GALT, CA (MPG) - The Galt Chamber of Commerce transformed its patio into an intimate gathering space for the annual business awards ceremony, where twinkling lights mirrored the stars above and colorful balloons framed the event. Community Relations Director Kat Seabolt opened the evening with a heartfelt message about the chamber’s decision to host a more accessible celebration this year, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity over extravagance.

"We’re here to celebrate our members beneath the stars," Seabolt announced, acknowledging the support of Diamond Sponsors, the City of Galt and SMUD, who helped make the evening possible. Her words resonated with attendees as she emphasized the chamber’s commitment to fostering collaboration within the business community.

The anticipation built as Board President Kari Markel joined Seabolt to present the evening’s awards. The Business of the Year category featured an impressive lineup of local enterprises, including Sheila’s Country Rose Florist, Taxes & Accounting XClusive Service, Gym Wealth is Health, Iron Dragon, Something Sweet Bakery, Robinson’s Taekwondo Galt, and Azevedo’s Pest Control.

The evening proved especially memorable for Erica’s Cookie Co., which emerged as the star of the night, claiming both the prestigious Business of the Year award and the People’s Choice Award. The latter category had featured strong contenders including Galt Saturday Market, Max Muscle, Galt Market, Flores Camp Lambs, Slaughterback Properties and Saint Martin Foundation.

The dual win highlighted Erica’s Cookie Co.’s significant impact on the community and its popularity among local residents. The intimate outdoor setting seemed to make the victories even sweeter, as fellow business owners and community members celebrated together under the open sky, embodying the chamber’s vision of a more connected and collaborative business community.