County Meath Chamber’s Meath Women in Biz & Tech Network hosted its Summer Social at Navan Racecourse last Thursday, bringing together more than 80 businesswomen from across Meath for an afternoon of networking, style, conversation and fun.
With the theme “Confidence is your best accessory”, the event celebrated how style, self-belief and presentation can help women feel more assured in business and in life.
Proceedings were officially opened by Cathaoirleach Cllr Sarah Reilly, who welcomed guests on the day, while Minister Helen McEntee also dropped in to meet and mingle with attendees.
A highlight of the afternoon was an engaging panel discussion chaired by Elaine Keogh of Solstice Media, featuring three local businesswomen; Fiona Hanily of Belle Mariée Boutique & Bridal, Athboy, Fiona Colwell of Simply Style by Fi, and Fiona Rafter of Fiona Rafter Millinery.
Drawing on their own experiences as business owners and entrepreneurs, the panel shared practical insights into building strong client relationships, creating memorable customer experiences, sustaining confidence and finding fulfilment in their work.
An engaging Q&A followed, exploring how personal presentation, colour and brand identity can help businesswomen show up with confidence, impact and authenticity. Attendee feedback was hugely positive, with many taking away practical ideas to strengthen both their own confidence and how they present their business.
Set against the backdrop of one of Meath’s landmark racing venues, the Summer Social also shone a light on the wider business ecosystem linked to horseracing; from fashion, millinery and craft to catering, sponsorship, branding and events, both on and off the racecourse.
Two local craftspeople displayed their work throughout the afternoon, while fashion and headwear from Meath boutiques, designers and milliners were showcased by guests. Paula McCaul, County Meath Chamber, modelled occasion wear from Belle Mariée Boutique in Athboy, and one of the guest speakers wore a beautiful headpiece from Fiona Rafter Millinery.
Prizes were generously provided by the guest speakers and Meath Local Enterprise Office, including tickets to National Women’s Enterprise Day at Dunboyne Castle in October. The Best Dressed and Best Hat prizes were sponsored and judged by The Ardan Collection.
The Meath Women in Biz & Tech Network supports women to grow in enterprise, entrepreneurship and self-employment by creating opportunities to share experiences, learn from one another and make valuable connections. Managed by County Meath Chamber in partnership with Meath Local Enterprise Office, the network is proudly sponsored by Meta. The Chamber extends a sincere thank you to everyone who attended, to Navan Racecourse for hosting, and to all those who continue to support and champion women in business across County Meath.
National Women’s Enterprise Day takes place on Thursday 15th October in Dunboyne Castle Hotel 9.30am-2.30pm (Lunch Included). The next meeting of the Meath Women in Biz & Tech Network takes place on Wednesday 9th December in Killeen Castle.
