A few days ago, over 100 military and first responder spouses came together in Lenexa, KS for an event which was the first of its kind.
The Inspire Up Foundation, founded by Jessica Manfre, Samantha Gomolka, Maria Reed, and Stacy Bilodeau, produced one of this community’s premier events focused upon one thing – a loud and resounding message that you have value and are completely worth investing in.
The You’re Worth It Conference, dreamed up by Stacy Bilodeau, began with a vision of an empowered spouse. She hoped to craft an experience that would allow military spouses and spouses of first responders to connect, build new relationships, and experience growth together.
After hearing the passion behind the vision, this dynamic friend group from the Inspire Up Foundation and Brittany Boccher from Discovering Your Spark, began to put their noses to the grindstone, working tirelessly to construct this one-of-a-kind event from the ground up. Thanks to Armed Forces Insurance’s Military Spouse of the Year Program and Caliber Home Loans, the You’re Worth It Conference went from a dream to a reality.
Upon arrival Thursday, conferees were welcomed with a snack bag and invited into conversation by the welcome team. After registering, everyone congregated together for a “Sweet and Salty” reception. Over delicious treats and savory snacks, hugs were shared by all while old friends reconnected and new friendships were made. Music blared, but the sound couldn’t overtake the immense amount of laughter or the loud chatter of conversation.
When the official kick-off of the event started on Friday morning, the anticipation was palpable. The team’s attention to detail pulled the eye in every direction. Conference bags were carefully packed with hand-made tassels attached to the handle. Swag overflowed. Lights from the stage glowed with “You’re Worth It” spelled out and all of the attendants poured into the event space while confetti cannons burst into the air.
Janet Jones, Founder of Vixen Workout, headlined the conference as the keynote speaker before conferees dispersed for engaging breakouts. These breakout sessions were hosted and led by members of the veteran and military spouse spaces.
I had the pleasure of attending Chandee Ulch’s “Snap. Click. Brand” workshop and I walked away with a brand new headshot, a manual full of great advice on photo branding, and new friends to keep me stocked in encouragement. After that, I skipped over to Molly Bennett’s “Life’s a Brush” workshop for mocktails and watercolor. I left in hand with a watercolor palette, a new notebook of watercolor paper, and a fun new skill.
By the time I pronounced the benediction, my heart overflowed with gratitude. I had no idea how much I needed rest, refreshment, and renewal. We should never forget the impact of community and the responsibility we all have to build it well.
Be on the lookout for big things to come from the Inspire Up Foundation, including the You’re Worth It Conference, by following Inspire Up Foundation online, on Facebook, and on Instagram. See all the fun by using the #YWIWeekend!