Business Spotlight TALK to Doris. Now! Togetherness! Celebrating 100 Women of Color as Business Owners! By Jannise Bush

Doris Symonds’ Togetherness Celebration event is held annually in June at the Lariat Steakhouse. This year, there were a lot of familiar faces as well as new ones. All are a testament to the positive impact Doris has had. Everyone who’s had an opportunity to work with or be encouraged by her over the years has flourished. Literally everyone. It doesn’t matter if you are a business owner or an employee trying to advance or someone just trying to get your finances in order so you can achieve your goals. With Doris’ help, you will meet and possibly exceed your goals.

The evening included speed networking, door prizes/giveaways, dinner, and key lime cake by Sweet Cakes by Rachael. Everyone had the opportunity to market their businesses and make connections with over 70 other businesses and supporters in a relaxed, fun-filled atmosphere. Seating arrangements ensured everyone felt welcome and included.

Some of the businesses represented at the event included Spoon River Home Healthcare (sponsor), Shaun V Photography, AFE Construction, Chef V, Concrete to Perfection, Batteries Plus, Hairadox Hair Care Center, Triple J’s Janitorial Service, GK Beauty, and Montefusco HVAC, Inc. Many of the attendees and more are listed in the newly published 100 Women of Color Business Ownership Directory. This booklet includes businesses located in Peoria, Bloomington, and Galesburg.

Do you want to be more successful? Two of the most effective ways to be successful in business/life are (1) take advantage of Doris’ 30-minute, one-on-one coaching sessions and (2) attend Doris’ events. Her annual Women in Business conference is coming up in November. Stay tuned. For more information, visit her Events page at www.talktodorisnow.com. You will be able to register online, by phone (309-224-9665), or by e-mail (dsymo92699@aol.com).