TEMECULA -- The Professional Woman's Roundtable furthered members' dedication to helping women enhance their professional futures with the nonprofit's Ritzy Country Cottage Tea at Keyways Winery on May 1.
Live music by harpist Sonia Marie Olivas carried through the open-air vineyard pavilion as about 50 attendees were warmly greeted by PWR members, offered wines and refreshments and then quickly welcomed into conversations.
CEO Alicia Newman welcomed everyone, spoke about how the group strives to help women personally and professionally. She then thanked Debi Mathews with The Socialites Event Planners for organizing the event, Annette LaRocque with Murrieta V.I.P. Florist for the flower arrangements, and Annette Nielsen, a Keyways event coordinator. Newman also recognized the PWR leadership team that includes Lori Hoopingarner, Jan Bates, Monica Kirkland, Phyllis Reed, Lorraine DeLap, Elena Medo, Jan Duran and Vonnie Mulhall.
Sue Del Bono then accepted the microphone and directed attendees to pass the bowls filled with different flavored loose leaf teas around each table. Each attendee chose from the luscious tea flavors and filled their tea bags. Hot water was poured then Del Bono set the timer for perfect brewing times.
Models in bridal and casual fashions by designer Jamie Stephens, elyseREUBEN Custom Couture and Molly's Clothing, strolled through the pavilion and attendees had their business headshots taken by Sharyn Harbison from It's "Your Image."
Selina Steel, Cheryl Pollard, Leanne A. Sumner, Ginger Greaves, Cinthia J. Rodriguez, Liza Piercy, Amber Ham and Melodie Williams enjoyed a delicious lunch served by Vineyard Gourmet Catering while Matthews took the microphone to begin her presentation of the most common business etiquette questions and answers.
Attendees were schooled to introduce the president of the company first whenever there is a group situation, and that the client should be called Mr. or Ms. regardless of their marital status unless otherwise told. Also, the rule in restaurants is to let your clients or guests follow behind the maitre d' first, no forging ahead, and then at the table pass the basket of bread to the client first.
The presentation ended with cheers from the audience then unique cakes from Debbie McLaughlin's Cakes to Celebrate were served at each table and gift bags filled with an assortment of fun items were given to each attendee.
The PWR continues to encourage interested women to attend their meetings. Proceeds from this event will help finance three continued education or business program scholarships for women, Newman said. For information about joining PWR, visit www.pwronline.org.
