The Style and Spirit of the 2025 SRQ Women’s Expo

I want to share something with you today — not just a recap, but a real moment. Last weekend, I attended one of the most energizing, beautifully organized events I’ve seen in my five years living in Sarasota. The SRQ Women’s Expo 2025, held April 12–13 at The GROVE Ballroom in Lakewood Ranch, was packed with power, style, and energy. It’s rare to see so many stunning, stylish, brilliant women under one roof — beautiful faces, business minds, creators, leaders, and authentic originals. I didn’t know where to look — every corner of the ballroom was alive. I felt the electricity in the room.

As a photographer at IruPhotos, writer, and creator based in Sarasota, I’ve been to plenty of events. But this one stood out because it wasn’t just well done—it was meaningful.

The atmosphere was electric. The room buzzed with energy, conversation, and ambition. It’s rare to witness so many stunning, stylish, confident women — all founders, creatives, and business leaders — in one space. This wasn’t just a networking event but a celebration of what women can build and become when surrounded by community.

Curated and produced by Julianna Strout — entrepreneur, public speaker, and former Miss Rhode Island USA — the Expo offered two powerful days of connection and discovery. Strout, known for her work in female empowerment and public leadership, brought vision and polish to every detail of the weekend.

DAY ONE started with a Miami Vice-themed cocktail event that set the tone for the weekend. Think neon lights, signature cocktails, DJ beats, casino tables, runway shows, and salsa dancers. It was glamorous, yes, but also purposeful. A silent auction benefiting the American Heart Association (in partnership with the Miss America Organization) reminded everyone of the impact behind the sparkle. The evening featured powerful speakers discussing burnout, branding, leadership, and staying grounded while building big.

Let's not forget DJ Joey D's incredible energy. His music set the tone for the event. You can learn more about his work at djjoeyd.com.

DAY TWO was all about business. The ballroom became a curated market of over 60 women-owned brands, showcasing fashion, skincare, wellness, art, and innovation. Every woman there brought something original, polished, and complete in intention. But here are a few personal highlights that stood out to me. I’m sharing a few showcases and mixed photos to give you a feel for the Expo’s energy. I couldn’t capture every showcase—the room was packed and buzzing, and I didn’t want to distract anyone from the real beauty of the event: the live, heartfelt connections.

House of Hilt is one of my favorites. It offers botanical skincare that’s clean, elegant, and locally made. I have featured them on my blog before. Read the article here.

Eternal Spring is a Colombian brand that offers handmade accessories crafted with love and provides national shipping within Colombia. The accessories are super cute and fun.

Art by VVA first attracted my attention with their beautifully printed business cards. Finally, I found a quality print service in our city. They also specialize in custom graphic design and promotional products. They offer various services, including screen printing, embroidery, signage, and branded merchandise such as mugs, pens, hats, banners, and vehicle graphics.

Milena Boudoir Photography – Sensual, artistic portraiture that’s all about confidence.

I loved the photo albums she represented at the Expo, which had an artistic and sophisticated vision.

BIOM Pharmaceutical – Sarasota-based biotech doing real science for better gut health. Imagine you can order your supplements locally and ensure they are quality products.

Valentina Salon and Spa is a place where I love to spend time. It's a beauty spot where we ladies connect, are welcomed, pampered, and heard—a real spa for both body and spirit.

Tarleva is new, but I fell in love with its fashion style. It is a classic, sophisticated, and exquisite online luxury brand for professional and cosmopolitan women.

Longiva Care is a Sarasota-based wellness clinic offering personalized IV therapy, advanced weight loss programs, and mobile services. It is distinguished by its science-driven, holistic approach that combines medical expertise with lifestyle optimization to enhance vitality and longevity.

Jewels by Sanjam is a woman-owned brand founded by designer Sanjam Chawla. It offers a unique collection of finely handcrafted South Asian and contemporary jewelry. Their pieces blend traditional craftsmanship with modern elegance, catering to those who appreciate intricate design and cultural heritage. It was a joy to see my dear Indian community represented at the SRQ Women’s Expo, connecting through beauty, artistry, and shared culture.

Shop Max & Leona – Fashion-forward, comfortable, confident, and refined European women's clothing, run by a Sarasota resident, Marina Eckert. Read more about the brand in my article here.

ITALICA Boutique has been a big part of many creative projects I’ve worked on. It is a new, pumping, truly wonderful place to check out downtown Sarasota for elegant clothing and accessories. The owner's energy and style turn every visit into a full-on experience, not just a shopping trip. Read more about this new fashion spot here.

Organic Skin & Body Medical Aesthetics in Bradenton offers a serene, eco-conscious spa experience that blends advanced laser treatments with organic skincare. The spa features Éminence Organic products and personalized consultations to deliver radiant, natural results.

NorthStar Jewelry in downtown Sarasota is a thoughtfully curated boutique showcasing exquisite, unique jewelry and gifts. I’m always drawn in by the stunning pieces and the elegant spirit of its owner, Susan Paszkiewicz North. Her taste, warmth, and eye for detail make this shop one of the most sophisticated in our city.

Each brand and business brought its perspective, but together, they reflected what modern entrepreneurship looks like: bold, creative, and crafted with intention. Every founder made an impact, not just through their products but also their presence and how they held space.

To Julianna Strout and her team: thank you for creating an event celebrating Sarasota’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit. I left inspired, motivated, and reminded of what women can do when they come together with a vision.

Photos: iruphotos.com