(L-R) Jarad Robinson, Shannon Binkley and Michael Binkley are overflowing with ideas to put the Arlington airplane hangar to good use for the community.

 

Armed with a combination of enthusiasm, business knowledge, creative ideas and determination, the local owners of a small business are taking on the challenge of operating a very big space.

The sheer scale of the building, situated next to the runway at the Arlington Airport, is overwhelming. In addition to the 14,000-square-foot, 3-story airplane hangar, the industrial-style facility offers a myriad of finished spaces, some perfect for receptions and corporate functions, some suited for rehearsals or exhibits.

An open house to introduce the facility to the community is planned for Feb. 18.

There are no airplanes in the heated and well-lit hangar, but the folks at B-Ink Events anticipate seeing it filled with a variety of activities, starting with a wedding show slated for Feb. 11 and 12.

"We're calling it Brides on a Budget Expo," explained Shannon Binkley, one of the three partners operating the new facility. "The idea is to link customers with the services they will need for their upcoming wedding, including discounted wedding dresses, bridesmaids' dresses and shoes. We'll also have event planners, caterers, photographers and much more, all offering professional services at affordable prices."

Vendor spots are still available, and the $75 entry fee includes both days and 10 complimentary door tickets.

Shannon and her husband Michael are joined in the new enterprise by their friend Jarad Robinson. The three of them share a background in the gaming industry, working as dealers in private casinos and card rooms, and a desire to leave that industry far behind them.

"It's such a negative atmosphere," said Michael Binkley of his gambling establishment job. "Instead of being cursed and blamed for somebody's bad luck, we want to help make dreams come true."

"We want to be part of somebody's happy day," added his wife.

In addition to working at card tables, Shannon Binkley has been an event manager and planner for the past five years. She and her 18-year-old daughter Samantha have built a successful business coordinating children's parties, providing a memorable day filled with princesses, pirates, fairies or mad scientists.

"Samantha is the perfect companion and role model for children at the parties," said her mom. "She knows how to entertain and engage youngsters in a way that is always loving and fun."

The two women also manage a burlesque dance team, a group of local women who are available to perform at bachelor parties and other events.

"Our shows are tasteful and fun, not a bit vulgar," said Shannon Binkley. "Burlesque is all about the art of the tease."

The dancers involved in the troupe are not professionals, and most of them started with no formal training or dance skills.

"It's so fun to watch the girls build their self-confidence, become a team and blossom as individuals," said Binkley.

All three of the partners agree that their main goal is to enhance their community and contribute to worthwhile activities.

"Like a high school prom," said Robinson. "We could host a great event here at a really, really low cost. Let the school use that $6,000 for something that benefits their students more than just a one-night event."

The Binkleys and Robinson are interested in working with nonprofits and community service groups as well. "We want them to talk to us," said Shannon Binkley. "Let us see how we can help."

The hangar, which is tentatively being called The Spot, is located at 19010-59th Dr. NE, just north of 188th St. NE, in a relatively obscure industrial complex. The building, sporting a big "2" on the south corner, has ample parking, load-in access and storage.

"In addition to the wedding show, we will host a last-minute gift expo here Feb. 11 and 12, for all those guys who put off buying a gift for their sweetheart," said Robinson. "They'll be able to browse and shop for lingerie, floral arrangements, chocolates, candles, jewelry and more, and have their purchase gift-wrapped before they leave."

Other hangar-sized events on the horizon are a tattoo convention and freak show in March, a flea market in April, an antiques show, and exhibitions and contests designed for RC (radio-controlled device) enthusiasts.

"We could build an indoor track for cars with jumps and obstacles; there's room to fly RC planes and helicopters. Maybe we'll add flaming hoops or other daredevil elements," smiled Michael Binkley as the ideas started to germinate. "The possibilities are really endless."

Standing in the center of the massive hangar space, there is a sense of unlimited potential. The building could host concerts and other performances, conventions and exhibits of all kinds, a roller derby match, even a small circus. The finished spaces at the front of the building complement the massive display area in the hangar, but also allow for smaller events and activities.

The business website is not quite finished, but B-Ink Events does have a Facebook page, and the team is happy to talk with anyone interested in using the space to arrange a private tour. Call Shannon, Michael or Jarad at (360) 386-8742 or email shannonb-ink@hotmail.com.

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