Our Story
ABOUT THE BUILDINGS
Tim decided to build a large storage building on his property in 2020. Originally, it consisted of 4 large bays to be used for machinery and equipment storage. As construction was moving along, Tim quickly saw the need for an area away from his personal residence that could be used to entertain guests, family and friends. When completed, the building worked as the perfect get-together spot while simultaneously functioning as a storage building. This is known as The Railyard Shed.
In 2023-2024, Tim began working with a lady who owns her own business that provides equine therapy. He spent a lot of time helping at her arena and stable, leading to Tim's decision to build an indoor arena and horse stable on his property. When he was younger, he and his mother often rode horses, so he has had a passion for them since childhood. The concept of this stable began on a piece of scratch paper. Shortly after, it moved along to design and approval. Construction of The Railyard Stables began in late 2023 and was completed in 2024.
ABOUT THE VENUES
In many of Tim's conversations with close friends, family and trusted allies, it was suggested he should start to generate income on these buildings. He wondered how he could utilize these buildings to profit from them. One suggestion was to rent the buildings out for weddings and events. He knew nothing about venue rentals and wasn't sure if that would be an option. He worked closely with Cross Creek Township supervisors, their code officer and secretary, who were all very helpful. Due to the proximity of the railroad tracks, Tim decided to call the new business Railyard Venues.
ABOUT THE PROPERTY
In 2015, Tim Paris purchased a 36-acre piece of property located at 742/744 Avella Road, Avella, PA. Tim thought long and hard about ways to remodel the farmhouse, struggling to come up with the right concept. His mother, Carrie, was still alive at the time, but her battle with dementia was beginning to take a toll on her health. Carrie offered a lot of encouragement and insight. She suggested Tim build the house he had always envisioned. Unfortunately, Carrie passed away before the house was completed. In 2017, Tim moved to the property and continues to work on remodeling the farmhouse in his spare time. It is also home to his horse Doc, ponies PJ and Clancy, and three swans.
Railyard Venues offers two great spaces for celebrating all of life’s special events. Whether it’s a wedding, graduation party, trade show, corporate event, family reunion, business meeting, or anything in between, we have the perfect space to host your event. With rental fees starting at just $500, our beautiful venue is not far out of reach.
We are a full-service venue with an on-site event coordinator who will be with you throughout the entire planning process; from your first tour to the conclusion of your special event day. With recommendations of top-notch vendors and an event coordinator to manage them, your planning process will be a breeze, and the day of your event couldn’t be smoother with professional staff to help execute all the details and assist your guests.
Please contact us for more information or to discuss a customized package.
Testimonials
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Emilio C.
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Sara L.
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John D.
Tim
Tim Paris is the owner of Rail Yard Venues. Tim was born on May 7, 1968 to parents Carrie and Emanuel Paris, II. Tim was brought home to Avella, Pennsylvania where he has resided ever since. He is a graduate of Avella High School and attended college briefly, but quickly realized he was more interested in focusing on the family construction company. The construction company was started by his grandfather, Alex (Emanuel, Sr.) who immigrated to the United States at the age of 13 from Trento, Italy. The business was started in 1928 and is still running strong. Tim's father, Emanuel Paris 11, was the President of the company until he sadly passed away in 1989 at the young age of 56 years old. At that time, Tim and his brother Alex stepped in to run the business. Even though they weren't planning to take on that role so suddenly, they never faltered. They were determined to carry out the dreams of their grandfather and father and continue to effectively establish more success with each passing year. They plan to continue with the construction business for many years to come. They have also added several other business ventures, some as partners and some as individual owners.
Tim is the sole owner of The Bull Pen Rustic Inn, which he purchased in 2008. He is very proud of the work he puts into this business. According to Tim, it's been quite an adventure, giving him the opportunity to meet so many great people. He has even sealed some business deals because of the establishment. He loves to entertain and is always doing what he can to help others. Tim has always been so proud to have been born and raised in this little town. He has held positions within the community, such as Cross Creek Township Supervisor, which allowed him the opportunity to make positive changes by voicing his ideas to improve the community. Additionally, he played an instrumental role in starting the Avella Volunteer Junior Fire Department. He quickly moved up the ranks, filling almost every position as a Junior Firefighter. He then progressed to being a Senior Firefighter and was finally promoted to Chief, a position he held for many years.
Sydney
Sydney is the on-site venue manager and event coordinator at Railyard Venues, bringing with her 10+ years’ experience in the event industry. She grew up not far from Avella in Washington, PA, where she attended McGuffey High School, and still calls the area home. The journey in events began for Sydney while she was studying at Waynesburg University and got a job working at a wedding venue called Destiny Hill Farm, gaining valuable hands-on experience and developing a passion for creating memorable occasions. Over the years, she has worked in nearly every event role from server and bartender to floral designer and event manager, allowing her to gain a comprehensive understanding of all it takes to execute flawless events. With her background in floral design, she brings creativity, attention to detail, and a personal touch to every event she coordinates. Sydney loves working with and getting to know her clients, ensuring their unique vision is brought to life. She considers it a privilege to be a part of some of their most special days. Skilled in logistics, client relations, and venue management, she has successfully planned and executed events of all sizes, from family gatherings to corporate functions and weddings. At Railyard Venues, Sydney is dedicated to delivering seamless, personalized events that exceed expectations and create lasting memories. Call her today to start planning your next event!