​The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce has released its 2025 Legislative Priorities to enhance economic development, education, workforce growth, and regulatory reform, aiming to foster business-friendly policies and improve residents' quality of life across New Mexico.

The Chamber’s 2025 priorities are designed to drive economic growth, ensure government accountability, and enhance the quality of life for all New Mexicans through strategic investments and collaboration.

With over 30 vendors offering handmade goods, attendees had the perfect opportunity to shop for unique holiday gifts while discovering the incredible creativity within the community. From handcrafted jewelry to artisanal home goods, every booth featured something special. The event buzzed with activity as families and friends explored the vibrant market together.

One of the highlights of the Holiday Mercado was the winter coat giveaway for kids, generously sponsored by the St. Vincent Hospital Foundation. Coats were distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring local children could stay warm this winter. It was heartwarming to see families leave with smiles and cozy coats in hand.

Children also enjoyed free arts and crafts activities, coloring books, and crayons provided by Del Norte Credit Union. The arts and crafts stations were a hub of creativity, with little ones enthusiastically making holiday-themed masterpieces to take home.

Of course, no holiday celebration would be complete without Santa! Families captured the magic of the season with complimentary photos with Santa, who brought plenty of cheer and holiday spirit. Be sure to check out our event gallery to relive the joyful moments and see the wonderful Santa photos that brightened the day.

The Holiday Mercado brought free admission, a lively atmosphere, and a shared sense of community to Santa Fe’s Southside. We are so grateful to everyone who attended, supported local vendors, and made the event unforgettable. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the St. Vincent Hospital Foundation, Del Norte Credit Union, and all the amazing vendors who contributed to this festive celebration.
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We look forward to seeing you next year for another joyful and meaningful Holiday Mercado. Until then, happy holidays and warm wishes to all!

About Angel Hour

​Angel Hour was a fantastic celebration, where guests enjoyed an extended happy hour with special pricing on delicious food and drinks, including the signature Angel's Cosmo cocktail, created by Lead Bartender Arturo Martinez. The drink, made with rosemary and blood orange, was crafted exclusively for the event. Best of all, 25% of the proceeds supported Kitchen Angels' mission to provide free, nutritious meals to homebound individuals in need.

Gingerbread House Silent Auction

These charming gingerbread houses will be up for auction during the 12th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 13, 2024. This is your chance to take home one of these festive creations, all made by the talented team at Kitchen Angels. Your participation in the silent auction will help support the organization's important work.

12th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Join the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado to kick off the holiday season at the 12th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 13, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM. It's an evening of community celebration with festive food and beverages, including holiday cookies, apple cider, and spiced hot chocolate. Be sure to check out the gingerbread houses available for auction, and enjoy the beauty of the tree lighting with friends and neighbors.
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About Kitchen Angels

​Kitchen Angels is dedicated to providing free, nutritious meals to homebound neighbors in Santa Fe and surrounding areas. Their mission is to nourish and support those in need, one meal at a time. Learn more about their incredible work at Kitchen Angels.

On Thursday, December 5, 2024, Anchorum Health Foundation celebrated their move to a new campus with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Formerly known as Anchorum St. Vincent, the foundation relocated from their previous location on Hospital Drive to the former home of the Lannan Foundation.

Learn more about Anchorum Health Foundation at anchorum.org.

Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. Celebratory cupcakes generously provided by Sam's Club.

​This holiday season, the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce is launching Small Business, Big Impact, a Giving Tuesday campaign designed to empower local entrepreneurs and strengthen Santa Fe’s economy. Through December, individuals and organizations have the unique opportunity to sponsor Chamber memberships for small businesses, opening doors to critical resources, connections, and growth opportunities.
 
A Chamber membership offers much more than networking—it’s a catalyst for success. Members gain access to advocacy efforts, visibility programs, and tools that help navigate challenges and seize opportunities. By sponsoring a membership, you invest directly in the people and ideas shaping our community’s future.
 
Sponsors enjoy exclusive benefits, including Chamber Cash to use for events like Coffee & Biz-Connections or the Legislative Reception. Contributions are tax-deductible as a business expense under IRS section 501(c)(6), making it a smart way to give back while enhancing community growth.
 
You can also choose to directly support a specific business or let the Chamber’s Sponsorship Committee identify a deserving recipient. Whether funding a single membership or several, every sponsorship fosters collaboration, innovation, and economic resilience in Santa Fe. It could be a meaningful gift for a small business owner in your life, giving them the support they need to expand their business in the new year.
 
This campaign is a chance to turn the season of giving into a season of growth. Let’s rally behind Santa Fe’s small businesses and ensure they have the tools to thrive. To learn more or sponsor a membership, visit santafechamber.com. Together, we can make a big impact!

On Thursday, November 14, CNS Cares marked the opening of their new office location in Santa Fe with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The new office will support patients in Santa Fe and the surrounding areas by connecting them with Department of Labor benefits and providing exceptional care.

Learn more at cnscares.com.

​Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. Celebratory cupcakes generously provided by Sam's Club.

On Thursday, November 14, Giving Home Health Care celebrated the opening of their new office location with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The new space serves as a welcoming hub for patients, caregivers, and community members, offering training and support.

​Learn more at givinghomehealthcare.com.

Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. Celebratory cupcakes generously provided by Sam's Club.

On Wednesday, November 13, Community Options celebrated the opening of their newest home in the Santa Fe community with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Community Options develops housing and supportive services for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, empowering them to live independently in community settings.

Learn more at comop.org.

Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development. Celebratory cupcakes generously provided by Sam's Club.

Morning Kickoff: Networking and Welcome

The day began with attendees arriving for check-in and networking. Energized by the community’s spirit, participants filled the ballroom, eager to connect and exchange stories. The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce officially opened the event, welcoming everyone to an inspiring morning dedicated to fostering women’s advancement in business and community leadership.

Keynote: Valerie Plame’s Inspiring Journey
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As lunch began, keynote speaker Valerie Plame, former CIA operative, author, and advocate, took the stage. Known for her expertise in national security, Valerie shared her extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation. With humor and insight, she discussed her transition from covert operations to a public life, urging women to embrace change, face adversity with courage, and consider what’s next in their own journeys. Her words left a lasting impression, underscoring the importance of staying adaptable and empowered through every phase of life.

Panel Discussion: Wisdom from Leaders

Following the keynote, Anchorum Health Foundation introduced a panel discussion featuring prominent leaders and change-makers, moderated by Bridget Dixson, President & CEO of the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, and Sayuri Yamada, President of Kizuna Strategies. The panelists included:
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• The Honorable Laura M. Montoya, New Mexico State Treasurer, who shared her experiences as the state’s first Latina Treasurer, focusing on financial literacy and inclusion.
  
  
• Olivia Sloan, VP of Native Health Partnerships at Anchorum Health Foundation, who provided insight into healthcare equity for Indigenous communities, drawing on her background and dedication to Native health.
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• Jennifer L. Jenkins, Principal at JenkinsGavin, Inc., shared inspiring insights on the power of working with an all-women team, the importance of taking bold chances, and her transformative journey as an entrepreneur. She emphasized the value of resilience and collaboration in building a successful business and creating a lasting impact in the community.

Throughout the conversation, panelists shared personal stories of perseverance, offering practical advice on overcoming obstacles and achieving lasting impact. The discussions highlighted the diverse paths to leadership, emphasizing that the journey is as vital as the destination.

A Day of Giving: Silent Auction and Kendra Scott Jewelry Sales

Attendees were also invited to participate in a silent auction, featuring exclusive gift baskets donated by the Santa Fe Chamber's Board of Directors. Generously sponsored by Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, all proceeds from the auction directly benefit the Chamber’s initiatives. Alongside the auction, a selection of Kendra Scott jewelry was available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Chamber’s mission. Kendra Scott’s commitment to philanthropy and women’s empowerment made this partnership a fitting complement to the event.

Beautiful Touches: Paseo Pottery Centerpieces

Local, woman-owned business Paseo Pottery contributed unique centerpieces that adorned each table, featuring their stunning pottery paired with floral arrangements. Attendees could purchase these one-of-a-kind pieces with proceeds directly supporting the artisans. Paseo Pottery also showcased a selection of handcrafted items at their booth, where guests could learn more about their pottery classes and other offerings.

A Memorable Close and Thank You

The luncheon concluded with heartfelt remarks, thanking the attendees and sponsors who made the day possible. From Valerie Plame’s captivating keynote to the diverse insights shared by each panelist, the 2024 Women’s Leadership Luncheon celebrated the collective power of women uplifting one another. Anchorum Health Foundation’s sponsorship underscored the importance of community support in empowering women to pursue their ambitions and redefine what’s next.

As participants left the Eldorado Hotel, they carried with them newfound motivation and the understanding that when women support one another, they create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the event. This inspiring day reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to nurturing leadership and creating opportunities that empower women across New Mexico.

With the holidays approaching, the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce encourages you to celebrate Small Business Saturday on November 30 by shopping locally. Supporting Santa Fe’s businesses strengthens our community, keeps our unique culture alive, and adds meaning to your holiday shopping.
 
In Santa Fe, where 80% of businesses have fewer than ten employees, shopping locally makes a significant impact. Every $100 spent at local stores keeps $68 circulating within our community. These dollars support city services, schools, and job creation, reinforcing the backbone of our local economy.
 
This holiday season, explore hidden treasures across Santa Fe’s vibrant neighborhoods—from handmade jewelry and artisan textiles to locally crafted foods. Visit the historic Plaza, the galleries on Canyon Road, the Siler-Rufina art district, and the Southside’s local businesses to find unique gifts you won’t see anywhere else.
 
For online shoppers, the Santa Fe Marketplace at SantaFe.ShopWhereILive.com offers a way to shop locally from home, featuring over a hundred businesses and items like New Mexico chile and local art.
 
Local holiday markets also bring festive experiences: visit the ArtWalk, Feria Mercado, and Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival for artisan-made, sustainable gifts. Family-friendly events, like holiday movies at Violet Crown and the indoor Farmers Market, bring community spirit to the season.
 
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal at a neighborhood eatery or exploring the festive holiday lights, supporting Santa Fe’s small businesses helps preserve the city’s distinctive charm. Let’s invest in our community by choosing local shops, eateries, and artisans. Celebrate everything that makes Santa Fe unique—its creativity, culture, and community—and make this holiday season meaningful for all.
 
Happy Holidays, Santa Fe!