(© Matt Whitney/TNC)

In 1960, a small group of people came together in Wisconsin to protect the places in nature they loved and that they saw disappearing. In their 60 year history, The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin (Madison) has helped protect more than 231,100 acres of irreplaceable natural lands and waters.

As a chapter of a leading conservation organization, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) owns and manages nature preserves across the state. Through their tireless work, TNC conserves spaces where we can walk, canoe, kayak, watch wildlife and enjoy time with family and friends.

Working with members and donors, landowners, business, public agencies, and communities, the Wisconsin chapter of TNC has conserved some of Wisconsin’s most beloved and ecologically significant landscapes, including the Baraboo Hills, the Door Peninsula and the forests and wild lakes in the Northwoods. The chapter is currently celebrating six decades in the state with events around their expanded work to: address climate change, promote healthy cities, and help provide food and water in a sustainable way.

Media & PR Manager Emily Mills (she/her) tells us more about TNC's essential work:

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

TNC believes in providing a safe and inclusive workplace where everyone can bring their full selves to work, and we believe in supporting like-minded organizations. We also appreciate the opportunity to continue learning and improving our DE&I efforts and the Chamber represents an important conduit for the resources and connections to help us on that path.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I get to meet and learn from a wide variety of people doing work that genuinely makes a positive difference in our local communities and the world - and I have the privilege of helping to tell their stories and help educate others about that work. Bonus: I get to go on hikes as part of my job!

How would you most like people to remember you and The Nature Conservancy?

I'd love to be remembered as someone who helped connect people with each other and with work/ideas/things that were important to them.

I hope TNC will continue to be a stalwart presence in the conservation/environmental field, remembered and known for their science-based, inclusive, and thoughtful approach to problem solving, coalition building, and earth-saving!

What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started?

That I could work in science/conservation at all. As someone with a writing/communications/creative background, I didn't consider that this field was even a possibility but I've always wanted to be involved in environmental work of

A glimpse of the serene and irreplaceable beauty of Baraboo's Baxter's Hollow. (© Steve S. Meyer)

some kind.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce?

Connecting with and learning from the other member organizations and the people who represent them.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?

Listen first, do your research, and then go for it. Don't let impostor syndrome stop you from making a difference.

Finally, when work or life get stressful, how do you relax?

Speaking personally: I play roller derby, I play in a band, I read books, and I go on hikes.

Make a difference with The Nature Conservancy here.

The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin is located at 633 W Main St in Madison, WI.

When it comes to celebrating the rich histories and stories of Milwaukee, few do it better that 88Nine Radio Milwaukee. In a city often divided, Radio Milwaukee spins the best ( local!) new music - opening new doors for companionship with its tantalizing podcasts, insightful stories, and deeply human short videos.

This week, we turn the table and put 88Nine in the Spotlight.

At just a glance at 88Nine's website, you'll find: a story on a local pioneers, a mouthwatering tease of Milwaukee's best cuisine , collaborations with Milwaukee Film, and even a piece on this Chamber. At its core, Radio Milwaukee's dedication to bringing people together has changed the city in untold ways.

The 88Nine team plays on and shares their own story:

Tell us a bit more about 88Nine Radio Milwaukee.

88Nine Radio Milwaukee is a listener-supported, nonprofit radio station striving to be a catalyst in creating a more

In "Backspin", 88Nine investigated the fascinating origins of Milwaukee's first hip-hop song.

inclusive and engaged Milwaukee. Through eclectic music programming, positive storytelling and community events, 88Nine strives to be a radio station and way more – connecting people to the city and to one other.

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

88Nine and the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber share a common mission of creating a more inclusive Milwaukee. To that end, it only makes sense that 88Nine supports and is a part of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

We love working on behalf of a mission. Our success as an organization isn’t measured by the bottom line – though we immensely value the members, businesses and foundations that allow us to have a healthy one – but by the impact we have on the city we love.

A performance space, community room, and a rooftop patio are available for rental at Radio Milwaukee's physical space.

How would you most like people to remember your company?

We aim for Radio Milwaukee to be known as a convener.

On the airwaves, on our website and, of course, at our home in Walker’s Point. Our programming, storytelling and events are intended to help Milwaukeeans find commonalities – through the discovery, piquing curiosity and giving a place for both to happen together.

Learn more about 88Nine Radio Milwaukee here.

Listen to 88Nine Radio Milwaukee's story on the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce here. 

Before Schlitz Audubon Nature Center (Bayside) first opened, it was a simple farm space for the Schlitz Brewery draft horses. Today, the Nature Center is a sprawling nature preserve full of forests, ravines, restored prairies, and serves as an unmatched location for weddings and business retreats. A comprehensive stop for anyone who loves the outdoors, this Center, located just 15 minutes north of downtown Milwaukee overlooks the gorgeous Lake Michigan shore.

In its six-miles of scenic trails, Schlitz Audubon provides a number of must-see features for all ages. From the Mystery Lake Boardwalk to the 60-foot-tall Observation Tower, visitors can take in the full beauty of the outdoors.

If the weather rains on your parade, Schlitz Audubon's indoor interactive exhibits and events are sure to save the day. Live animal exhibits and a nature-inspired art gallery are a brilliant way to fight winter cabin fever.

Since joining the Chamber, Schlitz Audubon has been a reliable source of events for the Chamber's Community Calendar - a testament to their exceptional programming. No matter the season, Schlitz Audubon is the place to go for an educational and refreshing adventure.

Executive Director Helen Boomsma shares more about her pioneering Center:

Tell us a bit more about the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center and your upcoming goals. 

Ahead of its time when built in 2003, our building was one of the nation’s most environmentally conscious Gold LEED certified green buildings. The structure is called the Dorothy K. Vallier Environmental Learning Center, named after our founder.

Our 2018-2022 strategic plan, Trails to Innovation, contains 54 strategic goals and centers around three priorities: Accessibility to Nature for All; The Land Through the Lens of a Century; and Creating More Meaningful Visitor

The pride of Schlitz's Raptor Program on full display. (Schlitz Audubon)Experiences.

Founded in 2003, our preschool was the first of its kind in Wisconsin and is nationally-recognized. We are a 2019 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School.

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

We seek to broaden and diversify our members and visitors.

We don’t aspire to be a hidden gem; we want Schlitz Audubon to be Milwaukee’s destination and resource for inspiring life-long learning and enjoyment in the natural environment.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

We truly enjoy making a difference in the lives of our visitors. It is a pleasure to serve as a community gathering place for people of all ages and background who embrace the outdoors and learning about the environment.

Citizen Science volunteers stop to note the scene at hand. (Schlitz Audubon)

How would you most like people to remember your company?

As an inspiring conservation model for our region committed to providing meaningful experiences and environmental education for all.

What's the best piece of business advice you've ever been given?

The best piece of business advice I've been given is to follow your passion, success will follow.

Finally: when work or life get stressful, how do you relax?

To relax, I love to head outdoors for a walking meeting and bird-watch.

Plan your visit to Schlitz Audubon Nature Center today. 

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is located at 1111 E Brown Deer Rd in Bayside, WI. 

After a fantastic showing at Madison's Love is Love Showcase, lucky attendees will remember Maureen Cassidy Photography (Madison) as a real life, down-to-earth, funky woman-owned business specializing in family and wedding photography. For over ten years, Maureen has captured candid, authentic images that show her clients in their most natural and beautiful state. 

From intimate moments in black and white to outrageous portraits bursting with color, Maureen prides herself in capturing all life has to offer. Despite being a self-professed goofball, Maureen's work ethic has been earned her business five (5!) Best of Madison - Photography awards. 

Photographer Maureen Cassidy shares more about her fun-loving and award-winning style: 

Tell us a bit more about yourself and what you love do. 

I am a photographer! I'm goofy AF and truly dedicated to my craft.

Maureen braves the frigid waters to capture the perfect shot. (Maureen Cassidy Photography)

Seriously, if I shoot your wedding you're pretty much guaranteed to see me climb something at least 12 feet tall so I can get the exact right angle. I'm committed enough to capture gorgeous photos, lighthearted enough to make you comfortable and laugh, and professional enough to not upset the elderly folks.

I also am branching out this past year into community education - I have a new project (Foxy Studio) where I shoot boudoir and host empowering events. I lead groups for middle school girls, host educational workshops and teach yoga/mindfulness.

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

I joined because I love the Chamber's mission and want to support the LGBT community in any way I can. Some of my favorite weddings have been for same-sex couples.

I'd love to take more LGBT boudoir shoots!

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I enjoy making people happy!

A glimpse into the quirky style Maureen can bring to each shoot. (Maureen Cassidy Photography)

For weddings: Capturing your love with my camera. Taking photos you'll want to display on your wall for alllllll eternity.

For my boudoir project, Foxy: To see people truly like photos that they are in. My goal is to help people see their beauty, sexiness and that they are more than their bodies. I want everyone to feel comfortable in their own skin. It's my absolute favorite that I get to take these photos.

For family sessions: To make everyone excited to be there. Traditionally having family photos taken is no one's favorite. But I promise I can make it a fabulous time. I'm pretty good at getting kids (and your cranky cousin/uncle/sibling) to smile and laugh.

How would you most like people to remember your company?

Authentic, down to earth, and a ton of fun! Oh, and as an over-the-top wonderful photographer.

What's the best piece of business advice you've ever been given?

Do it ASAP. The longer you procrastinate on a task, the heavier it gets.

Besides that advice, what do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?

I wish I had know what being yourself is key. You can be a professional and not have to be uptight and too serious.

From wacky fun to a moments of wedding bliss, Maureen Cassidy yearns to capture it all! (Maureen Cassidy Photography)

When work or life get stressful, how do you relax?

I relax with long baths by candlelight.

If you had to choose another career today, what would it be and why?

Outdoor adventure trip leader. Because....outside....and adventure.

Fair enough! One last question: what do you enjoy most about being a member of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

I love how supportive and kind the Chamber community is! I loved doing the Love is Love Wedding Showcase - the crowd was so pleasant and happy.

I had a genuinely good time and met some fabulous humans. 

You can learn more about Maureen Cassidy Photography here. 

You can learn more about Maureen's Foxy Studio project here.

Since 1975, A Room of One's Own Bookstore has been a staple of downtown Madison. As an independent bookstore, Room has survived countless challenges from big-box retail, online shopping, and a changing city. Through it all, A Room of One's Own has persevered with its spellbinding selection of stories and a passionate staff. In 2018, employees Gretchen Treu (they/them) and Wes Lukes (they/them) assumed ownership of the bookstore, preparing to launch the next 40 years of memories. 

Co-owner Wes Lukes teases what's in store: 

Why did your organization decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

As a queer-owned business who tries to have a unique and curated selection of books, we want to show our solidarity and support with our fellow LGBT owned businesses. 

Tell us a bit about what you do. 

We are a full-service, independent bookstore specializing in: social justice, women's studies, LGBTQIA+ (lesbian gay bisexual transgender queer intersex asexual+) literature, and great gifts. We also have a strong selection of local

A glimpse into Room's incredible collection of new and used books.

interest titles, children's/young adult fiction, graphic novels, and nonfiction sections.

Bottom line: no matter the genre, we want to help you find your next great read!

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Seeing what new books are coming out and what people are interested in!

As one of the co-owners, I personally coordinate a lot of the events we host in (and out) of our store. A Room of One's Own has been able to book some incredible talent over the last two years. In the coming weeks, voices like Nadia Bolz-Weber and Sarah DiGregorio will be joining us.

At times, we anticipate such a large turnout that we move to the third floor of the Madison Public Library. As a partner of the Wisconsin Book Festival, we're so thankful to them for opening their doors.

Given your field of work, I'm sure you get to check out a number of great books over the year. What's the best thing you've read recently?

Well, the best thing I've read recently won't come out until March!

Room's clever staff shares their latest #BookFaceFriday creation!

We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry is a great work of fiction. Quan Barry is a professor over at the UW. We were luck enough to get an advance copy of the book and can't wait for people to read it. 

Finally, how would you like people to remember your company?

We would like to be known not only as a world-class bookstore, but as a resource for books that may not be found in general bookstores and libraries. We especially want to known as a resource for stories addressing the experiences of POC (people of color) and LGBTQIA+ people. 

You can learn more about A Room of One's Own here. 

A Room of One's Own is located 315 W. Gorham Street in Madison, WI. Or, see their space for yourself at our Madison Coffee Connection on Monday, February 24 (8am)!

If you're looking for a unique, upscale, yet affordable new Milwaukee retreat, look no further than Hangout MKE! Opened in the summer of 2019, Hangout MKE has created a fun space for all to unwind - and one that is not centered around alcohol. 

Catering to all ages, Hangout MKE's casual vibe is welcoming to families, students who need study space, those who work remotely, or those who are aiming for fun with friends. Their large below-ground space offers room for a number of unique, highly-interactive games to be enjoyed. Hangout MKE is stocked with great activities such as: soccer pool, giant surgery (A Chamber favorite!), 8-person foosball, and an incredible supply of board games. 

Offering an array of tasty caffeinated beverages in the morning, and a limited, but classic selection of beer in the evening, this new hangout has something for everyone. 

Co-Owner Becca Riddle opens the door to her exciting new space: 

Why did your organization decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

With this being our first huge business venture, my partner, Meghan, and I were looking for resources to help not only guide us, but give opportunities for networking as well. That's when we stumbled upon a coffee connection. Identifying as lesbians,

Co-owners and partners, Becca and Meghan

we want to ensure that our guests and employees have a safe and welcoming place to be no matter how they identify and that's why we decided to join the chamber.

Tell us a bit about what you do. 

Hangout MKE is a place for family and friends to gather and enjoy face-to-face connection through game play or over a cup of delicious, specialty coffee.

Catering to all ages, our vibe is warm and welcoming to families, students who need study space, those who work remotely, or those who are aiming for fun with friends. The activities are plentiful with unique games such as giant surgery, soccer pool, and 8-person foosball.

Depending on the day, guests can hear live performances on our stage from local talent, join in on a art activity hosted by one of our staff members, or participate in a game tournament. Artists can utilize our space for creativity or to display their work on

A look at Hangout MKE's fantastic lobby

our art wall. Hangout MKE has something for everyone to enjoy, and our goal is to be Milwaukee's favorite place to hangout.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Aside from making delicious drinks, I enjoy seeing that the environment we created is genuinely being enjoyed by those who visit and partake in our offerings. It's most incredible to witness groups and families laughing together and enjoying each other without being attached to a smart phone.

How would you like people to remember your company?

I would like people to remember me and our company as greeting them with a warm, inviting smile and providing them with exceptional customer service. I'd like people to remember that they were treated with importance.

What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?

We spent lots of time and did tons of research when calculating our projections before opening our business. After being open for over 6 months, we've had some surprises, good and bad. Knowing what we know now, we could have made a few adjustments, but at the same time, that would take the fun out of the adventure of starting a business.

Hangout MKE's comfortable sitting area

How do you relax?

This is a good one because it's definitely hard to relax! When I get a chance, I usually snuggle with our two dogs while diving into a show, paint a landscape, or play my guitar. But most importantly, I wear pajamas as often as I can.

Finally, what do you enjoy most about being a member of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

We not only enjoy the fact that being a part of the chamber gives us support and opportunities, but it allows us to be a part of a diverse group of talented people who we can learn so much from.

You can learn more about Hangout MKE here. 

Hangout MKE is located 1819 N Farwell Ave, in Milwaukee, WI. Or, see their space for yourself at our March Milwaukee Chamber on Tap event!

January is National Mentoring Month – a month dedicated to bringing awareness to the need for volunteer mentors nationwide and the life-changing impact a mentor can make in a child’s life. Since 1975, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee has been creating and supporting long-term, professional one-to-one relationships between youth facing adversity and caring volunteer adult mentors. As National Mentoring Month comes to an end, the Chamber celebrates this remarkable organization and its impact on the Milwaukee area.

The Big Brother Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee team tells us more about its mission:

Why did your organization decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all – this core value of our organization aligns perfectly with the work the Chamber is doing and we are proud to be members.

Tell us a bit about Big Brothers Big Sisters and what you do. 

Many youth in Milwaukee and Waukesha counties need support to help them reach their full potential.  Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee provides these mentoring services free of charge to more than 1,400 children annually thanks to dedicated volunteers and generous donors.

Youth in Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mentoring program often face numerous challenges. Many come from single parent households. They may have unstable family and home environments. They often live in low-income and high-crime neighborhoods. Some have experienced trauma in their lives. Many face pressure from their peers to participate in risky behavior. They often lack social and emotional support systems to help them deal with struggles they may face.

But above all, they are resilient and have enormous potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ compassionate volunteer mentors are solely dedicated to their mentees’ well-being and stand with them as they navigate the challenges of growing up. Through these close and transformational mentoring relationships, youth are introduced to new experiences and opportunities, build self-confidence, develop healthy relationships, make responsible choices, succeed in school, and break those cycles of poverty and socioeconomic barriers.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Changing the lives of children! Truly - the stories we hear every day remind us of why this work is so important - and why we cannot stop telling that story of life-changing impact and the need for volunteers. Right now there are more than 62,000 at-risk youth in Milwaukee County alone.

We currently have more than 400 local children on our waiting list. These children could all benefit from a committed adult mentor in their lives who will help them to overcome obstacles, avoid risky behaviors, and envision a successful future.

How would you like people to remember your organization?

The legacy of Big Brothers Big Sisters lives on in the lives of the youth and families we serve and the incredible volunteers who carry out our mission. What is most meaningful for us in when we learn of former youth in our program who grow up to lead successful lives and return to the organization as a volunteer Big Brother or Big Sister themselves – paying it forward and creating that full circle mentoring moment.

To us that is the greatest legacy and reflection of real life-changing impact.

Finally, what do you enjoy most about being a member of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

We very much value the Chamber’s diversity and collective energy for a strong pro-fairness business community. The Chamber is a great resource and “connector” for an organization like Big Brothers Big Sisters which has far-reaching impact in the State of Wisconsin. We share the Chamber’s commitment to making long-lasting positive relationships.

Interested in becoming a Defender of Potential?  Learn more about becoming a volunteer mentor today!

Fill out the online volunteer inquiry form or call Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee at (414) 831-4563.

As of this writing, Wood Violet Floral Design (Milwaukee) has served as a Chamber member for almost six years. In that time, their team has wowed countless attendees of our Love is Love Wedding Showcases with their gorgeous and bold floral designs. 

At its core, Wood Violet is an eco-friendly floral design studio that uses locally grown flowers picked at the peak of their freshness. Every season, Wood Violet strategically designs new concepts to highlight the beauty and unique attitude of each season. 

Owner Emily Watson tells us more about her blooming business: 

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

I have always been an ally and when I found out there was an open and welcoming organization, it seemed like a great fit. Being in the wedding industry, I hear these stories about discrimination and it breaks my heart. I want everyone to be able to plan their wedding free of that sort of anxiety.

Tell us a bit about your business and what you do. 

Wood Violet is a full service wedding and event florist. We use ecologically responsible practices such as sourcing locally grown blooms and avoiding that green floral foam. You would be surprised at how dirty the traditional floral industry can be!

We try our darnedest to use products that are better for the environment. Anything from glass vases made in Ohio to natural silk ribbon that is hand-dyed in Washington. But most of those fancier containers are made over seas so we reuse them as many times as possible. It saves you money and it keeps stuff out of the landfill. One thing that we will never-ever use is that green flower foam. That stuff is not biodegradable and it contains formaldehyde. Gross!

We compost all of our floral scraps and waste. You would be surprised by how much garbage a flower shop can generate. We throw it all in the compost. If we clean up your event at the end of the night, we will carefully sort through and make sure we compost what we can. It takes a little longer, but we sleep better at night.

Overall, we are not fans of rules or convention and our aesthetic reflects that. Our style has been described as loose and natural, "garden-y", lush, and bountiful. 

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I love all of the different people and personalities that I encounter. We counter people every day who are all in the same situation - trying to make their event or wedding soar. It amazes me how differently everyone handles it. We love being able to help make their day even more beautiful. 

What do you know today that you wish you would have know when you first got started as an entrepreneur?

Remain open to possibilities and be willing to change your end goal. Life is absolutely not going to go according to plan no matter how hard you try.

How do you relax?

Netflix. It's the only time I can really turn my brain off. 

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You can visit the Wood Violet team in person at the Chamber's 2020 Love is Love Wedding Showcase in Milwaukee.

Learn more about Wood Violet here.

Wood Violet Floral Designs is located at 6429 W North Ave in Milwaukee, WI.  

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Business owners (and married couple!) Tim Hagen and Jeffrey Clark have dedicated their lives to keeping Wisconsin pets happy and healthy. Since its 2017 launch, EarthWise Pet Supply & Grooming - Madison has provided a clean and inviting space with all-natural, often-local products, and a full-service grooming salon for our furry friends. Quickly after opening, the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce recognized the business as a Certified LGBT Business Enterprise. 

Their efforts don't stop there: as certified pet nutrition specialists, Hagen and Clark are able to personally recommend a variety of biologically appropriate foods. Their expertise doesn't stop there - feel free to ask the couple about their all-natural treats, selection of squeaky toys, and, the Chamber's favorite item, pet-collar bowties. 

Beyond its generous support of local pet-focused causes, EarthWise has even opened its doors to the Chamber's  Coffee Connection series. If you were lucky enough to attend last November's event, you'll remember a number of members picking up some goodies for their special pets.

Co-owner Jeffrey Clark tells us more about his (and Tim's) Certified LGBT Business Enterprise: 

Tell us a bit about your business and what you do. 

At EarthWise Pet Madison, our mission is to provide a unique pet store experience! We’re friendly, knowledgeable, ready to provide exceptional service, and passionate about keeping pets happy and healthy! We offer a wide selection of healthy and natural pet foods, treats, and supplements for cats and dogs, plus a variety of fun toys, puzzles, collars, leashes, harnesses, crates, beds, and other accessories. We also have top-notch groomers who provide full-service grooming as well as a convenient self-service dog wash to bathe your dirty dog.

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

As a gay couple, we recognize the importance of connecting with other LGBT businesses and community to offer a welcoming place for people to shop for their pets. In this political climate, we must stand together and be open about who we are and show others that we will not stand for the bigotry and intolerance that surrounds us.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

We love helping people find the right solution for their pet, and of course, getting to meet and pet all of the adorable dogs is fantastic.

If you had to choose another career today, what would it be?

If only we could figure out how to incorporate lounging on the beach listening to the ocean into a career! As a runner-up, maybe a professional wine taster!

What's the best piece of business advice you've ever been given?

Don’t play a game you’re not suited for, know the business you are in, and compete on your best assets!

How do you relax?

Wine! Ok, and good food too! We enjoy dining out at all of the amazing restaurants that Madison has to offer. We also enjoy cooking a nice meal at home with one of our favorite bottles of wine.

How would you like people to remember you and EarthWise?

We tend to geek out when it comes to pet nutrition, and we’re here to help find the best solution for your cats and dogs! We also like to support the community by hosting, sponsoring, and donating to local pet-focused causes.

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Learn more about EarthWise Pet Supply & Grooming here.

Learn more about becoming a NGLCC certified LGBT Business Enterprise here. 

EarthWise Pet Supply & Grooming is located at 3260 University Ave in Madison, WI.  

In just under a year of operation, Madison's Delta Beer Lab has made a unique impression on the local beer scene. This freshman brewery is dedicated to expanding community through quality, local beer without barriers to gender, race, or sexual orientation. The Delta Beer Lab staff (all of whom are paid a living wage with revenue sharing) believe that their business can "do well" by also "doing good". 

Chief Beer Officer Tim "Pio" Piotrowski shares more on the science behind his craft brewery and its mission: 

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

We are a proud LGBTQ+ owned and operated small business and thrive as a participant in our community.

Tell us a bit about your business and what you do. 

Primarily, we're a craft brewery. However, we often talk about all the other things we do to support out mission.

Delta Beer Lab's newest experiment, the Coconut Chai Stout!

Our taproom (The Lab) is a community destination, open 7 days a week so we can be available for all people. We even host groups of 8-240 people fairly often! In addition to the taproom, we package beer in cans to-go and distribute kegs to area bars and restaurants.

It seems like we release a new beer every week or two and have a wide selection from traditional styles to experimental, sours to IPAs, and our Coffee-infused Brown Ale is the talk of the town!

At The Lab we also offer some non-alcoholic, gluten free, and hard seltzer options so as many people as possible feel welcome and well served. Also, there are board games, steel-tip darts, shuffleboard, trivia (on Wednesdays), and other seasonal programs.

We contribute a portion of our revenue to environmental organizations through 1% for the Planet, and our staff - paid a living wage plus revenue sharing - doesn't accept tips; instead they are directed to monthly Nonprofit Partners. In our first nine months, our guests donated over $20,500 to organizations serving our community.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Delta Beer Lab is proudly BYOF (Bring Your Own Food) friendly. Guests are encouraged to bring in their favorite local fare!

I love seeing people enjoying our products while deep in conversation and/or a board game.

If you had to choose another career today, what would it be?

Probably my original career - Camp Director - because "Camp Gives Kids a World of Good".

How do you relax?

I relax by working on jigsaw puzzles at home. It allows my mind to wind down after leaving the taproom. My favorite vacations are deep in the wilderness with a pack on my back.

How would you like people to remember you and Delta Beer Lab?

I'd like people to remember Delta Beer Lab as an example that business can "Do Good" and "Do Well" at the same time. Profit and endless growth should not be the sole reason for business.

Learn more about Delta Beer Lab here.

Delta Beer Lab is located at 167 E Badger Rd in Madison, WI.  

If you attended this year's Holiday Chamber of Tap in Madison, you'll recognize HotelRED as a wholly unique and stylish getaway. Steps away from the legendary Camp Randall Stadium, this modern knockout manages to dazzle tourists and city-dwellers alike. From its stunning lobby to its gorgeous suites, every HotelRED room is accented in rich ruby color - perhaps a tip of the hat to a certain neighboring University. 

Equipped with an award-winning restaurant & bar, meeting spaces, and a number of fantastic suite upgrades, HotelRED is a sophisticated and fun place to unwind in our capital city. 

Now in its sixth (!) year of Chamber membership, HotelRED continues to celebrate our shared belief in a pro-fairness business community in Wisconsin. 

Marketing Manager Allie Schaitel tells us more about HotelRed and its contemporary amenities: 

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

We decided to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber because it was important to situate ourselves as an allied business and to gain knowledge about being the most welcoming and inclusive business we can be.

Tell us a bit about your business and what you do.

Pets welcome! HotelRED's neighborhood includes many dog-friendly paths.

As Madison's first boutique hotel, HotelRED has consistently set the standard for customer service and outstanding local hospitality.

As a full-service, contemporary property, located in the heart of our urban center, we are ideally situated to the progressive culture and high-energy atmosphere that makes Madison world famous.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber? 

It's wonderful to interact and collaborate with LGBT community leaders and stay up-to-date with LGBT news and events.

How would you like people to remember you and HotelRED?

We would like to see HotelRED as a contemporary community hotel with good values and high standards.

Finally, what's next for HotelRED? Anything we should keep an eye out for?

Every third Thursday of the month, we host a great night of Drag Queen Bingo. Our host, Bianca Lynn Breeze has been performing around the Midwest for years. She's fantastic!

We'll have great prizes from Monroe Street shops, restaurants, and businesses for you to win. Parking is free! 

 

Book a stay at HotelRED here.

HotelRED is located at 1501 Monroe Street in Madison, WI.  

Since 2007, Fromagination has given Wisconsin cheese the showcase it deserves. Owner and general manager Ken Montelone encourages guests to fully experience the food they eat. As guests see, smell, and taste each delicious bite, Fromagination's staff tells the story of how and where each cheese was made. Montelone believes it is essential to spotlight the rich tradition of cheese making in the Badger State. 

This quirky, cosmopolitan shop has helped established itself as an integral part of Madison’s foodie scene. A kind staff, warm authenticity, and lack of pretension opens Fromagination's doors to folks of all cheese knowledge. Not to mention the grand tours, incredible catering, and full series of "Entertaining with Cheese" classes. (Editor's note: The Chamber highly recommends the delicious cheese & chocolate pairing.)

Head Cheesemonger Ken Monteleone tells us more about Fromagination and its dedication to supporting the community: 

Why did you decide to join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber?

We feel it is very important to support our LGBT community. Our staff and customer base is very diverse and we enjoy being part of the LGBT chamber. The Chamber allows us to network and reach out to people that help make our community a better place to live and work.

Tell us a bit about your business and what you do. 

We love cheese! We want to share that love with everyone we encounter. Our overall mission is to:

  • Sell food that makes our customers happy.
  • Give service that makes customers happy to return.
  • Show compassion and excitement in all our actions.
  • Enhance as many lives as we possibly can.
  • Provide a sustainable environment that celebrates diversity.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I enjoy the creativity of the job, and the passion of the people I work with at Fromagination.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber? 

The people! (Editors note: The Chamber loves this, fittingly, cheesy answer.)

What's the best piece of business advice you've ever been given? 

Bring kindness to everything you do and the rest will follow.

What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur? 

Create a vision and allow your team to help you refine the vision and climb the second mountain together.

Live in the present and seize the day.

A friendly staff member displays a new bag full of Wisconsin-made deliciousness.

If you had to choose another career today, what would it be?

I'd like to help kids that feel like outsiders in school become their best selves.

How do you relax?

I relax by spending time with friends and family over good cheese.

How would you like people to remember you and Fromagination?

We want to be remembered as a shop that is very welcoming and has a hunger for learning. We also hope people remember we love sharing our passion for local food and supporting the community. 

Learn more about Fromagination here.

Fromagination is located at 12 S Carrol Street in Madison, WI.  

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Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce

5027 W North Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53208