Business owners in Sun Peaks and the surrounding area are invited to come together for a casual networking event designed to strengthen local connections and collaboration Jan. 22 at Morrisey’s Public House.
Now in its fourth year, the annual event is co-hosted by local organizer Kendra Olsen and Jackie Van Vliet typically draws between 35 and 40 participants.
“It’s very casual, just a chance for business owners to meet each other, understand what everyone does and figure out how we can support one another,” Van Vliet said.
While Sun Peaks is known for its tight-knit community, Van Vliet noted that the village continues to grow, with new residents and business owners arriving regularly. Events like this help bridge gaps, even among people who may already recognize each other.
“Most people know each other, but we don’t always know how to support one another,” Van Vliet said. “It’s a refresher on the types of clients people are looking for and an opportunity to refer business to one another.”
For the second time, the event will also include optional professional headshots, provided by photographer Zuzy Rocka. In previous years, participants have welcomed the addition, with many continuing to use the photos for professional purposes.
The event is supported by the Sun Peaks Rotary Club, which provides appetizers and helps host the gathering. Van Vliet, who serves as co-president elect, said the event aligns with rotary’s January theme of vocational service.
“Because there’s no Chamber of Commerce in Sun Peaks, rotary becomes a space for business owners to connect and collaborate,” she said. “It’s almost like a smaller chamber-style event right here in the village.”
Feedback from past years has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees saying they enjoyed meeting like-minded individuals and discovering businesses they didn’t even realize were operating in Sun Peaks.
Van Vliet encouraged local business owners to attend, even if they believe they already know everyone.
“You might think you know everyone in Sun Peaks, but there are likely people you haven’t met or don’t fully know what they do,” she said. “The more we can connect, collaborate and refer business to one another, the stronger the community becomes.”
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