Snow Peak Brewing has shown Stayton that not a lot of time is needed to have a large impact on your community.
The tavern opened its doors in 2019, just shy of a global pandemic that forced many small businesses to close. But rather than shutter the doors and cut their losses, Snow Peak owners Matt and Crystal Spenner found creative solutions and made a place where their community felt welcomed.
So no one in the room was surprised when Snow Peak was awarded “Business of the Year” during the annual Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce awards luncheon on March 17.
Matt Spenner said this was quite an outcome considering it was the first time he and Crystal Spenner had attended the event.
“This is our first time being here, so this is awesome,” he said.
Matt Spenner was quick to thank the chamber and the many community members who have become regulars at his business.
“We want to thank our customers, who just keep showing up and it’s great,” he said. “A lot of people that are in this room, we actually know them from the brewery and that’s so cool. We’ve made so many new friends since we’ve opened it.”
Since opening, Snow Peak has become known for hosting numerous events such as bingo fundraisers, live music, trivia nights and comedy shows. They also feature food from local vendors and food trucks, and provide meeting space for the Chamber and Stayton Area Rotary.
This both-feet-in approach to their community was one of the main reasons Snow Peak was nominated by community members.
“When Snow Peak opened their doors they immediately became immersed in our community,” said one nominator. “…They are the perfect candidate for Business of the Year.”
“Snow Peak is creative, innovative, community oriented, resilient,” said another nominator. “They listen to and appreciate their customers. With the pandemic and fire, businesses were adversely impacted, but Snow Peak came up with new ideas to survive.”
Alan Kirby, with the North Santiam School District, who helped present the award, said Snow Peak’s proactivity included seeking grants during the pandemic to improve their outdoor seating and keep the space open for customers.
“Snow Peak has rolled with the punches, keeping a positive perspective,” said Kirby.
Matt and Crystal Spenner have managed to stay down-to-earth amid their success, an attitude expressed by Matt Spenner when he accepted the award.
“If you’ve been into Snow Peak, you’ve seen above our beer taps we have a sign that says, ‘For that which we are about to receive, we thank you Lord,’ and we do,” he said.
Matt Spenner also highlighted the accomplishments of fellow nominees Roth’s Fresh Market Stayton and Baked & Loaded Potatoes, who have stepped up to meet their community’s needs time and again.
