SML Business Expo

            Don’t mess with a good thing.

            That’s the position the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce is taking with its seventh annual SML Business Expo, which will take place April 30 from noon to 6 p.m. at Downtown Moneta.

            “Last year, we had 144 businesses participate and did not have a single complaint,” said Jim Shauberger, the chamber’s special events coordinator. “I’m not going to change a thing. It was such a success in every category.”

            In 2009, chamber organizers moved the Expo from a field at Downtown Moneta to the paved parking lot of Celebration Station across the street. The result was expanded space, better parking, level booth areas and, with four huge tents, decreased anxiety about the possibility of bad weather.

            The event, which takes place rain or shine, is free and open to the public. Shauberger estimated a similar number of businesses will be on hand at this year’s event with representatives demonstrating products, answering questions and handing out literature, samples and promotional items. They are not permitted to sell items.

            One of the most popular exhibits at last year’s Expo was the “Easy Living Cottage” erected on site by Southern Heritage Homes, a Rocky Mount-based builder of custom modular homes. Steady traffic passed through the 512-square-foot cottage throughout the day, said Mike Grisetti, construction supervisor for Southern Heritage Homes.

            “The response was phenomenal, better than we could have ever anticipated,” he said. “We tried to demonstrate our capabilities with high-end tile and cabinetry.”

            Grisetti estimated that last year’s Expo netted four jobs for Southern Heritage Homes.

            “We still have people calling and asking about [the cottage],” he said. “The overall branding of it was a huge success.”

            Shauberger agreed the Expo is a great opportunity for the SML community to see what companies at and around the lake have to offer.

            “Sometimes it’s a surprise for people to see what all is available locally,” he said.

            Those attending the Expo can also register for door prizes, which are donated by area businesses and awarded throughout the day. A food tent will be set up with hot dogs, chips and drinks available for purchase. Courtesy golf carts will also be available to shuttle people from parking areas at Mayberry Hills and Bethlehem United Methodist Church.