Women In Business: Wine NOT Talk About It?

PANAMA CITY, FL - Each month, Jenny Kelley, owner of Bookish Boutique, nestled in the heart of downtown Panama City and local realtor, Sabina Balch, co-host a vibrant networking event designed to unite professionals and entrepreneurs over a glass of wine: Wine Not Talk Business – A Monthly Networking Event.

Friday’s gathering spotlighted three dynamic women: Taylor Williams, motivational speaker and founder of Cool to Be Kind Tay; Lex Benedict, film editor, producer, and VFX artist; and Lacy Counts, owner of downtown’s beloved Yard Bar.

A recurring message from all three speakers: do not be intimidated by male-dominated industries. Their shared mantra? “Why not me?” More importantly, they each emphasized the importance of cultivating a positive work culture, a culture where employees feel motivated to stay and thrive.

Taylor Williams, a Mosley High graduate, delivered raw, heartfelt stories that shaped her. She opened up about the trauma she faced during and after Hurricane Michael, followed by the devastating back-to-back losses of her step-brother and ex-husband. Through this grief, Taylor found a calling: to spread positivity. That mission gave rise to the Positivity Summit, which was launched in 2023 with the support of Florida State University. This year’s event will be held on November 20th, with proceeds benefiting SPARE, a local cause.

Lex Benedict, a Bay High graduate, recently returned home after two decades in Los Angeles. With a vision of revitalizing Bay County, she wants to give today’s youth a reason to stay after graduation. Though not fond of public speaking, Lex shared vulnerably about the importance of setting boundaries and knowing that saying “no” makes your “yes” more impactful. She spoke candidly about the challenges of freelance life, encouraging attendees not to feel discouraged and to embrace side hustles. With today’s tech, she affirmed, dreams are within reach. Although she is back in Panama City, her work still operates out of Los Angeles.

Lacy Counts, also a Bay High graduate, echoed many of these themes, supporting them in her own story of grit and determination. Raised with a strong work ethic, she is no stranger to pulling weeds or cleaning toilets. In fact, she recalls dressing as a clown at a very young age, playfully advertising for her parent’s business. Success does not happen overnight, she reminded the room, it is earned through relentless commitment. “Be ready to do all the things,” she advised, noting how in the early days she wore every hat in her business, even when she wished she could hire help. Her message was clear: do not shy away from male-dominated industries, for if you can dream it, you can do it.

The next event will be held at Bookish Boutique on July 11th from 6-8 pm. The speakers have not yet been narrowed down.