The New Communicators is a three-day series of events exploring the ways we communicate with each other.

Events are created by anyone and anyone can attend. It is an open forum for discussion, education and inspiration.

This year, let's explore the concept of Reciprocity.

Choosing an event venue

Posted: July 21st, 2010 | Author: stacy | Filed under: News | No Comments »

So you’ve done a little thinking about an event you’d like to put on, you love the idea of reciprocity, but you don’t know where to have people meet. Last year, we had some event space offered to us for free, and we anticipate that happening again this year. Until we have those spaces lined up, here are some ideas about selecting a location, and a few good places we think you should consider. Have a space to share? Offer up your venue!

A few things to consider in choosing a location:

  • How many people do you want to have? A large audience or an intimate conversation, or somewhere in between?
  • Do you want your event to be free, or would you charge a fee to cover the cost of renting a cool space? While we love free events, there’s no rule that says you can’t charge money. Remember, it’s your event.
  • Are food and drink important to the event?
  • Do you plan to be indoors, or would an outdoor space work?
  • Keep it central and bike/bus/walking friendly. Close-in SE and SW/NW are your best bets.
  • Do you need to call your location ahead of time to ensure they have space for you?
  • Do you need a quiet space, or is something louder appropriate?

Larger spaces, may cost money:

  • Norse Hall – For large crowds that need seats, performances that need a stage, or just a big ol’ dance hall. Plus they have a bar on site.
  • EcoTrust – Several spaces for larger crowds with seats and A/V equipment available.
  • Lucky Lab Brew Pub, NW or SE – Noisy, but large enough for a variety of event types. You can rent separate space.
  • Portland Parks – We have a ton of fantastic parks in this town, so why not have your event in one of them? Tanner Springs or Lovejoy Park in the Pearl, Colonel Summers on SE Belmont, or even Waterfront Park could be good locations. Have a picnic conversation!

Bars & Cafes:

  • Apex – Tons of outdoor seating, bike & bus-friendly, cash only.
  • Green Dragon – A Portland favorite for small group events. Its popularity may make it hard to find space, so plan ahead.
  • Produce Row – The newly remodeled patio and indoor space might be perfect for your event.
  • Migration Brewing – Intimate indoor/outdoor space.
  • The Rocking Frog Cafe – Large back patio and great coffee.
  • Bagdad Back Stage Bar – Several rooms, pool tables, and lots of options for a variety of events.

Respond