The Mad River Valley Village

Breaking Down the Barriers to International Travel to the MRV
2025-11-19 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Breaking Down the Barriers to International Travel
A roundtable discussion with International travel expert Kerrie Tripp, the Director of Products & Sales Discover New England facilitated by Sara DiFilippi, the Director of Partnerships and Community Engagement for the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing. Kerrie wants to learn more about the Mad River Valley and share international opportunities for our community

When
Wednesday November 19 at 10 am.
Venue
The roundtable will be held at the Mad River Valley Welcome Center on Wednesday. located at9 VT Route 17 in Waitsfield. There will be a remote option for those that can’t make it in person but it’s worth coming because there will be last refreshments and coffee!

MRV Chamber Marketing Workshop
2025-12-09 09:30 - 10:30 | Remote, United States
The next of our monthly Marketing workshops will take place on Tuesday August 12th at 9:30 am. The month the plan is to “Put a Social Media Manager on the Hot Seat”. This will be your opportunity to ask professional media marketing consultant, Brittany Winfield, any questions you have regarding social media, email and web design. No need to register in advance for ththis remote meeting. Here is the meeting access info:
Join with Google Meet:
https://meet.google.com/hmt-dvim-cvg
PIN: [REDACTED]#
Or dial: (US) +1 336-864-0746
View all the previous workshops on the Marketing Resources Playlist on MRV’s Chamber’s YouTube Channel. In addition, each workshop has an E-Book to document the workshop. Workshops are held on the second Tuesday of each month.

Monthly Marketing Workshop
2025-12-09 09:30 - 10:30, 2026-01-13 09:30 - 10:30, 2026-02-10 09:30 - 10:30 | Remote, United States
Monthly Marketing Workshops
Level up your marketing game—one month at a time. As a Mad River Valley Chamber member, you have access to a unique resource designed to give your business a competitive edge: Monthly Marketing Workshops. These sessions are practical, approachable, and packed with tools you can use right away to grow your business. What to Expect Held on the second Tuesday of every month at 9:30 AM, our workshops cover the full spectrum of marketing, including: Social media strategy & content creation Email marketing campaigns Website design and optimization tips Creative branding approaches Real-time Q&A to tackle your unique challenges
Led by Brittany Winfield, Chief Inspiration Officer of The Winfield Creative, these workshops are built to spark new ideas and give you actionable next steps. With over 10 years of marketing experience, an MBA from Champlain College, and a passion for helping businesses shine online, Brittany brings both expertise and energy to every session. Easy to Join No registration required—just drop in and join the conversation:
Join via Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/hmt-dvim-cvg
Call-in PIN: [REDACTED]#
Missed a session? No problem. Every workshop is recorded and archived on our YouTube Marketing Playlist for on-demand viewing. You’ll also find downloadable E-Books that make it easy to reference key insights anytime.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about marketing tips—it’s about building a culture of collaboration and community. Thanks to our partnership with Brittany, the Chamber is also: Hosting a monthly consultation with our various Sector Groups to align efforts. Providing business owner trainings that strengthen the Valley’s collective marketing power. Developing a tracking system to evaluate and improve results over time. The Monthly Marketing Workshops are a powerful member benefit and a great example of how the MRV Chamber is stepping up to give local businesses the tools they need to thrive.

Third Annual Waitsfield Holiday Walkabout Weekend!
2025-12-13 12:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-14 12:00 - 16:00 | Unnamed Venue, United States
It’s the 3rd Annual Waitsfield Holiday Walkabout Weekend!
Indulge in the joy of the holidays, as shops in the Mad River Valley welcome everyone for two days of holiday treats, free activities for children, and music of the season.
Join us as we celebrate this time of light and giving!
Saturday, Dec. 13th from 12p – 4p
**Holiday & Seasonal treats from Three Mountain Cafe
**Live Holiday Music at Willow and Birch
**Write letters to Santa and Crafts at Inklings Children’s Books
**Candy Canes at Whippletree Designs
**Cookie Decorating at Joslin Memorial Library, 1pm – 3pm
**Mad River Mentoring’s Soup with Santa at Village Meeting House, 11am – 2pm
**Macaron Tasting, Free Wine Tasting, Sausage Rolls & More from 5th Quarter.
**Holiday Read Alouds and Activities at Early Literacy Labs, 12:30P – 3:30P
**Blow your own Glass ornaments at Salt & Sand Studios
**Snacks & Sips at Someday Boutique
Sunday, Dec. 14th from 12p – 4p
**Holiday & Seasonal treats from Three Mountain Cafe
**Candy Canes at Whippletree Designs
**S’more Storytime outside of Inklings Children’s Books
**Peppermint Tea, Wellness Chats, & Gift Cards at Drip Culture
**Live music with Madigan Linnane, outside of Inklings at 12:30pm
**Hot cider at Product Think Tank
**$5 and $10 Grab Bags at The Collection

MRV Chamber Board Meeting
2025-12-16 15:00 - 16:30, 2026-02-17 15:00 - 16:30 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
The Mad River of Valley Chamber of Commerce board meets every other month throughout the year. All chamber members in good standing are encouraged to attend board meetings.
Executive Committee

Sean Kramer – Chair, – 1824 House Inn
Anna Nasset– Vice-Chair, Executive Committee – Stand Up Resources
Mimi Buttenheim– Treasurer; Executive Committee – Mad River Distillers
Mary Tuthill – Secretary; Executive Committee – Cabot Creamery

Board Members

Jean Wry– Hyde Away Inn
Sam Robertson – The Local
John Bleh – Sugarbush
Ed Read – Mad River Property Management
Matt Lillard – Mad River Glen
Roger Nishi – -Waitsfield & Champlain Valley Telecom
Aron Shea – Shea Property Services

MRV Chamber Mad Mingle – Cousin’s Brewing & Welcome Center
2025-12-29 08:00 - 17:00
Mark your calendar! Our next Mad River Valley Chamber Mad Mingle Mixer is coming up on Thursday, January 15, from 5–7 PM, and it’s a two-location happening at Cousin’s Brewing Company and the MRV Chamber Welcome Center — and we’d love to see you there.
It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with fellow business owners and colleagues after the busy holiday season. Come enjoy great company, tasty snacks, and a sampling of Cousin’s Brewing Company’s latest offerings, all while catching up with familiar faces and meeting some new ones from around the Valley.
Please RSVP by January 9 so we can roll out the welcome mat. Just send a quick email to info@madrivervalley.comand let us know who’ll be joining us from your business.
As always, Mad Mingle Mixers are about keeping things fun, easy, and focused on the connections that make our community so special. We hope you can join us — it won’t be the same without you!
Warmly,

Clearing The Smoke – Fire & Safety Roundtable
2026-01-07 14:00 - 15:30 | Yestermorrow Design/Build School, 7865 Main Street, Waitsfield, 05673
Safety is always the top priority for Mad River Valley businesses—and for good reason. Business owners care deeply about the well-being of their guests, employees, and neighbors. At the same time, understanding and navigating fire and life safety rules can be challenging. Codes are complex, interpretations can vary, and it’s not always clear what is required, what is recommended, and how best to plan for compliance in a way that is both safe and sustainable.
In an effort to “clear up the smoke,” the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Fire & Life Safety Roundtable on:
📅 Wednesday, January 7🕞 3:30–5:00 pm📍 Yestermorrow Design/Build School Campus
This roundtable is designed to create an open, respectful, and informative conversation between business owners and state public safety officials—focused on clarity, consistency, and shared goals.
Featured Speakers
The discussion will feature:

Landon A. Wheeler, Deputy DirectorVermont Department of Public Safety – Division of Fire Safety

Ben Moffatt, Regional ManagerWaterbury Regional Office, Department of Public Safety

The conversation will be moderated by Eric Friedman, Executive Director of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce.
What We’ll Be Talking About
Across the Mad River Valley, businesses of all sizes—inns, restaurants, lodges, contractors and property managers—are navigating how best to meet safety standards while remaining financially viable and operationally stable. This roundtable is not about blame or complaints; it’s about understanding, communication, and problem-solving.
Topics we hope to explore together include:

Understanding the codesHow fire and life safety regulations are structured, what they’re intended to accomplish, and how they are applied in real-world settings.

Clarity around expectationsHow inspections work, what business owners should expect during and after an inspection, and how to interpret findings and next steps.

Consistency and continuityHow inspections may differ over time or between inspectors, and how businesses can better plan for long-term compliance.

Practical pathways to complianceDiscussing approaches that prioritize safety while recognizing the realities of historic buildings, small-scale operations, and seasonal businesses.

Preserving what makes Vermont specialExploring how safety upgrades can coexist with the historic, rustic character that defines many Mad River Valley properties and attracts visitors.

Creating a level playing fieldUnderstanding how safety oversight applies across different types of lodging and visitor accommodations.

Why This Matters
A strong Mad River Valley depends on businesses that are safe, resilient, and able to thrive. When rules are clearly understood and applied consistently, business owners can plan ahead, make smart investments, and focus on delivering great experiences to residents and visitors alike.
This roundtable is an opportunity to ask questions, hear directly from state officials, and build a shared understanding that supports public safety, business sustainability, and the long-term health of our local economy.
We encourage business owners, property managers, and anyone navigating fire and life safety regulations to attend and take part in this important conversation.
Let’s clear up the smoke—together.

Mad Mingle Chamber Mixer
2026-01-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Cousin’s Brewing Comopany, Rt 100/Rt 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
John Morris, brewmaster at Cousin’s Brewing Co.

Mark your calendar! Our next Mad River Valley Chamber Mad Mingle Mixer is coming up on Thursday, January 15, from 5–7 PM, and it’s a two-location happening at Cousin’s Brewing Company and the MRV Chamber Welcome Center — and we’d love to see you there.
It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with fellow business owners and colleagues after the busy holiday season. Come enjoy great company, tasty snacks, and a sampling of Cousin’s Brewing Company’s latest offerings, all while catching up with familiar faces and meeting some new ones from around the Valley.
Please RSVP by January 9 so we can roll out the welcome mat. Just send a quick email to info@madrivervalley.comand let us know who’ll be joining us from your business.
As always, Mad Mingle Mixers are about keeping things fun, easy, and focused on the connections that make our community so special. We hope you can join us — it won’t be the same without you!
Warmly,

MRV Chamber Board Meeting
2026-01-20 15:00 - 17:00 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
The Mad River of Valley Chamber of Commerce board meets every other month throughout the year. All chamber members in good standing are encouraged to attend board meetings.
Executive Committee

Sean Kramer – Chair, – 1824 House Inn
Anna Nasset– Vice-Chair, Executive Committee – Stand Up Resources
Mimi Buttenheim– Treasurer; Executive Committee – Mad River Distillers
Mary Tuthill – Secretary; Executive Committee – Cabot Creamery

Board Members

Kim Donahue– Inn at the Round barn Farm
Susan Edwards – Waitsfield Wash Company
John Bleh – Sugarbush
Ed Read – Mad River Property Management
Matt Lillard – Mad River Glen
Roger Nishi – -Waitsfield & Champlain Valley Telecom
Aron Shea – Shea Property Services

STAND UP FOR SAFETY WORKSHOPS
2026-01-22 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-04-07 10:00 - 11:00 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
In the Mad River Valley, we believe that everyone — whether they live here, work here, or visit — deserves to feel safe. To support that vision the chamber’s is launching a new series of Stand Up for Safety workshops designed to help hospitality workers recognize and respond to situations that may threaten the safety or well-being of themselves, their co-workers, or their guests.
These interactive sessions will equip front-line staff with practical tools to:

Recognize signs of harm, harassment, or exploitation
Respond appropriately and safely when concerns arise
Connect individuals in need with the right support services

The workshops are approachable, hands-on, and rooted in real-world hospitality settings — from restaurants and inns to shops and recreation businesses. While the curriculum is still being finalized, the goal is clear: to ensure the Mad River Valley remains a safe and welcoming place for all. The workshops are organized and facilitated by Anna Nassset Consulting.
Upcoming Workshops will all take place at the MRV Chamber Welcome Center

January 22 – 10-11 am: Understanding DV, HT, and Stalking
Explore how to identify and respond to domestic violence, human trafficking, and stalking in both customers and co-workers, and learn about available local and national resources.
April 7- 10-11 am: Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Learn to recognize early warning signs of sexual assault, how to respond to disclosures, and how to connect survivors with resources and support.
August 5 – 10-11 am: Workplace Culture
Discover how to build a supportive workplace culture where all employees feel safe and valued, through stories, exercises, and practical leadership strategies.
Back in October 22 GBV Bystander Training was offered
We learned the basics of gender-based violence prevention, including the 4D’s of bystander intervention, and how to empower yourself and others to make a difference.

A Community Commitment
“Hospitality is the backbone of the Mad River Valley’s economy and culture,” said Eric Friedman, Executive Director of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce. “By giving our front-line staff the tools and confidence to recognize and respond to difficult situations, we’re not just protecting individuals — we’re strengthening the fabric of our community and ensuring the Valley remains a safe, welcoming place for everyone.”
About Stand Up for Safety
A collaboration between local businesses, resorts, and organizations committed to standing up to gender-based violence and fostering a culture of care in the Mad River Valley.
For more information about the workshops, or to learn how your business can get involved, please contact info@madriverrvalley.com and/or visit www.madrivervalley.com/stand-up-for-safety

MRV Chamber Board Meeting
2026-03-10 15:00 - 16:30, 2026-05-13 15:00 - 16:30 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
The Mad River of Valley Chamber of Commerce board meets every other month throughout the year. All chamber members in good standing are encouraged to attend board meetings. You can reach out to the board’s group email to: board@madrivervalley.com.
Executive Committee

Sean Kramer – Chair, – 1824 House Inn
Anna Nasset– Vice-Chair, Executive Committee – Stand Up Resources
Mimi Buttenheim– Treasurer; Executive Committee – Mad River Distillers
Mary Tuthill – Secretary; Executive Committee – Cabot Creamery

Board Members

Jean Wry– Hyde Away Inn
Sam Robertson – The Local
John Bleh – Sugarbush Resort
Ed Read – Mad River Property Management
Matt Lillard – Mad River Glen
Roger Nishi – -Waitsfield & Champlain Valley Telecom
Aron Shea – Shea Property Services

MRV Women in Business – Social Media Workshop
2026-03-12 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-14 17:00 - 19:00 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
These bi-monthly workshops are a place to have an open conversation about social media, what is working for everyone, what isn’t, what do you need help with? The MRV Chamber’s MRV Women in Business group decided to host these bi-monthly Social Media Workshops in the months in between the more structured MRV Women in Business Meetings. It is meant to be an open, collaborative brainstorming session designed to help you feel a little more prepared the next time you create a post or reel.
Let’s be honest, social media can feel overwhelming.
What do you post?
Should you use trending sounds?
Do captions really matter?
What makes a strong hook?
Why should people follow your page? Is your SEO set up?
This workshop is a space to come together and talk all things social. We’ll brainstorm content ideas, discuss what’s actually working right now, explore collaborations, and share experiences. The goal? You leave feeling inspired and ready to create a few new posts for your page. We will share hook ideas, trending sound ideas, adding words to the screen, adding captions, and anything else you would like to cover. The event is hosted by Samantha Ciccone, the coordinator of the MRV Women in Business Group.
Please feel free to BYOB if you’d like to sip while we brainstorm, and you’re welcome to grab snacks from Peace Burger across the street or from your favorite local spot.

MRV Chamber Short Term Rental Collaborative Meeting
2026-03-13 08:00 - 17:00
Short-Term Rentals Are Here to Stay – Make Sure Your Voice Shapes the Future of the MRV Visitor Economy
Join the MRV Chamber’s new Short-Term Rental Collaborative to connect with fellow hosts, share perspectives, and help guide the Valley’s tourism future.

When: Wednesday April 22 at 7-8 pm
Where: MRV Chamber Welcome Center
In-Person & Remote Option
An Initial Informational Meeting
Over the past decade, the lodging landscape in the Mad River Valley has changed dramatically. Traditional inns, hotels, and lodges have gradually declined, while short-term rentals (STRs) now make up a significant portion of the Valley’s visitor bed base.
At the same time, municipalities are actively discussing housing pressures, STR regulations, and how to balance tourism with community needs. These shifts have created both opportunities and tensions, and it’s more important than ever that the STR sector engages constructively in shaping the Valley’s visitor economy.
The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce is convening an initial meeting to begin building a collaborative table for dialogue and action.
Why This Conversation Matters
For decades, traditional lodging properties carried much of the responsibility for promoting the Valley as a visitor destination. STRs are now an established and growing part of that lodging mix — a fact of life in today’s tourism economy.
As STRs continue to grow, it is vital that this sector pulls its weight in promoting the Valley, helping share the responsibility for sustaining the visitor economy and supporting local businesses that depend on tourism.
Local municipalities are also paying close attention to housing, STR regulations, and community impacts. The most effective way for STR owners and dependent businesses to have a voice in these discussions is to organize, communicate openly, and engage collaboratively. Participating now ensures your perspectives help shape the future.
Learn more about the STR issue in the MRV – the Mad River Valley Planning District created a Short Term Rentals in the MRV White Paper. Created in 2021 it is somewhat dated but the main pertinent facts remain mostly unchanged.

Coffee With an Advisor
2026-03-25 09:00 - 10:30, 2026-05-20 09:00 - 10:30 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Life is full of questions, and money is no different. Sometimes you just want to ask something. Bring or pour a cup of your favorite warm beverage, and join me at the Mad River Valley Welcome Center. Come as you are. All are welcome. And every question counts—simple, complex, or somewhere in between. It’s a relaxed, open conversation about money, planning, and whatever’s on your mind. Kassie Reid from Greenhill Financial Planners will be on hand to chat.
Each quarter we’ll have a different theme to get the conversation going;

March: A Fresh StartPour a cup and bring your thoughts and curiosities. The start of the year is a natural time to evaluate your goals and priorities, capture momentum, and plan for the year ahead. This space is designed to welcome everyone, whether your questions feel simple, complicated, or somewhere in between. It’s a relaxed, open conversation about money, planning, and whatever’s on your mind.

May: Summer PauseLonger days and shifting routines can make this time of year feel both energizing and full, so before summer sweeps you away, take a moment to pause. Bring whatever’s on your mind—upcoming plans, changing expenses, or simply a question you’ve been meaning to ask. This is a relaxed, welcoming space to reflect, recalibrate, and talk through money decisions in a way that feels grounded and practical. Come as you are and join the conversation.

August: Fall TransitionsAs the seasons shift, so do routines and priorities. Settle in with something warm and join an open conversation about what this transition might bring—new schedules, business cycles, evolving goals, or unexpected change. We could explore how these shifts connect to your financial life, from cash flow to longer-term direction, or wherever the discussion naturally leads. Bring your questions and curiosity.

November: Year’s EndAs the year winds down, it’s a natural time to reflect on what’s unfolded and consider what comes next. Gather your thoughts and join the conversation around year-end considerations—from giving and tax planning to tying up loose ends or preparing for January. This is a supportive place to organize your reflections, acknowledge progress, and make intentional decisions before the calendar turns. Wherever you’re at, you’re welcome at the table.

MRV Women in Business Meeting
2026-04-09 17:30 | The Featherbed Inn, Waitsfield, VT, 5864 Main St, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Overview
Let’s dive into the Vermont Small Business Development Center resources for existing businesses and the process of working with your own free Business Advisor. Join us for an informative session with the Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC), designed for existing Vermont businesses looking to grow, adapt, or strengthen their operations. During this event, VtSBDC will highlight the wide range of free resources available to business owners, including how to work one-on-one with your own free and confidential Business Advisor. Attendees will learn what the advising process looks like and how personalized guidance can support business goals at every stage. Register Today!
They will also share stories of women-owned businesses from across Vermont, offering real local examples of how local entrepreneurs have navigated challenges and found success with the support of VtSBDC. In addition, they will share information on how existing Vermont businesses can access free legal resources, helping owners better understand and manage legal considerations

MRV Women in Business Social Media Workshop
2026-05-14 17:00 - 19:00 | MRV Chamber Welcome Center, 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT, 05673, United States
Social Media Workshop with Brittany Winfield & Kaylee Mumford is an open conversation workshop where we talk about social media with guest speakers from The Winfield Creative & Pink Lens Creative. Join the Mad River Valley Women in Business for a conversation circle on short-form video content and how to create social media videos that feel authentic, strategic, and true to your brand. We’ll explore why personality-driven content is such a powerful tool for building trust, credibility, and top-of-mind visibility, plus share approachable tips for feeling more confident on camera. You’ll leave with guidance on planning your videos with intention, subtle ways to improve before hitting record, and beginner-friendly tips on lighting and editing apps to help you get started.

Hosted by Samantha Ciccone, host of Women in Business.
This event is intentionally different from our traditional Women in Business meetings, it’s casual, creative, and interactive. Feel free to BYOB if you’d like to sip while we brainstorm, and you’re welcome to grab snacks from Peace Burger across the street or from your favorite local spot.
Questions? Email Samantha at wibadmin@madrivervalley.com
