Did you know that Waldo has a special events venue? I did not—until I was invited to a kick-off party at 75^th Street Events last month.  This is a very versatile space that you should know about—and yes, it’s locally owned and operated by Waldo residents! 

Located at 214 W 75^th St, just east of the 222 Waldo Flats apartments and directly north of the CVS, 75^th St Events hosts weddings, bridal/baby showers, corporate meetings, fundraisers, family reunions, and birthday celebrations.  The concrete floors, high ceilings and large, street facing windows offer lots of flexibility setting up the venue for each individual client.  The space can comfortably hold just over 100 persons, depending on room arrangement.  Owners Laura and Howard Turley explain: “It’s a very flexible space where you can create your own vision.  It feels open and welcoming for 30 people or 90 people”.  There is plenty of room for tables, chairs, a/v equipment, dancing, a band, and mingling.  Parking is free around the back.  

Howard Turley grew up in Kansas City—you may have heard of his father, Dr John J Turley, who was a local optometrist. He was instrumental in forming the Waldo Area Business Association and the Trolley Track Trail.  Years ago Dr Turley bought the building the venue is housed in and passed it on to Howard’s brother so it’s still in the family.  Howard and his wife Laura moved back to Kansas City from El Paso several years ago, and had always wanted to open their own business.  Having a background in wedding consulting and hospitality, the couple decided Waldo needed its own events venue and opened 75th St Events in July 2021. 

There is one special feature that makes this place different from most rented spaces:  customers may choose from any licensed caterer for food service, and can supply the alcohol for the event.   That’s not the policy at many event venues, and it can save a lot of money for those with a tighter budget. In addition to the main area, there is a cozy private room in back perfect for a bridal party; a lounge area off the main room; a small catering prep kitchen and outdoor deck. The Turleys offer very personalized service to their customers, too. They are on site for every event, working with clients from the initial contact through the day of the event.  You can choose from various pricing and packages, included a small wedding package that takes care of all the details. 

Laura and Howard love working and living in Waldo and both enjoy seeing how the area is growing. Howard says “We make a point to know every business in this area.  We want to be good stewards of the neighborhood by offering this space, and focus on excellent customer service”. 

For a tour of 75^th Street Events or more info, visit their website.