Rise and Shine at ArtWorks in Big Rapids

What a great way to start the day. 7:30 this morning around 50 local business owners and chamber members gathered for another excellent Rise and Shine. This morning we met at ArtWorks. The Rise and Shine and Business after Hours events are an example of your Chamber of Commerce working for us. The networking at these events is amazing. Let me walk you through today's event. When you first arrive everyone has a few to take in the business "host". Today we had a chance to check out some of the areas most talented artists. There are three floors in ArtWorks and all three offer something unique to the area. There is a bronze sculpture of a fireman with an angle I really liked on the second floor. Once everyone has arrived the networking begins and everyone can grab a bite to eat while they chat. Then the Speaker (usually an Ambassador for the Chamber) will get everyone's attention. The speaker will make note of any Dignitaries and Chamber members along with the Ambassadors followed by a chance for anyone with local events to speak out to let everyone know dates and times. The "host" has a chance to showcase his or her business and tell everyone how the started or maybe about services they do that they may not be known for. For instance our last Rise and Shine was at the Outback Lodge, whom I thought just had horse rides and boarded horses, now I know they have a Bed and Breakfast as well as make home cooked meals on the weekends. They also offer sleigh rides in the winter.

Before and after the Speaker there is an incredible opportunity to network with other business owners and exchange thoughts and perhaps find short cuts around road blocks. I love to see how other minds work and it also gives me a chance to mention my real estate company. Everyone likes to deal with people they know and this is a great chance to get to know each other. Usually a typical Rise and Shine is about an hour long and the Business after Hours might go a little longer. Next chance to participate will be a Business After Hours on Mar 18th right at Chemical Bank in Big Rapids.  If you haven't attended a Rise and Shine or a Business After Hours that would be a great time to start as Chemical Bank always has a good one. Also if you are not yet a Chamber Member you should really consider joining. When I first started my business I was hesitant thinking I wouldn't get much out of it. I was wrong. Since then I have attended events and meetings and networked and have stayed busy right through the whole real estate slow down. If you have questions check out the Chamber Website: Mecosta Chamber Area of Commerce. There you can see all they offer along with a calendar of upcoming events.