third chapter of a family-owned enterprise that began with a restaurant in 2013 and expanded to a farm in 2017.
Together, the Tap House, Hip Peas Farm, and Oscar Barn form a family of companies rooted entirely in Hooksett, NH. One community. Three interconnected businesses built on the same values: quality, authenticity, and genuine care for the people who walk through our doors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oscar Barn Wedding Venue
What is Oscar Barn Wedding Venue?
Oscar Barn Wedding Venue is a restored 1860 timber-frame barn at 191 West River Road in Hooksett, NH, located on the same property as Hip Peas Farm. It opened in 2021 and is owned by Dan Lagueux and Valerie Vanasse, the owners of New England's Tap House Grille. The venue hosts weddings, private events, and community celebrations.
Where is Oscar Barn Wedding Venue located?
Oscar Barn Wedding Venue is located at 191 West River Road, Hooksett, NH 03106, on the Hip Peas Farm property alongside the Merrimack River. It is owned and operated by the same family behind New England's Tap House Grille.
How are New England's Tap House Grille, Hip Peas Farm, and Oscar Barn connected?
All three are owned and operated by Dan Lagueux and Valerie Vanasse of Hooksett, NH. New England's Tap House Grille opened in 2013, Hip Peas Farm was purchased in 2017 to supply the restaurant with organic produce, and Oscar Barn Wedding Venue opened in 2021 on the farm property. Together they form a family-of-companies rooted entirely in Hooksett.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Oscar Barn is open and booking events — learn more at oscarbarnweddingvenue.com. And come celebrate with us at the Tap House at taphousenh.com.