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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do at your Chamber of Commerce?
Hi there! I’m Erica Ashton, the Executive Director of the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce. I get to do all the fun stuff—connecting businesses, creating meaningful events, and showcasing the magic of our island to the world. Basically, I’m the ultimate cheerleader for all things Vineyard!
What made you want to work for the Chamber of Commerce?
Living on Martha’s Vineyard, I’ve seen firsthand the heart and soul local business owners pour into their work. This island isn’t just my home; it’s a community built on passion, creativity, and resilience. Working for the Chamber allows me to support and uplift the people who make this place so special. From a tourism perspective, I also get to invite people from all over the world to fall in love with Martha’s Vineyard, just like I did when I first visited at six years old. It’s about sharing a piece of this special place with the world while supporting the community that makes it thrive.
What do you love the most about the area where you live in Massachusetts?
Living full-time on Martha’s Vineyard feels like a dream grounded in deep community and natural beauty. Every season brings something new—a quiet, serene winter where the island feels like it’s all yours, and vibrant summers full of salt, sand, and beach barbecues. The best part is the sense of belonging. You’re not just living in a place, you’re part of an extended family where local business owners know your name, neighbors help each other out, and every sunset feels like a gift. There’s a magic here that makes even the simplest moments unforgettable.
Why do you think it’s important for everyone to be a member of a Chamber of Commerce?
Being part of a Chamber of Commerce is like being woven into the fabric of a community. It’s about more than just business—it’s about support, connection, and shared growth. For me, the Chamber is where local businesses, big and small, come together to lift each other up. The Chamber creates opportunities, fosters collaboration, and ensures that we all succeed together. When you’re a member, you’re not just investing in your business—you’re investing in the community that surrounds and supports you.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned in my career is that kindness, compassion, and integrity are the foundation of success. It’s always easier—and more meaningful—to lift people up than to put them down. Showing up consistently and making sure your word truly means something builds trust and lasting relationships. At the end of the day, business is about people, and when you lead with compassion and make decisions in the best interest of both the business and the community, everyone benefits. It’s those principles that create real impact and long-term success.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?
If I weren’t in my current position, I’d be a full-time travel writer, exploring every corner of the world and sharing stories about hidden gems and incredible cultures. Traveling is one of my greatest passions—second only to home entertaining and creating the perfect tablescape! Imagine combining all that: writing about far-flung destinations by day and hosting unforgettable dinners by night. It’d be a dream job where wanderlust and creativity come together!
When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?
When I’m not working, I’m chasing adventure and connection. My husband, Jon, and I love exploring the world, indulging in amazing food, and soaking up new cultures. At home, I get my hands dirty in the garden, growing vegetables while Eleanor Rigby, our 2-year-old labradoodle, happily bounces around. We spend our weekends hiking hidden trails and cooling off in the ocean. I find balance and peace in hot yoga, sweating out the stress of the day, and there’s nothing I love more than gathering friends at the beach for bocce, music, and endless laughter, or hosting dinner parties where the conversations are as full as our hearts. These moments fill my soul every single day.
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