The Aiken Chamber and a delegation of Aiken small business owners will travel to the South Carolina State House in Columbia May 3 to unite with small businesses from across the Palmetto State for Small Business Day at the State House, an advocacy day organized by the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce focused on ensuring S.C. SMALL businesses are heard BIG by state leaders.
The event will include the presentation of House and Senate Resolutions and a proclamation signing by Governor Henry McMaster.
The group from Aiken will also meet with the members of the Aiken County Legislative Delegation – Senators Young, Massey and Setzler; Representatives Blackwell, Clyburn, Hixon, Oremus, and Taylor.
A panel discussion with legislators that own small businesses will occur during the event. Serving on the panel will be Representative Bart Blackwell who owns B&S Machine Tool in Aiken and is the 2015 past chair of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce.
Small businesses make up 99.4% of all businesses in South Carolina and 98.7% of the Aiken Chamber membership. Small business is defined by the Small Business Administration as a business with fewer than 500 employees.
Small businesses play a crucial role in the economy, often driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth. Small business owners also have firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities of running a business in their respective states, and their insights can help inform policy decisions that affect the business environment.
Aiken’s small business owners are deeply invested in our community and have a unique perspective on the needs and priorities of business ownership. By listening to small business owners, state legislators can make more informed decisions that benefit the economy, communities, and overall well-being of their constituents.
“It is important for the South Carolina Legislature to remember that small business is the state’s heartbeat,” said Aiken Chamber Vice Chair of Public Affairs, Molly Jones, SRP. “Small Business Day at the State House will help us ensure that South Carolina’s small businesses are heard big!”
The Aiken Chamber delegation will be led by two small business owners - 2023 Chair Jason Rabun, Enrich Wealth Partners, and Chair-elect Charlie Hartz, Village Café and Scenthound. The delegation is sponsored by SRP Federal Credit Union. SRP offers business checking, lending and savings services to small businesses across the CSRA.
|
|
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is celebrating business, its members and the 25th anniversary of Bridgestone in Aiken with a member-appreciation cookout and mini-trade show Friday, May 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Aiken Chamber.
Members, this event is a special way for the Aiken Chamber to say thank you for your continued investment in Aiken’s future.
“Our members are the backbone for creating jobs and economic prosperity for area citizens, and we want to recognize and show our appreciation for their contributions,” said 2023 Chair-elect and Vice-Chair of Membership Services, Charlie Hartz, Scenthound and The Village Cafe.
Members are invited to drop-in for lunch and enjoy hotdogs with all their favorite tailgate trimmings cooked on the grill by Hartz and other members of the Aiken Chamber Board of Directors.
This is a great opportunity for members to connect with one another and celebrate the hard work and dedication that goes into running a successful business. With hundreds of members expected to attend, there will be plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make valuable connections.
One of the things that makes the membership appreciation cookout so unique is the mini-trade show component.
With over 40 exhibitors in attendance, members will have the opportunity to learn about a wide range of businesses and services from other members. From healthcare providers and financial advisors to retailers and hospitality companies, there is truly something for everyone at this event. And with several door prizes being offered, including a set of four Bridgestone Tires, members will have even more reason to engage with exhibitors and learn about what they have to offer.
“By bringing together a diverse group of exhibitors and providing opportunities for members to network and connect with one another, the Chamber is helping to foster a strong and vibrant business community in Aiken,” said Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson. “It’s always a great day for business when our members can get together, have fun, and share business-to-business opportunities.”
|
|
Mini Trade Show Exhibitors |
|
• AHH Sunshine, LLC
• Advocate Health Advisors, LLC
• Aiken Community Theatre
• Aiken County Habitat for Humanity
• Aiken Memory Care
• Aiken Pest Control, Inc.
• Aiken Regional Medical Centers
• Aiken Scoop Group
• Aiken Symphony Orchestra
• Aiken Technical College
• Alison South Marketing Group
• Apricot Lane Boutique
• Augusta GreenJackets Baseball Team
• Augusta Regional Airport
• Autoneum North America, Inc.
• Benton House of Aiken
• Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
• The Bridge 2 Home
• Clean Up Aiken, Inc
• Coward & McNeill Real Estate, LLC
• DayBreak Adult Care Services
|
|
• Equine Rescue of Aiken
• Gentiva Hospice
• Herlong Financial Group
• Iron Gate Candles & Company
• Jowers Technology Solutions, LLC
• KAMO Janitorial Supplies & Equipment
• Kelly Education
• LeafFilter North of Georgia, LLC
• MAI Risk Advisors
• Manpower
• Matthews Motors
• Oaks Senior Living Community at Aiken
• Paceline Ride
• Premier Medical & MedAesthetic Center
• SCORE Greater Aiken
• SC Vocational Rehabilitation Department
• Security Federal Bank
• Seniors Helping Seniors- Aiken
• Southeastern Real Estate Group
• Travel with PopPop LLC
|
|
The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Kristen Emery as its new Director of First Impressions. Kristen recently moved to Aiken from Greenville and is excited to learn and feel the meaning of Aiken Chamber President, David Jameson’s saying, “If you’re lucky enough to live in Aiken…you’re lucky enough.”
Along with her friendly welcoming smile, Kristen brings to the team an impressive educational background. She was the recipient of the 2020-2021 North Greenville University School of Business and Entrepreneurship Outstanding Student of the Year award, a testament to her hard work and dedication. In May, she will complete her Master of Business Administration from the same university, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA.
As the Director of First Impressions, Kristen will be responsible for greeting visitors and members, and ensuring that everyone who walks through the doors of the Chamber is warmly welcomed and provided with excellent customer service. She will also play an integral role in managing the Chamber's social media presence, coordinating events and assisting with membership services.
“Kristen's positive attitude and exceptional communication skills make her a perfect fit for this role,” said Jameson. “Kristen is eager to get to know the community and to contribute to the Chamber's mission of building Aiken’s future.”
Please join us in welcoming Kristen to the Aiken Chamber of Commerce.
|
|
The City of Aiken Tourism Division, Visit Aiken, has hired a new marketing agency, Destination by Design. They are seeking the community’s help in creating a unifying tourism identity for Aiken.
This effort is intended to communicate the unique qualities and experiences that Aiken has to offer visitors and residents alike.
The Aiken Chamber agrees this unified identity is needed, and we are asking the community and our members to complete the survey.
The more thoughtful input the agency is able to gather, the better the final product will be for Aiken.
Together, we can build Aiken's future.
|
|
On March 30, Omega Technical Services, Inc. celebrated its 28-year anniversary and its new office space at 4259 Whiskey Road, Suite 100. Since 1995, Omega Technical Services, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, has provided top professional and technical scientific talent to governmental and commercial clients as evidenced by a long history of supporting safe and compliant nuclear operations. Cutting the ribbon is President, Co-Owner/Founder Tim Trapuzzano. He is joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson, Omega Technical Service staff, and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Learn more about Omega Technical Services at www.omegatechserv.com.
|
|
Pink Icing Boutique is a classy and chic boutique offering apparel, accessories, handmade bath and body products, and much more. Stop by 35 Varden Drive Suite E to see a full range of trendy items. You can also order online at www.pinkicingboutique.shop and pickup in the store. The hours are Thursday-Friday 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cutting the ribbon is owner Banecia Bush. She is joined by Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team.
|
|
The official grand opening of Carquest Auto Parts took place April 14. Aiken's newest auto parts store is located at 310 Hampton Ave NE. Visit Carquest Auto Parts from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Carquest Auto Parts prides itself on listening to and caring about its customers’ needs. Owners Kieron and Debbie Riley are shown cutting the ribbon with family, staff, Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Visit the Facebook page Carquest K&D Auto Parts to learn more or call (803) 649-0541.
|
|
United Way of Aiken County celebrated the completion of its new headquarters, the Sharon L. Rodgers Community Resource Center, at 159 Morgan St. NW on April 14. United Way of Aiken County advances the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. Cutting the ribbon are Senator Tom Young, United Way of Aiken County Board Chair Josh Booth, Representative Bill Clyburn, CEO Sharon Rodgers, Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson, United Way board members and professional team, Aiken County and City of Aiken council members, and representatives from the building sponsors: Aiken Electric Cooperative, Security Federal Bank, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, Savannah River Mission Completion, Centerra-SRS, and Leadership Aiken County Class of 2022-2023, Learn more about United Way of Aiken County at www.uwaiken.org.
|
|
Regus, 900 Trail Ridge Road, held a ribbon cutting March 1 to celebrate the opening of its new office space complex. Make a home for your business with Regus private office space in Aiken. Their serviced offices have everything from the furniture to the high-speed Wi-Fi taken care of, letting you focus on driving your business forward. Flexible terms allow you to rent office space for an hour or for years. To view the available spaces, or to learn more, call (803) 525-5440 or visit www.regus.com. Regus Community Sales Manager Krystina Lucas and owner Jeffrey Reynolds are pictured cutting the ribbon with Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team.
|
|
The opening of the brand new seasonal color rooms at Cold Creek Nurseries took place April 17. Located at 398 Hitchcock Parkway, Cold Creek Nurseries features an extensive collection of flowering shrubs, trees, annuals, perennials, seasonal, edible and indoor plants. The friendly staff will help you choose plants that are right for your home and lifestyle. Cutting the ribbon is owner Bill Tiszai. He is joined by the knowledgeable Cold Creek professional team, Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson, and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Cold Creek Nurseries is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit www.coldcreek.net to learn more.
|
|
Terminix has been in business for over 75 years as a family-owned franchise. Terminix will tackle any pest challenge and keep ‘em from coming back…for good! Cutting the ribbon is Terminix Chairman/CEO Lex Knox. He is joined by the expert Terminix staff, Aiken Chamber President/CEO J. David Jameson, and members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team. Terminix is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (803) 278-4163 to learn about their wide range of services or visit www.trustterminix.com.
|
|
 |
88.3 WAFJ
Media
88.3 WAFJ has been serving the CSRA as the local contemporary Christian music station since 1994. We share the sound of hope daily through modern music and engaging personalities.
102 LeCompte Ave
North Augusta, SC 29841
Contact: John Bryant
Phone: (803) 819-3125
|
Amedisys Hospice of Aiken Hospice
Gives patients facing a terminal illness the freedom to live each day to its fullest by offering comfort, dignity, quality of life and time. We are blessed and humbled to be part of each patient’s journey and will treat you and your loved ones with the highest respect.
204 University Parkway, Suite D-E
Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: Cassandra Byars
|
|
|
|
Aiken Medical Aesthetics Medical Spa
Believes everyone should have the opportunity to feel their best, inside and out. We have developed a customer menu of treatments to help all our patients restore confidence and get the results that make them see their true beauty.
931 Dougherty Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Kristin Cadavos
Phone: (803) 830.4940
|
Annisage, Inc.
Pet Health & Wellness (Equine/Canine Massage)
A complete animal wellness service for equine, canine, feline and exotic animals. The focus on massage and bodywork promotes healthier animals, from house pets to competitors.
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Maria Duthie
Phone: (440) 669-6023
|
|
|
|
|
The Joint
Wellness
DON'T DO PAIN. DO YOU. Whether you are seeking relief from everyday aches and pains or looking to maintain a healthy, active life, we can help.
344 E Martintown Rd Unit 15
North Augusta, SC 29841
Contact: Michael Spivey
Phone: (803) 353-1592
|
Minit Shop
Convenience Store
Open Monday-Thursday 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday & Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
2345 Augusta Road
Gloverville, SC 29828
Contact: Yatin Patel
Phone: (803) 593-5776
|
|
|
|
Lulu’s Express
Car Wash
Save money, DRIVE CLEAN
Love a clean car? Take advantage of our Unlimited Wash Club. You may take a trip through our wash tunnel as many times as you would like, for one low monthly price, at any of our convenient locations.
2320 Whiskey Road
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Thomas Ferqueron
Phone: (803) 792-0862
|
Sparkle Soft Wash
Pressure Washing & Exterior Cleaning
Family owned and operated soft wash and exterior cleaning company.
829 Murrah Road
North Augusta, SC 29860
Contact: Evan Clark
Phone: (706) 755-0111
|
|
|
|
Premier Medical & MedAesthetic Center Physician (Medical Spa/Aesthetics), Physician (Internal Medicine)
Committed to helping you look and feel your personal best by providing the highest level of medical cosmetic procedures. We offer a wide range of cutting-edge cosmetic medical techniques for your skin and body to make you look and feel your very best, including Botox, Dermal Fillers, Laser Services, and more. Each of our cosmetic medical services is carefully designed to fit your unique needs, and our highly experienced staff is ready to support you every step of the way.
958 Millbrook Avenue, Suite 2
Aiken, SC 29803
Contact: Shelia Milot, MD
Phone: (803) 617-7555
|
|
|
|
Food, music, theatre, equine activities and even drag racing are just the beginning when it comes to things to do in Aiken.
Sponsored by A.B. Beverage Company, the Aiken Chamber Weekend Rundown is a once-a-week email highlighting the many happenings in Aiken.
Join the email list here, stay in the know, and get connected to your community. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
