The Cuero Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Women in Business Luncheon, a powerful gathering designed to empower and inspire local women entrepreneurs and professionals, Wednesday, Sept. 24.
Held at a packed venue, the event drew over 100 attendees—up from roughly 80 last year—highlighting growing interest and momentum within the community.
The luncheon featured a showcase of local women-owned businesses, with booths highlighting everything from handcrafted leather goods to development resources. Among the featured participants were Renee Wilke of Leather Creations by Renee Wilke LLC/TX Soule, Sarah Trevino and Suzy Adams of A Special Stitch, and Samantha Solis with the Cuero Development Corporation.
These and other exhibitors represented the diverse talent and entrepreneurial spirit thriving in the Cuero area.
The event began with a warm welcome from Cuero Mayor Emil Garza and Chamber Executive Director Angie Cuellar, setting the tone for an inspiring afternoon.
The keynote speaker was Mrs. Clara Villarreal Varner, a University of Texas graduate with a degree in aerospace engineering and a 33-year veteran of the CIA. Varner, joined by moderator and longtime friend Paul Harper— also a UT graduate— spoke candidly about her experience navigating and succeeding in male-dominated fields.
“You already have what it takes,” Varner told the audience. “Own it, and go out and do something with it.”
Before lunch was served, Mrs. Amanda Avalos, a self-published author of the book Just Pray, delivered a heartfelt invocation that underscored the theme of strength through faith and perseverance.
The afternoon concluded with a compelling panel discussion featuring accomplished women from various sectors, including: Moderated by Ingra Sparkman, the panelists shared both personal triumphs and professional challenges, offering insights on leadership, resilience, and work-life balance.
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring women leaders, Post-Meyer replied, “If you can dream how wonderful, just do it!”
Coach Crain emphasized the importance of intentionality in maintaining balance: “You have to indefinitely set aside time for your home life,” she said. She also reminded the audience that, “We cannot succeed without failure.”
Hobbs reflected on the impact of mentorship and legacy: “If I plant the seed, I may not get to see the end harvest, but I know I did my best to see it grow,” she said.
The luncheon closed with heartfelt remarks from Angie Cuellar, who thanked attendees, sponsors, ambassadors, and community members for making the event a success. The Chamber also expressed gratitude on social media, stating: “Being surrounded by so many influential women, leaders, and professionals in our Cuero community was a true blessing.”
With themes of empowerment and inspiration woven throughout the afternoon, the event once again affirmed Cuero’s commitment to celebrating and supporting the women who help shape its future
Women in Business Key Speakers left to right: Amanda Avalos, Clara Villarreal Varner, Cecilia Hedrick, Bethany Hobbs, Ingra Sparkman, Paul Harper, Jennifer Mann, Coach Amy Crain, and Sara Post-Meyer. Photo courtesy of Myranda Trentman-Shaffer
