Leading Ladies

As a women-owned business we stand tall and proud of our fellow females at the helm in the workforce. We want to highlight some of our favorite local business owners who have changed the game in their respective industries. Take a peek at a few ladies we love leading the charge!

Shred415 Creators, Bonnie Micheli & Tracy Roemer

Chicago fitness experts Bonnie Micheli and Tracy Roemer created Shred415, an instructor-led, calorie-burning, interval training class designed to target all levels of clientele. These power women, who bring more than 25 years of fitness training expertise, have created a take charge workout experience that is expanding across the Midwest, 7 locations and counting! Their approach pleases the masses all the way to the toughest of critics, and has them returning to shred stress and those extra lbs. away! Bonnie, Tracy and the Shred415 team inspire on the daily and push us to reach our goals in the gym and workplace! Couples looking to get into tip-top shape for their Big Day, be sure to check out Shred415's Shred to The Wed package. 

Sprinkles Cupcakes Founder & Pastry Chef, Candace Nelson

What began as the world's first cupcake bakery in Beverly Hills in 2005, Sprinkles Cupcakes has since then evolved into a cupcake craze. Candace Nelson started a baking phenomenon that has swept the nation with an uncontrollable sweet tooth! Now with over 22 locations nationwide, the world's first cupcake truck, cupcake vending machine and in-store cupcake mixes that are sold around the U.S. & Canada, Sprinkles is an incredibly successful women-owned business. Candace, who left her job as an investment banker to pursue her true passion, is a prime example of what it means to be a fearless boss lady!

Art Effect Founder, Esther Fishman

Esther Fishman opened Art Effect in 1984 largely as a consignment store to sell her friend’s clothing and jewelry. Since then, this dearly loved Chicago boutique has evolved into a must-see shopping destination on Armitage Avenue with any and every go-to gift a girl could want! We pride Esther on her keen business sense to create a one-stop shop that offers a huge variety of highly coveted products. We love how Art Effect has grown-up with the beautiful Lincoln Park neighborhood drawing in customers far and wide. Esther's success story reminds us to always do what you love and seek out your calling withstanding the test of time! Did we mention that Art Effect has an online storefront?!

Girl & The Goat Executive Chef, Stephanie Izard

This Chicago native took the culinary world by storm in the television hit series Top Chef and has been cooking her way to the top ever since. From winning the season to be being named "Fan Favorite" on the acclaimed Bravo’s show, this woman is truly inspirational. Her Chicago restaurant, Girl & the Goat was nominated best new restaurant by the James Beard Foundation in 2011 and Best Chef: Great Lakes in 2013. Izard was also named one of Food & Wine Magazine’s “Best New Chefs” in 2010. If Stephanie's impressive resume doesn't wow you, just head over to one of her fabulous restaurants in Chicago's West Loop and see for yourself!

Ms.Tech Founder & President, Nicole Yeary

In an industry run mainly by men, Ms.Tech founder, Nicole Yeary created an organization that serves as a social impact learning community opening up doors and breaking down barriers for technology innovators. They aim to provide women in technology the inspiration, knowledge and connections to reach their full potential. This thoughtful leading lady created a power-house community for early, mid-career and executive-level individuals who are committed to developing themselves as leaders through education, mentorship, networking and knowledge-sharing. With some of the best and brightest minds in Chicago, Ms.Tech reassures us that women standing together are always a force to be reckoned with!

xoxo Janet & Team Mae

To work with a woman-owned business and see how Michigan Avenue Events can assist in the planning of your dream wedding, please visit us at www.michiganavenueevents.com or call us at 312-585-7265.