Ladies’ Night: The Maria Luisa Way

We just wanted to take a moment to share some details of our first Ladies’ Night, what we hope will become a successful monthly gathering for our preferred customers and friends.
It was a good sign when people started to arrive early the evening of Jan. 24 – and so wonderful to see people catching up with old friends or making new acquaintances. It was amazing how many people knew each other from this nonprofit organization or that charity event, business or store and were introducing their friends to others across the room.
By the time of our program’s start, we had a full house of some three dozen participants (including a few men who added to the lively atmosphere).
The setting was the lower-level gallery/event space at ML Gifts & Accessories, a home-accessory showcase by day that easily transitioned into a lounge-like setting after dark.
Lisa Kaess, an economics expert whose new effort, Feminomics, is all about “Helping Women Get a Financial Life,” was the evening’s featured guest. The highlight of her presentation was the screening of her short film, “Grace Under Fire.” It was an engaging look at local-business owners – yes, Maria Whittingham was one of those features – and how they are coping in today’s challenging economic climate.
“I like to see myself as a bridge, a translator,” Kaess explained of her approach. She said she hopes to help women have a stronger voice when it comes to financial issues and is doing that by offering advice that she hopes is “accessible, but not stuffy.”
A handful of those featured in the film were in attendance, including New York State Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee, who offered some inspiring words after the film the audience, which included a number of women business owners.
“It’s so important for women to stand together, to support each other,” Jaffee said. She spoke of upcoming efforts both locally and statewide that will trickle down into making the economy stronger and aid women business owners in their efforts to sustain their livelihoods.
It was a fast-paced, interesting look at a topic – the changing and challenging economy – that has had an impact on everyone in one way or another.
The evening broke into smaller conversations as guests shared stories, sparkling waters and wine and a much-talked-about salmon dip (provided by Kaess).
It was, in short, a success in our eyes – and we thank those of you who made it.
“I’m really excited, to really have a forum,” said Maria Whittingham, who’s looking forward to seeing how the initiative shapes itself, with your suggestions and participation, in coming months.
We hope you’ll join us as the series continues Feb. 28; be on the lookout for an e-mail blast with full details – and remember, we hit capacity on our first time out, so be sure to RSVP via the Facebook invite for this next one.