Excellence took center stage at the 15th Annual Inspired Women Luncheon (IWL), presented by Chase and hosted by the Women’s Alliance of the Greater Arlington Chamber.
This year’s theme, “Unmatched,” reflects a mindset rooted in purpose and possibility. It challenges women to lead with confidence, act with intention and pursue impact that rises above expectation. When vision meets action, the result is leadership that is not easily defined. It is simply unmatched.
Keynote speaker Conni Reed is the Founder, CEO & Chief Creative Officer of Consuela, a beloved fashion lifestyle handbag and accessories brand well-regarded for bold, vibrant prints, embroideries, glitters and layered material explorations that bring joy to women. Inspired by her own story of growing up between small-town Texas and Boulder’s 1980s new wave scene along with frequent childhood road trips to Mexico, Reed’s designs create a visual diary of contrasts: rugged yet fantastical, bold yet heartfelt, messy yet beautiful: all blending artistry with function.
During her keynote, Reed shared her personal journey to start Consuela nearly 20 years ago, explaining how creativity, vulnerability and meaningful relationships shaped both her life and her business.
Reed reflected on how Consuela’s “Art of the Unmatched” and encouraged attendees to embrace what makes their own journeys unique, explaining that life’s unexpected experiences often create the most meaningful outcomes.
“I’ve always brought together unexpected textures and materials and colors, and I have found that when you put things that don’t seemingly go together together, it actually makes them more beautiful,” Reed said.
She challenged attendees to intentionally create joy in their own lives.
“The hard is always coming,” Reed said. “So it’s about what we’re going to do in the midst of the hard and whether we choose to be present and try to make today ridiculously awesome.”
A special thank you to our speaker sponsor, the Dallas Wings.
The morning kicked off with a professional development panel of unmatched leaders.
Past, present and future Chamber Board Chairs Kellie Fischer of the Texas Rangers, Joni Wilson of Susser Bank and Kim Crawford of SFC reflected on the lessons and challenges that shaped their leadership journeys. Each panelist shared how leadership can be unmatched by leading with integrity, resilience and vision in competitive environments and how women can define leadership on their own terms.
A special thank you to our professional development panel sponsor, Sargent Investments.
Alongside the panel, attendees could join table talks to spark meaningful conversation and connection with experienced professionals.
Guided by thoughtful prompts, each table featured a different topic and expert encouraging authentic dialogue around leadership, professional growth and the challenges and opportunities women face in business today.
A special thank you to our table talks sponsor, First Rate, Inc.
As part of the Inspired Women Luncheon, the Greater Arlington Chamber’s Women’s Alliance bestows two honors on individuals who walk in an unmatched commitment to making a difference in Arlington. These women represent some of the best in our community. They are strong leaders who put others’ needs above their own to bring people together and facilitate change.
The Hero Award honors women who have dedicated their lives to making a lasting impact in our community. Our Hero Award recipients have created a legacy through tenured, consistent contributions. This year’s recipient, Becky Gerro, is devoted to the Arlington community through her work with special-needs youth, her leadership of Boy Scout Troop 517, her role at the River Legacy Foundation and her investment as a local small business owner.
The Rising Star Award recognizes women who are paving the way for significant community impact. Although they may be early in their career or involvement, these women exemplify strong leadership with a commitment to positive change. This year’s recipient, Suzanne Taylor grew up in Arlington and made it her goal to nurture the next generation of leaders in our community.
Read more about Taylor and Gerro HERE.
As part of the Inspired Women Luncheon, the Greater Arlington Chamber’s Women’s Alliance awarded three Beth Owens Small Business Grants to women-owned businesses in the greater Arlington area that have operated for five years or less, with a cash award, gifts, professional and business services to encourage the growth of their businesses. This year’s recipients are The Mosaic Market, The Path Forward Support Services and Viva De Beauty Professional Academy.
At the first IWL, the Chamber awarded one $1,000 scholarship donated by Dr. Judith J Carrier, former President of TTC-SE and the first-ever Chairwoman of the Chamber Board. Dedicated to cultivating and developing the next generation of women leaders, The Dr. Judith J. Carrier Scholarship Program awarded $19,000 in scholarships this year to five local students.
Read more about this year’s grant and scholarship recipients HERE.
Following the luncheon, attendees supported local women-owned businesses and female artisans at the brand-new After Party Marketplace, presented by Frost. Vendors included Donna’s Closet, Main Event Boutique, Hey Honey, Anything Goes, Sugar Bee Sweets, The Arlington Shop, Inspirations Catering and BuDahGirl.
Beyond empowering speakers and challenging women to be unmatched, there was no shortage of activities to enjoy, including the Arlington Highlands Mimosa Bar, the Texas Trust Credit Union Photobooth, the Official Luxury Vehicle from Park Place Motorcars of Arlington, Keep It Local Plinko sponsored by Chick-fil-A North Collins St. and so much more!
The Greater Arlington Chamber’s Women’s Alliance is focused on empowering and uniting women through business and community endeavors. The Women’s Alliance pledges to offer leadership, mentoring, and direction to its devoted members and is committed to strengthening women as professional, business, community and civic leaders.
