When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Way Home Studio
Why The Way Home Studio is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Way Home Studio in Portland is a unique, woman-owned event space dedicated to fostering holistic wellness and community connection. Designed as a healing-centered environment, it offers an affordable, inclusive venue for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being activities. The studio serves as a welcoming home away from home for individuals on their healing journeys, promoting a deep sense of belonging among diverse community members. Highlights of the space include a thoughtfully renovated interior with a shock-absorbing floor suitable for movement-based events, a 20-foot wide full-length mirror complemented by a ballet bar ideal for dance or yoga classes, and comfortable amenities such as a back room furnished with padded armchairs, a couch, and a refrigerator. Users benefit from available seating, tables, complimentary coffee and tea, plus free Wi-Fi, making it a versatile location for workshops, classes, small group meetings, counseling sessions, and even book signings. The flexible rental options accommodate hourly or full-day use with sliding scale pricing and special discounts for elders, first responders, veterans, and BIPOC community members. Through its mission to rekindle roots and cultivate community, The Way Home Studio creates a nurturing space that supports individual and collective healing experiences.
Here's what people think of The Way Home Studio
As of recent, The Way Home Studio holds a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews.
Reviews of The Way Home Studio reflect a strong appreciation for its mission-driven approach and intentional design as a healing-centered community space. Positive feedback highlights the studio's welcoming atmosphere, affordability, and well-maintained facilities, including the spacious mirrored wall and cushioned flooring that enhances comfort during physical activities. Users commend the founders for their dedication to inclusion and accessibility, noting the discounted rates for various community groups and the provision of amenities like coffee, tea, and reliable internet. Many reviewers also appreciate the studio's versatility, successfully hosting events ranging from yoga and Reiki sessions to small group counseling and literary gatherings. On the other hand, some critical viewpoints emerge regarding the limited availability due to its relatively recent opening and small scale, with a few users wishing for expanded capacity or additional amenities. A minor complaint concerns the adjustment period for community members newly discovering the space and scheduling challenges around peak usage times. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a promising and community-focused studio that is actively growing and responsive to user needs, making it a valuable resource in Portland's wellness and event scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tara Ludwig
I recently rented the space at "The Way Home Studio" for a women's event for work, and it was the perfect venue for our group. All the instructions (for entering/locking up, cleaning, using the sound system, etc.) were clear and streamlined which made for a very low-stress experience. The space itself was just beautiful, and appointed with so many special little touches that made it feel very welcoming and cozy. They also had many amenities that we appreciated, such as tables, chairs, cups, coffee, tea, yoga mats/blankets... it was so easy to get comfortable and feel at home there. I am so grateful for their hospitality and will definitely host future events in this lovely space!
Katie D
I have been taking classes with Ida for a few months now. The external and internal community that she helps to cultivate and hold hold space for is deeply transforming. I have tried many classes over the years and this is the first studio that has really felt like home. I am so grateful for this space!
Asha Sandeip
How to reach The Way Home Studio
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Why The Way Home Studio may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Way Home Studio with your friends? Because it offers a unique and welcoming space designed specifically for community connection, healing, and creativity. The studio serves as more than just a rental venue; it is a woman-owned collective dedicated to fostering emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness in a warm, inclusive environment. Gathering at The Way Home Studio means stepping into a space where you and your friends can recharge together, explore healing arts, or simply enjoy a comfortable setting that feels like a home away from home. Whether you’re looking to deepen your friendships through shared experiences or create new meaningful memories, the studio provides the perfect backdrop. Its focus on affordable access to wellness resources makes it a rare find, ensuring that groups of all sizes and backgrounds can come together without financial barriers. Alongside a dedicated team of practitioners and artists, your meetup becomes part of a broader community effort aimed at healing and growth. This blend of intention, community spirit, and accessibility is exactly why The Way Home Studio stands out as an ideal place for social gatherings with your favorite people.
What activities can you enjoy at The Way Home Studio? The space is a versatile environment designed to host a variety of events that enhance connection and healing. It features a long multi-purpose room that can accommodate large groups and a quieter back area perfect for smaller gatherings, counseling, or private discussions. The studio hosts classes and workshops led by experienced practitioners in yoga, Reiki, chakra cleansing, and other alternative healing modalities. Friends can participate in these sessions together, learning new wellness techniques or simply relaxing through guided practices. The studio also lends itself well to creative events such as book signings or arts workshops where you and your group can explore shared interests or discover new ones. With comfortable padded armchairs, a cozy couch, and an under-counter refrigerator, the space invites lingering and informal conversations after more formal activities conclude. This thoughtful setup ensures your group can enjoy both active participation and casual downtime in one welcoming atmosphere.
Why is The Way Home Studio perfect for a group meetup? The studio’s community-oriented mission establishes a strong foundation that makes group gatherings especially meaningful. It was created by four co-owners—Lindsey, Ida, Amanda, and Gergana—who are themselves practitioners and artists committed to holistic healing and creative expression. Renting space here means supporting a cooperative enterprise genuinely invested in cultivating belonging and connection, not just profit. The affordable rental rates open the door for groups of friends or family to enjoy quality time without the stress of large costs. Additionally, the studio’s location in Portland’s Montavilla neighborhood situates your meetup in a vibrant, accessible community hub, close to other local shops and amenities. The planned future connection between The Way Home Shop and Studio through an internal door will further enhance the meetup experience, allowing groups to flow easily between spaces for different activities and socializing. This seamless integration of spaces makes it easy for your group to customize your visit according to your interests and energy.
How does The Way Home Studio support healing and growth during your meetup? The studio’s founders emphasize a philosophy of rekindling roots and nurturing the "Natural Self." This means that every session or event is designed with intention toward emotional and spiritual wellness, making the environment uniquely supportive for groups who want to connect on a deeper level. Practitioners offering Reiki and chakra cleansing are present to guide individuals or groups who seek healing energy work. Workshops and classes not only teach new skills but also foster self-discovery and mutual support among attendees. For friends coming together to enjoy a shared healing journey, this focus provides a rare and precious depth to the meetup experience. Every corner of The Way Home Studio was thoughtfully arranged to invite calm, reflection, and openness, which can transform ordinary social gatherings into meaningful rituals of renewal and bonding.
What makes the location of The Way Home Studio ideal for hosting events? Situated in the heart of Portland’s Montavilla neighborhood, the studio benefits from a lively and creative community atmosphere. This neighborhood offers a blend of artistic enterprises, local shops, and accessible urban amenities that complement the kind of gathering The Way Home Studio promotes. Parking and public transit options are convenient, making it easy for group members to arrive without hassle. The studio itself occupies a storefront once used by an alarm company, providing a long, flexible layout that suits diverse activities—from active workshops to more intimate gatherings. Its storefront presence means your group’s meetup happens in a bright, welcoming area with large windows that connect you visually to the vibrant street life outside. For those who want to extend their gathering into the neighborhood, there are plenty of nearby cafes, restaurants, and parks that encourage socializing before or after your time in the studio.
How do the amenities and environment enhance your experience at The Way Home Studio? The Way Home Studio provides a basic but thoughtfully curated set of amenities to support a comfortable and flexible group meetup. The inclusion of a back room with padded seating, a cozy couch, and an under-counter refrigerator allows for breaks, refreshments, and private conversations. Groups can bring in snacks or beverages and enjoy a relaxed lounge area to talk and recharge between activities. The multi-purpose room’s openness allows for easy rearrangement, adapting to whatever activity your group chooses—whether it’s a circle discussion, yoga session, or small performance. This adaptability is a huge plus for groups that want their meetup to flow naturally without the constraints of rigid seating or space design. Additionally, the cooperative model means you often meet the studio’s founders and other practitioners, creating an inviting, community-led vibe rather than the impersonal feel of typical event rentals. This atmosphere encourages spontaneous connections and enriches your group’s overall experience.
What opportunities exist for personal or professional growth at The Way Home Studio? Beyond socializing and healing, The Way Home Studio offers a fertile environment for both personal development and professional networking. The founders themselves are practitioners, artists, and healing professionals who use the studio as a platform to grow their businesses and expand their reach. Attending events here means you can meet like-minded people, learn new skills, and even explore possibilities for your own creative or healing endeavors. Workshops and classes encourage skill-sharing and community building that extend beyond a single meetup. For groups that include creative or healing practitioners, booking sessions here can itself become a way to support one another’s growth as well as the growth of the local community. The studio’s cooperative nature fosters collaboration, making it a hotspot for innovation in wellness and creative arts.
What should you expect at your first visit or event at The Way Home Studio? When you arrive, you’ll find an inviting storefront at 8435 SE Stark Street that signals a space designed for openness and community. The warm welcome usually comes from one of the co-owners or practitioners eager to share about the studio’s mission and offerings. You can explore the long multi-purpose room and the cozy back area to understand how your group might use the space during your visit. Refreshments are often provided during scheduled events, and attendees are encouraged to mingle and connect beyond structured programs. For anyone new to alternative healing or community arts, the environment is unintimidating and carefully crafted to encourage curiosity and openness. The studio often hosts a calendar of varied events, so there is something to suit many interests and energy levels. Each visit offers the sense of joining a larger network of people invested in wellness, creativity, and shared belonging.
How does The Way Home Studio foster an inclusive and supportive community? Inclusion is at the heart of The Way Home Studio’s mission. The founders intentionally created a space where all individuals—regardless of background, experience level, or identity—are welcomed and valued. This sense of belonging is reinforced through the cooperative model which prioritizes accessibility and affordable rental rates to remove barriers to participation. The studio cultivates a respectful atmosphere where healing practices are presented with openness and care, helping guests feel safe to explore and express themselves. Group meetups here benefit from this supportive ethos, allowing people to connect authentically without judgment. Whether you come as a lifelong practitioner or a curious newcomer, you are embraced into a community that prioritizes kindness, mutual respect, and shared growth.
What events and classes can groups participate in at The Way Home Studio? The studio hosts a range of enriching events that are perfect for groups wanting to deepen their connection or try something new together. Regular offerings include yoga sessions that range from gentle restorative classes to more dynamic flows, Reiki and energy healing workshops, and classes that teach chakra balancing and meditation techniques. These group-oriented experiences encourage participation and dialogue among friends, making the learning both fun and transformative. The studio also welcomes special one-time events such as book signings or educational talks, offering your meetup a chance to experience exclusive content or connect with visiting authors and experts. Because the space allows for flexibility, groups can also bring their own activities, whether that’s a creative writing circle, a small concert, or a spiritual discussion group. The combination of structured programming and flexible space ensures every meetup at The Way Home Studio can be uniquely crafted to meet your group’s interests.
How do the founders’ backgrounds shape the atmosphere at The Way Home Studio? Each of the four founders—Lindsey, Ida, Amanda, and Gergana—brings a rich mix of healing arts, creative, and community-building experience that deeply influences the studio's vibe and offerings. For example, Gergana Kirilova, one of the founders, is a Reiki master who originated from Bulgaria and integrates spiritual coaching with practical healing methods. This international perspective and hands-on expertise enhance the studio’s diversity of services and its focus on spiritual as well as physical wellbeing. The other founders similarly bring complementary skills as practitioners, artists, or business owners invested in community care. Their combined vision—one of accessible healing and creative expression—infuses the studio’s environment with authenticity and warmth. This leadership provides a steady foundation for regular programming, as well as a welcoming presence that helps new visitors feel at ease and included.
In summary, The Way Home Studio offers a thoughtfully designed, welcoming, and multifunctional space that’s ideal for meetups with friends or family. Its focus on community healing, affordability, and flexible usage makes it stand out as not just a venue but a nurturing home base for connection, creativity, and growth. By hosting your next gathering here, you join a vibrant circle of people committed to wellness, art, and authentic relationships—a truly inspiring way to rally your loved ones.