ON THE morning of Dec. 16, 2025, in Tullahoma, chamber members trickled in with coffee cups in hand, greeting friends and introducing themselves to faces they hadn’t yet met. Some conversations were brief, others stretched across the room, but all of them shared the same friendly vibe that has come to characterize the Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffee event.
According to Chamber Director Hope Nunley, this is exactly what keeps people coming back.
“These events offer a valuable opportunity to connect with the local business community, stay informed, and enjoy a fun, welcoming atmosphere,” she said.
“The combination of meaningful networking, timely information, and an enjoyable environment makes each gathering something to look forward to.”
While networking often gets a reputation for feeling transactional, Nunley believes the Chamber Coffee offers something more meaningful if attendees are willing to lean in.
“It’s up to each person to be intentional,” she explained. “By asking thoughtful questions and going beyond exchanging business cards, people can turn casual encounters into genuine, lasting relationships.”
The setting itself plays a subtle but powerful role in that process. Larger venues encourage movement and quick introductions, while smaller spaces invite people to settle in and engage in longer conversations.
“Every space has its own strengths,” Nunley said. “Some conversations are broad and dynamic, others are focused and in-depth, but all of them matter.”
From her vantage point, one of the most rewarding parts of hosting the Chamber Coffee is watching relationships develop.
“I’ll often see those initial introductions turn into interactions on social media, and by the next event, those same people might greet each other with a hug,” she said. “It’s exciting to watch these relationships develop and see strangers become collaborators.”
Strong hosts help set that tone, and Ascend Federal Credit Union has done just that year after year. Nunley pointed to the December Coffee at Lakewood Golf & Country Club as a favorite, complete with a brunch bar, recognition of the Christmas parade winner, and festive attire.
Along with conversation, the Chamber Coffee also creates space to pause and celebrate progress. Recognizing community wins builds engagement and reminds attendees that others see and value their efforts, an essential ingredient in a thriving business community
For first-time attendees, it doesn’t take long to feel at home.
“It’s an easy way to meet people and feel part of the community,” Nunley said, adding that door prizes and shared meals don’t hurt either.
From month to month, these small gatherings tell a big story.
“The regular turnout and engagement show that people are not only invested in the success of their own businesses, but are also genuinely supportive of their friends and neighbors,” Nunley reflected.
And in Tullahoma, that momentum keeps the coffee hot and the connections warm. GN
