SmallBusinessNOLA after hours premier Business Networking plans reception

By Kelly Parker
Contributing Writer

There’s no denying the role social media plays in the success of small businesses, but Reuben DeTiege still believes in the power of the handshake.

DeTiege, a local radio and TV personality is bringing an outlet to local entrepreneurs to network the old-fashioned way.

The SmallBusinessNOLA After Hours Premier Business Network­ing Reception will be held at The Re­gency, 7300 Downman Rd., September 27 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The event, part of the Small­BusinessNOLA networking series, is Co-Hosted by State Farm Insurance Agent Ben Guillory, Sears East owner Walter Wilson, Capital 1Source & Victor Cornin, Halo Suites Day Spa & Tamika Kennedy, LDW Tax and Account­ing Services with LeKesiah Washington-Fleury, and a host of other local businesses.

Local nonprofit; The Dryades Street Entrepreneurial Develop­ment Center, Inc. will be recognized at Friday’s event.

The upcoming event is preceded by last’s months networking gathering, in late August; which featured 12 local businesses and recognized two local non-profits: The Cheffen Wilson Milton Foundation and YOUTHanasia Foundation, Inc. Over 15 local businesses will be on hand this time around.

“We are trying to create collaborations to inform and educate the consumers about products and services, using cost effective ways to challenge marketing obstacles,” DeTiege says. “I am bring people together who previously never met each other, now working together, offering free or low-cost events as a modern day marketplace for other businesses to network as a community service, helping small business work more effectively, in a positive environment.”

DeTiege says the feedback has been all positive; so much that events will be scheduled every month.

“We’re expanding to an outdoor (open bazaar) in October” he adds.

For more on how to have your business showcased or information on vendor booths for future events, contact (504) 201-2076, rdetiege@hotmail.com or visit facebook.com/Smallbusinessnola.

This article originally published in the September 23, 2013 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.