Although I started my business in 2020, I didn’t really buckle down and get serious until this year. In September, I began paying for advertising, looking into how to host my own Make-and-Take classes, and investing more into expanding my brand awareness. I’d been a member of the St. Pete Girl Boss group since I moved to St. Pete (for the 2nd time) in 2021, but I hadn’t made it to one of their infamous Girl Boss coffee socials yet.
On Septermber 23rd, that changed. The Girl Boss group was hosting an event at FloridaRAMA (incredible venue, amazing artwork, if you haven’t been you absolutely MUST go). This was a fundraising event for breast cancer awareness, and I just so happened to be available that day.
I asked my friend and CEO of local non-profit Zen4Blue if she’d go with me to help break the ice, but she was unavailable, so I made the decision to go alone; and boy am I glad I did. I met some of St. Pete’s most incredible female entrepeneurs. Guest speaker, Kelly Pimeau inspired me so much, I remember watching her presentation thinking – I want to be like her someday.
Then you have Girl Boss leader, Sandy Bean, who is, without a doubt, the coolest chick I’ve ever met. She’s so down-to-earth, quick-witted, intelligent and charismatic. She’s another woman I really look up to and idolize. Honestly, it’s just awe-inspiring to be surrounded by group of powerful, successful women who are working hard, chasing their dreams, and living life to the fullest.
During the meeting, the leading ladies asked if anyone had exciting news they wanted to share. Another Girl Boss by the name of Kelly Abanda led this portion of the meeting. Girl Bosses would take the microphone and share their big news, and then everyone would cheer and applaud and scream “BIG F*N DEAL”!
I’m neurodivergent and an introvert, and under normal circumstances I NEVER would have raised my hand. But this was shortly after I’d been invited onboard WFLA’s Daytime TV to host a fall wreath-making segment and I couldn’t wait to share the news. Afterwards, everyone cheering and clapping and telling me what a big deal my accomplishment was just absolutely sent me over the moon. This is a memory I will not soon forget.
Shortly after I attended this meeting, we were hit with Hurricanes Helene and Milton back-to-back. Sandy reached out looking for volunteers to help those affected by the storms and I was one of the first to sign up. Myself and a few other Girl Bosses drove out to Shore Acres to help a family who was absolutely devastated by Helene.
We helped them load up all of their personal belongings and unload at a storage unit. They were so unbelievably grateful for our assistance in their time of need, and it really just serves as a testament to how much the St. Pete Girl Boss group contributes to the community.
Just yesterday, another St. Pete Girl Boss by the name of Madeline Rose with The Balanced Rose invited me to an all-expense-paid girl’s retreat where I will have the opportunity to partake in some much-needed meditation, relaxation, massage, reiki, and healing sessions. Then on Friday, yet another Girl Boss and photographer by the name of Sarah Cress is going to do a photoshoot to snap pictures for my website in exchange for a custom wreath.
In my short time under the St. Pete Girl Bosses wings, I have had some incredible, fortuitous opportunities come my way. I am so thankful for these connections and the ability to be a part of such an awesome group of ladies. I am even more excited for what the future has to offer!