Located in the heart of Findlay Market is The Columns, a modern event space that allows for people to meet, network, hangout, and even get married in a unique, sophisticated atmosphere.
Co-owner Miriam Hodesh says that she and her partner Jake wanted to bring something new, fun, and different to Findlay Market, something that complemented other vendors rather than competed with them.
“With such a diversity of amazing vendors all in one block, we wanted to add a super fresh, modern, and world class venue to work with them,” she says.
Inspiration for The Columns comes from the duo’s time living in New Orleans and the vibe that comes with the Big Easy. Another aspect of their inspiration comes from the diversity of food, flavors, and tastes that are offered in the Findlay Market.
The Hodeshes are the owners of The Columns, and they own other properties in and around Cincinnati in addition to their general contracting company. They’re also accompanied by Kevin Helmes, Cameron Muff, and Terry Boling.
Together, this team came together to create, design, and build out this project on the south side of Findlay Market. “The Columns is the only space designed for gatherings specifically to serve the community, market merchants, and those interested in celebrating a special occasion with the market as a backdrop,”says Hodesh.
The building that now houses The Columns has a detailed history itself. Hodesh says the building can trace its history back to 1874, when it was a toy knick-knack department store that was originally 4 stories tall – the tallest on the block – and was owned by Moses Goldsmith. More than 100 years later, the building is maintaining its presence in the neighborhood, but with a twist.
“The building received a top-to-bottom makeover in 2020 and 2021,” she says. “The main venue space can be transformed to guests’ specifications, but there are bespoke murals and art waiting to surprise and delight that are hidden throughout the venue, too.”
The first event at The Columns was hosted in July, with a bright future on the horizon.
The Columns can be booked for social, pop-up, and corporate events such as rehearsal dinners, intimate weddings, private parties, special birthdays, bridal parties, corporate meetings, off-site team building, new hire orientation, team celebrations, and networking.
The main floor of the building can seat 100 people, with accommodations of 140-150 people for a cocktail-style party. Between 50 and 75 people can be hosted for an intimate wedding, dance floor and dinner included.
“We hope there will always be something new and exciting in this space,” she says. “In the last week alone we hosted unique events including an afternoon wedding, an 80s themed party, fashion photo shoots, and a corporate offsite. We’re super excited to partner with our new neighbor, Rooted, too.”
The Columns is located at 109 W. Elder Street in Cincinnati.
You can learn more about The Columns on Facebook and Instagram.