James Huntsberry, a senior from Seattle, Wash., and Tedde Harden, a graduate student from Otisville, N.Y., hosted the grand opening of the Saharan Lounge hookah bar in Bowling Green on Friday night.

Huntsberry and Harden decided to start the business together after meeting at a hookah party in 2005.

“Jimmy had the vision,” Harden said. “We thought a hookah bar would be good for Bowling Green because it provides a new and interesting experience. Maybe something not traditional but enjoyable. Hookah bars are what college is all about. Hanging out with people, learning new things, relaxation and conversation.”

The Saharan Lounge currently offers in-house hookah service and sells beverages and hookah accessories.

Huntsberry said business has been steady since the grand opening, even though their only advertising has been through word of mouth. They plan to expand their offerings soon by selling coffee, tea and food.