Celebrating 12 Years of the WESOS National Annual Holiday Party

Twelve years ago, we gathered in a private room at the Honey Jam Café in Bolingbrook, IL, with just 40 women. That day was magical—filled with laughter, a heartfelt gift exchange, and Christmas songs. It was the first WESOS Holiday Party, and even in that humble beginning, the energy of women supporting women was undeniable.

Fast forward to today, and that small gathering has evolved into a National Annual WESOS Holiday Party, bringing together women entrepreneurs from across the country. This Friday, December 6, we’ll host the event at the Carlisle Banquet Hall in Lombard, IL, with 75 incredible women business owners celebrating themselves, each other, and their thriving businesses.

Looking back, I am amazed at how this idea of “we go further and faster together” resonated with so many women. It was never just a tagline; it was a movement waiting to happen. From year to year, as the venues expanded and attendance grew—peaking just before the pandemic—it became clear that this was a community thousands of women wanted and needed.

As women business owners, we wear countless hats—leaders, mothers, daughters, partners, and friends. Yet, we intentionally carve out this time every year to celebrate the unique power of feminine energy in business. This energy is relational, not transactional. It’s the energy of gatherers, empaths, and those who care deeply about the person behind the business, not just the products and services they offer.

At WESOS, our sisters are dedicated to “getting to know the woman behind the business.” This approach doesn’t just help grow a network; it builds genuine connections and creates a support system that uplifts everyone. This relational networking is why so many of our members have found lasting success.

The business landscape is changing, and WESOS is leading a revolution. Together, we’re proving that collaboration over competition is not only possible but transformative.

As I reflect on the last 12 years, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and pride. I refused to let naysayers or those with misaligned values hijack this incredible journey. Today, thousands of women have been inspired, supported, and empowered to find real success—not just in business but in life.

This holiday party is more than an event. It’s a celebration of the revolution we’re building—a community where women see, support, and care for each other in every aspect of their lives.

Here’s to 12 years of WESOS Holiday Parties, to countless connections made, and to the powerful, thriving community we’ve created together. Let’s celebrate not just what we’ve accomplished but the bright future ahead.

With love and gratitude,  Jean LaVallie  Founder, WESOS Network