7B Women sets annual conference

From the same group that raised nearly $25,000 for the community in 2018 with its Clothing Swap and Boobs and Beer Fun Run and Oktober-fest, the 7B Women’s Confer-ence on Thurs-day, March 7, promises to be fun and inspirational. Taking place at the Sandpoint Center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., it is a full day of speakers, vendors and networking, with breakfast and lunch provided by Tango Café. A gathering at Pend d’Oreille Winery will cap off the day.

This year’s theme is The Fearless Woman: Tools for Embracing a Courageous Life.

“Together our group has planned a day where women from all walks of life, whether you are a stay-at-home mom, entrepreneur, retired or just looking to connect with others, can come together to be supported and enveloped in our wonderful community,” said Conference Chair Sherri Lies.

It’s a day where women can unplug and invest in themselves while they listen to inspiring speakers, network and hopefully make a few new friends.

“This year’s topics are designed to give you tools to identify your fears, release them, and in doing so, you will make your dreams, passions and desires a reality,” said conference co-chair and 7B Women board member Katie Campbell. “Our goal is to help people reconnect with the things they are passionate about.”

Starting out the day will be Nicole Hutto who will assist in identifying our beliefs around fear and the potential to be courageous. Following Nicole will be Teri Mathis who will highlight ways to master the art of networking.

“With her own calm and graceful demeanor, Teri will show us how to work a room, whether it’s a meeting or cocktail party, with minimal fear and maximum effectiveness,” said 7B Board President Kim Diercks. “She will give us practical tips that we can put to use right away.”

The morning’s presentations will culminate with a panel discussion on how to best approach difficult conversations with confidence. “We have a panel of local experts who will provide tips on how to have those difficult conversations we know must happen but are difficult. Whether you are talking with an elderly parent, a boss or a child, we all have those times where we are unsure and uneasy about speaking about specific topics,” said 7B Women Vice President Patty Hutchens.

Following what is sure to be a wonderful lunch provided by Tango Café there will be a Ted Talk, with an opportunity for discussion and wrapping up the day will be the keynote speaker, Genny Heikka, an author, speaker and passionate coach to women and organizations. She’s been helping people reach their full potential for over 17 years and has served in a variety of leadership roles within corporate, non-profit and ministry organizations.

“I’m thrilled to be part of the 7B Women’s Conference, and I love that the focus is on giving women tools to help them embrace a courageous life. Pursuing your dreams with confidence and passion is not always easy, and there’s nothing more powerful than women coming together to support and encourage one another,” said Genny who adds that she loves what 7B is doing to empower women to succeed and help them learn, grow and support each other in business and life.

Following the conference, people are encouraged to head over to Pend d’Oreille Winery to close out the day.

“We are looking forward to all gathering for happy hour at Pend d’Oreille Winery following the conference to continue our networking there,” said Dara Fogg, a member of the 7B Women board of directors. “There will also be several opportunities throughout the day to visit our sponsors’ booths.”

To register for this event, visit 7BWomen.com. If you are a member of 7B Women, the cost is $75, for non-members it is $95. If you are interested in some of the many sponsorship opportunities available, which will include the opportunity to have a booth at the event, you can sign up at 7BWomen.com.