I could not wait to attend the Small Business Expo. I have come to realize that one of my passions is to fully embrace our local business owners and to continue to shop local. My
I could not wait to attend the Small Business Expo. I have come to realize that one of my passions is to fully embrace our local business owners and to continue to shop local. My mission upon attending this Expo was to find various Siouxland businesses to support.
The Venue
expressyourspaces.com 
kayak.com
I have never been to the Holiday Inn Express in North Sioux City, but I have heard that it is aesthetically and artistically pleasing, and I must agree. This facility does not feel like the Holiday Inns I’ve stayed in 10 years ago; this is modern and stylish. I was overly delighted with the hallway and room designs, as well as the quaint and relaxing patio.
I was not surprised with the 100s of vehicles parked outside, but I was surprised at how well prepared this event was. There were volunteers helping direct traffic, offering assistance, mingling with event-goers and speaking with the exhibitors. Overall, it was exceptionally inviting.
51 Exhibitors
Isagenix 
Aggies
With the 51 exhibitors welcoming conversation and interaction with future customers and clients, the atmosphere was energizing. In addition, this event was so different from the many I’ve attended the past two months. Surrounded by career-minded and successful locals, the ambiance of the environment was nothing short of professional.
Those who were attending were there for a specific reason, to find new and local companies to patron. It felt more like a community effort to back our fellow business men and women.
Linda Sue Manor
Louie’s Cleaning & Disaster Restoration
Out of all the people I met, there are three very different businesses I would like to focus on. The first is Louie’s Disaster Restoration (https://www.vermillioncarpetcleaning.com/) based out of Vermillion. I have been looking for a local establishment to help us resurface our hardwood floors. Many companies I’ve inquired about have a franchise associated with them, and it is not our intention to keep supporting large corporations. Our house was built in 1901 with all original floors and wood detailing. Preserving the stunning work and accomplishments in our historic home is our main focus; we are determined to bring it back to life.
Solve for Tech
Secondly, this Sioux City-based business I am excited to sit down with in the near future, Solve For Tech. I informed the owner that I own this blog, and he mentioned monetizing and advertising. He also expressed his IT services and web design. I would love to learn more about how I can promote my website, and gain followers.
Their business moto on their website (solvefortech.com) is “Today’s technology is complex and ever-changing. As a small business owner, you wear many hats – and you need to have the right systems in place to compete and grow. We work with you to design custom solutions that boost your productivity, simplify your processes, and strengthen your defenses.”
Siouxland Signs and Printing
Finally, I’m so pumped I found someone local who can make my business cards! Siouxland Signs and Printing (siouxlandsigns.com) not only will create banners and vehicle wraps, but also table clothes and flags, among many other services. Settling for online and/or big box stores is not an option for me. Being selective with whom you support is crucially important to strengthening our community.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I was very pleased with the format and structure of the Small Business Expo. A week night event, rather than an entire weekend endeavor is a nice change, and you get more attention from people who show direct and invested interest. I will definitely go again next year, to both meet new and existing small business owners and to socialize with clever and creative individuals.
Business cards and Brochures I picked up at the Expo