On May 29th, more than 80 women gathered aboard the luxurious Solaris Yacht in Sandestin to celebrate the launch of the Ladies Leadership Luncheon (LLL), a bold new networking platform founded by Destin City Lifestyle publisher Carmen Foster, who also rang in her 40th birthday in radiant style.
Created to foster connection, collaboration, and growth, the event transformed a rainy afternoon into a vibrant, joy-filled cruise. Despite the weather, the energy on board was electric. Women danced, laughed, shared stories, and made meaningful connections, all with the serene backdrop of the bay.
LLL is more than an event; it’s a movement. One designed to uplift women by creating space for authentic leadership, shared experiences, and community support. Carmen’s vision brought together women from all walks of life, united by a common goal: to rise, together.
As Carmen shared during the celebration, “This is about showing up for one another. We’re building something that lasts.” The inaugural LLL set the tone for a new wave of purpose-driven, heart-centered leadership.
The event was made possible by the powerhouse LLL leadership team: Melanie Gray, Felicia Cassandra, Sally Foster, Galina Wells, and Julie Webb. Each woman brought her unique voice to the team and helped set the tone for an inspiring day. Julie Webb, co-founder of Advanced Sacred Hope Academy (ASHA), also contributes to LLL’s mission of community and inclusion. Her dedication to special needs education echoes the heart behind this growing movement.
The cruise featured powerhouse keynote speakers who shared their stories of resilience and reinvention. Sally Bower, founder of Sally’s Boat Parties, delivered a fun, unfiltered look at the joy of building a purpose-driven brand. Velia Lala, luxury travel curator and wellness entrepreneur, inspired attendees to lead with clarity, creativity, and intention.
Megan Riddle and Captain Megan Gaster of Legendary Marine electrified the crowd with tales of leadership in a male-dominated industry, encouraging everyone to stand strong, stay true, and embrace leadership with grace and grit.
Valentina Rella Camacho of Costa Mare Catering crafted a breathtaking display of red rose cupcakes that perfectly complemented Carmen’s elegant dress. Every detail was thoughtfully executed, from the rich color to the delicate design, creating a dessert that was as visually striking as delicious. The cupcakes weren’t just a treat; they were a centerpiece, adding beauty and charm to an unforgettable celebration.
Pro Art Photo-Video & DJ, a husband-and-wife team led by George and Ana, added an unforgettable soundtrack to the celebration. Their DJ and MC skills brought the entire event to life. With high-energy music, smooth transitions, and a deep understanding of the crowd, they turned the Solaris into a floating dance floor and celebration space.
Spotlight: Sally Bower
As founder of Sally’s Boat Parties, Sally has created one of the most beloved and unique networking experiences on the water, where meaningful connections are made with open skies and gentle waves. Her presentation was inspiring and refreshing, reminding guests that leadership doesn’t have to be stiff or overly formal; it can be joyful, vibrant, and full of heart. Through her journey, Sally exemplifies how authenticity, creativity, and a sense of fun can build strong communities, leading to a powerful, lasting impact. She’s living proof that embracing your true self isn’t just liberating, it’s also an incredible strategy for success.
Spotlight: Velia Lala
Luxury travel curator, wellness entrepreneur, and visual artist, Velia is a master at crafting a life rooted in purpose and passion. Her keynote invited guests to live with intention, to slow down, tune in, and align with their inner light. Drawing from her global journeys and holistic lifestyle, Velia shared how beauty, wellness, and mindfulness can be woven into everyday life. Her message was both elegant and empowering, reminding us that true success comes from alignment, when your actions reflect your authentic self. She left the audience inspired to create with heart, travel with soul, and live with clarity.
Spotlight: Megan Riddle & Megan Gaster
Known affectionately as “The Megans,” these dynamic leaders from Legendary Marine brought bold insights, real-world experience, and practical wisdom to the stage. With humor, heart, and honesty, they shared stories of resilience and reinvention, offering a candid look at the challenges they’ve overcome. From navigating a male-dominated industry to fostering a culture of collaboration, The Megans emphasized the power of sisterhood, teamwork, and self-belief. Their authenticity and vibrant energy captivated the audience, inspiring everyone to lead with courage, support one another, and embrace the strength that comes from showing up fully and unapologetically as yourself.
Spotlight: Galina Wells
As LLL’s creative director and founder of Galina Wells Photography, Galina played a key role in shaping the visual identity of the luncheon through a stunning branding portrait campaign. Her empowering imagery captured the essence of the leadership team’s vision and brought cohesion to the brand’s aesthetic. With an eye for authenticity and elegance, Galina’s work inspires women to show up boldly, confidently, and beautifully, both in front of the camera and in their everyday lives.
Spotlight: Julie Webb
Julie brings profound purpose to her leadership role at LLL, seamlessly balancing it with her work as co-founder of Advanced Sacred Hope Academy, a transformative school serving children with autism. Her unwavering dedication to inclusion and advocacy shapes every decision she makes, infusing her leadership with empathy and intention. Julie exemplifies the truth that authentic leadership is grounded in compassion, education, and the courage to create lasting, meaningful change. Her presence in LLL is a powerful reminder of what leading with heart and vision means.