You are invited | W A N D E R
W A N D E R transcends the typical local cafe, gallery, and learning & event space; it's a visionary endeavor aimed at rekindling communal spirit. With its cooperative membership model and expansive 3,000+ square feet of versatile space, it becomes a vibrant rendezvous point for both Berkshire community members and visitors alike.
Here's a glimpse of what to expect:
The building/space will be divided into three distinct areas, each serving a unique purpose.
W A N D ER, is the vision and passion of Jay Santangelo (they/she) Founder of Everybody Loves Hospitality, LLC
With over 25 years of hospitality experience, Jay is an advocate and curator of connection, seeking to merge their expertise in people, operations, hospitality, and community building with a profound passion for black-and-white analog storytelling and print-making.
As a trained visual storyteller & educator, Jay has dedicated their craft to long-term, in-depth documentary projects and teaching the magic of the anlaog black and white darkroom.
Jay focuses their lens and heart on the often unseen aspects, their work delves into the underlying pulse of communities, addressing issues of discrimination, sexual identity, and offering an empathetic perspective on marginalized individuals and communities. Their photography serves as an exploration of humanity.
W A N D E R | into the | L I G H T: Why?
Having recently moved from the vibrant food scene of Austin to the Berkshires, I observed a noticeable absence of cafes and communal spaces in the area. Raised in the hospitality industry in Boston's North End, where my family owned an Italian Bakery, my childhood was immersed in the culinary world and community. Drawing inspiration from my roots, I aim to create a café that not only promotes environmental sustainability but also serves as a hub for community gatherings, connections, and soul-nourishing experiences.
Step into a welcoming cafe and communal space bathed in natural light. The atmosphere is enchanting, featuring communal tables that can be rearranged as needed, cozy couches, floor seating, and low-level seating. Enjoy a variety of options, includiglocally sourced coffee roaster, teas, baked good, smoothies & juices (purchased, pre-made if can’t be made in house, at first). Add in - possible draft system (Kombucha) and other possible options: batched elixir, healing tonics, nonalcoholic cocktails, beer, and wine – available in cans, jars, by the glass. Thoughtfully curated retail area with Grab and Go fridge/freezer products from local farmers and artisans.
W A N D E R | into the | D A R K: Why?
The traditional art of black-and-white photography darkrooms is facing extinction, and as a darkroom artist with 15 years of experience, Jay has witnessed and is experiencing this decline firsthand and is passionate about preserving the craft and wants to create a haven for darkroom enthusiasts to develop and print their work.
W A N D E R aims to be a space for darkroom enthusiats to cultivate magic, develop their skills, and find their light in the dark. By doing so, we hope to bring joy and contribute to keeping darkrooms from becoming endangered. Mastering this skill can instill confidence in students, positively impacting various aspects of their lives and community.
Their goal is to share their love and knowledge, planting the seeds of darkroom magic.
W A N D E R will be equipped to teach, develop, print, and celebrate the love for all things analog photography. Additionally, we will have a fully equipped digital print lab. Our offerings include single-day lessons, weekend, weeklong, and multi-week photography, and darkroom workshops tailored for kids, teens, adults, and individuals with disabilities.
W A N D E R | into the | S T U D I O : Why?
Eighteen months ago, I embarked on a journey of mindfulness, embodiment practice, and somatic therapy. Through this transformative period, I have wholeheartedly embraced my queer, non-binary, transgender identity. Now, I aim to create a welcoming space where individuals of all identities can join together in collective movement & stillness.
It will serve as a hub for our community to unite and engage in collective movement experiences such as yoga, somatic movement, and dance. Additionally, it will provide a serene space for group gatherings focused on mindfulness practices, meditation, and therapeutic writing sessions, fostering moments of stillness and healing.
W A N D E R | into the | S A L O N | a unique event rental space
We all yearn for more face-to-face interaction, reminiscent of a bygone era when we'd lock eyes, share human connection, immerse ourselves in live music, where friends and friends of friends come together for a gala, a team building dance party, engage in a community book club, an open mic night, sharing laughter, stories, and nourishment—both for the body and the soul.
It exudes an aura of allure, with its dim lighting, enticing aromas, and cozy ambiance. Salons have thrived throughout history, flourishing in the intellectual circles of 18th-century Paris, resurging in the 19th century, and experiencing another revival in the roaring 1920s. And now, they're making a comeback once again. This essence is encapsulated in the magic of a salon.
Rent the entire space or a portion of the 3,000 sqft all seasons space : café, portrait studio and analog b/w darkroom. Completely customizable to your unique events needs and desires.
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W A N D E R | into the | D A R K
The first community co-op darkroom in the Berkshires,
In partnership with Berkshire Art Center
W A N D E R | into the | L I G H T
A light filled, inviting community gathering space, café and photographic art gallery exhibiting the work of workshop students, local & national renowed artists.
W A N D E R | into the | S T U D I O
Day time (6a-3pm) rental studio, tailored to practitioners and community groups seeking to engage in movement-based practices, mindfulness sessions, and teaching/healing arts.
W A N D E R | into the | S A L O N
After hours (4p-late) event rental space for your wedding, special events, dance parties, Open Mics, Karaoke, Silent Discos, Book Clubs, Galas & community related gathering space.