DarienChamberOnline.com

Promote Your Business

• New Chamber members are offered a complementary business description published in the monthly Chamber Bulletin

• New Member name and business description listed in the Monthly Chamber Bulletin, which reaches more than 325 members

• New Members are posted on the home page of the Chamber Web site for four weeks

• New Members get a free quarter-page ad in the Chamber Bulletin, and Free Hotlink

• Free Access to Members Only Online Resource Center  includes:  Member Annoucements, Promotions & Specials, Marketing Tool Kit, Business Brainstorm Blog

• *NEW* Members have an opportunity to host the Members-Only Brainstorming Blog for 1 month, which includes an introduction to their business and link to their website both on the blog as well as in an announcement email to registered Chamber members, in addition to initiation of an unlimited number of discussion topics throughout the month.

• *NEW* Members can participate in the Destination of Distinction Cardprogram for no charge.

• *NEW* Members will receive a “welcome new business” post and free listing on AllAboutDarien.com

• Chamber assisted Ribbon Cuttings can add “splash” your business entry into the community

Network & Education Opportunities

• Chamber member firms host informal monthly gatherings “After Hours Networking,” where businesses exchange ideas and create working relationships. We host Learning Lunches, and also have businesses or member organizations host Breakfast Workshops/Speakers where various business topics are addressed. Media Kits available to members.

Advertise

• Your business message is delivered to the homes of new Darien residents. The Chamber Member Directory & Business Resource Guide is delivered by New Neighbor & Town Greeter.
• Chamber publications: Monthly Bulletin inserts: $150 per issue (you supply us with 350 inserts)
• Free Menbers News Section
• Free Members Classified Section
• Ad on front page of bulletin, 5 ¾” wide, 3 ¾” tall $150

Semi-Annual Chamber News Letter Advertising Rates*:

• Business card $90
• 1/4 Page $150
• 1/2 Page $250
• Full Page $450
• Back Cover $600

*Quarterly circulation – 9,850 (all residences in Darien & Rowayton, plus all member and non-member businesses in Darien, distributed as an insert in the Darien News-Review.)

• SideWalk Sales & Family Fun Days 4-Color newspaper insert is a great summer opportunity to advertise.
• Labels: Buy the Chamber’s membership labels (total: 325): $150
• Web site: http//dcc.darien.org has more than 100,000 hits annually

Directory Listings

• Be listed alphabetically and by category at no charge in the Annual Darien Directory and Resource Guide, over 8000 copies printed at sent to all Darien homes & businesses and place ads that are seen all year long!.

Referrals

· Benefit from the hundreds of business referrals from the Chamber to its members via phone, e-mail and U.S. mail

Business Expos

· Exhibit your products/services and expand your client base at the Regional Business Networking Expo, held in March jointly with six area chambers of commerce.

Sponsorship

· Promote your business through sponsorship of the Chamber’s community events throughout the year, including our Golf Scholarship Tournament, Darien Scholarship Presentation, Wine Tasting and Auction, Traditional Town Tree Lighting & Santa Arrival , and Darien Side Walk Sales-Family Fun Days—possible Street Dance!

Darien Townwide Gift Certificate Program

· Attract more business and diversify your target audience through the Chamber’s successful and growing Darien Gift Certificate Program ($50 annual fee).

Online Directory and Hot Link

· Become part of the Darien Chamber of Commerce and list your email address if you choose and link to your Web site at no charge

Other Business Benefits

Insurance

· Take advantage of group rates available to Chamber members for medical, prescription drug, dental, auto and worker’s compensation and Health Savings accounts

Scholarships

· Take advantage the annual scholarship available only to Chamber members, member’s family, and member’s employees. Look on website for more info & application.

Certificate of Origin

· Certificate of Origin provided free of cost to members

Information Resource

· Use the Chamber as a source of information five days a week during business hours or 24/7 through http//dcc.darien.org

· Members have access to the U.S Chamber’s online Small Business Center atwww.uschamber.com/federation/partners

which contains 10,000+ pages of resources & toolkits, plus advocacy alerts

Local Government

· The chamber has a government liaison to work with town hall on business issues.

Corporate Discounts

· Many other discounts are available through our partnership with the U.S. Chamber Federation

What Is The Distinction Card?

The “Distinction Card” is a way to continuously reward you for shopping, dining and doing business in Darien. Supporting our local businesses helps ensure that Darien remains a healthy and vibrant community, and the Distinction Card is a way for both you, the shopper, and the participating local businesses to work together to make that happen.  (A Gift Certificate is a ONE TIME USE item and NOT the same as a Distinction Card.)

How Does It Work?

All you need to do to redeem your rewards is present the Distinction Card at your time of purchase to a participating business!

There will be a special section of AllAboutDarien.com that will list all participating Darien businesses and their Distinction Card offers, which will be growing and changing each month. Information about participating businesses will also be available on the Darien Chamber of Commerce website, and an email will go out to Cardholders every 3-months with an updated brochure.

Rewards for each participating business will vary: some might offer something free with purchase, others a straight discount on total purchase, and others a discount on a specific item or service … There will be a variety of ways to save with your Distinction Card.

Cards may be purchased Online or from: Darien Doughnut, Fairbanks Photo, Goldenberry Ltd. & LaGravinese Jewelers.

These cards can be used over & over during the calendar year—so these merchants are giving incentives that can help shoppers many times, yet are fiscally responsible for their business. Many people want the small shops to stay here in Darien, so we hope you give them your repeated business. MUST show card to receive reward offerings.

Along with the Darien Gift Certificate, The Distinction Card is THE hot new gift to give to teachers, coaches, or to yourself (you deserve it after all).

Happy Shopping!

 

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More Background On The Darien Chamber of Commerce

The Darien Chamber of Commerce has long been a central force in the commercial, civic, and social life of Darien, Connecticut. From its founding in the mid-20th century through successive decades of service and outreach, the Chamber has continuously evolved to meet the needs of its local business community and enhance the quality of life for residents. This article provides an in-depth look at the Chamber’s ownership, history, programs, awards, menus of benefits, goals, reviews, press coverage, community standing, and impact on Darien’s cultural and social fabric.

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Historical Roots and Mission

Founding and Ownership

Established in 1957 as an outgrowth of the Darien Merchants Association, the Darien Chamber of Commerce operates as a nonprofit business league. Its ownership is not private—it is managed by a Board of Directors and financed through member dues, sponsorships, and program revenues. This structure places emphasis on community oversight, transparency, and member involvement.

Mission and Goals

At its core, the Chamber’s mission is to support both the business community and the quality of life in Darien. Its stated goals include:

• Advocating for local businesses at municipal, state, and federal levels.

• Facilitating education and networking opportunities for members.

• Promoting Darien through marketing initiatives to prospective residents and businesses.

• Connecting community members and organizations for collaborative impact.

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Organization and Location

Headquarters

During the period highlighted, the Chamber’s offices were located at 10 Corbin Drive, Darien, CT. (Later, the Chamber moved to a different location, but this address represents its center of activities for the era covered.) Chamber staff, led by President Carol Wilder-Tamme in 2009–10, maintained regular business hours to interact with members, residents, and visitors.

Leadership

The Chamber is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors drawn from its membership, ensuring representation from a diverse array of industries, including hospitality, retail, financial services, and media.

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Membership, Benefits, and Programs

Who Joins?

Membership spans more than 250–325 businesses and organizations, including:

• Local retailers

• Restaurants

• Professional service providers

• Nonprofits, media outlets

• Town institutions

• Individual entrepreneurs and youth businesses

Membership Tiers and Dues

Annual membership dues are based on the size of the business:

• Sole proprietors: $250

• Businesses with 2–5 employees: $300

• Dues increase in tiers up to $900 for groups with up to 100 staff.

• Realtors, utilities, media, and nonprofits fall in special categories.

Core Member Benefits

Members enjoy a broad menu of benefits designed to foster growth, visibility, and support:

• Publicity: Complimentary business descriptions published in the Chamber Bulletin, which reaches all members.

• Featured Listings: New members are spotlighted on the homepage and in monthly publications.

• Advertising Opportunities: Members receive free and discounted ads in Chamber publications.

• Networking: After-Hours Networking events, Learning Lunches, Breakfast Workshops, and Business Expos.

• Physical Directory Listings: Alphabetical and category listings in the annual Darien Directory and Resource Guide, sent to thousands of homes and businesses.

• Referrals: The Chamber refers hundreds of business requests annually.

• Sponsorship: Businesses can sponsor major community events to boost their visibility.

• Corporate Discounts: Group rates for insurance plans (including medical, dental, auto), and other perks.

• Online Resources: Members-only access to marketing toolkits, blogs, classified sections, and more.

Example Programs

• Member businesses can host the “Members-Only Brainstorming Blog,” allowing them to introduce their brand and interact with the community.

• Ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new businesses, designed to welcome and generate publicity for launches.

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Local Impact: Events and Community Programs

Anchor Events

The Chamber sponsors or coordinates an array of events that draw community participation and media attention:

• Sidewalk Sale & Family Fun Days: A signature summer event featuring business discounts, entertainment, and family activities.

• Holiday Magic & Tree Lighting: Includes the arrival of Santa via the chimney and a stroll event to support holiday lights.

• Charity Wine Tasting & Auction: Fundraiser supporting local charities.

• Scholarship Awards: Two annual scholarships recognizing academic excellence and commitment to the local business community.

Examples and Specifics

• The Sidewalk Sale event includes newspaper inserts for participating businesses, enhancing their reach to thousands of households.

• The Holiday Magic event helps fund the town’s festive lighting and brings together residents for a themed celebration.

• Scholarship awards, open to high school seniors and college/graduate students with ties to Chamber member businesses, support young talent and connection to commerce.

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Signature Initiatives: Gift Certificates & Reward Programs

Darien Gift Certificate Program

Created to drive local spending, the Chamber’s “Darien Townwide Gift Certificate” program enables businesses to reach new audiences and encourages residents to shop locally. Participating businesses pay a modest annual fee and benefit from increased traffic via certificate redemptions.

Destination of Distinction Card

The innovative “Distinction Card” is a reusable rewards program supporting local shops and services. Cardholders present their cards at participating merchants for special offers, discounts, and gifts—helping keep consumer spending within Darien and building loyalty.

Program Mechanics

• Cards are sold at several local businesses and online.

• Offers vary monthly and are publicized via email updates and the Chamber website.

• Rewards are structured for repeat usage rather than single transactions, directly boosting regular custom for participants.

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Education, Networking, and Professional Development

Educational Forums

The Chamber organizes regular educational forums:

• “Learning Lunches” and breakfast speakers covering business strategy, marketing, legal updates, and technology.

• Member publications feature marketing tips, business advice, and legislative news affecting local commerce.

Regional Business Expo

A regional expo, co-hosted with six area chambers, enables local businesses to exhibit products/services, network, and build their client base.

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Advocacy and Government Liaison

A key function of the Chamber is its proactive role in government advocacy:

• Direct communication with Darien Town Hall, as well as state and federal offices.

• Updates to members on legislative changes affecting business, zoning, taxation, and commerce.

• Facilitation of member voices in local government decision-making.

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Press, Media Coverage, and Awards

Public Recognition

The Chamber receives positive press coverage for its community outreach, business leadership, and signature events. Award recipients—such as scholarship winners—are announced annually and recognized in local media, boosting profiles and public engagement.

Publications

• The Chamber’s monthly bulletin is widely circulated—reaching members and households across Darien and neighboring communities.

• The quarterly Chamber Newsletter is distributed to more than 9,800 recipients, including Darien and Rowayton residents as well as all local businesses.

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Cultural and Social Significance

Community Integration

The Chamber functions not only as a business promoter but as a town unifier. Its events bring together families, visitors, and diverse community groups. By supporting charities, hosting forums, and fostering joint civic activities, the Chamber reinforces Darien’s reputation for engagement, generosity, and high quality of life.

Economic Impact

With more than 100,000 website visits in some years, the Chamber serves as an essential resource hub for relocation, business information, employment opportunities, and civic news—helping position Darien as an attractive destination for both families and enterprises.

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Modernization and Technology

System Upgrades

Notably, the Chamber began a process of technological modernization in the late 2000s, moving away from legacy systems like FoxPro in favor of integrated, modern platforms. This transition improved communication efficiency and enhanced service delivery for members—a sign of the Chamber’s commitment to continuous improvement.

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Reviews and Testimonials

Positive Member Feedback

Members consistently describe the Chamber as an invaluable partner for business growth, networking, and community support. The Chamber’s programs, promotional opportunities, and government advocacy are frequently cited as key benefits.

Community Perspectives

Residents appreciate the Chamber’s efforts in organizing popular events and rewards programs, which bring vibrancy to local shops and sustain a “small town” atmosphere. Its scholarship awards and charitable activities help foster community pride.

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Lasting Legacy and Future Directions

The Darien Chamber of Commerce, as seen during the 2009–2010 period, exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and commitment to service. Its combination of business advocacy, community leadership, educational programming, and cultural events blend seamlessly into the fabric of Darien, making it a vital force in town life.

Moving forward, the Chamber remains poised to address the evolving needs of its membership, maintain strong community ties, and underscore Darien’s reputation as one of Connecticut’s most desirable places to live, work, and do business.

 

DarienChamberOnline.com