Opp’s Covington Charm Boutique was named the Gold Emerging Small Business of The Year by the Business Council of Alabama, and the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama.
The ceremony was held at The Club in Birmingham, and award announcements were made.
Melissa and Chance McCurley own and operate the Covington Charm Boutique in Opp. Opp and Covington County Area Chamber of Commerce nominated the business for the award.
“The Opp Chamber of Commerce is proud of Melissa, Chance, for their leadership, community support, chamber involvement and business success. Kelly Brandin, the Opp chamber’s executive administrator, said that Covington Charm Boutique is the perfect recipient of the Emerging Small Business of the year because of its commitment to revitalizing downtown Opp.
Their story began when the McCurleys, Opp natives, purchased a building at W. Covington Avenue in downtown Opp. They purchased the next-door building for Chance’s successful transportation company, and Covington Charm Boutique was founded. Covington Charm, a successful boutique for ladies that caters to residents in their locality and those who are not physically close by them online, opened in 2021.
They didn’t stop at Covington Charm, nor the buildings they had originally bought. They also opened Main Street Treats and partnered with Amazon for the Amazon Hub Delivery Partners Program. Additionally, they purchased three additional buildings downtown Opp to revitalize them and make them home to other small, thriving companies.
A BCA press release stated that Melissa and Chance continue to support their community through their Covington Charm Boutique, and other ventures. “Chance is an active Opp Rotary Club member and serves as the Opp and Covington County Area Chamber of Commerce executive committee members. They support the Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo and Opp Schools as well as AndalusiaOffice of Professionals Association.
Other businesses that were recognized in the same category included: Rock and Roll Offs in Semmes, silver award winner; and Virtuous Realty Group Madison, bronze award winner.
Danny Garrett, Alabama State Representative and champion of small businesses, served as Master of Ceremonies.
Alabama’s Small Business of the Year Awards recognizes the achievements of small businesses in Alabama and the positive impact they have on the local community.
Just a few days following Small Business Saturday, the awards ceremony took place.
“Small businesses are essential for our state’s success and growth.” Helena Duncan, President and CEO of BCA, said that today’s recipients go above and beyond to support their communities and run exceptional businesses. “BCA is delighted to partner with CCAA in honoring the finalists for the 2022 Alabama Small Business of the year.”
Paige Hutto, President and CEO of CCAA, stated that the CCAA was proud to partner up with BCA to recognize the deserving companies named as finalists in the 2022 Alabama Small Business of the Year. Each of these small businesses represents the best of the best and is an integral part of Alabama’s economy. They also help to keep the state running. They deserve to be commended on their perseverance, determination, grit and success.
46 businesses were selected as finalists this year. Local chambers of commerce from across the state submitted nominations for the 2022 Small Business of the Year Awards. A panel of judges from outside the state reviewed finalist candidates in areas such as community involvement, chamber participation and business success. There were four categories that had respective bronze, silver, or gold winners: Emerging Small Business (for those who have been in business less than five years); 1-10 employees; 11-50 workers; and 51-100 staff.
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