Area businesses have the opportunity to participate in two November events sponsored by the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce. Each benefits businesses in different ways at a very economical cost. Both events have table space available for businesses - similar to the showcase events at Bluffton University in September.

Business network event - Thursday, Nov. 18

The chamber invites businesses and their employees to a free "After Hours" networking mixer from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 18, at The Centre, 601 N. Main St.

In addition to Bluffton members, the chamber has invited businesses from Pandora, Ottawa, Leipsic, Columbus Grove, Mt. Cory, Rawson, Ada and other surrounding small communities as guests.

"This is a great way to meet businesses from other small communities and learn about their products," said Fred Steiner of the Bluffton chamber. "It also provides an opportunity to meet business persons from neighboring communities and to display your own company's products and services. Showcase tables are available for business displays during the mixer. Door prizes will be given away throughout the evening.

Blaze morning extravanganza - Saturday, Nov. 27

Service clubs and crafters invited

The chamber will hold its first-ever Blaze of Lights Morning Extravaganza from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Nov. 27, at The Centre.

This event is open to the public and offers opportunities for businesses to sell holiday products. The morning event will include a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. In addition a holiday bake sale fund-raiser for the chamber is planned.

The chamber is looking for a Bluffton organization to assist with the bake sale. That organization will share in the proceeds. Contact Fred Steiner at [email protected] for details.

There will be a silent auction with donated items from Bluffton businesses. Two youth-oriented magic shows are planned. There will be free face painting and holiday storytelling. The Centre will sell doughnuts, coffee and juice. Several additional events are still in the planning stages.

"This is a great opportunity for area businesses organizations and persons who create holiday crafts to sell their merchandise ahead of the holidays," said Steiner. "We hope to have a captive Thanksgiving weekend crowd."

Businesses interested in participating in both or only one of the events may contact [email protected] to register. Businesses interested in participating need to reserve table space. Table space is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tables cost $35 for chamber members to attend both events ($50 for non-chamber members). Tables cost $25 for chamber members participating in only one of the events ($40 for non-chamber members).

A registration form for the events is found at the bottom of this story.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Fred Steiner
Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce
[email protected]
419-889-3065