Women in Communication: Turning Passion into Career

As a Santa Barbara wine expert, I’ve learned that the finest vintages are best enjoyed with inspiring company—and that’s exactly what I found with the Association for Women in Communications, Santa Barbara. Serving on the board has been an absolute delight, immersing me in a vibrant community of brilliant women who are as passionate about their craft as they are about uplifting one another. From writers and teachers to filmmakers, radio and TV broadcasters, nonprofit leaders, PR mavens, and dynamic communicators of all kinds, these ladies are the real deal. Their dedication to communication in all its forms has not only enriched my life but also fueled my own journey as a storyteller and wine entrepreneur.

On September 11, I had the honor of kicking off AWC-SB’s fall season as the featured speaker. Let me tell you, sharing my story about turning a love affair with wine into a thriving career was absolutely exhilarating. My talk, aptly titled “Turning Your Passion into Your Career,” gave me a chance to reflect on how I’ve blended my love for wine, food, travel, storytelling, and communication into my business, Petite Wine Traveler, which has been evolving since 2017.

Of course, no evening would be complete without a toast – or two! We savored two exquisite wines generously donated by The Brander Vineyard: Le Cul de Refugio Los Olivos District 2021 and Cabernet Los Olivos District 2020. As we explored the rich history and artistry behind each bottle, I shared why wine is so special to me. The process of winemaking is not just about fermentation; it’s about storytelling, tradition, and passion – all elements that resonate deeply with the art of communication. Just as every bottle tells a story of its origin and the hands that crafted it, every act of communication has the power to connect us, inspire us, and propel us forward.

The evening was a swirl of inspiring conversations, exceptional wines, and a palpable sense of community that reminded me why I adore being part of this incredible organization. AWC-SB is more than just a professional network; it’s a sisterhood of dynamic women who communicate, create, and lead with gusto. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we all share a commitment to using communication as a powerful tool for change, education, and empowerment. It’s like finding the perfect blend in a wine – each grape contributes its unique flavor to create something truly special.

One of the highlights of our year is the annual Women of Achievement Awards. This isn’t just another ceremony; it’s a celebration of outstanding women leaders in communication who have made significant strides in their fields. These honorees are trailblazers – advocates for equity, justice, and innovation. They unite communities, bridge divides, and spark progress. Watching them shine inspires us all to think bigger, reach higher, and continue advocating for the causes close to our hearts. Plus, the funds raised from this event help sustain AWC-SB’s mission, providing valuable professional development opportunities for our members throughout the year.

The fall season kickoff was a perfect snapshot of what makes AWC-SB so special. After my presentation, the room buzzed with energy as we broke into small groups to chat about our own passions and how to transform them into careers. The conversations were lively, thoughtful, and brimming with optimism. It’s clear that when women come together to share their stories and lift each other up, magic happens.

The fall season is a time of renewal – a chance to reflect on your journey and consider how AWC-SB can support you in reaching your goals. So let’s raise a glass to new adventures, lasting friendships, and the exciting path ahead. With monthly meetings featuring exciting guest speakers, you’re welcome to check out AWC-SB as a guest. I look forward to seeing you at our next event, where we can continue to share stories, inspire one another, and maybe even help you discover your passion!