Something new is happening in Tacoma

A new chapter is beginning.

After more than 15 years of documenting people’s stories through photography, and years spent managing creative spaces and events, I’m so excited to finally share something that has been growing in my heart for a long time:

The Poet — a new venue and creative space in Tacoma.

Located inside Manuscript in downtown Tacoma, The Poet was created as a place for gathering, music, movement, creativity, and connection. A space designed to feel warm, flexible, and inspiring whether you’re attending a live performance, hosting a workshop, planning a banquet, celebrating a wedding, or simply bringing people together.

Tacoma has lost several important venues in recent years, and there are very few all-ages spaces left for live music and community events. I wanted to help create something that fills that gap — a venue that feels intimate, welcoming, and alive.

The space includes:

• A stage for live music, performances, and presentations

• Beautiful natural light and views of the water

• Capacity for up to 200 standing guests (up to 300 with Manuscript)

• Banquet seating for up to 60 guests

Decor packages including linens, candles, fresh flowers

• Flexible layouts for workshops, markets, classes, parties, and events

• Catering and beverages through Manuscript

We’ll also be hosting recurring community events including all-ages live music, dance, workshops, markets, teen craft days, and more.

And alongside the venue, I’m also unveiling a brand new photography studio space inside The Poet — available for studio rentals, creative shoots, workshops, and educational meetups for photographers and creatives.

If you’ve been searching for a space to host:

• a class or workshop

• a market or community event

• a live performance

• a wellness event

• a banquet or wedding

• a creative gathering

• or something entirely your own…

…I truly believe this is Tacoma’s best new venue for it.

More than anything, my vision for The Poet is simple: People first. Community first. Creating a space where people feel something when they walk in.

I’d love for you to come experience it for yourself at our Grand Opening on May 17 from 2-5pm.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

— Leah

The Poet + Sage & Soul Photography