Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce cuts ribbon on new office space

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce may have moved just a block over from its original location, but its space has certainly grown. 

At roughly 3,000 square feet, the new office is approximately three times larger than the previous space, said Executive Director Ann Frescura.

During a ribbon cutting on July 11, attendees admired the tropical vibes of the office. The turquoise walls featured beach-related decor and also included plenty of information on local businesses in its Visitor Center. 

Photo by Ian Swaby

Located at 5223 Avenida Navarra, the new office is the former location of Siesta Dental and is found directly beside Siesta Key Village, near the Chamber's former space on 5114 Ocean Boulevard.

"It was an interesting transformation from a dental office to our space, but we had really great help and support," Frescura said, stating many members provided and donated services, time or equipment leading up to the move on May 1. 

She also highlighted some of the features of the space. 

"We have a wonderful Visitor Center, which is just brimming with a variety of information that supports and promotes our members," she said. 

Photo by Ian Swaby

Other assets not seen in the previous location include on-site storage and a conference room, as well as a larger kitchen space for staff. 

Marisa Merlino, marketing and event manager for the Chamber, said with the new on-site storage, the Chamber no longer needs to rely on storage units for events like its annual Easter Egg Hunt. 

She also described the office as "a little bit happier, bigger, brighter space" with more opportunities for members to showcase their information. 

Constance Lewis, the owner of Spa Experience Siesta Key, was among the attendees who enjoyed the feel of the new office. 

Photo by Ian Swaby

"It's beautiful, spacious," she said. "You feel like when you walk in here that you're in a high-end place. It's different from the old place. ... The welcome center is very welcoming. ... They deserve this. It's been a long time coming."

Sarasota County Commissioner Mark Smith, who is also an architect and cut the ribbon during the ceremony, helped the Chamber with the process of entering the space, including minor remodeling. 

"This is so wonderful, as far as the colors are great, but there's enough space for all the staff and storage and expansion," Smith said. "The staff is doing great and the space really helps facilitate all the Chamber's efforts on Siesta Key."

"We're just thrilled to be here, and we hope that everyone will come by and stop and visit and say hello," Frescura said.