News
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Alicia Watts as Member Engagement Director
FOLEY, Ala. – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Alicia Watts has joined the Chamber team as its new Member Engagement Director. In this role, Alicia will focus on all aspects of Chamber membership, including recruiting new members and strengthening relationships with existing investors and partners. She will lead efforts to cultivate and grow meaningful connections that ensure members are engaged, informed, and receiving maximum value from their Chamber investment. Alicia
A New Chapter: Legacy Books Relocates to Summerdale
February 19, 2026 | Summerdale, AL — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce gathered with local community leaders and friends to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting for Legacy Books in Summerdale! For decades, Legacy Books, a beloved family-owned used bookstore with deep generational roots, has been a destination for book lovers, offering an ever-expanding inventory of gently used books spanning fiction, non-fiction, classics, and more — all curated with the same passion and commitment that only
Cobblestone Hotel & Suites Hosts January Business After Hours for South Baldwin Chamber
FOLEY, Ala. — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce launched the new year with a successful January Business After Hours, hosted by Cobblestone Hotel & Suites in Foley. Chamber members and local professionals gathered for an evening of networking, entertainment, and exceptional hospitality. Guests enjoyed delicious catering from Chick & Sea of Foley, complemented by sweet treats from a local bakery and a selection of wine & beer. Live entertainment from Montgomery Highway added energy to the evening,
Dress to Impress: Coastal Camellia Formal Wear Opens New Location in Foley
Foley, AL | February 18, 2026 — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce gathered with local community leaders and members to celebrate the new location of Coastal Camellia Formal Wear & Pageant Company! Now located in south Foley along the Highway 59 corridor, the expanded storefront offers a much bigger and brighter shopping experience with convenient access for customers from Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and across Baldwin County. Coastal Camellia is known for its stunning and extensive selection of
Where Compassion Meets Hope: Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation Cuts Ribbon in Daphne
February 10, 2026 | Daphne, AL — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce recently joined Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation for a joint ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the organization’s newly dedicated entrance and space inside Southern Cancer Center of Daphne. Chamber leadership, members, supporters, and community partners gathered to mark this important milestone and show their support for the Foundation’s continued growth and service to the community. Anchor
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and Foundation Announce 2026 Boards of Directors
Foley, Ala. — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation proudly announce their respective 2026 Boards of Directors, recognizing a distinguished group of community and business leaders who will guide the organizations in the year ahead. The Chamber and Foundation also extend sincere appreciation to board members completing their terms, whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on South Baldwin County. Service on a Board of Directors is both an honor and a
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 SBs Award Winners
Honoring Leadership, Service, and Success Across South BaldwinFoley, AL (Jan 30, 2026) — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce proudly announced the 2025 award recipients during The SBs, an elevated evening dedicated to celebrating the individuals, businesses, and organizations that exemplify the very best of South Baldwin. The SBs brought together Chamber members, community leaders, elected officials, and business professionals for a night of meaningful recognition, elevated dining, live music, and
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Announces New Team Member and Expanded Leadership Role Supporting Foundation and Workforce Priorities
Foley, AL (January 2026) — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of a new team member and an expanded leadership role within its Chamber and Foundation. These staff updates reflect the Chamber’s continued commitment to strengthening the local economy while advancing programs and partnerships that support local business, education, leadership development, and long-term workforce growth across South Baldwin County. Christy Bledsoe Joins as Programs & Development
Leadership Series Luncheon Highlights Foley’s Growth and Future with Mayor Ralph Hellmich
December 16, 2025 | Foley, AL – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted another impactful Leadership Series luncheon today at the Foley Civic Center, welcoming business leaders, nonprofit partners, and community stakeholders from across South Baldwin. The event featured Mayor Ralph Hellmich of the City of Foley as the guest speaker, who delivered a comprehensive State of the City update outlining Foley’s continued growth, strategic investments, and future priorities. The luncheon was catered by
Business After Hours: December 2025 Recap
Hosted by Tropic Falls at OWA Parks & Resort – Foley, Alabama The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce closed out the year with an unforgettable December Business After Hours, hosted by Tropic Falls at OWA Parks & Resort. With an incredible indoor waterpark backdrop and a festive atmosphere, members enjoyed one of our most unique and memorable networking nights of the year. Attendance was strong, and guests took full advantage of the opportunity to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the close of another
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Leadership Series Welcomed Beth Gendler, President & CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
FOLEY, AL – November 13, 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted another impactful Leadership Series luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, featuring guest speaker Beth Gendler, President & CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. Presented by Vulcan Inc., the event brought together Chamber members and community partners for an in-depth look at tourism trends and the economic outlook for Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Gendler shared highlights from her “Facts, Figures & Forecast” presentation, offering
Steps, Smiles & Sunshine: Magnolia Run 2025 Brings Community Together in Magnolia Springs
November 8, 2025 | Magnolia Springs, AL — On a beautiful morning in Magnolia Springs, the streets came alive as nearly 300 runners, walkers, and their four-legged companions gathered for the 2025 Magnolia Run! From the first step off the starting line, the energy was contagious—friends, families, and neighbors cheered each other on as participants navigated the USATF-certified 5K course lined with majestic oak trees, blooming azaleas, and historic homes. Dozens of spirited runners also took part in the
An Elegant Evening Under the Lights: 2025 Chicago Street Supper Club a Resounding Success
Celebrating local flavor, community spirit, and Southern hospitality—A farm-to-table celebration! Foley, Ala. — The 2025 Chicago Street Supper Club Dinner, presented by The Law Offices of Brenton C. McWilliams, was another unforgettable evening of fine dining, wine pairings, and community connection in Downtown Foley. Held Friday, October 17, 2025, along Chicago Street at Heritage Park, guests enjoyed a perfect autumn evening beneath the lights, surrounded by elegant décor, delicious cuisine, and a warm,
SBCC Leadership Series Featured Rick Clark, Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer of the Alabama Port Authority
FOLEY, AL – October 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its October Leadership Series luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, welcoming Rick Clark, Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer of the Alabama Port Authority, as the featured guest speaker. Presented by Vulcan Inc., the luncheon brought business leaders together for a detailed look into the growth, modernization, and statewide economic influence of the Port of Mobile. Clark shared a compelling overview of the Port Authority’s
Steve Bailey Named 2025 Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year
Foley, AL – September 19, 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Steve Bailey as the 2025 Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year. Presented by Riviera Utilities, this prestigious award honors individuals who demonstrate the true spirit of American free enterprise. Since 1976, the award has recognized leaders who embody innovation, entrepreneurship, and an unwavering commitment to their community.Steve Bailey accepting the 2025 Walton M. Vines Person of the Year award
SBCC Leadership Series Highlights Gulf Shores International Airport
FOLEY, AL – September 16, 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its latest Leadership Series luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, featuring an engaging presentation by Jesse Fosnaugh, A.A.E, ACE, MBA, Airport Director for Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF). The event, presented by Vulcan Inc. and catered by Down South BBQ, drew a strong crowd of business leaders, students, and community members eager to learn about the airport’s progress and regional impact. Mr. Fosnaugh delivered a
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Raising a Glass to Community: Inaugural Town Toast Held in Magnolia Springs
The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the successful launch of our brand-new community series, Town Toast—and what a wonderful beginning it was!See photos & videos here! On a warm Southern evening in Magnolia Springs, neighbors, business owners, and community leaders gathered for the inaugural Town Toast event, hosted at The Occasional Wife Estate Store, one of the Chamber’s newest members. The atmosphere was full of energy and hometown pride as attendees mingled, made new
ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship Shares Updates at South Baldwin Chamber Leadership Series
As part of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s ongoing Leadership Series, members and guests recently welcomed Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Commissioner Chris Blankenship for an engaging and informative luncheon presentation. Commissioner Blankenship highlighted the vital connection between Alabama’s environmental health and its economic future. Emphasizing the theme that economic prosperity cannot exist without environmental prosperity, he outlined how the state
Patching the Cracks: How Smart Businesses Uncover and Reinforce Their Weakest Links
When a business starts to wobble, the cause isn’t usually some dramatic implosion. More often, the issue lies in overlooked details, everyday inefficiencies, and subtle cracks that widen over time. Recognizing and strengthening operational and financial vulnerabilities isn’t just a maintenance task—it’s a survival skill. Rather than waiting for the warning signs to scream, businesses that stay proactive put systems in place that help them listen while the whispers are still faint. The Pain of Familiar
How Small Business Packaging Becomes Part of the Story
The thrill of opening something thoughtfully packed never really wears off. Maybe it’s the crackle of tissue paper or the way a label peels back cleanly, like someone meant for it to be savored. For small business owners, this moment is more than just logistics. It’s a quiet opportunity to speak directly to a customer, to reinforce the heart behind the brand without saying a word. When you get it right, packaging stops being just a shell—it becomes part of the experience. Let Texture Do the
Rebuilding Your Small Business: Fresh Strategies for a New Chapter
Running a small business is a little like sailing a boat—you adjust to the wind, weather unexpected storms, and sometimes, after a particularly rough patch, you find yourself needing to rebuild. Maybe you took a hit from an economic downturn, lost a key client, or had to pivot your model entirely. Whatever the reason, starting fresh isn’t just about survival; it’s about coming back stronger. So let’s talk about how to do that in a way that doesn’t just patch the holes but actually strengthens the entire
Leadership Series Luncheon Spotlights AI’s Impact on Alabama’s Economy
The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s recent Leadership Series Luncheon featured an insightful presentation by Kai Gray, Executive Director of Lower Alabama AI, on the economic impact and opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI) in Alabama. Gray emphasized how AI is reshaping industries, driving efficiency, and creating new workforce demands.See Event Photos Here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjC64GU Alabama currently ranks in the lower third of U.S. states for AI readiness, with a composite score of
The Small Business Playbook for Digital Transformation
Let’s get real—digital transformation isn’t just a trendy phrase that big corporations throw around in shareholder meetings. If you’re running a small business, you already know that staying competitive means being nimble, adaptive, and, frankly, a little scrappy. But going digital doesn’t have to mean throwing money at shiny new tech or reinventing your entire operation overnight. It’s about smart, intentional shifts that make your business run smoother, keep customers engaged, and ultimately boost your
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Partners with Excelerate America to Offer Exclusive Member Discounts
The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Excelerate America to provide our members with exclusive discounts on office supplies, FedEx shipping services, and Dell products. This collaboration is designed to support our local businesses by reducing operational costs and enhancing access to essential services. Office Supplies Discounts Members can enjoy savings of up to 55% on over 400 items, including office supplies, furniture, cleaning, and breakroom
Renovated 1925 Foley building becomes chamber office
May 24th, 2023 | City of Foley News FOLEY – A 97-year-old building that survived proposals to tear it down is now the office of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce after being donated to the organization by the city of Foley. The chamber held an open house Monday, May 22 to display the renovations made to the 5,600 square-foot building. The two-story Mission Revival style structure was built on North Alston Street in 1925. It was the Foley Masonic Lodge for about 50 years. In 2002, the city of Foley
