Women’s business network celebrates second anniversary

The birthday brunch was held at The Wheatley Arms [Photo: Natasha Cadman photography]

A birthday brunch brought together 60 women in business as Inspire & Connect Business Networking celebrated its second anniversary.

Founded in 2024 by local entrepreneur Anna Clewlow and now co-led with Dani Bolser of My Vibe VA, the network has grown to include active groups across Ilkley, Bingley, Farsley and Thackley.

The brunch was held at The Wheatley Arms in Ben Rhydding on Monday 14 September, and guests enjoyed brunch and an inspiring panel featuring international model and positive ageing advocate Rachel Peru, mindset expert and author Victoria Jackson, and multi-business owner Sarah Isbister.

A celebratory raffle raised £300 for the Principle Trust, Inspire & Connect’s charity of the year, with the main prize generously donated by Crescent Hotel and Bistro Pierre in Ilkley.

The event was supported by a host of local businesses, including Salt Pots, Cosmos Flowers, Dip & Dales, Jo Underhill Designer Travel, Pebbles Hypnotherapy, Moonstone Feng Shui, Full Circle Funerals, The Yorkshire Copywriter, Rebecca Phillips Aromatherapy, Steph Morgan and Jules Bickerdyke, who contributed sponsorship, products and services to help make the celebration possible.

Founder Anna Clewlow said: “We were absolutely thrilled to welcome a strong network of incredible women to mark our second birthday. The energy in the room was phenomenal. To see so many female entrepreneurs connecting, supporting each other and celebrating what we’ve built over the last two years is deeply rewarding.”

Dani Bolser added: “Reaching over 60 attendees for our birthday event highlights just how vital supportive spaces are for women in business. We are so grateful to our sponsors and local partners for helping us host such a memorable celebration.”

Inspire & Connect continues to provide networking opportunities for female business owners, freelancers and professionals across West Yorkshire. Upcoming events and membership information can be found on the group's Instagram.