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Local Organizations Show Their Stuff at Carteret County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Expo Presented by Duke Energy

Posted on May 1, 2023

*Kayla Barrow, right, owner of Rise and Shine Nutrition speed networks with Kim Duris, Advertising Director at the Carteret County News-Times.*

Morehead City – On Thursday, April 27, the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce held its annual Business After Hours Expo at the Crystal Coast Civic Center. The event was a huge success, with a diverse range of local businesses showcasing their products and services to attendees.

Two new activities were added to the Expo this year. Attendees enjoyed free small business seminars the day of the Expo and two rounds of “speed networking” that event, which proved to be a big hit. This unique format allowed pairs of professionals to engage in three-minute meetings, which provided ample opportunities for attendees to make new connections and forge valuable business relationships.

Additionally, the expo featured a Best Dressed Booth competition, which saw Emerald Isle Realty take the top spot. Habitat for Humanity came in second, followed by Hope Mission in third place and the Carteret Community College Small Business Center in fourth.

“The Business After Hours Expo was an excellent opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products and services,” said Julie Naegelen, Director of Membership for the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce. “We were so happy with the turnout and the energy in the room.”

*Emerald Isle Realty won first place in the Best Booth contest.* *Habitat for Humanity, Hope Mission, and the Small Business Center also placed.* *[see gallery below]*

Several exhibitors had the opportunity to be interviewed live on air with WTKF’s Lockwood Phillips who broadcast live from the Expo throughout the evening.

Overall, the event proved to be an outstanding success, with businesses across the region connecting and networking in a dynamic and supportive environment.

The event was presented by Duke Energy and supported by corporate sponsor Carteret Landing Assisted Living and Memory Care and official food sponsor Class Act Catering. WTKF 107.5 FM The Talk Station, Carteret County News-Times, Curtis Media Group, WITN, and 213 Weddings and Events served as the media sponsors.

The Business After Hours Expo is a cornerstone event for the Chamber alongside its annual Celebrating Business Awards Luncheon in February and Reverse Drawing fundraiser in August.

For more information on the annual Business After Hours Expo, visit the overview page or contact Julie Naegelen.