Cheshire CommonsCheshire, Connecticut

About us

More than an event space.

Our story, our space, and the people who make it all run — get to know Cheshire Commons.

Our story

A venue built around a mission.

Every gathering hosted at Cheshire Commons helps fund job training, mentoring, independence, and community programs for individuals with special needs.

It started with a simple question: what if a beautiful event space could also be a launchpad — a place where people learn real skills, build confidence, and find independence, funded quietly by the weddings, showers, and corporate meetings happening in the next room? That question became Cheshire Commons. Every table set for a reception, every chair arranged for a training day, is set up in part by people in our job training program, learning hospitality and event skills they’ll carry into their next opportunity.

Our goal is to offer a flexible, welcoming venue while creating meaningful opportunities for community members to learn, connect, and grow — one event at a time.

Learn about our mission →
Community members gathered inside Cheshire Commons
Community, inclusion, and meaningful connection are central to every event.

Space & capacity

Four halls, endless possibilities.

Warm timber beams, polished wood floors, chandeliers, modern amenities, and room to make the space your own.

Custom tables & chairsPremium linensHigh-speed Wi-FiCoffee & tea stationAccessible bathroomsAmple on-site parking

The team

The people behind the mission.

Portrait of Maria Alvarez, Founder & Executive Director

Maria Alvarez

Founder & Executive Director

Maria founded Cheshire Commons after two decades working in community-based job training programs. She oversees the venue's mission work and partnerships, making sure every event booked here helps fund something bigger.

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Portrait of James Whitfield, Program Director

James Whitfield

Program Director, Job Training & Mentoring

James runs the day-to-day mentoring and job training programs that this venue exists to support. He's spent his career building hands-on skills programs for adults with special needs, and he still leads sessions himself most weeks.

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Portrait of Priya Nair, Events & Venue Manager

Priya Nair

Events & Venue Manager

Priya coordinates every booking from first inquiry to load-out, working closely with couples, families, and corporate clients to make sure each of our four halls is set up exactly right for their day.

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Portrait of Daniel Osei, Community Outreach Coordinator

Daniel Osei

Community Outreach Coordinator

Daniel builds relationships with local schools, nonprofits, and small businesses, and organizes the free and low-cost community events on the calendar — from open mic nights to the talent showcase.

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Portrait of Sophie Larkin, Volunteer & Accessibility Coordinator

Sophie Larkin

Volunteer & Accessibility Coordinator

Sophie manages the venue's volunteer program and makes sure every event — from a wedding to a corporate training — meets the accessibility standards this space was built around.

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Portrait of Sarah Von Lokchov, Assistant Director

Sarah Von Lokchov

Assistant Director

Sarah works alongside Maria to keep the venue's day-to-day operations and mission programs running smoothly, stepping in across events, partnerships, and community outreach wherever she's needed most.

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Want to see the space in person?

Schedule a tour or start a booking inquiry — we’d love to show you around.

Start a booking inquiry