A First for the Valley: MRV Chamber and Vermont Lodging Association Host Joint Mixer at the Hyde Away

The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce a first-of-its-kind collaboration with the Vermont Lodging Association (VLA): a joint regional mixer bringing together lodging professionals, Chamber members, and tourism partners from across the state.

The event will take place on Wednesday, June 17, from 5–7 p.m. at the Hyde Away Inn & Tavern in Waitsfield.

This gathering marks an important moment for the Mad River Valley business community. In recent years, the MRV Chamber’s advocacy work—particularly in the lodging and tourism sector—has gained increasing attention at the state level. Legislative efforts and ongoing engagement from our members have helped elevate the Valley’s voice in conversations about Vermont’s visitor economy.

The Vermont Lodging Association’s decision to co-host this event is a meaningful acknowledgment of that work and of the strength of the MRV Chamber as a convening organization. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with VLA and to welcome colleagues from across Vermont to the Valley.

At the center of this collaboration is the Mad River Valley lodging community itself—one of the most active and engaged sectors of our local economy. From innkeepers and property managers to hospitality professionals and year-round operators, this group continues to play a leading role in shaping both the visitor experience and the policy conversations that impact it.

We are especially pleased to be hosting this event at the Hyde Away Inn & Tavern, a long-standing Valley institution nestled at the foot of Sugarbush and Mad River Glen. Since 1949, the Hyde Away has been a gathering place for skiers, locals, and travelers alike, known for its warmth, history, and iconic tavern atmosphere.

The event is being hosted by Hyde Away Property Manager Jean Wry, who also serves on the MRV Chamber Board of Directors. Jean has been a tireless advocate for the Mad River Valley, consistently promoting the region and strengthening connections within the hospitality community. This mixer represents a fitting moment of recognition for her leadership and for the broader work of the Valley’s lodging community.

In addition to an evening of connection and conversation, the event will include updates from both organizations and opportunities to share ideas, challenges, and successes across the state’s hospitality network.

For VLA members who would like to extend their stay, the Hyde Away is offering a 15% discounted room rate. Reservations can be made by calling 802-496-2322 ext. 2 and using the code VLA.

We are thrilled to welcome the Vermont Lodging Association to the Mad River Valley and look forward to a lively and meaningful evening of collaboration as we head into the summer season.