Diva-Tize at the Mansion - Recap of 3/28/10 Event
Nancy Waspi and Denise Schultz by Ariel Budleski
On Sunday, March 28 the Golden Oaks Mansion in Lake Geneva was alive with positive energy as people gathered to celebrate the unveiling of a new book, Diva-Tize – Frugal is the New Black - A Diva’s Guide to Thriving in the Recession and Beyond, self-published by Kathy O’Leary of Chicago.
Born and raised in Chicago, O’Leary considers herself to be the “ultimate city girl”. She received her education at DePaul University and The Institute of Broadcast Arts. She began her career in broadcasting on the air, in clubs and at remotes. From broadcasting Kathy moved into event planning and production, and is currently the Corporate Sales Manager at a leading downtown hotel. Kathy’s life-mantra is “to squeeze the joy of every second of each and every day and smile.”
The Golden Oaks, Lake Geneva’s most historic mansion, built for Dr. Philip Maxwell in 1856, is currently closed to the public and is for sale. A member of the sponsoring organization, the Women Entrepreneurs Network, owner Nancy Waspi graciously opened the inn for this private event, drawing mostly women from the local area as well as Chicago and its suburbs. “It was a great day – I loved seeing everyone enjoy the inn,” she shared. Adding about the grand manor, “I am so glad I was able to save it, but I am ready to move on and pass her to the next caregiver…”
As the WE Network Founder, I was personally very pleased with the turnout and the overall success of the day, especially the wonderful collaboration of many dynamic women. Special thanks to Maria Loomer, Above & Beyond Concierge who handled front door welcome and registration; Annalee Loomer, her lovely daughter who graced us with her songs; Beth Moyer with Drink Outfitters; Pam Heilman, Dove Chocolatier Extraordinaire; Dori Beck with Wildtree; Lisa Frederickson, Magia Skin Spa; Mary Anne Olszewski, Awakenings 3 Bodywork; Chris Schulz, Bella Boutique and White House Salon & Spa; Carrie Nordbrock, U-Got-Purse-Onality; Jan and Lisa Olson, JL Marie Jewelry, and Robyn & Bob Hollister, entertainers – for helping to provide a well-rounded variety of activities throughout the afternoon. We were extremely grateful for the on-site support of Barb Findlay, who reached out to volunteer her help when she received the invitation to the event.
Kathy O’Leary and I were happy to notice the natural melding of the “city girls and the lake girls” in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The book was well received, as was the Diva Dialog with the author, and many went home with personally signed copies, hot off the presses.
The afternoon was so delightful, WE Network members immediately began planning another such event to celebrate the upcoming homecoming of Kristen Westlake, Outdoor Photographer, who will soon return to Williams Bay from an extended photography journey throughout the Western U.S. Stay tuned for plans and please SAVE THE DATE for a MAY 2 photo exhibition and artist reception.