For more than six years, Buddy’s bar has been one of the top gay nightspots in Edmonton. Located on Jasper Avenue and easily identified by the rainbow flag hanging proudly over its door, the club is owned by former Calgarian Jim Brown. Originally located elsewhere, the bar moved when it had outgrown its space and became what it is today. They are open 7 days a week, and located in the basement of the same building as Woody’s, beside Steamworks, B&D Emporium, and Express Video.
“This has always been my dream from my early teens, to own a bar. To start a business you really have to do it for the love of it, because it can be years before you start making money,” Brown told GayCalgary. “I originally owned Boystown Cafe here in Edmonton and went on to build the original Buddy’s Pub above Boystown cafe. The original Buddys was built on a beer budget, pardon the pun. At the end of our 5-year lease the landlord was unwilling to renew...plus we had really outgrown the place. At that time we found our present location.”
In todays market it is important to remain competitive not only within the LGBT community but the entertainment industry as well. With so much happening in Edmonton, Buddy’s keeps people coming back. Part of this is their frequent special events as well as weekly events such as “Hunk Wednesdays,” Wet Undie Contests, amateur strip, karaoke and traditional drag shows.
“The world certainly has changed but I don’t think it’s had an impact on the gay clubs. Gay people still feel most comfortable in a gay bar so they continue to come here as opposed to straight clubs. Perhaps the bigger change is the number of straights that feel comfortable in a gay bar,” said Brown. “Our nightclub is always evolving but that’s normal for most successful nightclubs. You have to constantly change and try to read the crowd. More importantly to me is the type of client I attract. I’ve never wanted a nightclub that required six security staff and constant surveillance. We’re constantly making physical changes to the bar and its entertainment.”
Also a staple among gay bars is community support. The gay community is a champion of many causes, and for bars it is important to pass on their success to charities. Buddy’s is no exception.
‘‘Buddy’s is always hosting fund raising events and looking for new causes. On December 1st we hosted a World AIDS Day event organized by HIV Edmonton that was very successful.”
While there are many keys to successfully running a business, Brown feels his greatest asset is his staff. Buddy’s is known for its outgoing, friendly people whose goal it is to make your night out a pleasure.
‘‘Buddy’s number one attraction has always been and will always be its staff. I’m famous for stating at staff meetings that any idiot can make a drink but can you make a friend? Because that’s the job! Buddy’s will continue to evolve and remain fresh, the staff will continue to be our ace in the hole. The future for the bar is just much more of what continues to work.”
Buddy’s Nite Club
11725 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, AB
(780) 488-6636
