March 6, 2023 at 9:39 a.m.
A show in the Dome
Inaugural Up North Community Expo touted as a success
A show in the Dome
By Renee Draszkiewicz-
More than 70 vendors showcased their products and services at the event which was open to the public. The Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce organized the event from the ground up this year - evolving from the old Hodag Home and Lifestyle, which was last held in 2019. Plans for the new expo launched just a few short months ago.
The chamber trade show had a strong turnout from vendors and community members. Businesses who were members of their local chamber represented seven counties in the Northwoods including Oneida, Vilas, Forest, Lincoln, Iron, Price, Langlade.
The goal of year one at the Expo was networking and driving up traffic within the Northwoods. Dozens of booths took the opportunity to connect to a large audience to promote employment opportunities. Continued growth of the event will further expansion for hiring opportunities and inevitably the local business communities.
The event was all-inclusive, hosting the largest variety of businesses and organizations in the Northwoods. Aside from businesses that were hiring and being open to those seeking employment, there were several opportunities to purchase and view products. Attendees were made aware in advance what booths offered "cash and carry" offers. An eclectic assortment of hand-made goods and services were available to attendees.
Rhinelander Chamber executive director Lauren Sackett praised her colleague Rachel Boehlen for putting the event together and deemed it a complete success in their books.
"She really took the bull by the horns and made it a complete success," Sackett said.
Boehlen, the chamber's Community & Member Engagement Director, said she is excited to have the space to grow being at the Dome and drawing such large participation already. She is anticipating the event to get bigger each year.
The chamber is already seeking vendors, and has opened registration for next year. Businesses and organizations are welcomed to sign up now for the event next year Thursday, March 7, 2024. Throughout the month of March there will be a discounted rate for the early bird sign-up.
Exhibitors at the event had the full-range opportunity to showcase an extensive marketing package.
Vendors were mentioned in print advertising, social media, radio and television up to the event. At the event, vendors had access to the exhibitor lounge, chances to win prizes and awards, gain hiring opportunities and network.
The event didn't stop at the Dome. Vendors received complimentary tickets to the Expo After Hours event. The Rouman Cinema hosted this first-ever event where food and beverage businesses utilized the opportunity. Local breweries and restaurants served a variety of food and drink to wind down the day.
Overall Sackett and Boehlen said they were proud to see a variety of their objectives met.
"We heard about successful connections, many job applications were filled out, and overall great feedback," Boehlen said.
Community members checking out the show were also impressed with the variety. Robert Guzzetta and his wife visited from Harshaw.
"It's nice to see all the different businesses, you know, we don't get the same opportunity to get out and find all these places on our own these days, so it's nice to have it all in one spot," he said.
With such a large amount in just year one, it is easy to imagine how much more extensive the variety will be in the years to come.
Non-profit organizations found this to be the perfect exhibition for opportunities to find volunteers, promote fundraising events, network for services, and share the benefits to the community with their missions. The Expo was more accessible to non-profits by offering discounted rates on single booths.
Collaboration was a powerful outcome of the event. The Northwoods stretches a large area and contains many hidden gems that wouldn't be known without events like this.
"It's all about helping one another out and creating exposure within and among our local communities," Terry Wilson, Executive Director of Park Falls Area Chamber of Commerce said.
The Expo is a one of a kind trade show for the Northwoods with great opportunity to grow your business.
Exhibitors in the event were proud to be a part of the first year of the Up North Expo!
"It was amazing to see the exposure non-profits were getting, and the business growth that was being made at this first time event," Boehlen said. We heard a ton of great feedback about quality applicants, new connections, business deals, and sales. Mark your calendars for March 7 for next year because the Northwoods will be gathered at the dome again for the Second Annual Up North Community Expo!"
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