Peretz Centre for Secular Jewish Culture

A wedding in a community space carries its own kind of warmth, the feeling of celebrating somewhere built for gathering people together.

The Peretz Centre for Secular Jewish Culture, in Vancouver, opens its hall and meeting rooms for rentals, from concerts and programs to banquets and weddings. It sits near Oakridge Mall, one block west of the Canada Line.

The heart of the building is the Gallia and Ben Chud Auditorium, more than 3,000 square feet with a maple wood floor, a spacious foyer, a stage, a portable stage and a green room. The dividable auditorium can welcome up to approximately 200 seated guests for a banquet or wedding, or around 300 for a cocktail reception. Lighting, a sound system and wi-fi are available.

A fully equipped 550-square-foot kitchen beside the auditorium supports a wide range of needs, from commercial catering to community cooking, and dishes, cutlery and glassware are available. The building is wheelchair accessible, with underground parking and an elevator.

Smaller rooms round out the building. The Schoolroom, around 1,500 square feet with its own small kitchen and washrooms, holds approximately 30 people, while the Kirman Library suits about 12 and includes video conferencing equipment.

Family might gather in the foyer before stepping into the auditorium, where the stage is ready for speeches, music and a first dance.

For couples who want a community-rooted Vancouver celebration with generous space and a working kitchen, the Peretz Centre offers a welcoming home for the day.