Anne and Kerry Easley celebrated the opening of their newly expanded event space at The Courtyard Event Venue with an open house on June 4. Located at 107 Pearl Street, the venue welcomed many friends and community leaders to explore the new additions and show their support. Jazz vocalist and ukulele artist Ashley Orlando provided entertainment for the gathering.
The Courtyard Event Venue, previously known for its New Orleans-style courtyard and studio spaces, now includes two indoor warehouse spaces. These spaces have been restored from their original purpose as a 1923 grocery warehouse. The courtyard accommodates 150 people, the “Little” Warehouse seats 30 people, and the “Big” Warehouse seats 100 people. Various combinations are available to suit different event needs. The venue also features a Bridal Suite and a Groom’s Room, enhancing its appeal for weddings and other gatherings.
“The main reason we expanded was because of the rain and the heat and the cold,” said Anne Easley. “Hallelujah, you can actually come inside now. You can have the beauty of the outdoors and the warmth and cool of the indoors.”
During renovations, the Easleys uncovered exposed beams and brick walls after removing dropped ceilings and paneling in the office space they owned. A grant helped fund the restoration to its original look. Local contractors, including Gnarly Brothers Construction, Jeff Mays for electrical work, Temple Plumbing, BMS Office, and Sherwin Williams, were employed for the project. “We’re very appreciative of all of our contractors,” said Anne. “We really wanted to use all local contractors and support Minden all the way through, from the bottom to the top.”
Ray Scriber, director of Louisiana Main Street, attended the event to congratulate the Easleys. Part of the renovation was funded by a grant from Louisiana Main Street, which encourages the renovation and use of historic buildings. “This is a great example of the type of project that we like to support,” said Scriber. “It’s historic preservation at its core, but it’s also about repurposing a space.”
For more information, visit the Easleys’ Facebook page at EasleyStudioCourtyard or call Anne at (318) 268-5789.
