Since opening Venue41 in October of 2022, owner Myrna Rainey has been surprised by the high demand for what she offers: an intimate, welcoming gathering place.
“I always knew there was some need, but I never imagined the size of it,” she says. “Week after week, people reach out looking for a space that feels comfortable, flexible and affordable — and it makes me so grateful that Venue41 can fill that gap in our community.”
And as she commemorates three years in business, Rainey says Venue41 has continued to grow in exciting ways. For instance, she’s accepted the opportunity to sponsor the Biloxi Shuckers cheerleaders, the Pearls.
Venue41 also has received several accolades, including winning GCW’s Best Woman-Owned Small Business contest last year, and according to the owner, bookings have increased exponentially.
“Most recently, I’ve accepted a position with the Gulf Coast Raiders Silver Rush cheerleaders, where Venue41 will also have a role,” Rainey says. “I am so proud of how far we’ve come and grateful for the incredible support that continues to make Venue41 a true part of our community.”
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
What continues to set Venue41 apart, Rainey says, is its versatility and simplicity.
“Whether it’s a party, meeting, class or community event, the space is super flexible and easy to make your own,” she says. “With so many ways to use it, Venue41 really does have endless possibilities!”
Rainey offers evening dance classes in the space, and she’s also added weekly line-dancing classes with an energetic instructor. The venue regularly hosts a variety of community meetings and gatherings, too.
Whatever prospective or returning clients have planned for Venue41, Rainey’s goal is always the same: to make them feel like they belong.
“If they feel comfortable and welcome in the space, then their guests will, too; that’s what matters most to me,” she says. “People are important to me, and I believe that’s why people love and connect with Venue41.”
‘THE FIRST PLACE PEOPLE THINK OF’
Opening her business was once a dream for Rainey, who had taught Mardi Gras group dances for decades and needed a place to practice. Rather than giving up on the space she was leasing, she decided to make it the space she needed.
Now, Rainey wants it to become a true community hub — a place for health fairs, book fairs, summer reading and educational programs on topics like nutrition and diabetes awareness.
“My hope is that Venue41 will be the first place people think of,” she says, “whether for a celebration or something that serves and strengthens the community.”