LOGAN SQUARE — Logan Square events venue Stan Mansion, which has been relying on caterers to serve alcohol since it opened to the public about a dozen years ago, is now looking to secure its own liquor license.
And neighbors will soon get the chance to weigh in on the venue’s plans.
Owner Cera Stan said the only reason she wants a liquor license is to make it easier on clients who can’t afford to hire liquor license-carrying caterers, like nonprofit organizations and schools.
Stan said the idea came from a recent exchange with a theater company.
“They wanted to have a fundraising event. They have no money. … They said, ‘If I want to have a caterer, it’s going to cost so much money.’ I was like, ‘I wish I could help you, but unfortunately, there’s nothing I can do about it,'” Stan said.
The venue having its own liquor license would solve this problem, Stan said.
“This is something extra that I wish I could have and it’s mostly be able to help. It’d be mostly for nonprofit organizations,” she said.
Stan said the century-old venue at 2408 N. Kedzie Boulevard won’t “change at all” should they win approval. Under the license, liquor would be served by licensed bartenders, she said.
“It’s going to be the same. We’ll still do events. It’s not going to be a bar or a restaurant or a night club,” Stan said.
To get the liquor license application process started, Stan must first win over neighbors and Ald. Scott Waguespack (32nd), whose ward includes the venue.
Stan said she expects there to be a community meeting in September. Waguespack’s office didn’t return a message seeking comment Monday.
The stately building now known as Stan Mansion was built in 1920 as a Masonic lodge for a chapter of the Knights Templars, according to Stan and the venue’s website.
Stan bought the property 16 years ago and restored it to its former glory. About four years later, she opened the building to the public. Today, the Stan Mansion hosts weddings, fundraisers and all manner of events.
Stan said while the liquor license isn’t “a must,” she
“would love to have it,” adding, “I don’t want to step on anybody’s toes.”
Stan said she’s called the neighborhood home for more than 20 years. She also owns the building next door to Stan Mansion.
“I feel like I’m a part of Logan Square, so I don’t want people to think that I’m going to open up a night club,” she said.
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