Message From The CEO

Message from the

CEO

Dear Artisan,

For Immediate Release:  November 19,  2020

Contact:  Michelle Rotellini, President / CEO,
Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce
Phone: 304.890.4042 (c) or 304.252.7328 (o) Email: Chamber@Brccc.com

Dec 1-3 Holiday Market Cancelled to Keep Community Safe

The Beckley Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce has canceled the Holiday Market scheduled for Dec 1-3, 2020 at the Raleigh County Armory.

“We were excited about sponsoring a holiday marketplace for our local artisans and businesses to showcase their products and services. However; with COVID-19 transmission rates on the rise, there was no question in the decision to cancel,” says Michelle Rotellini, President/CEO of the chamber.

Giving businesses opportunities to network and promote their products and services was the big idea behind the Holiday Market. The event would have kicked off on Tuesday, Dec 1st with a Business After Hours sponsored by WOAY.  On Wednesday and Thursday visitors to the market would have networked with over 40 vendors. 

Rotellini adds, “Even though shopping occupancy would have been limited to 92 shoppers at a time, bringing the community together after Thanksgiving travel could have potentially contributed to the spread.  In addition to mask wearing, social distancing and good hygiene, it is also important to limit large gatherings.  As leaders in the community we must do our part to protect our community’s safety. It’s up to all of us to protect one another.”

We hope to be able to reschedule the Makers Market event in 2021.

The 56th Annual Appalachian Makers Market t We are excited to present a fresh new look (and name!) to our vendors and patrons. Previously a three-day event and known as the Appalachian Arts & Craft Fair, we have implemented many exciting changes this year and hope you will join us for a fun and successful weekend celebrating Appalachian makers.

New this year is a flat rate booth fee; we are no longer commission based. Also new this year, we are no longer utilizing sales processing stations. Vendors are responsible for their own sales including cash, credit, and checks. Enclosed you will find our updated application detailing this and all changes, along with our rules and regulations. The Appalachian Makers Market continues to be a juried art and craft show. Every applicant must submit digital images along with their application. For our out of area vendors, we have reserved hotel blocks at a discounted rate to ensure your stay is comfortable and affordable. We aim to celebrate skilled Appalachian makers by keeping our festival exclusive to those that reside or work in the Appalachian region. Booth selections are made by the Appalachian Makers Market Committee and will begin immediately; you are encouraged to return your application as soon as possible. We look forward to your submissions and to celebrating your success at the Appalachian Makers Market!

Sincerely,

Michelle Rotellini
President/CEO