Meet our Ambassadors: Melinda Gray

Meet our Ambassadors: Melinda Gray

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a person who enjoys helping others in both

my personal and professional life. I enjoy giving and volunteering within my community. I am on the board for the Bell Center for the Blind, help with Bunco for Babies with LCDSNB, and other initiatives in Laurens County. I find this extremely fulfilling. On the home front I have been married for 43 years, have one son, and a wonderful daughter in love. I love flowers, the water, reading, and our pets. Family time is the best time. I love our church family at Light House Baptist Church and enjoy activities within the church. I have the best friends and am blessed in so many ways.

Where do you work, and what's your role? What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I have worked with Palmetto Heritage Real Estate for the past 30 years. I am a broker associate as well as an appraiser. I list, sell, and do appraisals. I am passionate about my profession and dedicated to helping clients and customers achieve their dreams and ambitions. I am honored to be working with second-generation clients. I find it rewarding to be able to assist with such a major milestone in someone's life.

How long have you been an Ambassador, and what's a personal or professional "win" you've experienced through your Chamber involvement?

I must admit that I cannot remember how long. I think around 15 years. Randall Frye recruited me years ago, and it has been amazing and rewarding to see how our Ambassador program has grown, as well as all the successes of the Chamber. I have been rewarded to make community and individual connections through my work with

the Chamber. I have earned friends and clients through my connections and am thankful for the opportunity. I appreciate all of the opportunities volunteering with the Chamber has afforded me, and I feel like the staff is the best.

What's one local business or hidden gem in Laurens County you think more people should discover?

That's hard, as there are so many. I love Great Crepes and Sunny Meadows children's store. Fall is my favorite season, so I am always excited for Steward Farms to open for the season. Verdin's Too is a wonderful place to destress and wander. Designs by D is my go-to store as they have such a variety of handmade products and unique gifts.

If you could instantly learn a new skill or hobby, what would it be and why?

I would love to be able to do shorthand. A new skill would be woodworking or to learn handy repair skills. Maybe to water ski, but I think that should have been many years ago.