A Season of Thanks
Members Tell Their Chamber Stories
Earlier this year, we asked Chamber members to tell us how the Chamber has made a difference in their business. We were overwhelmed by the response – and the ways our members have utilized Chamber benefits to advance and grow.
During this season of thanks and giving, we are publishing some of these “My Chamber Story” letters. We are thankful that our members find significant value with their Chamber investment. Likewise, we are honored to partner with our 1000-plus members in so many ways – from networking to professional development, marketing to advocacy, and much more.
By Chris & Susan Harte
Crust Pizza Co. – Willis
This year we opened our first business, Crust Pizza Co. in Willis. From concept to opening was almost two years of planning, budgeting, construction, and hiring a team. A huge learning process for us! During this time, several people recommended that we join the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce. We have a home in Willis but were not very connected to the community so this was a great opportunity for us to expand our network.
Before signing up, we were invited by a Chamber member to a Morning Mingle event as guests. We were impressed by the welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The event was attended by other local companies (small and large), community organizations, and local politicians and committee members. We were given time to introduce our upcoming business to all of the attendees and received some great feedback. Based on our positive experience with the Morning Mingle event, we decided it was time to join.
The sign-up process was very easy and the web site clearly lists all of the membership benefits. Not long after, we attended a Fun After Five event. This informal event was a good way to talk to other members and make some new connections. After the event, we were invited by a member to join him at the Lobsterfest golf tournament. Another example of the welcoming nature of Chamber members. This event was very well attended and organized. We had a great day and plan to support the event this year.
Shortly after opening our doors, we participated in the Tastefest event. We brought samples of our food for the attendees, and offered a free pizza to anyone that brought their Tastepass to our restaurant. We had a great response, and a lot of new customers came in to experience our pizza for the first time. One of the included benefits of membership is the ribbon cutting. We scheduled a time and had a number of board members from the Chamber and local community attend and posted about the event in local news and social media. We partnered with the Montgomery County Food Bank during our opening week and were able to make a donation based on sales.
There are many great events and activities that we continue to experience as members. We were invited to talk about our business on a local radio show, we attended the opening night of the Montgomery County Fair & Rodeo, and we have developed a great partnership with the Willis ISD Education Foundation. Last but not least, we use the member directory when we need to find local professionals to help with our business. We trust the chamber and want to support all the local business members’ success. We look forward to many more great experiences and growing with the Chamber.
By Brent Jones
Pure Barre Conroe
It was the start of a vibrant January night. I took a seat at the blackjack table and immediately won my first hand; I swore I was about to retire! It was my first time at a Chamber event, the 2022 Chairman’s Ball representing Crown Cork & Seal. And after losing every hand after that, most would think I shouldn’t test my luck again, but I had a big business venture in the works.
My wife and I were just starting plans for a new business we were opening in town … Pure Barre, a fitness studio offering group classes with the goal of making a positive change in people’s lives. We joined the Chamber and were greeted with open arms. We quickly found that the Chamber, as well as the supporting members, all had a similar mission of making an impact greater than themselves and doing it in unity! Our favorite part about joining this Chamber has been the connections, the family environment, the local support, and the platform to partner up with others of similar values to support this ever-growing city.
We opened Pure Barre Conroe at the start of this year and were flooded with thousands of eager locals ready to reach their fitness goals. We have been enjoying every second since opening and can’t thank the Chamber enough for the love and support along the way. While my blackjack strategy is not worth bragging about, my gamble in joining the Chamber has been nothing short of the best!
By Trish Almond & Elizabeth Woods
Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission
We at the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission would like to take this opportunity to share an investment opportunity that you do not want to miss. For just $15 a person, you can grow your net worth/network. As (Chamber) members, we attended our first Morning Mingle (ticket price $15 per person) and purchased the golden ticket. A mingle began, introductions made, strangers became acquainted, and now we are working collaboratively on projects that will bring tourism to Conroe.
Through ample networking possibilities, we have acquired sponsorships for the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park events, such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Chamber members whose grandparents, parents, children, family members, and friends who are Veterans, now have their name on THE LINE; forever engraved and honored. We also spent the day at the Texas State Capitol, have broken bread with other Chamber members, and that was how the seed was planted. It was up to us to become active Chamber members and nurture the abundant crop of connections within the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber.
The goal to grow and give back to our community as the Chamber does, has exceeded our wildest dreams. Please do not miss out on this investment opportunity and watch how $15 can broaden your horizon and put your business on the map. Thank you, Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber for sowing the seed of success!
By Larry Hunter
209 Photo Booth Company
The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber has been an incredible asset to my business, making a significant difference in its growth and success. I am reminded of the scripture in Proverbs 27:17, which says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Through the Chamber, I have found a community of like-minded individuals who have sharpened my skills and supported me along the way.
The networking opportunities provided by the Chamber have been invaluable. Connecting with fellow entrepreneurs and business professionals has opened doors to collaborations and partnerships that have expanded my reach and increased my business opportunities.
The Chamber’s resources and educational programs have equipped me with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the ever-changing business landscape. From workshops to mentorship programs, I have gained valuable insights and practical advice that have helped me make informed decisions and overcome challenges.
Additionally, the Chamber’s advocacy efforts have made a significant impact, ensuring that the voice of small businesses is heard and represented in the community. This support has created an environment where businesses like mine can thrive and flourish.
In conclusion, the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber has played a crucial role in my business journey. Through their network, resources, and advocacy, they have provided a solid foundation for growth and success. I am grateful for their support and guidance, and I look forward to continuing to be an active member of this thriving business community.
By Ian Ramirez
Madera Estates
The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce offers significant benefits to our business. As a member since joining almost ten years ago, we have experienced a remarkable transformation in our growth and success.
Firstly, the Chamber provides an invaluable platform for networking and building relationships. Through numerous events, mixers, and business gatherings, we have connected with potential clients, partners, and suppliers, expanding our professional network considerably. These interactions have led to fruitful collaborations, increased referrals, and access to new markets.
Moreover, the Chamber has been an exceptional resource for knowledge sharing and business development. They organize regular workshops, seminars, and expert-led sessions on various topics like marketing strategies, financial planning, and industry trends. These educational opportunities have helped us stay abreast of the latest advancements and implement best practices, keeping us ahead of the competition.
The Chamber also serves as a strong advocate for local businesses. They actively engage with governmental bodies and policy-makers, representing the interests of the business community. Through their efforts, we have witnessed positive changes in local regulations and infrastructure, creating a more favorable environment for businesses to thrive.
Furthermore, the Chamber’s marketing and promotional initiatives have significantly boosted our brand visibility. From featuring our business in events like Morning Mingle to promoting us on social media and the Chamber’s website, they have helped us reach a wider audience and attract more customers.
In conclusion, our association with the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce has been a game-changer for our business. The networking opportunities, access to valuable resources, advocacy efforts, and increased exposure have all played a pivotal role in our growth and success. The Chamber has proven to be an indispensable partner in our journey towards excellence, and we look forward to continuing this mutually beneficial relationship for years to come.
By Kristine Marlow
Montgomery County Food Bank
Being a member of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce has had an immense impact on Montgomery County Food Bank and our mission of uniting the community to fight hunger. The connections made within the Chamber have been transformative, empowering us to better serve local children, seniors, and families in need of food assistance.
The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce’s extensive network and reach have helped increase awareness of the issue of hunger in our community and the crucial role Montgomery County Food Bank plays in combating it. One very impactful example is the support for our annual “Stock the Sleigh” holiday food drive. Chamber businesses rallied to collect much needed nonperishable food and funds to support the Food Bank’s efforts to serve the growing need in the county. This was a “win-win” because local businesses were able to give back to the community in an impactful way through a well-organized event along with other Chamber members. As a result, more individuals and businesses have stepped forward to support the Food Bank through financial contributions, volunteering, food donations, event sponsorships, and more. Every dollar donated to the Food Bank helps provide up to four nutritious meals for our hungry neighbors.
Montgomery County Food Bank is truly grateful for the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce’s unwavering support. The Chamber’s network has helped make the Food Bank’s profound impact in the community possible. Together, we are stronger in the fight against hunger!
By Tanya Pederson
Line-X of Conroe
“It takes a village,” is a phrase everyone knows. Usually, this adage is associated with raising children; however, after becoming a small business owner, I know this also applies to the growth and success of a community and its businesses. The core of Conroe’s “village” is undoubtedly our Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce.
My husband and I opened LINE-X of Conroe about a year and a half ago, and I can say with 100% certainty that the Chamber is why we have made it this long. Trying to establish a brand-new business is quite overwhelming, and we were blessed to have the support of the Chamber. For our grand opening, the Chamber’s advertising packed our store with potential customers and welcomed us as members of this town. The frequent networking events have given us the opportunity to explain the vehicle upfit services we can provide to other businesses and community members. These conversations prompted members to tell their friends and family, and that is how our name and reputation has grown.
Aside from that, we love the visits and phone calls from board members and delegates who just want to check in on us. Numerous customers, including our biggest fleet account, have come into our shop because of recommendations from Chamber members. In our opinion, The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce is the heartbeat of our town. The fund-raising success for community projects, the philanthropy, collaboration, and camaraderie among the members plays a huge role in keeping Conroe thriving.
By Tim Johnson
HEH Communications (KSAM & KHVL Radio)
Moving to a new community is intensely isolating. You leave hundreds of strong relationships to start over in a new job and home as a stranger. Joining the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber has opened doors for making so many new friends and business contacts.
My wife and I enjoy the team and the many fun-filled, well-planned events. The Chamber staff goes out of its way to introduce us to new people while taking great care of everyone I recommend to join the Chamber. Scott and the Chamber provide members valuable insights into the area’s rapid growth (and) a healthy vision for the future of our community. They make it very easy to serve as their ambassador. One of my favorite details is how membership exposed us to new venues and businesses we might have never found on our own.
Joining the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber is truly one of the best decisions we’ve made since moving to Montgomery in 2021. We look forward to every event we can attend!
By Margie Taylor
Taylorized PR
Taylorized PR became an official member of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce in July of 2015. As a resident of the community, I believe membership in the local Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber should be an integral part of every company’s business plan if you do business in the community. Joining the Chamber is an essential ingredient in the relationship-building process.
People do business with people they get to know and develop a trusting relationship with; it is all about trust. The Chamber provides so many networking opportunities to build relationships. Personally, I get all my business through relationships I gained at the Chamber. Individuals also call me to get resources in the community. It is a win-win to be a part of the oldest Chamber in Montgomery County. They are doing something right to have survived for 90 years!
By Mike Sproba
Synergy Real Estate
Being a member of the Chamber has allowed us to expand our sphere of influence, thus increasing our network of potential clients. We have grown our relationships with other chamber members and the professional Chamber staff. The use of the beautiful Chamber board room for our client events has been one of our favorite member benefits. We are grateful for the value the Chamber provides our community.
By Cathy Miller
Miller Chiropractic Center
My Chamber story started way back in 1989 when my husband, Dr. Kent Miller, DC and I opened our business, Miller Chiropractic Center. Over the next 30 years our practice and Conroe just kept growing. By October of 2022 we knew Conroe was growing like gangbusters but our practice was stagnant. We decided to rejoin the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber. Great decision! It is a fantastic business resource. Professional, enthusiastic people ready to partner with you to make your goals a reality.
My favorite resource is the lunch and learn. Local business professionals give an hour of their time and educate other local business owners. So much information about digital advertising, branding, networking, disaster preparedness for your business, videography, business coaching. I am looking forward to a CPR course and active shooter training. The Chamber has made a difference in our business by helping us grow with Conroe and adapt to the digital world.
The friendly helpfulness is encouraging. Did I mention it is fun? Every event or meeting I have attended has been fun. The Chamber appreciates your time. They want you to have fun, learn, eat, drink and be successful. We are proud to call Conroe our home. It is a beautiful, dynamic city. As it grows, we want to grow with it. With the Chamber as a resource, we will!
By Ryan Morton
Conroe Welding Supply
The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, CLCCC, has been established much longer than most of the businesses in our community. In fact, you could attribute the growth and success of many of our area businesses, new and old, to the CLCCC.
There are many drivers behind the growth and success of our family company, Conroe Welding Supply, over the last 49 years. We attribute most of this to the hard work and determination of our founder, Roy Morton, and his family and employees. However, outside of our company, we commend our success to the CLCCC. The CLCCC and its continued commitment to promote and advocate for businesses in the Conroe/Lake Conroe area has led to a growth in population which has helped to increase the sales of our business.
On a more personal level, the CLCCC has provided me with opportunities through networking events to create relationships and friendships with other business leaders in our community. Conroe Welding Supply is proud to be a long-standing member of this organization and looks forward to many more years of growing success.
By Sarah Falcon
Nelson Chiropractic Center
This is my 2nd round of working within the chiropractic world. It is also my 2nd round with the same chiropractic family. What a great group of guys to work for!! Dr. Ryan Nelson and his semi-retired dad, Dr. Doug Nelson, decided to open a chiropractic practice in Conroe. They chose Conroe for several reasons. First, Conroe is growing thus giving lots of opportunity for success. Let’s not forget the beautiful Lake Conroe. But ultimately, they settled in Conroe due to family being near. They are very much family oriented.
So, the doctors’ found themselves in a new town, not knowing anyone! A town that they were excited to get involved in. They wanted/needed to make connections with business owners/people. They wanted to know what kind of activities and events were going on and when. They ultimately wanted to make connections with new people. And yes, they wanted to share their knowledge of chiropractic care, thus leading to new patients.
In order to make these connections, joining the Conroe Chamber was a simple decision and a MUST. Since joining the Chamber in April 2023, we have been busy networking within the Chamber events, which include Morning Mingle, Fun After Five, and ribbon cutting activities – (during) all of which we were able to make great connections. Also, the Chamber’s marketing has helped us tremendously by publicizing our activities on the Conroe Chamber schedule and on Facebook. Free PR! You gotta love this! We have been contacted by other Chamber members about our activities that were listed by the Chamber. Connections being made. We have not been able to take advantage of all the Chamber has to offer. But we still have time and we know the Conroe Chamber will be there in full support of our needs!