Ottawa Women in Business Shine at the International Women’s Day Power Lunch
Let’s talk about what happens when you gather a room full of powerhouse women, add a few plates of unreal food, and stir in the energy of connection and collaboration—magic.
This year’s International Women’s Day Power Lunch at the National Arts Centre was one of those events that left you feeling proud, inspired, and completely recharged. As a woman, business owner, and mom of girls, I (Renée) left the room thinking: Yes. This is the kind of community I want our girls to grow up around.
A Day to Celebrate Women in Business in Ottawa
The lunch was organized by the incredible Catherine Landry, a champion for local entrepreneurs who continues to lead the charge in supporting small businesses across Ottawa—especially women-led ones. Whether you were a seasoned business owner or just starting out, it was impossible not to be inspired by the stories, the laughter, and the mutual “I see you” energy in the room.
(Catherine Landry, owner of Call Betty, Marketing, SheShopsLocal.ca and organizer of the Ladies Who Lunch.)
From Newfoundland to 1 Elgin—The Food Was Next-Level
Chefs Celeste Mah and Ross Larkin (yep, Top Chef Ross!) created a menu that was straight-up phenomenal. Every bite felt like a love letter to Canadian cuisine and set the perfect tone for meaningful conversations and new connections. There’s something about sharing a beautiful meal that brings people together—it was more than networking; it was bonding.
When You Know the Small Business Journey—You Show Up for Others
Jason has been involved in small business for many years, and while I’ve only been on this journey for a little over five, we both understand the highs and lows that come with it. And let’s be honest—no matter how long you’ve been in business, that little voice of imposter syndrome can still creep in.
What struck me most at this event was how open people were about those feelings. Whether you’re early in your career or a veteran entrepreneur, you’re not alone. This was a room full of Ottawa women in business who were honest, supportive, and ready to lift each other up—and that kind of energy stays with you.
Strong Women, Stronger Together
I attended the lunch with Tanya from Exhalo Spa, a long-time business owner and strong female entrepreneur here in Ottawa. It was inspiring to stand in a room full of women who get it—who show up for their clients, their teams, their families, and each other. It reminded me how important it is to surround yourself with people who lead with both strength and heart.
(Tanya Farlinger, owner of Exhalo Spa Barrhaven & Exhalo Kanata)
It’s About All of Us
Although this event was focused on women, there was a strong message that supporting women in business doesn’t mean excluding men. At MacDonald Property Group, we believe in empowering everyone in the local business community—because when one of us grows, we all grow.
Why Events Like This Matter
Events like the International Women’s Day Power Lunch remind us why connection matters. Supporting one another matters. Sharing our stories matters. As Ottawa’s small business community continues to grow, these kinds of moments create space for reflection, celebration, and the kind of empowerment that goes beyond the room we were in.
With gratitude,
Renée 💙
MacDonald Property Group