As the marketing representative for a larger company with a big footprint, I have the privilege to be a part of many wonderful organizations and business chambers all over western North Carolina. Having said that, the Blowing Rock Chamber holds a special place in my heart. From the moment I walked into their front door and met Cathy Barker, I knew that I wanted to be her friend and a part of whatever she was doing. Since then, I’ve come to realize that Cathy is part of an amazing group of people who make up the leadership and who have cast the vision for shaping the economic prosperity of the Town of Blowing Rock. Quite frankly, after making the decision to go “all in” with this amazing community through the chamber – I could have never imagined where I am today. I believe that most people who join a chamber do so for the business…me included. Let’s face it, “commerce” is literally in the name of the organization. What I have learned though, is that the Blowing Rock Chamber means so much more to it’s members than just sales and referrals. Some of my best friends in the high country have been recent additions to my life through the chamber. Some of my business development and personal growth / leadership training has come through my involvement with the chamber. Some of my most recent rewarding moments have come through volunteer opportunities I’ve experienced through the chamber. And yes…as a bonus behind all those other benefits, the business has been good.
From helping promote a new member’s grand opening, to helping the existing businesses navigate hard times – the chamber is committed to seeing the Blowing Rock community grow and experience success. Being a member is more than just paying the dues so that you can have a sticker in your window. I am a testament to this being true. Today, I am a stronger leader with amazing connections through friendships I’ve made by joining the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. Thank you for allowing myself and Spangler Restoration to be a part of the fabric to this wonderfully historic and vibrant community.
Ashli Kemo
Business Development Manager
Spangler Restoration
"We love how authentically the Blowing Rock Chamber supports and advocates for local economic growth and goodwill to all who settle or vacation in our little Village. The Blowing Rock Chamber has been supportive of our business from day one. It has been foundational in 4 Forty Four's 20 years of business. The opportunities and personal touch the BR Chamber extends to us small business owners is truly something special and unique."
Kevin & Lillie Troyer
Co-owners
4 Forty Four
"We have lived in the Blowing Rock area since 2013 and we are truly enjoying our affiliation with the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce as residential members. There is no better way to meet people and gain new friendships here than attending events, especially those sponsored by the Chamber. When you need information or a referral, the staff and members are always willing to assist. If you are new to the area, do not hesitate to stop by the Chamber and join!"
- Velda and Al Shackelford
"The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce has given our business the opportunity to experience significant growth into the High Country community over the past couple of years. A pillar of business success is the ability to grow relationships, and the chamber offers ample opportunities through their weekly newsletters, monthly networking events, and philanthropic initiatives to do so.
As a life-long local of Blowing Rock, It was well known to me through the years that the chamber played in integral part in supporting the growth and success of our local businesses. In continuing to grow in my professional career, I would not have the quality of connections and opportunities I’ve experienced in the past several years without capitalizing on all the chamber has to offer.
The chamber has personally supported me in founding the CORE Young Professionals Network as they identified the need for the next generation of business leaders to have a resource for leadership development, networking, and philanthropic initiatives. For any business in the community, you get back from the chamber what you put in and the opportunities are limitless. The most valuable resource of the chamber is the people: From the staff, to the Board of Directors, to the Task Force members; the chamber will empower you to be successful!"
PJ Hennessey
Senior Risk Advisor
Granite Insurance
“Joining the Chamber during the restaurant’s foundational first months was critical to our success. The Chamber gave us instant connections to other businesses in town through member events, newsletters and general support.
Our Chamber is all about Blowing Rock and supporting our businesses. Opportunities to serve and connect through the Chamber with local non-profits and the business community are part of what keeps The Speckled Trout so engaged with our town.
The Chamber offers a strong business network to all members; whether we’ve needed window washers, marketing contacts, a bookkeeper referral or advice on how to approach an obstacle, the Chamber has been able to provide guidance and initiate connections between us and other member businesses. They’re the best and we’re proud to be an active member and partner!”
Emily & Erica Brinker
Co-owners
The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop
