111 N Main

Embarking on the journey to choose the perfect venue can be overwhelming. There are so many options to peruse, whether you’re looking for a stunning barn, an elegant ballroom, a cozy restaurant, or a quite stretch of beach, finding the perfect venue isn’t easy. Beyond that, deciding what month or season gives the right feel for your big day changes the landscape of your wedding vibe.

Fall weddings are now highly trending due to their stunning foliage, ideal weather, and endless flower options. Unique seasonal food availability is also a key factor. So, with fall upon us and love in the air, there is one place in Saline County perfectly suited for all types of special events.

While each and every wedding-related decision plays a part in crafting your big day, there are a few choices that make a bigger impact than others. One of the biggest? Your venue. So finding the right spot that speaks to your heart and find your space, then everything else will fall into place. The Posey family knew just that when creating their plans for 111 N. Main.

111 N. Main has been a part of the Downtown Benton Historic District since 1908. With its sixteen-foot stamped tile ceilings, antique exposed brick, and picturesque windows with a view of the square, this event venue is an exquisite space, but it is much more than just an architectural delight.

Wanda and her husband, James Posey, purchased the space in 2009, and although they were not certain about what they would do with the building, they felt a strong calling to save the architectural grandeur of the historic building, which long-time Saline County residents would know as the old “Sparks building.” From there, the Posey family spent the next eight years restoring and renovating it back to its natural beauty. “It was truly a labor of love and money that involved the entire family.”

With its spacious Main Street level, basement and attic, the Posey’s son, Justin, suggested the family use the space to celebrate special occasions, and in April of 2016, 111 N. Main opened for business. “Our son Justin, who has a degree in architecture, made all of the decisions for the interior of the venue, as he wanted to keep the historic beauty of the building, but also add necessary modern touches.” 

Emulating a New York loft style design, 111 N. Main boasts over 4,825 square feet of raw, urban loft space that is closer to an art gallery than your typical ceremonial venue, but its photogenic exposed 1908 solid brick walls serve as perfect backdrops for your special memories. 

It features original stamped tin ceilings throughout, 15’-high energy-efficient dark bronze front aluminum storefront windows and 8’-high dual-pane arched windows in the rear which leads to an inviting party deck for guests to enjoy. The space also includes stylish, energy-efficient lighting, modern restrooms, and a dedicated catering space featuring a commercial refrigerator and industrial sink.

 “With ample space for 50–160 people, we started it as a wedding venue, but it has turned into a space for all types of milestone celebrations, anniversary events, office parties, 25 and up birthday parties, family reunions, proms, and many more special occasions,” says Mrs. Posey.  

Although the Poseys had a vision for the space to preserve the architectural detail, they still wanted to offer each client the opportunity to express his or her own personal style. Inside represents a blank canvas so each client can use her imagination to convey what she wants for her own special occasion. “I enjoy getting to know so many families. Their excitement is contagious! Each event and the people that put them on are so creative with how they want the space to mirror their style. No two events have ever looked the same. It is inspiring to see what they can do.” 

As the one who manages the venue, Wanda says that meeting the couples who are starting their life of dreams and adventures is the most beautiful part of having this venue. “I never get tired of that.”

Living only a block and a half from 111 N. Main, Wanda is available for tours and readily accessible to answer questions or address concerns the day of the event. “We provide tables, chairs, black tablecloths, and a large lighted backdrop perfect for capturing special memories.” 

“I had forty-nine wonderfully loving and exciting years with my husband. I never dated anyone but him and thought he hung the moon. I know he felt like that about me too. His relationship with Justin was genuine, full of love and respect. I will miss him until my last breath. James was very proud of restoring the Sparks Building. So every time I walk through the front door, his memory makes me smile.”

Don’t miss the chance to celebrate your special occasion at this beautiful, historical setting with modern renovations, convenient amenities, and personalized service in downtown Benton. There is not another gem like this in the Saline County area. For more information, visit www.111nmain.com, or call Wanda Posey at 501-317-9199.