Chocolate Blues: A lot of people think we sell chocolate, or that it’s a music festival, and some think its a minority-focused professional group, however none of those are true. We actually are a business networking expo where you get free chocolate at the vendor tables, with Blues playing but not a concert, and everyone is welcome.
But what is this funny sounding event? Where do I begin? Do I start with talking about all the businesses that have grown over the past 10 years this event has been around? The jobs that the event has helped create? The millions of dollars of referrals that have been given at this event? The changes that are coming for Chocolate Blues in its 10th year of touring? Can you see where I get overwhelmed?
My name is Jennifer Martin and two years ago I met Shelly Rice, who changed my world. Shelly is the founder and former owner of this event and she has 24 years experience in directing all sorts of events across the nation. She began incorporating a support system of Area Directors about a year and a half ago, and I became one, planning events in Kentucky and Tennessee. In January 2013, I took over as the new owner and CEO. In short, I was baptized in the chocolate! Being an attendee, a vendor, an Area Director, and now the CEO for this event has been a personal revolution.
I truly appreciate each perspective and appreciate the full potential this event has nationally. I have a passion and fire for the event and all of the people that it affects. I have a great vision for Chocolate Blues and plan to take it to the “next level”, but I know I can’t do it alone. This is where Sue Bridgman comes in to the story: Sue is a John Maxwell business coach I met on FaceChocolate Blues Business Networking Festivalbook, oddly enough. In April 2014 she accepted the Colorado Area Director and has impressed me with her positivity in the first Chocolate Blues Business Networking Festival that is coming to The Ranch in Loveland on August 28th. I would like to invite everyone to meet hundreds of amazing people, listen to some awesome Blues music provided by the 101st Dixie Band, and try a little chocolate treat while sharing business cards and making new connections with local business decision makers.
Chocolate Blues has events in other cities, and is currently expanding the tour schedule and roster of Area Directors, and Sue is planning future events in Colorado. I end with a request that if you are reading this, to please search your network and connect Sue to anyone who might be interested in a really fun and exciting way to do business, whether attending or – if she has room left- becoming a vendor. Contact Sue Bridgman at 970-405-4967 or at Colorado@bizfestival.com – visit www.bizfestival.com for more information.