Chamber Annual Dinner... and being a little more prepared this year.

As most of Traverse City's professionals know, the Chamber Annual Dinner is coming up on Friday, January 25th. This will be my second Chamber Annual Dinner, so I know a little bit more of what to expect.

If you were wondering, or even if you were not wondering -- I'm going to inform regardless so it doesn't really matter either way, last year's Chamber Annual Dinner was my first ever "Networking Event" of any sorts. It was also the first time I had to figure out how to wear a cocktail dress and heels without freezing in 20 degree temperatures (I succeeded thanks to a long, black peacoat). I was completely clueless as far as what to expect, nervous, and feeling very out of place. Thankfully I was attending with Allison Beers, who I'm still convinced knows everyone who lives in Traverse City.

Allison introduced me to some extremely influential and important individuals, helped me to learn the best and most appropriate ways of distributing my business card and making introductions and also how to properly balance being social and professional at once. She also let me know that I was absolutely not allowed to take a photo of my meal to upload on to Facebook (I was cringing as I type that. I clearly had a lot to learn). 

Well, with a year of experience under my belt, I really felt that I was going to head into the Chamber Annual Dinner completely prepared...and then they went and changed the entire format.

Instead of having groups sit at rounds of 10, there will be cocktail tables and a few tables and chairs. Instead of  a formal (but still delicious) dinner and presentation throughout, we are going to be offered a delicious assortment of food and a short 45 minute presentation.

Judy Harrison and the Swingshift Band will even be on site to provide entertainment and -- I'm sure -- a whole lot of dancing. 

I don't know about you, but I am excited. I think that this fresh take on the Chamber Annual Dinner is an excellent idea, even if I have to rework my entire game plan for the evening. 

This year, I'll make sure to pack my dancing shoes as well as plenty of business cards. Hope to see you there --oh, and make sure to stop by the Traverse City Young Professionals Pre-reception from 4:30-5:30pm in Aerie!

A New Outlook on Traverse City

Well, I've been a Traverse City resident for a little over nine months now. I know what you're thinking, "wow, she's probably a pro on everything and anything Traverse City!!!" Surprisingly (is my sarcasm palpable yet?) - that is a false statement. 

I credit majority of things that I know about Traverse City to a combination of having Allison Beers as my boss and mentor and also to my curious nature and attraction to new experiences (hence my moving across the country to pursue my dreams).

I also have accepted that not only do I still have a lot to learn about all things Traverse City, but that this town is constantly changing. I'm convinced that once I think I know a lot about the happenings of the area, there will be at least twenty things that have changed or are being created. Reasons like this are why I believe that events such as the Chamber Expo and the Chamber Economic Outlook Breakfast are so important.

They're also coming up soon- and both on the same day! What are these events, you ask? 

The Chamber Economic Outlook Breakfast serves to help the Traverse City community forecast the emerging business climate. There will be a question-and-answer section, highlighting of current and future trends and wisdom and insight on all of the issues currently affecting the economy.

I've been told that this event sells out every single year and also that the breakfast served is absolutely delicious. Find out more right here!

Directly following the Economic Outlook Breakfast is the Chamber Business Expo (same location, convenient timing- as an event planner, I applaud this arrangement). The Chamber Business Expo is essentially a trade show, but instead of highlighting just one industry, it showcases businesses from all over the Traverse City community. It also gives community members a chance to network and learn about new products and businesses first hand. 

Oh, and there is also a prize giveaway...and if I know the Traverse City area like I think I do, the prizes will be nothing short of top-notch. Find out more right here!


Keep the outlook on Traverse City's future positive...I foresee nothing but great things happening!