Making time at Marie's shop

OAK HARBOR — Those representing the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce and the Ottawa County Improvement Corp. recently completed a business retention and expansion visit at Designs by Marie in Oak Harbor. Designs by Marie "offers an exceptional range of engraving and embroidery designs for promotional gear and products, shirts, sweaters, hats and more," according to a business statement. "Marie's shop is a wonderful example of the creativity, dedication and small-town pride that make our business community so special," according to a chamber statement. "During our visit, we had the opportunity to listen, learn about her business needs and successes and explore ways we can continue supporting her growth." Business retention and expansion visits "are an important way for us to connect directly with local businesses, celebrating what's going well, identifying challenges and ensuring our local entrepreneurs have the resources they need to thrive," the chamber noted. Local businesses can arrange for one of these visits, which are marketed as "friendly, informal conversations designed to support and strengthen our business community," the chamber stated. People can contact the chamber and/or corporation to schedule a visit. Contact information is available by visiting the: • Chamber's Facebook page at facebook.com/oakharborchamberofcommerce • Corporation's Facebook page at facebook.com/ottawacountyimprovementcorporation "Let's continue working together to keep Oak Harbor's business community strong," the chamber noted.