Whether the economy is up, down, or side to side, it really doesn't matter when it comes down to old-fashioned meet-and-greet networking events like the Porter County Chamber Coalition Networking Night that happened this past Thursday, October 27, 2011.
Over 100 local and regional businesses alongside hundreds and hundreds of attendees made for an always crowded but welcome chamber show. Not to mention the Halloween theme of the evening, it made for a casual and even fun event where one could "really talk business".
Many of the companies present were just wanting to give their brand or name more exposure while others were promoting certain products or services.
Others still were having prize giveaways and even playing games for those prizes. Engstrom Jewelers was playing blackjack with show attendees at their booth to see if anyone would instantly win a Chamilia bracelet.
"We're just trying to grow our business contacts," said Erin Williams of Engstrom. "[Also] get the new lines we're carrying out there so people are aware of them."
Steindler Signs and Graphix had the premium booth of the night having enough room to fit a whole truck! In full display was a 2012 GMC Acadia getting wrapped in classic green, red, and white, and it wasn't to celebrate the holidays. Your very own ValpoLife and PortageLife received another vehicle contributed by Paul Sur Buck GMC, and we instantly got it wrapped with the help of Steindler to show our true colors.
"I think the Chamber Network Night is a great opportunity for everyone involved especially Steindler Signs and Graphics working along with ValpoLife [and PortageLife] folks," said Tom Steindler, owner of Steindler Signs and Graphix. "It let's the community know - Valparaiso and Porter County - what we can do."
From the hard-working and talented Porter County business community, the overall mantra of the night seemed to be just that. "This is what we can do for you!" But not in a desperate way. Just in the "we're really good at what we do and we want to share it with you" way.
It was exciting to see new companies present, new looks, new employees and new products and services for established companies and even fundraisers being promoted by different companies for charitable causes.
Be sure to check out all the photos and fun from the evening here!