3rd Time is the Charm!

For the third year in a row, MGI Corporate Gifts was honored as a finalist for the Arlington Chamber of Commerce Retail Business of the Year Award, and this year, we finally brought home the win.

Winning the 2026 Best Retail Business Award is an incredible honor, one that means much more to us than just business success. It reflects years of building relationships, being involved in our community, remaining resilient, and staying committed to helping clients make meaningful connections through strategic gifting.

Built on more than 25 years of industry experience, I transformed my career from Buyer at Hecht's Department Stores and Director of Corporate Sales at Tiny Jewel Box into this high-touch, results-driven business. MGI, “Make Great Impressions,” is more than a name; it’s a promise. Every client engagement is about delivering meaningful, strategic gifting solutions that elevate relationships, strengthen brands, and create a lasting impact.

Over the years, MGI has redefined corporate gifting, turning it from a last-minute obligation into a true business advantage. Thanks to proactive outreach and careful planning, our clients never feel rushed or forced into generic choices. Instead, they receive curated, thoughtful options tailored to their goals, timelines, and budgets, delivered seamlessly and with care.

This recognition wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Arlington Chamber community. Since launching the business in 2020, I’ve been fortunate to meet so many fellow business leaders who have become not just trusted colleagues, but dear friends. We celebrate each other’s successes and lift each other up during challenging times.

I’ve been proud to take part in the Arlington Chamber’s Annual Gala, the organization’s largest fundraiser, since 2021. I’m especially grateful for my LeadShare #2 colleagues and friends, whose encouragement and collaboration have meant so much along the way. I also truly value my time on the Membership Engagement Committee, where I have the chance to connect each month with members and learn about their experiences in the Chamber community.

Being involved in the community has always been at the heart of who I am, both personally and professionally. Beyond growing the MGI brand, I believe deeply in giving back and helping others thrive. I regularly participate in the Community Action Committee through the Arlington Chamber and often share nonprofit needs with friends, neighbors, and business connections throughout the community.

Last year, I also had the privilege of serving on the PathForward Gala Committee, helping to bring awareness and support to families experiencing homelessness. Finding ways to balance family, work, and meaningful community involvement brings me an incredible sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Like many businesses, MGI faced significant challenges in 2025. A 30% decline in business due to federal restructuring created ripple effects throughout the nonprofit and government sectors. But through strategic planning and expanding into new client segments, MGI not only recovered but also achieved an impressive 12% overall growth.

In 2026, MGI launched a new website and brand platform focused on measurable outcomes and the proven impact of strategic gifting and recognition programs. This evolution positions MGI not just as a vendor but as a trusted advisor, helping organizations maximize engagement, retention, and brand loyalty.

Winning the Arlington Chamber’s Best Retail Business Award is more than a milestone. It’s a reminder of what’s possible when passion, perseverance, relationships, and community come together. After three years as a finalist, this honor makes the journey even sweeter.

Third time truly was the charm.