Main Street News

All photos by Olivia Nadel.

Founded by Erica Price in 2012, SPAF is a family-owned venue space in Saugerties, NY, operated by the dynamic partnership of Erica and her son, Joshua Price. “Together, we bring two perspectives and a shared passion to every event we host,” reflects Joshua gratefully.

The venue is housed in a reclaimed early-1900s industrial notebook factory where the F.L. Russell Corporation used to operate. The corporation, which opened its doors at the site in 1936, was well-known “for its iconic ‘composition’ notebooks with the mottled black and white covers, along with stationery and paper products,” according to SPAF’s about page. “A historic setting, couples can add their own chapter to the property’s long and storied history.”

Learning more about the space

This intentional blend of the site’s past and its future potential was central to the building’s reuse. Joshua explains that SPAF has strived “to preserve the building’s rich industrial history while transforming it into a vibrant, modern space for celebration.”

This industrial vibe is consistent throughout the property with exposed brick walls, warehouse-style windows, original hardwood floors, and vintage chandeliers. With features like moveable walls and floor-to-ceiling curtains, as well as other contemporary restorations and additions, there’s plenty of flexibility in terms of how you can configure, decorate, and customize the venue to match your vision. 250 seated guests can be accommodated inside this dynamic space, while gorgeous private gardens and an approximately 2,000 square-foot outdoor patio mean that you can bring the party outside, too! 

All about SPAF’s event offerings

While SPAF’s primary focus is weddings, they also host private events like milestone birthdays, proms, and corporate celebrations. From venue rental, comprehensive event planning, and tasting experiences, to full-service catering, a premier bar program, and day-of coordination personalized to your event, SPAF covers all the bases when it comes to getting your big day set up. 

Indeed, they will also keep in close communication with you from your first inquiry about the space, beginning with a tour of the space and walk-through of their customized packages. Once you book with SPAF, they will schedule a tasting with you and ensure that you’re directly involved when it comes to creating a menu, choosing signature drinks, and building a timeline for the event. 

Furniture, tables, flatware, glassware, and other event items can also be provided by the venue, and the team at SPAF aims to support you with their expertise at every step of the way. They also provide access to bridal and groom suites in addition to their secluded ceremony space and seamless flow between the indoors and outdoors.

What’s more is that only one event is hosted at the space each weekend, giving clients exclusive, no-rush access to the venue and plenty of time for setup. “Clients have access the day before to set up, bring in personal items, and settle in—so on their event day, they can simply relax and celebrate,” Joshua explains.

Their two main event packages, Good Day and Good Night, provide a full suite of personalized services, “from curated culinary menus and signature cocktails to interactive guest experiences, elegant design touches, and extended celebration time,” outlines Joshua. “We’re hands-on, flexible, and community-focused, which gives every event a deeply personal feel.”

Celebrating close community ties

Proud to be a part of and have roots in the Hudson Valley region, SPAF regularly hosts community events and partners with local vendors. “Some of our most meaningful weddings have featured local couples and artists,” Joshua observes, “making the events feel like true celebrations of place and people.”

When it comes to future plans, SPAF is continuing to grow and develop their wedding and private event offerings, while also envisioning other expansions, like hosting live music series and immersive concerts, opening a brewery, and launching a cultural club or multi-purpose arts space. “Our vision is to create more opportunities for community connection,” says Joshua. “We want to continue evolving into a creative hub where people can gather, connect, and celebrate.”

All in all, SPAF finds it truly rewarding being able to connect with so many people and provide a space for their special days to transpire. “Helping people celebrate love, life, and community is truly what it’s all about,” Joshua muses. “Being part of such pivotal, joyful moments—and knowing we played a role in making those memories seamless and special—is incredibly fulfilling.”

SPAF is located at 169 Ulster Avenue, Saugerties, NY. To learn more, please visit their website. You can also give them a call at (845) 594-3561 or send an email to spaf1914@gmail.com. Support them on Instagram and Facebook!