Letter from the ABA President

Let me begin by introducing you to the Applewood Business Association (ABA). We are a group of local business owners who take pride in our businesses and our local community. Applewood is a unique area nestled against the foothills in Jefferson County; otherwise known as the area where Wheat Ridge, Lakewood and Golden meet. Our primary focus is twofold – supporting the community of Applewood and supporting businesses that are located in, or choose to do business in, the Applewood area.

Established over 30 years ago, our association has seen a lot of changes throughout the years.  However, in recent years, the economic changes we have experienced have been some of the hardest to digest and have impacted almost every aspect of our community.  Many of our businesses have struggled to adjust to these challenges and in some cases, they’ve had to change the manner in which they have done business for so many years.  Many business owners have had to think outside the box and implement new marketing strategies in order to maintain their presence in our community.

The ABA is working hard to find ways to support our members during this time.  No matter how many changes our members face, we have found one constant throughout the years; for most businesses, the best marketing is word-of-mouth and referral marketing.  That’s where the ABA comes into play.

Everyone is encouraged and welcome to join the ABA.  We hold monthly membership meetings, business after-hours events and other special events throughout the year, like our annual golf tournament.  These events all promote interaction between our members, providing a great networking experience, in which members can reconnect with each other and introduce themselves and their businesses to our new members.

Additionally, we provide opportunities for our members to showcase their businesses throughout the year, to attend free or low-cost education seminars and participate in other events that will market, build and strengthen their businesses.  If you own a business in Applewood or are looking to do business in the area, I encourage you to check us out.  Attend one of our meeting or events, meet our members and experience the ABA.

I also encourage you to bookmark the ABA website:  www.applewoodbusiness.com.  There, you will find up-to-date details on upcoming events, member businesses, benefits of membership and much more. 
We hope you enjoy our annual publication and encourage you to think of the ABA the next time you need local services or products.  Wishing you health, happiness and prosperity throughout 2011.

Jennifer Williams
Applewood Business Association President