The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
North Ridge Event Center open for business
Customers have already begun forming lasting memories at the family-owned and operated North Ridge Event Center in Painesville Township.
It opened in June and has been an ideal venue for several social occasions, including a baptism, baby shower and birthday party.
The event center, which is owned by brothers Bob and John Zappitelli, is located at 1853 North Ridge Road.
Bob’s daughter ,Josephine Zappitelli-Burch, and John’s son, A.J., serve as the site mangers and event coordinators.
Josephine and A.J. said the facility can be used for many different events.
It can be leased for community fundraisers, benefit dinners, business seminars, company meetings, job fairs and various parties.
“We already have two weddings booked next year,” Josephine said.
The 3,200-square-facility has a maximum capacity of 150. It was transformed from a two-unit property to a state-of-the-art event center.
M.A.C. Home and Building Maintenance Owner Ray Wilson began construction on the site in November 2016.
“One side was a dress store and the other was a salon,” he said.
“I took out a wall and renovated the floor, wall and ceilings. I worked really close with A.J. and we had fun. I am very pleased with the outcome. It is gorgeous.”
A.J. helped with designing the layout.
There are seven large high-definition televisions mounted on the walls, two restrooms, a DJ area, a small bar and a kitchen containing an ice machine, refrigerator, freezer, sink and prep table.
Josephine says a food warmer and microwave will be added soon.
The walls contain a durable, country-style western stone and the room can be illuminated with colorchanging lights from the ceiling.
A.J. said there is an app that is used to control the lights.
The light feature is customizable depending on the event.
“For example, pink and blue lights were used at a baby shower,“he said.
Guests can bring food or have the event catered. Beverages containing alcohol must be provided.
“We definitely have high security, Josephine added.
Due to alcohol being permitted, an officer from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office will be present.
The North Ridge Event Center is accepting reservations. Prices vary depending on the size of the event. For more information, visit northridgeeventcenter.com or call 440-354-0375.