Synergy was in full swing last week at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts when four local Chambers of Commerce hosted their seventh annual Love Your Business Vendor Fair.
Coordinating the event were chambers from Munster, Highland, Griffith and Dyer.
“This event has really grown over the years, and we were completely sold out shortly after tickets went on sale,” said Mary Luptak, excutive director of Highland Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve planned this around lunchtime, which seems to be convenient for everyone.”
The day’s agenda, coordinated by Luptak and Munster Chamber of Commerce executive director Wendy Mis, included 57 booths manned by representatives from local businesses, luncheon, and a unique networking opportunity between the attendees.
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After visiting the tables for a few hours, both vendors and ticket holders were ushered into the luncheon.
“I understand we will be rotating between the tables,” said Greg Gordon, marketing director at American Community Bank. “This is great, we’ll be able to reach everyone this way.”
Sharing business ideas and becoming familiar with each other’s products/services was the mission of the day.
“I’ve always had a booth at previous vendor fairs, but today I am a volunteer ambassador,” said Pat Popa of Munster Chamber of Commerce, as she greeted visitors. “These are all great Chambers with great ideas, and it’s exciting to be part of that.”
Cindi Rucinski of James & Sons Jewelers in Schererville spread out brochures for those stopping by her table. “Having all four of these Chambers together today is a win-win situation for everyone,” she said. “There are many businesses right here in our own neighborhoods that we aren’t aware of. But we’re getting to know them today.”
Visitors also were treated to neck massages, courtesy of Theresa Krohn of Paun Family Chiropractic and Wellness in Highland.
“There’s a lot of activity going on today, and people are happy to take a rest in my chair,” she said, with a laugh. “It’s a great atmosphere with everyone in a good mood – and also it’s great exposure for all the businesses here.”
Krohn’s co-worker Rhiannon Cizon is the company’s marketing and outreach coordinator. “This (networking opportunity) is great,” she said. “We’re not only reaching out to the community and making new friends, but we’re gaining partnerships between all of the chambers’ members.”
Sue Baxter, publisher of Panorama magazine, picked up not only information about specific businesses/services during the event, but also enjoyed talking with the booth representatives.
“This is a very valuable networking tool,” she said of the day’s activities. “We can put a face with the name of a business. That’s important to many people.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune