More of what makes Branson work

I know sometimes I come across like I'm connected to the Chamber of Commerce Welcoming Committee.  Well (and few people know this), I kind of am.  See, I worked out a deal with the Chamber--everyone I'm nice to gets me a fat fee of $1.14; even more ($2.00), if I get people to move here.  That's how I bought the restaurant.

Truthfully, though, it's just another example of how Branson works on so many levels that I haven't seen in different communities.  Here, everyone tries to help each other.  I can't tell you how many of our "competitors" have sent us business in the past.  Hats off to Chester's, The Keeter Center, The Chateau, Big Cedar, and everyone else who has sent people to us in the past.  It's just how Branson is.  We have recommended those people as well to our guests, not to mention Shorty Smalls, Blue Olive, Andy Williams, and Little Hacienda.  We like the buffets as well, especially the Plantation and Dockers.

Recently, we decided to start getting into the "gift" business, but finding the right vendors for nice items that would fit into our restaurant was proving to be a challenge.  Then, we went to Stone Hill winery for a tasting tour.  I highly recommend them, by the way--they couldn't be nicer.  Afterwards, we talked to Carrie, a friend  of ours and manager of the winery, and told her that we were looking for vendors to start our gift collections.  In most cities, getting any kind of cooperation, much less help, would have been the likely response.

Carrie, in true Branson fashion, got me the names and contact information of some of their best vendors.  She wasn't worried about the "competition".  In fact, I can honestly say that we never feel that from people here.  I'm sure it exists, but we have yet to experience it. We even ended up buying some engraved wine glasses from them, but that's not why Carrie and Tina helped us.  It's just a Branson thing.

Everyone here seems to want everyone else to succeed.  It's good for everyone to have success in Branson.  Next time you're thinking of a good place to visit, think about a trip here.  And make sure you give me the credit when you talk to the Chamber--I could use the extra $1.14!