WILLIAMSBURG — More than 1,300 people — another new record — came out to The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg on Oct. 2 for the fall edition of Strictly Business, the free networking event hosted by WYDaily.com, 92.3FM The Tide Radio, Cannon Country 107.9 and 30 Off Local, in partnership with CultureFix.
The gathering, held twice a year, is described by organizers as part of their commitment to bring together local newsmakers, leaders, business owners and consumers.
“Another record was broken this Fall with an attendance of 1,327. Guests joined us from Virginia Beach, Richmond, West Point, Arlington, Newport News, Williamsburg and all over,” said Elisa Campana, Strictly Business Director. “I am so proud of this event and everything it has become, not just to Local Daily Media, but to the community. Thank you to everyone that stopped by our tables and entered our contests, placed song requests and learned about 30 Off Local.”
It was a beautiful early October evening in downtown Williamsburg, where attendees also had the opportunity to meet with the staff and on-air talent at 92.3 The Tide and Cannon Country 107.9, as well as the editor and staff of WYDaily.com.
Cannon Country 107.9’s Gideon Dean said, “Seeing Strictly Business in action for the first time was truly an experience like no other — we’ve had such a warm reception to Cannon Country 107.9 and being able to interact with listeners face-to-face took it to another level. It’s the prime opportunity to connect businesses with consumers, no matter the product.”
Attendees could sample food and beverages from area businesses — including the specially-brewed Strictly Business Havy IPA from the Virginia Beer Company — win prizes, grab swag, pop into a photo booth, take part in speed networking and more.
“Everbowl was honored to participate in Strictly Business earlier this month. Strictly Business is a unique opportunity to network in Williamsburg,” explained Everbowl owner Kimberly Harris. “The event not only fosters local relationships but strengthens the local economy, making it a must-attend for anyone looking to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. We look forward to participating again next spring!”
For the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, it was a chance to show off everything the space has to offer.
“We were honored to host the most recent Strictly Business event at the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. For years our museums were hidden, buried just footsteps from the Historic Area. Our recent 65,000-square-foot expansion brought the museums above ground, and the additional gallery space lets us display more British and American fine and decorative arts at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum and American folk art at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum. We invite everyone in Greater Williamsburg to visit and see what a treasure we have in our own backyard,” said Eric App, director of museum operations.
Campana praised all of the volunteers and support staff that made the event a success.
“All of the event’s success wouldn’t be possible without the help of many, however there are a few I have to mention. Eric App,Director of Museum Operations; Amy Ritchie Community Affairs Manager; and Robert Butler, Director of Public Safety with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation were incredible to work with and so helpful in making this go off without a hitch,” Campana said.
“Steve Rose, owner of CultureFix and Williamsburg Event Rentals, and his entire team, are incredible event partners of ours,” she added. “They are the backbone of Strictly Business, and also my moral support in the weeks leading up to Strictly Business.”
For CultureFix, those feelings are mutual.
“Strictly Business is an event that we always look forward to being part of. It truly is Greater Williamsburg’s largest networking event and is the perfect example of how tight-knit this community is. The Local Daily Media team does an incredible job with putting it together and we are grateful to partner with them.”
The spring edition of Strictly Business is slated to take over Jamestown Settlement on April 30.
