Interesting venue name, right? And you must be curious as to what all the wonderful fuss is concerning a classic and vintage motorcycle restoration shop? The Venue Vixens had a blast meeting owner, Shasta Smith, as she gave us the grand tour of this almost 100-year-old brick warehouse located in a commercial/industrial (yet ever so cool) area just blocks from downtown Sacramento. It’s the location, and the curiosity of the mural art of a motorcycle on the outside of the building that draws the visitor in.

Shasta has vision and a wonderful design sensibility. Shasta also knows a thing or two about old motorcycles and how they work. Just ask her. The restoration shop and service department are backlogged almost a year out, so there’s that. But let’s concentrate on The Vintage Monkey being a unique, extremely interesting, and dare we say, “sexy” venue to utilize for social and even mainstream corporate events.

The focal piece to the interior is the striking huge metal chandelier that hangs over a large circular bar (45 can sit around this bad boy). Painted on the warehouse floor is the likeness of the British Flag/Union Jack. The large open center of the circle has been utilized for many purposes. Weddings have been held in the center, an elaborate bar can be set up, a wedding cake or dessert station can be displayed, or a caterer can work the entire central space and circular countertops for a magnificent buffet.   As guests walk in through the main doors, there is a gathering space, which could become a dance floor later, a warm and eclectic mixture of lounge furniture, vintage motorcycles act as props and the most fascinating collection of varied mounted trophy animal heads adorn the wall. Cool designer art pieces are scattered about and capture the imagination, even an old neon lit Hollywood movie prop (with provocative up-in-the-air legs!)   On the far side of the circular bar is a larger open space for tables to be set up for dinner, either rounds or heavy wood harvest tables work well, as do a collection of highboy tables for more of the cocktail vibe that Vintage Monkey seems to be a perfect venue to enjoy.  Old wood beam truss girders add to the ceiling treatment and awesome antique motorcycles are in display “cages” along the brick walls, which have accent lights for a warm, romantic and… there’s that word again, sexy feel to the room.

We love that Shasta’s favorite word is flexibility… she allows the renter to bring in their own caterer and a licensed bartending service, although you can retain the services of The Vintage Monkey to handle all bar and beverage needs (that’s a convenience!). There is a separate side room that is perfect for catering to do their assembling and prep.  The party can go until way late… yes, to at least midnight (and beyond)!!! There is a convenient parking lot immediately across the roadway (small fee to rent the lot) and the venue provides for security patrol.

In the middle of all the motorcycle display and the fact that the service repair shop is just on the other side of the end wall, many different kinds of events have occurred at The Vintage Monkey – political fundraisers, lunch & learn seminars, weddings, cocktail parties and even a Celebration of Life. The laughter, talk and  buzz must be delightful during any event at The Vintage Monkey!  There is no shortage of visual delight, interesting artifacts, and conversation starters.  Give this rock star venue serious consideration if you’re looking for something “out of the box” for your next event!!

Thank you Jeri Murphy with Images by RJM for joining me on this site visit and capturing these fun photos.

~ Vixen Lora