Black History Month Spotlight: SAGE Event Space in North Aurora

As part of Black History Month, we’re celebrating the incredible Black-owned businesses that shape the culture, creativity, and community spirit of the Aurora Area. By spotlighting local entrepreneurs and sharing their stories, we invite you to see how their work enriches our region—and inspires connection. This week, we’re proud to highlight SAGE Event Space in North Aurora, founded by Tiffany and Kendall Nesbitt.

When Tiffany and Kendall opened SAGE Event Space in late 2024, their goal was simple but powerful: to create a warm, flexible, and elevated space where people could celebrate life’s milestones together. Located at 1167 Oak Street in North Aurora, SAGE quickly became a place where the community gathers for everything from weddings and birthdays to creative experiences like Dinner in the Dark, Love & Lyrics Game Night, and the brand-new Funny Fridays Comedy Series.

“SAGE was born from a deep love of hospitality, storytelling, and bringing people together,” Tiffany shares. "After years in corporate leadership and producing experiences with brands like Disney and Royal Caribbean, I wanted to create something that felt personal, intentional, and community-centered.”

Rooted in Community

Tiffany and Kendall have called the Aurora Area home for many years, describing Kendall County as the place where they “built community relationships, raised family connections, and ultimately decided to plant the vision for SAGE.” Their personal roots run deep here, and that sense of belonging is reflected in everything SAGE stands for.

“I love how personal it feels,” she says of doing business in the Aurora Area. “People genuinely want to see you succeed. There is pride in supporting local businesses and a strong sense of togetherness.”

From the start, SAGE has been fueled by connection—both with the guests who fill the space and with the local businesses who collaborate and uplift one another. “The local business community has been incredibly supportive,” Tiffany and Kendall say. “From fellow venue owners to caterers, creatives, and entrepreneurs, there’s a true spirit of collaboration that has helped SAGE grow.”

Tourism has also played a role in SAGE’s success. “Guests who visit for weddings, conferences, and local events often discover SAGE through word of mouth or social media and then return for their own celebrations or recommend us to others,” Tiffany and Kendall explain. That growing reach helps shine a spotlight not only on SAGE, but on the wider community that surrounds it.

A Space Where Every Guest Feels Seen

At its heart, SAGE is about creating experiences that feel authentic and meaningful. “I want every guest to feel seen, celebrated, and cared for,” Tiffany says. “SAGE is designed to feel warm, stylish, and intentional. When people walk in, they should feel like their moment matters.”

The philosophy extends beyond design—it’s woven into the atmosphere itself. Each curated event reflects Tiffany and Kendall’s passion for storytelling through celebration and their belief in elevating everyday moments into unforgettable memories.

When asked what advice the power couple would give to aspiring entrepreneurs, the Nesbitt family offers wisdom from the heart:

“Start before you feel ready and be clear about your why. Do not chase perfection, chase progress. Build relationships, stay consistent, and understand that resilience matters more than talent.”

Celebrating Together This Black History Month

SAGE Event Space stands as a shining example of creativity, resilience, and community spirit, the very qualities that make our region so special. Throughout February and all year long, we encourage residents and visitors alike to celebrate and uplift the Black-owned businesses that make the Aurora Area thrive.

Show your support for SAGE by attending one of their signature events, sharing their story with friends, and thinking of them for your next celebration. Visit SAGE Event Space or follow them on social media to stay connected, explore upcoming events, and discover the joy of gathering locally.

Because when we support one another, our entire community shines—supportive, resilient, and connected, just as Tiffany and Kendall describes it.

If you’re a Black business owner in the Aurora Area, we’d love to showcase your story alongside others. Reach out to us and join the celebration of local voices that make our region one-of-a-kind. Email us at Marketing@EnjoyAurora.com to share your story with us!