About the Event

In celebration of Women’s History Month, join us for a dynamic conversation between two entrepreneurs from the food industry as they discuss nontraditional paths to success, share stories, and empower attendees. Whether you’re a working parent, balancing more than one job, or just starting your business, success can look different for everyone, and measuring that success in a world of online business, side hustles, and evolving trends can be difficult. Find inspiration from the speakers about how to measure your own success, with insights that reach beyond the food and small business industry.

The conversation features Jill Nguyễn, founder of Capitol Jill Baking, a Washington, DC-based microbakery and cake workshop, and Bricia Lopez, co-owner of Guelaguetza, a Oaxacan restaurant and boutique market in Los Angeles. Nguyễn will share her experience starting her cottage baking business during the pandemic, navigating the challenges of brand-building from her home kitchen, and redefining success amidst rapid change. Lopez, a leader in the LA food scene, will speak about expanding her family’s Oaxacan restaurant into a nationally recognized brand while preserving cultural authenticity and how her understanding of success has evolved throughout her career.

The talk will be followed by a salon-style cocktail hour from 7 to 8 pm.