This past Saturday night, the creative vision for a spectacular one-night only, local lounge/night club was born right here at 273 Main Street in one of Ayhans many storefronts, this one having been vacant for almost two years.
The motive was clear – to throw a memorable 50th birthday party in this more than 2,000 square foot room for Port’s Ivy Santodonato, wife of Angelo who owns Angelo’s Hair Salon on Shore Road. It was important to Angelo to make a memorable and special night for wife Ivy to remember for years to come. Close friend Robyn Dell encouraged the couple to hold the party here and soon after began dreaming up the décor and trimmings for the celebration. Dell became the party set designer and got to work fast and furiously. The food was conveniently and literally walked in from Ayhan’s just four doors down the block.
“The space came out gorgeous,” admitted Ayhan who felt inclined to rent his space to the Santodonatos who are not only long-time merchants together in the community, but friends for 25 years. “The room has a warm charm with an old fireplace in the way back and all original exposed brick,” he said.
According to Dell, there’s nothing quite like a party at home, but most homes can’t accommodate more than 75 friends and family. Her idea was to transform Ayhan’s empty storefront into a home away from home.
“With the generosity of Ayhan, a few rentals from Great Neck Party Rentals, and a dash of creativity, this vacant storefront became a chic New York City-style night club and lounge for Ivy’s 50th,” said Dell.
The place was decked with not only great looking residents last Saturday night, but also a funky bar area, great wall sconces, wall stencils, cool lighting, comfy couches and an open dance floor. “It was with a lot of love and a small budget that ‘Ivy on Main’ was born.”
Ayhans told the Port News the week before the party, that he would consider renting it out again for a one-night party until he finds a more long-term tenant. “Why not,” Ahyan said. As far as tenants go, he’s steering clear of another restaurant, but prefers maybe a children’s clothing store, which he feels the street could use.
Santodonato said it was the perfect setting with everything she wanted: And let’s not forget the most sought-after requirement for a great party: location, location, location.
“What could be better than not having to drive far to get home after a long night out,” she said. “There are so many adjectives to describe the night,” said Ivy. “Perfect, amazing, out of this world are the top three that come to mind.” The Santodonatos were thrilled to have their children there to celebrate their mom’s big day: Alana; 20, Danie; 19, and Joey; 18.
