Four women, four industries, four inspiring journeys.
From left to right: Mori Taheripor, Bella Karakis, Rachel Martin, Karen DiPeri, Cally Rieman
KAL RIEMAN was proud to be a part of “Celebrating Women in Business: How We Succeed,” a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Alumni Event. The night brought together an inspiring panel of female entrepreneurs and women leaders who’ve built their own paths in business.
The discussion, led by moderator Mori Taheripor, centered around the personal and professional journeys of these female CEOs and small business owners. From hospitality to fashion to sustainable winemaking, each story reflected a unique take on female leadership in diverse industries.
Meet the Panelists:
Cally Rieman, CEO of KAL RIEMAN.
Designing modern womenswear that moves with women who lead.
Karen DiPeri, President of HMG Plus.
Leading with warmth and precision in the fast-paced world of hospitality.
Rachel Martin, Founder & CEO of Oceano Wines | Oceano Zero | Oceano Ultra
Reimagining what it means to be a female founder in the wine industry.
Bella Karakis, Co-Founder & CEO of e.terra Kitchen and Maiden Voyage Catering.
Creating space for culinary innovation through commercial kitchens and curated catering experiences.
Dressing Women Who Lead: Inside the Panel’s Looks
The panel was made up of accomplished women business owners in a variety of industries. When asked to dress the panel, we all agreed that each member should select their own style to wear. Mori chose our Ginna Box Pleat Tailored Shirt which has a soft yet powerful air. Karen chose a more playful style that matches her personality in our Mila Wrap Shirt. Rachel chose our soft but structured Ponte Funnelneck Top for that quiet sophistication, and Bella wore our Dafne Cowl T-neck that fit perfectly with her lifestyle.
Leadership Insights from the Panel
Q: What is It Like to Run a Family Business?
Karen DiPeri shared her story of being in business with her husband and life partner, Michael. Although it has its ups and downs, she felt a stronger purpose working as a family to grow their business. They are now joined by their daughter, Mia, who runs their creative marketing team.
Q: Our Tools For Survival?
Bella Karakis shared the two things that get her through the most trying of times. First of all, her feisty spirit and get it done motto ensure that she accomplishes her goals. Second, she keeps a gratitude journal, which she states as her most effective tool to keep all her energy positive even in the most challenging of times.
Q: What Makes Us Keep Going?
When asked what motivates me to keep going through the hard times, I am always reminded who I am working for - my Team. From my dedicated staff to our family run factories and loyal customers, they are what makes the journey so joyful. Fighting through difficult times running an independent womenswear brand is much easier to do when you have such amazing people surrounding you.
Q: How We Face Leadership Challenges?
Rachel Martin shared the challenges of leading a team remotely. Rachel worked for 20 years in the family wine business in California, but was inspired to go off on her own, creating Oceano Wines. Living on the East Coast with a staff primarily on the West Coast has posed some team building challenges, but Rachel was able to navigate that through time and patience.
Thank you to everyone who attended and hosted this special night. It is an honour to be a part of this dynamic and uplifting community. Want to see more women-led style? Explore our Spring collection crafted for women who lead.
Credits:
Eric Vital Photography
Event Coordination by Amy Lee
Hospitality & catering staff provided by HMG
Appetizers provided by Eterra Kitchen & Maiden Voyage Catering
Wine provided by Oceano Wines
