An excerpt from Blissful Beginning by John Gilchrist:

Operating in support of the Servants Anonymous Society, Venu 1008 has been known as La Joie de Vivre for the past decade. But a major renovation in 2011 brought a new look and a new name to the Inglewood facility. (It’s a decadesold former textile factory.)

The new Venu 1008 (at 1008 14th St. S.E., venu1008.com) features two function spaces spread over 5,000 square feet, one space for up to 250 people, the second for a maximum of 100. New carpets, fresh paint and a shiny tin ceiling brighten the space while art and classic guitars add texture and interest. The spaces are open, fresh and non-denominational. A bar separates the two rooms, and each area has its own entrance.

Function space is always at a premium around Calgary, whether for weddings, meetings, concerts or political rallies. Lindsay Chadderton, manager of the Social Enterprise (Fireworks Co-operative), says Venu 1008 has played host to more than 320 events since it reopened last March and hundreds more are booked already for 2012. That includes being one of the main sites for this summer’s Calgary Fringe Festival.

For more information visit: 
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