The Permanent Meeting Package

Elevate your next corporate meeting in a stunning heritage venue—a refreshing alternative to traditional boardrooms.

the details

📍 Available: Monday–Wednesday, April–June 2025
⏳ Time Slots: Venue access from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM (max 6 hours)
👥 Capacity: Up to 100 guests
💰 Pricing: $4,500 flat rate

What’s Included:
✔ Exclusive use of The Permanent for up to 6 hours
✔ Flexible furniture setup (theatre, boardroom, or classroom style)
✔ High-speed WiFi & essential AV (screen, projector, microphone, speakers)
✔ On-site venue coordinator for seamless execution
✔ Natural light & historic charm—far from the usual meeting space

🔹 Optional Add-Ons:
☕ Coffee & tea station
🎤 Additional AV support
🍽️ Catering coordination

Perfect for: Corporate meetings, workshops, team retreats & presentations.

📩 Limited availability – Book now!

The Beauty of a Long Table Dinner

Connection, Conversation, and Community

There’s something undeniably magical about a long table dinner. More than just a meal, it’s an experience—one that brings people together in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, a marketing event, or a celebration among colleagues and friends, the long table format transforms an ordinary evening into something unforgettable.

At The Permanent, we recently hosted a long table dinner that reminded us why this style of dining is so special. The sight of one continuous table, beautifully set with candles and fresh florals, instantly sets the tone. Guests find their seats beside new and familiar faces, the boundaries between professional and personal effortlessly blurred by the clinking of glasses and the passing of shared plates.

Long table dinners invite conversation. Unlike traditional networking events, where interactions can feel fleeting or transactional, this setting encourages organic, meaningful dialogue. There’s time to linger, to listen, and to discover common ground beyond job titles and business objectives. The flow of wine and thoughtfully prepared food becomes a shared experience—one that fosters camaraderie, collaboration, and maybe even a little inspiration.

For brands and businesses, this kind of gathering is more than just an elegant dining setup—it’s a strategic way to create connection. Whether introducing a new product, strengthening internal teams, or simply thanking clients and partners, the long table dinner format cultivates an environment where people feel valued and engaged. When guests feel part of something special, the impact lasts long after the last plate is cleared.

As we look back at our evening at The Permanent, we’re reminded that the best events aren’t just about what’s on the table, but who’s around it.

Creating Magic Over a Long Table: An Evening with the City's Top Event Planners

Last week, we hosted an unforgettable dinner for some of our favorite event planners in the city—a night that reminded us why we do what we do. In our fast-paced industry, it’s all too easy to get swept up in ensuring every detail is perfect for our clients. But our work isn’t brain surgery—it’s about creating moments of joy, connection, and celebration.

A Refreshing Change of Scene

For the evening, we partnered with Smitten Events and Savory Chef to transform our space into a vibrant gathering spot. We set up a beautiful long table diagonally—a configuration we’d never tried before—and instantly, a room we’d been in a hundred times felt entirely new. The transformation was reminiscent of a New York City supper club: elevated, whimsical, and playful. Bright colors, candlelight, and carefully curated decor set the stage for a night that was as visually stunning as it was heartwarming.

Longtable at The Permanent

A Culinary Journey with Savoury Chef

In addition to the stunning decor and creative table setup, we worked closely with Anna and Kim (Savoury Chef) to craft a menu that perfectly captured the evening’s vibe. The goal was to offer dishes that felt elevated yet unfussy—a balance that ensured the meal was both sophisticated and accessible. The result was a delicious culinary experience,  showcasing thoughtful preparation and a burst of flavour that delighted every palate. The food truly became an extension of the event’s creative spirit, tying the entire evening together.

Bouillabaisse, by Savoury Chef

Bespoke Beverages: Tailoring the Perfect Bar Experience

Our bar programme was a highlight of the evening, featuring delicious cocktails and wines thoughtfully paired with each course. We love tailoring our bar to fit the vibe of every event, and for this night, we carefully selected drink combinations that truly enhanced the meal. We ended the evening with what might have been the perfect espresso martini (and we always have a mocktail on hand for those not imbibing. At The Permanent, we believe a great bar can add that special touch to any celebration.

Drew & Louisa (The Permanent Team) Sipping the perfect espresso martini

Designing for Connection

Working closely with Devon and Jordan from Smitten Events, we reimagined the dinner’s aesthetic with one goal in mind: to foster genuine conversation and intimacy among our guests. Instead of the traditional formality of name tags or place cards, we introduced an innovative twist—a live illustration. An incredibly talented artist from TOBE Studio, Chloe, painted each guest’s name directly onto the linen tablecloth. We didn’t know what to expect, but the outcome was pure magic and quickly became one of the evening’s highlights.

A personalized seat at the table - and plenty of wine

A Keepsake to Remember

As the night drew to a close, the creative spirit continued. In a spontaneous moment of shared delight, we gathered scissors and cut up the tablecloth, giving each guest a piece of the artful memento to take home. While this playful gesture might not suit every event, it perfectly captured the relaxed and innovative atmosphere of the evening—a fitting tribute to a room full of planners used to following rigid client guidelines.

Me (Louisa Cohen), GM of The Permanent and Anna Wallner, Owner, Savoury Chef - showing off our keepsakes

A Night Beyond Work

As the General Manager of our space, I couldn’t have been more thrilled by the evening’s events. It was a rare and wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow planners outside the confines of emails, client meetings, and the usual hustle of our industry. Sharing stories, ideas, and laughs in such an intimate setting was a powerful reminder that, at its core, our work is about bringing people together and creating memorable experiences.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special night. We look forward to hosting more events that not only celebrate our craft but also the community that makes it so vibrant and inspiring. Stay tuned for more magical evenings here at The Permanent.

All of the incredible photos of the evening were courtesy of Jeff from The Apartment Photo. 

We would also like to thank Chloe from TOBE Studio, Element Event Rentals, ShowKraft Production Services, Fluerescent Blooms, and DJ Niña Mendoza for bringing their magic to this beautiful evening. 

Jordan Maxey - Smitten Events - Having a blast

Chef Chu Chan - Popping UP at our Pretend Wine Bar

Pretend Wine Bar: A Festive Culinary Pop-Up at The Permanent

At The Permanent, we’re always looking for ways to bring our space to life, and Pretend Wine Bar is one of our most exciting activations yet! Nestled within our historic venue, this pop-up wine bar offers a delightful opportunity to unwind with friends, enjoy exquisite wines, and savor incredible dishes crafted by talented local chefs.

This December, we’re thrilled to host Chef Chu Chan, who will bring his creative holiday-themed menu to Pretend Wine Bar on December 8th and 15th. Highlights from his menu include indulgent duck fat fries with caramelized onion mayo, a vibrant beet and chicory salad with goat’s yogurt and quince vinaigrette, and rich, seasonal pumpkin ravioli with mascarpone, hazelnuts, brown butter, and sage. For dessert lovers, his cinnamon rolls topped with whipped Philadelphia cream are not to be missed!

Pretend Wine Bar is a playful addition to The Permanent that lets us combine the charm of our venue with a celebration of local culinary talent and thoughtfully selected wines. Whether you’re stopping by to toast the season or simply to indulge in something delicious, we can’t wait to welcome you.

[View the full menu here.]

Join us for a night of great flavours and great wine… walk-ins always welcome - reservations reccommended

Unlocking Unforgettable Celebrations

Butter Studios Photography

A Message to Our Valued Clients on the Benefits of Early Event Planning

As the holiday season unfolds with joy and excitement, we're reaching out to share insights on why it’s not too early to start thinking of the festivities ahead (and yes, we mean NEXT year). While the merriment of the current celebrations is about to be in full swing, considering the future now can elevate your events to new heights and reduce that planning stress to a manageable simmer.

Securing Your Ideal Date and Venue:

Imagine the perfect date for your event and an ideal venue (ehem!) that complements your vision. By starting the planning process early, you increase your chances of securing the date that best aligns with your preferences. Early booking ensures that you have the flexibility to choose the perfect setting for your celebration, whether it's a corporate gathering, a family reunion, or a special holiday party.

Tailoring Packages to Your Unique Vision:

Early planning gives you the opportunity to work closely with vendors to customize packages that bring your vision to life. Whether it's a themed décor, specialized bar menu, or unique entertainment options, the extra time allows for curating a personalized packages that reflects your distinct style, making your event truly one-of-a-kind.

Budgeting for Success:

Finances play a crucial role in event planning. Starting the process early enables you to collaborate on a detailed budget with your team, allowing you to allocate resources strategically.

Minimizing Last-Minute Stress:

The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness, and we want your experience to be stress-free. Early planning minimizes the last-minute rush and allows us as well as your other vendors to handle logistical details seamlessly. From coordinating staff schedules to ensuring all necessary equipment is in place, early preparation ensures that you can focus on enjoying the festivities rather than managing unforeseen challenges.

Creating Memorable Experiences:

Your event is not just a gathering; it's an experience. Early planning provides the time needed to brainstorm creative concepts, design unique themes, and implement special touches that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. By partnering with us early, you're investing in an event that goes beyond expectations, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

As the festive spirit surrounds us in the present, we encourage you to consider the future of your celebrations. Early event planning is the key to stress-free, personalized, and unforgettable experience. Let's embark on this journey together, ensuring that your upcoming events shine as bright as the holiday lights. Secure your ideal date, envision your dream celebration, and let's make it a reality together.

Wishing you a joyous and memorable holiday season!

Partnering with Preferred Vendors

Are you ready to elevate your event to extraordinary heights? It's time to unveil the secret behind a truly successful gathering. While the perfect venue sets the stage, there's more to it than meets the eye. Luckily, you're in on the secret, and I'll let you in on it too, with a cheeky wink.

These special beings, known as "preferred vendors," possess an enchanting touch that can transform your event into a dazzling spectacle. So, fasten your seatbelts, because we're about to embark on a whimsical journey through the realm of preferred vendors!

The Golden Rule of Event Planning:

Let's face it, organizing an event can be as challenging as juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. However, preferred vendors are like seasoned circus performers in the event world. They've mastered their craft and navigated through countless challenges. Their familiarity with the event venue means fewer headaches for you, ensuring your event becomes a legendary affair.

Handpicked Gems of Awesomeness:

These preferred vendors are not just random peeps with a booths and a dream. They have been carefully selected by the event venue for their exceptional talents. Rest assured, you'll be working with the crème de la crème of event professionals. From caterers who can turn a brussel sprout into a culinary masterpiece to photographers who capture the perfect candid shot, each vendor brings their unique superpowers to the table, creating an unforgettable experience.

Synchrony and Harmony:

Imagine your event as a symphony orchestra. Each vendor plays a crucial role in composing a harmonious masterpiece. When you opt for preferred vendors, they already have a strong rapport with the event venue. It's as if they are part of the same musical family, speaking the same language, and dancing to the same beat. This synergy translates into seamless coordination, flawless execution, and zero chaos. No one wants the caterer setting up a chocolate fountain on the dance floor or the DJ playing a slow song during a high-energy dance-off. With preferred vendors, everything falls into place like a perfectly choreographed flash mob.

So there you have it, embrace the power of preferred vendors, and witness the magic unfold at your event. Remember, it's not just about the venue; it's about the dream team that accompanies it. Allow the preferred vendors to wave their wands of expertise, and watch as the enchantment unfolds!

Now, go forth and plan the most epic event of the century.

Sara Rogers Photography

Unleash the Magic

Why Good Planning is Essential For an Enchanting Event

Planning a wedding or any special event can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also be incredibly stressful. From selecting the perfect venue to coordinating with vendors, there are numerous details to manage. These skills may all seem invisible to you - but that is why event planners are complete wizards at what they do - it looks like magic.

To ensure your big day runs smoothly and stress-free, hiring a day-of coordinator can be an invaluable investment. Let's delve into the benefits of having a dedicated professional oversee the execution of your wedding or event.

Experience and Expertise:

Event planners are seasoned professionals who have extensive experience in event planning and execution. They possess the knowledge and expertise to handle any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the event. From creating a detailed timeline to managing vendors and coordinating logistics, their expertise ensures that everything flows seamlessly.

Stress Reduction:

One of the primary benefits of hiring an event planner is the significant reduction in stress for you and your loved ones. Instead of worrying about the minute details and troubleshooting issues on your special day, you can relax and enjoy the moment. With a coordinator managing all the behind-the-scenes tasks, you can focus on making memories and cherishing the experience.

Vendor Coordination:

Coordinating with various vendors can be a complex and time-consuming task. A planner or day-of coordinator will take charge of communicating with your vendors, ensuring they arrive on time and are aware of their responsibilities. They will handle any last-minute changes or issues that may arise, allowing you to enjoy a seamless event without any unnecessary distractions. Most venues actually mandate that all weddings have a day-of coordinator or planner for the entire duration of their event, so it's a requirement that you'll need to fulfill.

Timeline and Logistics:

Creating a comprehensive timeline and managing logistics are essential elements of any successful event. An event manager meticulously plans the schedule, from the ceremony to the reception, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and according to plan. They will oversee the setup, handle any necessary adjustments, and keep the event on track, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the celebration.

Problem-Solving:

No matter how well you plan, unexpected issues can occur during an event. An event professional is a problem-solving expert, equipped to handle any last-minute hiccups efficiently and effectively. They have the experience to quickly think on their feet, making decisions that keep the event running smoothly without disturbing the flow or causing unnecessary stress.

Attention to Detail:

Planners and coordinators have a keen eye for detail and will ensure that your vision for the event is executed flawlessly. From ensuring the decorations are set up correctly to coordinating with the venue staff, they will pay attention to every small detail, leaving no room for oversight. Their meticulous approach guarantees that your event will be a true reflection of your style and preferences. If you need recommendations, consulting the venue's preferred vendors list is a great place to start.

Hiring a planner for your wedding or special event is an investment that pays off in many ways. Their experience, expertise, and ability to handle logistics and problem-solving are invaluable assets that ensure your event is executed seamlessly. By alleviating stress and allowing you to fully enjoy your special day, a day-of coordinator or full-fledged planning team lets you create lasting memories with your loved ones. So, sit back, relax, and let the professionals take care of the behind-the-scenes magic, while you bask in the joy of your celebration.

Image from our GM, Louisa Cohen’s wedding - being handed a glass of bubbles right after her ‘I DOs’ this was a special request made and executed with her planner, Jess Minnie (Petite Pearl Events)

ONE YEAR IN.... a note from Louisa

She's typically on the other side of the wood... but our art-glass bar makes one killer backdrop for GM, Louisa Cohen

I can’t believe it’s been one full year at the helm of this wonderful venue. Sometimes it feels like only a few weeks ago that I stepped into my role as GM - it also feels like I’ve been here since 1907 (that’s an Easter egg for anyone who’s paying attention…)

As I settled into the 'Bank Manager's Office' one year ago things were happening at lighting speed - I was eating, sleeping, and breathing this place - to be honest almost any given week you'll still find my dry cleaning at The Permanent if you know where to look... When 330 West Pender was a functioning bank - the manager lived on site - so perhaps this is apropos for the space I've assumed... 

Seeing this stunning heritage bank building transform from a restoration project and renovation site into a busy and elegant event space has been so exciting me for me. My father's passion for heritage spaces combined with Vancouver’s need for unique and exciting spaces has been inspiring.

For me personally It has also been scary, challenging, and really just a super awesome wild ride into the event and hospitality industry. 

We’ve played home to the cast of Riverdale, partied through the holidays with classy corporate crews of all sorts, hosted the launch virtual reality headsets to top-of-the-line toothbrushes, showcased incredible catering, created cocktail magic… and of course watched so many incredible couples ‘lock it down’ in front of the vault.

I don’t think any of this could have been accomplished successfully without a killer staff, our talented vendors, partners, and the stories of our phenomenal clients - all of them in-part making this old building sing.

After this year in - a heartfelt thank you to all of you I’ve met along the way... to many more celebrations together.

With my very best, Louisa