After this year's flood sank his first entertainment business, Vandderlee Hughes has returned with a new venue on Jefferson Street - and this time he's catering to a different demographic.
Hughes and his girlfriend, Lamesha Newman, opened The Tiger's Den at 719 Jefferson St. for its first event Dec. 14.
The 2,000-square-foot venue features a moderate-size dance floor, bar, seating area and kitchen. The Tiger's Den will also provide food catering for events.
Hughes and Newman operated Savanna's Soul Food Restaurant and Event Space at 418 W. Elm St. for two years. Flooding earlier this year put Savanna's underwater and out of business permanently, though, Hughes said.
"We had the bull by the horns and didn't want to lose, so we got back in as quickly as possible," he said.
While operating Savanna's, Hughes and Newman turned away small parties about as many times as they booked large events, Hughes said.
Since Savanna's seated at least 400 people, the space was too big for small events, Hughes said. Those events also couldn't offset the cost of bills.
With The Tiger's Den, Hughes and Newman can now cater to smaller gatherings like baby showers, corporate events, birthday parties and fundraisers.
"We know it's going to do well because we have the data that tells us that small groups are just in demand as the big ones, without the big price," Hughes said.
The new event space has standing room for about 115 people or seating space for about 70.
While Savanna's was tucked away on West Elm Street, Hughes said, he is excited about the visibility Jefferson Street will provide for the new venue.
Hughes hopes to eventually expand on the business name and open another location that can cater to bigger parties and provide more entertainment.
"Event spaces are in demand, big and small, and we want to be in on both ends," said Hughes, who also owns Bodies by Vander gym.
The Tiger's Den will be open by appointment. Those interested can call 573-257-6171.
Know of any business happenings around Jefferson City? Let us know at [email protected].