Sometimes after a day at work, it’s nice to unwind and relax with friends, grab a bite to eat, and maybe listen to some music.

Local business owners and professionals got the perfect chance to do all that recently with a special Business After Hours event sponsored by the Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s just a good opportunity for those who can’t make it to the monthly breakfasts but maybe they have some time after work to come and network,” Chamber Director Tonya Stevens said. “It’s a good time to stop, relax a bit, and talk with other business professionals.”

The Chamber has hosted After Hours events in the past and plans to work with Chamber members for future events.

“We’re always open to our members hosting an after hours event,” Stevens said.

Doe River Printing and the Elizabethton Elks Lodge, both of which are Chamber members, teamed up for the Buiness After Hours event on August 29. The Elks Lodge hosted the event at their facility and attendees were treated to a relaxing evening on the bank of the Watauga River.

Those attending gathered under the picnic pavilion to grab a bite to eat or strolled through the yard meeting and talking to people. Music was playing from the back porch of the Elks Lodge and laughter filled the air as people mingled.

Leave It To Us Cake & Catering provided the food for the event with a wide variety of menu items to choose from. Attendees were given a gift tote from the sponsors and were treated to chair massages from a local massage therapist. Several door prizes were also given out to those who registered for the drawing.

More than 70 local business representatives attended the event, which Stevens said was a good turnout.

During the event, Elks Lodge President Jacklyn Morris had the chance to speak with those attending about the Lodge and the work it does in the community. Doe Valley Printing owner Anita Remme had some of the items available through her business on display and spoke with attendees regarding what Doe Valley Printing has to offer.

“It’s a win-win for everyone,” Stevens said. “You get a chance to relax and network with local business professionals in a laid back environment, and the hosts get to showcase their organization.”