As we come to the close of Women’s History Month, I cannot help but be eternally grateful to the women that have paved the way for me in so many ways. This month was a celebration of those women + to raise up all of the great strides that we have made together over the centuries.
Addie with two team members, Jess + Ariana, at a company photoshoot.
I am fortunate to have been surrounded by strong women in my life that have demonstrated the power of determination, being able to articulate their vision + what it means to unify a community for a greater cause – the great gathering. This is especially true as I reflect on what this month means for our company, as I lead an all-female team of remarkable women.
One of those women that has substantiated all of those qualities mentioned above (+ more) is my mother. She + my wonderful father launched their first business when I was just eight years old. Here is where I learned what it really meant to ‘roll up your sleeves + get your hands dirty!’ Now, working in a bakery as a young girl, there were bound to be messes of flour + plenty of sprinkles spilled, so yes, I did get a little dirty. But at the bakery is where I first began to develop a strong work ethic, how to strike up conversations with those that were decades older than me + what it meant to give back to our community. They then launched their second business just four years later.
Day after day, I would see how hard my parents worked + the joy that their bakery + restaurant provided people in our small-town in Nebraska. It was a gathering place for friends, celebrations took place there + it was also a quick breakfast stop for those on their way to the office. It gave life to our community + looking back on it now, it also gave our family so much in return.
Polaroids of Addie with team member, Kali, at the company’s 10 year anniversary.
Fast forward thirty years + here I sit at my desk while looking out of my office window in Downtown Sioux Falls, penning my thoughts about the one woman that had an impact on my own life + what we do at The Event Company. What makes us special is exactly what I observed my mother doing for many years in her own businesses. It is our determination, why we are so purposeful in our work + the love for people together for the greater good. Leading a team of women, I can only hope to make a difference in their lives, just as my mother has had on me.
This will always be a month that I will continue to celebrate for all women that have come before me + for those that will come after me – for their determination, bravery + resiliency in the workplace, in their communities + within their own families.
Addie Graham-Kramer