Potomac business owners will have an opportunity to introduce themselves to the greater community later this month at “The Big Event.” Hosted by the Greater Bethesda-Chevy Chase Chamber of Commerce, The Big Event is a chance to network and brainstorm ideas to boost area businesses; It also supports a local charity.

“This is a huge opportunity for businesses to gain exposure and marketing,” said Jane Fairweather of the Fairweather Group, one of the event’s sponsors. “The goal is for local businesses to show the community what they do.”

Guests will be treated to food, music, door prizes and a chance to connect with other business owners to exchange ideas on brand-building and trends in business.

“Events put on by the chamber are always well-attended by high quality business professionals that I’d like to network with,” said Ayda Sanver, of Ayda Sanver Consulting, LLC in Potomac and author of "Tag, You're IT — Now Raise Us Some Money.”

Mark Gregory of Mark Gregory Photography has worked in Potomac for decades, but is new to the chamber. “I’ve been active in the area for a long time, but I wanted to learn more about the community that the chamber serves and I want folks to know about me,” he said. “One of the benefits of this event is a chance for me the show the community a sample of the work that I produce in the world of fine portraiture.”

A portion of the event proceeds will go to the chamber's annual Goodwill Dinner Program which provides a holiday dinner and gifts for nearly 500 disadvantaged people from the community during each holiday season.