KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) – Gracie Blevins and fiancé Corey Miller have expanded their business, Memories Matter KPT, to the Banq building.

Initially established as a photo booth company to engage with the community, it soon blossomed into a pathway for entering the events venue industry, according to Blevins, the owner of Memories Matter KPT and the new operator of Banq.

“We began by taking photos at various community events and involving ourselves wherever possible,” Blevins explained. “From those beginnings, we expanded and collaborated with other businesses to partake in events, and admittedly, this was not part of our original plan.”

Blevins mentioned that they have been running their business for over two and a half years, which has led them to discover their passion for events, prompting their transition to hosting events at Banq.

“The Banq building is a renovated bank, which gives it a distinct charm in Kingsport,” Blevins noted. “It also serves as a premier event space; there truly isn’t anything quite like it in our Kingsport area.”

The banquet hall can fit 295 people, with the rooftop patio holding up to 100.

Blevins and Miller intend to organize a range of events, including weddings and community parties, aiming to provide a venue for people of all ages to celebrate together.

Co-owner Miller said he is excited to have a place to host and interact with the community.

“We feel both nervous and thrilled,” Miller stated. “Having the chance to work for ourselves and the ability to design any type of event for people in our community fills us with excitement, allowing us to participate and engage fully in these activities.”

Banq will be open to the public for tours and bookings starting Sept. 4 during the Shop & Hop event.

For more information on Banq, click here.