Tendue’s New Chapter!
Welcoming Kate and Tristan Barnett as Owners
In the event industry, growth and evolution are constants, and today we’re thrilled to share an exciting milestone at Tendue! Our long-time Venue Manager, Tristan Barnett, and his wife, Kate Barnett, have officially taken the helm as the new owners of our beloved event space!
Since joining the Tendue team in 2021, Tristan has had the privilege of overseeing the venue’s operations and fostering its reputation as a place to celebrate, connect, and create lifelong memories. Now, as owners, Kate and Tristan step into this role with deep gratitude for the foundation laid by founders Danielle and Jacob Firle and a shared passion for continuing their creative and inspiring vision.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Tendue is more than just an event space—it’s a welcoming haven for inspiration and meaningful connection. Since 2017, Danielle and Jacob have cultivated an atmosphere that is thoughtful yet adaptable, refined but inviting. Tristan and Kate are committed to honoring these qualities as we introduce fresh ideas and guide Tendue into its next chapter.
Their connection to Tendue began long before they became owners. They first met while working for a local commercial property management firm whose clients included the owner of the Historic Ford Building. One of their first dates was at an art opening in the Ford Gallery, which coincided with a Tendue open house. Being the incredibly lovely people they are, Jacob and Danielle’s warmth and the beautiful oasis they created stuck with Tristan for a long time afterward.
Years later, when Tristan was eager for a new career path, Danielle and Jacob—who had recently relocated to Portland, Maine—were looking for help running the day-to-day here in Oregon. With his background paired with the immense amount of care and thoughtfulness they poured into Tendue, it felt to Tristan like a natural fit and an incredible opportunity to come on board as part of the team. Since 2021, he’s been the face behind the keyboard and the boots on the ground, helping carry out Danielle and Jacob’s vision for a place to gather and create.
Over the last three years, Tristan and Kate have developed a deep connection to the space and the simple service Tendue provides our guests. When Danielle broached the idea of passing the torch, it felt to them like the easiest, most important decision to accept!
Our Experience, Your Advantage
The Barnetts have seen firsthand the joy and magic Tendue creates for our guests and that experience helps them stay engaged and passionate in their approach to creating meaningful moments for everyone who walks through our doors.
Even after Tristan came on board, they found the space to be the perfect venue for personal events of their own. They’ve welcomed friends and family for their baby shower, threw a farewell party for dear friends moving cross-country, hosted a pre-wedding celebration for another couple close to them, and held a cozy New Year’s Eve game night that created amazing memories.
For them, Tendue is a hidden gem, tucked away on the second floor, far removed from the bustle of the street below—a truly special space for gatherings of all kinds. Their personal experiences deepen their understanding of what makes Tendue so magical and inspire them to continue creating meaningful moments for every guest.
What’s Next?
While Tendue’s heart and mission remain unchanged, Kate and Tristan are eager to deepen their connection to Portland by supporting local nonprofits, forging lasting vendor partnerships, and collaborating with the city’s vibrant creative communities.
“We’re committed to making Tendue even more inspiring for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a refined dinner, a creative workshop, or a celebratory milestone, we can’t wait to welcome you with warmth and care.
“Thank you for trusting us with your memories and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
With gratitude,
Kate & Tristan Barnett