The stars aligned this morning for Springfield Business Journal’s Most Influential Women photo shoot. The Springfield Little Theatre rolled out the red carpet for the class of 2015 and the historic Landers Theatre was the perfect photo backdrop for the Broadway-themed event.
Before the 20 ladies gather with friends and family Oct. 16 for the main event, the photo shoot gives the class a chance to get to know each other and SBJ staff. Over bagels and coffee – supplied by returning platinum sponsor Metropolitan National Bank – there was much talk, much laughter and much comparing of shoes.
More than just a photo shoot, the 7:30 a.m. gathering had a higher calling – the introduction of event charity partner
Women In Need of the Ozarks. WIN seeks to help empower women by providing women in need the necessary resources. Each lady took home a snappy WIN-provided purse to collect donations before the event. SBJ photographer Anne Mauldin snapped fun photos with the ladies and their purse. Watch
WIN’s Facebook page later this month and throughout October as they feature an MIW honoree each day.
Thanks to my trusty iPhone, here’s a look behind the curtain at this morning’s event.
Dressed up for tonight’s opening of “Grease,” the front doors to the Springfield Little Theater got an extra MIW touch this morning.
Past MIW honoree and Metropolitan National Bank Business Development and Marketing Officer Michal Moss Early talks before the shoot. She spoke of the friendships she’s forged with her MIW class and welcomed the new group to the fold.
Before the ladies filled the room for photos, I jumped at the chance to stand on the Landers stage. I’ve seen many performances in that room, but I’ve never seen it from this angle.
The backstage area was filled with “Grease”-related props, including this diner set.
Ever wonder what makes the curtain go up and down? Check out all the cords and pulleys.
The main event: the photo shoot. I escorted each lady to waiting SBJ photographer Wes Hamilton. Here, Kristy Chastain has her picture snapped.
The theater lobby was bustling with activity as each honoree awaited their turn in front of Wes’ lens.
WIN’s purse table was full of fun and snazzy purse options.
I would be remiss if I didn’t include a photo of shoes. Look at the fierce heels on the ladies from Metropolitan National Bank.
Congratulations again from everyone at SBJ to this year’s class of Most Influential Women. We can’t wait to celebrate with you in October.
Tickets for this year’s event can be purchased through the
SBJ website.
