heels & Handshakes Annual IWD

Thank you to the 120 Women in Business who joined us for our Annual International Women’s Day Luncheon Presented by First Farmers.

This year, the theme was #embraceequity

Key Takeaways from our panelists:

• Things they had to unlearn: It's okay to ask for help
   

• Your career doesn't always have to be linear
   

• Recommend to ask for a male sponsor to help you get in those rooms that you don't have access to. 

• You are the Prize

• Sometimes you just have to have a shower cry

• Make sure you join a community

Panel included:

Moderator Kris Bush

Faith Barker Managing Director of Girls In Tech

Jessalyn Wanlim from the Netflix Hit, Workin’ Moms

Melinda Noblitt, CMD with Asurion

Why did the women attend this luncheon?

Our annual International Women’s Day Luncheon has become a must-attend event for women in business, and for good reason. This inspiring celebration provides:

1. Connection & Community
   Women gathered to network, share experiences, and build meaningful connections with like-minded professionals who understand the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in business.

2. Empowering Insights
   Attendees walked away with actionable wisdom from trailblazing speakers who shared stories of resilience, success, and growth. From overcoming self-doubt to achieving alignment in their careers, every moment was designed to spark inspiration.

3. A Celebration of Success
   Our luncheon honored the achievements of women—both as individuals and as a community. This was a space to celebrate how far we've come while setting our sights on an even brighter future.

4. Recharging Energy
   Amid the hustle of business and life, this event served as a beautiful pause. Guests enjoyed thoughtful conversations, uplifting energy, and a reminder of their unstoppable potential.

5. A Shared Vision for Impact
   More than just a luncheon, this day was about creating momentum for collective success. Attendees left feeling aligned, motivated, and ready to make an impact in their businesses and communities.
   

Huge thank you to our Friendors for making this luncheon absolutely gorgeous!

Venue: Mint Springs Farm
Catering provided by: G Catering
Stage and chairs provided by: Please Be Seated
Gorgeous Florals provided by: The Bloom House
AV, DJ and Photo Booth provided by: Future Boy Creative
Coffee Station provided by: NUJO
Social Media Coverage provided by: Pretty Creative Agency
Photography provided by: Gabrielle Von Heyking

And of course, this program wouldn’t have been possible without our Strategic Partners
Brain Trust

First Farmers

Video from the day of, click here.

If you were unable to join us for this luncheon, we would love to invite you to attend our next in-person meeting. You can find all of our programming listed here.