Returning to the Coconut Grove Chamber reminded me of the power of community and connection. This Chamber is a place where professionals can break out of their shells, build meaningful relationships, and grow their businesses. If you’re looking to expand your network in the Grove, this is where you need to be. -Wilson Alvarez
Serving as a board member of the Coconut Grove Chamber from 2012 to 2014, I’ve developed some deep connections within this community. The Chamber has been the backbone of business in Coconut Grove, organizing essential events like Luncheons, Educational Seminars, and the renowned Coconut Grove Arts Festival, which attract people from all over Miami. My time with the Chamber was both fun and enriching, opening doors I hadn’t expected. However, like many organizations, the Chamber faced significant challenges during the COVID years. Memberships dwindled, and the once-thriving Chamber activity slowed down. Despite these hurdles, the Coconut Grove Chamber persevered, thanks to the dedication of both current and former board members who worked tirelessly to keep it alive. Recently, I received an invitation to a Thursday evening after-business-hours event hosted by the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce. Held at Industrious, a shared office space in the heart of Coconut Grove, the event was a testament to what makes this community special. With around 30 business professionals in attendance, I initially felt a bit out of place, recognizing only a few faces. Although I usually find it easy to approach people and start conversations, there’s always that initial challenge of breaking the ice in a room full of strangers. But once I got started, it didn’t take long for me to connect with others and feel at ease. Breaking the Ice One of the first familiar faces I saw was Sue McConnell, a longtime board member of the Chamber. Catching up with her was a comforting way to ease back into the Chamber environment. Sue has been a pillar in the Coconut Grove business community for years, and her longevity has made her a respected voice within the Chamber. As we talked, I saw a familiar face, Marianela Toledo, the Better Business Bureau South Florida liaison and Engagement Specialist. Marianela’s passion for helping businesses navigate the complexities of accreditation and consumer trust is truly inspiring. Her work with the BBB is a testament to the kind of relationships that Chambers foster—ones that go beyond business and into the realm of genuine community support. Another familiar face was a client, Carl Levin, an architect and the president of Mango Strut, a whimsical event that takes place every January in the Grove. Carl’s energy and enthusiasm for the community were contagious, and as I continued to mingle, the initial unease I felt began to melt away. It brought to mind a quote by Dale Carnegie: “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.” This resonates with my experience at the event—starting out feeling like an outsider, but finding that once I genuinely engaged with others, the connections came naturally. It’s about being present, showing interest, and letting the conversation flow. The Power of Networking The evening took an even more interesting turn when Monty Trainer, a Chamber Emeritus whom I affectionately refer to as the “Governor of Coconut Grove,” approached me. Monty is a highly respected figure in the community, and his acknowledgment, along with an update on the Chamber’s status, was both surprising and reassuring. He introduced me to Mark Burns, the Executive Director of the Coconut Grove BID, and we had a fascinating conversation about the ongoing initiatives that are revitalizing the area. I also had the pleasure of meeting VenusMia Lovely, the Administrative Director of the BID, who is brimming with innovative ideas for community involvement. One of the more unexpected connections I made was with a realtor visiting from Aventura, who is looking to expand her business into Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. Despite her base in Aventura, she’s eager to make a name for herself in the Grove. I encouraged her to join the Chamber, emphasizing that, just like she met me, she would meet many others who could help her grow her network in this vibrant area. The Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce is more than just an organization; it’s a community where people come together to support one another’s growth. Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, the Chamber offers opportunities to connect, learn, and expand your horizons. This recent event was a reminder that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities. If you’re looking to expand your network within Coconut Grove, grow your business, or simply become more involved in the Grove, consider joining the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce. It’s a place where business meets community, and where you’ll find the support you need to succeed. Contact me at walvarez@miamibusiness.com for more information.
