For events that don’t just make history—they’re immersed in it—gather your group at the only venue where music, art and river flow into one memorable experience.
In the heart of the South Main Arts District
Let us help you host the perfect…
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WEDDING
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RECEPTION
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Photo/Video Shoot
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CELEBRATION
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NETWORKING Event
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PRIVATE MEETING
ABOUT THE VENUE
The building has done more than stand the test of time. It’s lived the times.
Built in 1912, 409 South Main originally housed the White Wilson Drew Company, wholesale grocers and distributors of Puck Brand Goods. (Look up and you’ll see the well-preserved ceramic panel of the Puck Brand Goods logo featuring Puck himself from A Midsummer’s Night Dream.)
In the 1930s, Lucky Heart Cosmetics, one of the first companies to cater to the African-American–women market, moved into the building. Described as a “mini-Avon,” Lucky Heart once employed more than 12,000 sales representatives around the country.
It was Lucky Heart’s big heart that led to big things for South Main. Paul Shapiro, the founder’s son, was one of the original advocates for establishing the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel.
As the railroad system dwindled in the 1950s, the district was abandoned and littered with boarded-up buildings. But thanks to area artists and others who kick-started a South Main resurgence by seeking out a new vibe (and reasonable rents), the area began thriving once again. Now, restaurants, boutique shops, artists’ spaces and galleries, museums and festivals.
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
THINGS TO KNOW
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Renting 409 South Main starts at $3000.
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The space comfortably holds 250 people total; 220 people seated. Download a layout of the venue.
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There is a caterer’s kitchen that consists of a counter space for prep, a sink and running water and a refrigerator.
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In the women’s restroom, there are three stalls (one handicapped designed), sinks, natural light and a dressing room. In the men’s restroom, there are two stalls (one handicapped designed), sinks and a dressing room.
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Fifty percent of the total amount is due when signing the contract. It is at this time that the date is booked for your event. The remaining 50% may be paid in monthly installments or lump sum, but in either case, the balance must be paid in full 60 days prior to your event date.
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Contrary to popular belief, there is parking downtown! Street parking is always available and there are several public parking garages close by that you and your guests can use and/or ride the Main Street Trolley to the venue (see below). Metered street parking is $1.50/hour, Monday-Saturday from 8a-10p. The maximum time limits for parking are 2 hours for Monday-Friday from 8a-4p, 4 hours on Saturday from 8a-4p and 6 hours for Monday-Saturday from 4p-10p.
Our venue sits on the Main Street Shuttle (AW Willis to Central Station and back) with pick-up and drop-off located directly in front of our building. Go to matatransit.com for additional information.
There is also a pay-to-park lot adjacent to the venue (36 spots) that can be used by guests, or be rented entirely for your use on your event date. If you are interested in the lot, please email James Stinnette of Premium Parking or call 540-798-5588.
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Yes, we do. Our current inventory consists of:
—24 – 60” round, white, heavy plastic (seats 8 persons)
—4 – 48” round, white, heavy plastic (seats 6 persons or used for display)
—12 – 30” bistro (bar top height) tables
—4 – 5’ rectangular tables
—10 — 6' retangular tables
—210 – slatted, folding, white, heavy resin
We do not have table linens available for rent.
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We’re pleased to offer in-house catering through our downstairs restaurant, Fable on Main. Learn more about their catering options.
At this time, we do not have a preferred caterer’s list, so you may use whomever you wish. We need to see proof of licensure and health inspection 30 days prior to the event date.
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We do not, but we HIGHLY ADVISE IT. Special events insurance ($1,000,000) is a one day coverage; an insurance policy designed to provide broad protection for situations in which an event holder must defend itself against lawsuits or pay damages for bodily injury or property damage to third parties. This policy also gives protection to the venue and or sponsors of the event by adding them to the policy as an additional insured. Examples, such as a slip and fall or damaged floors are covered by this type of policy. It can be a rider on you or your parents homeowner's insurance - usually the best place to start.
Our general liability insurance would cover injury/damages that occurs due to the structure of the building.
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If you plan to serve or sell alcohol (beer, wine or mixed drinks) during your event, we require that you use an ABC-certified bartender. You may independently contract with an ABC-certified bartender or you may obtain an ABC-certified bartender through your caterer if your caterer has an LBD license. In either case, you must provide a current copy of the bartender’s ABC card and/or the caterer’s LBD license 30 days prior to the date(s) of your event.
If you are hosting an event with a cash bar (selling beer, wine or mixed drinks) or if you charge an admission to the event and provide complimentary beer, wine or mixed drinks, you must obtain a special events permit and hire an ABC-certified bartender.
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We open up our facility a few times a year for different charitable organizations to use. We will certainly consider these opportunities but cannot guarantee that certain dates will be open or available for donations. To inquire about hosting your event, please email events@409southmain.com with details of your organization.
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Although we prefer flameless candles, we do allow candles in the building. Placement of traditional candles must be approved by the venue manager ahead of your event to ensure that nothing is placed in a dangerous position relative to anything flammable. All open flames shall be placed in a votive or vase.
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Yes. There are many layouts of venue that can accommodate your event needs.
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Yes. We have had large bands, multiple DJs, and any combination of the two for different types of events with no power issues.
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We do not allow any celebratory activity of this manner inside or outside the building. The remnants of these activities leave a mess that stays in-between the hardwood floor slats and outdoor public areas. It is not appreciated by our neighbors, as we are sure you can understand. We are located in a residential area and we want to be respectful of those around us. We do allow sparklers for festive exits.
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Yes! WiFi is available for your event needs. We provide a WiFi password so your event guests are able to be online during your event.
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Photo courtesy of Jackie McGinnis Photo