Hosted by entrepreneur and jewelry designer Susan Shaw, The Southern C’s evening of “Reflection” for women in business channeled all the gracious style of a Southern Lady soirée. Glimpse the beautifully arranged tablescape, lavish florals, and thoughtful finishing touches that welcomed guests to The Southern C’s Summit presenter dinner in early 2024. We also spotlight several inspiring entrepreneurs—from longtime friends of Southern Lady to up-and-coming tastemakers.
Entrepreneurs from around the country gathered at The Cloister at the luxurious Sea Island Resort in coastal Georgia in the spirit of camaraderie. Celebrating her own company’s 45th anniversary this year, Texas jewelry designer Susan Shaw was the visionary behind a special fête for TSC Summit speakers and other movers and shakers.
With help from the talented Savannah-based team at August Floral & Event Design, Susan played up a theme of “Reflections.” Tables dressed to the nines with sweeping blue florals sparkled in the candlelight, aptly reflected in small mirrors penned with guests’ names at each place setting. Susan explained on social media that she hoped the occasion would inspire all in attendance to contemplate their own business journeys.
At this year’s annual conference, TSC Summit, cofounders Whitney Long and Cheri Leavy announced The Southern C’s sponsorship of a scholarship for female entrepreneurs. The award is named in honor of Phyllis Hoffman DePiano, who founded Hoffman Media, including Southern Lady and many of our sister publications. Phyllis’s twin sons, Eric Hoffman and Brian Hart Hoffman, are now at the helm of Hoffman Media, carrying on their late mom’s legacy after having worked alongside her for 16 years.
This year, Brian took the stage to congratulate Kristen Chester of Casa Danu fashions on her selection as the premiere recipient. Based in Atlanta, Kristen’s business journey began as a creative outlet in 2020, as she underwent cancer treatment as a new mother. Her tenacious spirit made her an ideal candidate for an award exclusively bestowed on “a female entrepreneur whose passion and drive echoes the qualities that made Phyllis a powerful voice of creativity and love.”
Find our feature of this inspiring event in our July/August 2024 issue and browse more web-exclusive content here.
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