SRQ Women’s Expo Returns to Ritz-Carlton Next Month

July 8, 2024 – The Suncoast’s fastest growing beauty, health, wellness and business expo is now only two weeks away. The SRQ Women’s Expo, presented by Bank of America, returns to Sarasota’s exclusive Ritz-Carlton on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28.

More than 100 local businesses will be at the expo offering a variety of products, services and luxurious beauty and spa treatments for low or no cost at all. There will also be a fashion show, and guest speakers offering professional insight on everything from beauty and fashion to financial literacy.

Barbara Palacios, the winner of Miss Universe 1986 and the third woman from Venezuela to win the Miss Universe pageant, will be a keynote speaker during the Sunday expo luncheon panel. Also speaking on the panel will be fashion designer and Instagram influencer Hayley Paige.

“It’s a great networking opportunity,” says event founder and organizer Julianna Strout. “When I look at the people who have an interest in this, they’re new business owners, both men and women,” said event founder and organizer Julianna Strout. “This event is ideal for any parents who are struggling with their schedule, trying to balance family and work.”

“We look forward to celebrating the innovative ideas and accomplishments of women and businesses in our local community at this event,” said Erik Vatter, president, Bank of America Sarasota/Manatee. “By sponsoring the expo, Bank of America is supporting SRQ’s mission to empower women in Sarasota/Manatee and beyond.”

Strout, herself a young mother and entrepreneur, is at the heart of the not-for-profit expo’s success. A former Miss America contestant and Florida City Commissioner, Strout understands the pressures of balancing home and business life for a new parent.

“I began attending the expo because I wanted to network with other women-owned businesses, says Linda Cuadros, owner of Saint Jewelry. “We sell a lot of products during the expo and people come back to buy more each time. If you’re a new business owner, if you have a small brand, I say go and put it out there at the expo. It’s great exposure and you’ll make great connections.”

There are a variety of ticket and sponsorship options at the Expo’s online ticket center, starting with a $10 general admission ticket for the expo. A 21-and-over cocktail reception offers even more fun networking on Saturday evening at The Sarasota Studio, 1518 State St., Sarasota.

The first SRQ Women’s Expo was held last September, attracting 47 vendor businesses and 200 attendees, compared to over 600 at the most recent expo in May. It’s since grown exponentially and has become the Suncoast’s preeminent business expo for new and upcoming health, beauty and fitness businesses.