A Memorable Second Gala and a Full House For The Elles Collective!

The second fundraising gala of the Elles Collective, a non-profit organization of US French-speaking businesswomen and entrepreneurs, was successfully held on May 9 at the Beverly Hills French Residence in LA.

This fabulous evening was hosted by Madame Julie Duhaut-Bedos, Consulate General of France, and featured many special guests, including international movie legend, actor, producer, and Francophile Jacqueline Bisset.

Actress and Producer Jacqueline Bisset attends (Photo by Tibrina Hobson for Getty Images)

Among the highlights of the evening was an impassioned speech from Jodie Dolan about her story as a fashion business entrepreneur and inspiring founder of The Laundry Truck, a non-profit providing free mobile laundry service to LA’s homeless community.

“DreamLAnd” author Martine Laing; Consul General of Los Angeles Julie Duhaut-Bedos; and Jacqueline Bisset (Photo by Tibrina Hobson for Getty Images)

“Our second edition was as highly commendable as our first,” said Elles’ President Céline Amilien. “Guest of honor Jacqueline Bisset brought a touch of LA glamour and prestige given her impressive career in film and television. She made an impactful red carpet captured by Getty Images.”

Vicky Unger, chapter chair of Women Presidents Organization, shared news of the new WPO chapter in Paris, which is creating a bridge between the two organizations, and showcasing the power and influence of women in business supporting each other.

The non-profit association received a great deal of benefit from the silent auction that took place during the evening. Elles President, Ms Amilien added: “The warm and consistent support we received from established and successful businesswomen who believe in our humble organization is remarkable. Hopefully, we will one day be able to be a vital association that will help French-speaking women entrepreneurs all around the globe while continuing to support the independence of Francophone businesswomen in the US.”

Julie Herrmann; Elles Président Céline Amilien; Jacqueline Bisset (Photo by Tibrina Hobson for Getty Images)

She acknowledged special guests, particularly entrepreneurs like Jodie Dolan, adding a dynamic element to the evening. Their talks and insights would inspire and motivate the audience, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship in driving positive change and empowering communities.

Vicki Unger and Jodie Dolan (Photo by Tibrina Hobson for Getty Images)

The sophisticated soirée included gastronomic delights, magnums of Chateau Minuty Cuvée Prestige Rosé, an Esterlin Champagne with Grand Renom Bordeaux wine, and live entertainment from singer Chloé Perrier. 

The event, which brought together the best and brightest of the Franco-American business community, also marked the group’s achievements. 

The Elles Collective would like to thank sponsors: the WOMEN PRESIDENTS ORGANIZATION, CHATEAU MINUTY, official rosé prestige of the gala, TV5 MONDE, MANA Cosmetics, MAISON PRIVÉE LA, FABRIQUE DÉLICES, RATATOUILLE Catering, Chef JOSETTE, LUDIVINE Paris, GHIA, SOCIAL SPELL, WINE-STREET, KMADE and CHLOÉ MORTAUD.

About The Elles Collective: The Elles Collective has 130 members, all entrepreneurs, and six local chapters, demonstrating steady growth since its launch in 2019 by Karine Hervouët. Its mission remains to empower French-speaking women in the US to achieve economic equality between men and women, especially during expatriation. Supporting women in their entrepreneurial journey with personal values, time, and expertise, “The Elles Collective” can help them become successful and independent business owners and positively impact their lives and communities.

For more information on The Elles Collective, including donation opportunities, bid at the silent auction, or become an Elles member, https://www.theellescollective.org/ (The Elles Collective is a registered 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.)

(Photo by Tribina Hobson for Getty Images)