When I moved to Roanoke in my early 30s, I struggled to meet like-minded women, so I started a monthly potluck called the Roanoke Cooking Chicks. Four women showed up to the first event—and over time the group grew to 75 members.

After moving to Charlotte, I created the Charlotte Cooking Chicks. Even in a big city, women craved a relaxed, positive space to share food, wine, and friendship. The group grew to 150 members, with a waiting list for every event, and expanded to volunteering, girls’ weekends, and workshops from candy-making to belly dancing.

In 2019, I brought the same idea to Staunton with the Staunton Cooking Chicks. By 2024, I wanted something a little bolder, reflecting who I am now. That’s how Staunton Magnificent Women began: a group celebrating energy, style, and the best years still ahead. Today, we are 100 strong and growing!

Connecting women remains central to my work. As a certified Menopause Coach, I offer one-on-one coaching sessions to women in midlife transitions to reinspire their vitality and momentum. I also teach "Midlife Reboot" courses around Virginia. I speak to groups like WOW (Women of Woodstock) and teach Women in Leadership courses to inspire meaningful, fun, and supportive connections.