Janet Silvera, Senior Gleaner Writer

Left: (From left) attorney-at-law Nicole Allen, businesswomen Paulette Chang, Maxine Barnett and Pat Snappaz hob-nob at the new facility.   Right: Happily dishing over coffee and treats are (from left) Samara Daswani, Paola Byles, Racquel Dadlani, Yoly Mahtani and Ann Chang, at Montego Bay's newest event facility, The Event Place, at Sewell Avenue, recently. - Photos by Janet Silvera

WESTERN BUREAU:

A new breed of energy driven go-getters are changing the landscape of Montego Bay, and on Tuesday, antique dealer Joan Lee, and former Miss Jamaica Maja, April Parchment-Knight, unveiled the city's newest addition, The Event Place, at the old Admiral Inn on Sewell Avenue, opposite Upper Deck Hotel.

The two women chose the monthly morning coffee net working event, which caters to the women of Montego Bay as their launch pad.

With a tag-line 'escape the ordinary,' Lee and Parchment have innovatively created a venue encompassing old world charm and modern-day conveniences for corporate and social happenings, placing heavy emphasis on weddings.

With the capacity to accommodate up to 200 persons, the two entrepreneurs give clients the option of utilising a number of recommended caterers or bringing in their own into the only enclosed space offering a panoramic view of the city of Montego Bay, the ocean and the mountain range.

Rich historic framework

Embedded in a rich historic framework, The Event Place was formerly the command post for the landmark Fort situated 150 feet below on Fort Street. The large canons and the storage for gun powder, as well as canon balls, are still in place, and there is even a dungeon, which is the ideal wine cellar.

The building's history dates back to the days of Lord Horatio Nelson (1758-1805), who had the most famous naval career and served in Jamaica.

The 'Lord Nelson Bar' and 'Admiral's Bridal Boutique' have been named in his honour, while the Inn Boutique will offer from casual to elegant, intimate to elaborate.

Not easily satisfied, the innovative duo has also included the Lord Nelson Gallery and Bridal Registry.