As part of Women's History Month, Refine Collective founder IB Majekodumn organized Planet HER for the second consecutive year on March 24, showcasing a marketplace of over 50 women artists, creators and performances from local musicians.
Chicago's historic old boys' club, the Chicago Athletic Association, was taken over with various women-owned shops, ballroom mannequin styling and beautiful on-site design, all showcasing the diverse women vendors.
Artist Raspy Rivera felt empowered being surrounded by creative women when she was a vendor for the first time at last year's Plant HER.
"It's important to encourage other minority women, entrepreneurs and business owners to say 'yes' to these types of experiences and opportunities," Rivera said.
Rivera is a Puerto Rican artist from Logan Square who rediscovered her love for drawing and painting during the pandemic when she was temporarily immobilized for eight weeks. It ended up being a blessing in disguise as it provided a safe haven for her to channel her hidden artistic talent.
"It also allows us to pour into these businesses and these vendors in a way that is so special," Rivera said, adding "It's curated so beautifully. The energy that's expelled through everybody is electric and really inspires us as vendors in a way that no other event has."
The night was stacked with performances from Chicago women artists, as well as live painting by Alyssa Low, YUES and Barderies Hampton. Chicago-based singer-songwriter and recent Billboard-featured artist Nyla XO also performed throughout the night, and guests danced to DJ sets from Coshe, DJ CaSH Era, Mo Mami and SKY JETTA.
"There was something really special, not only for the vendors but for everyone there. Meeting people, continuing to build community," Alma Mora said. She and her partner Cristóbal Mora are the founders of coffee company Buenos Days, which is inspired by their Mexican heritage. Alma thinks the camaraderie between women entrepreneurs at Planet HER is another part of what makes the event special.
"Everyone here wants everyone to win," Alma explained.
Her popular brand sells coffee beans, pre-made drinks and cold brews from Mexico, and attendees were able to try samples and purchase products while meeting and talking with Alma at Planet HER.
In just its second year, Plant HER has created a space for an exchange of collective ideas for diverse women-owned businesses from all walks of life. Majekodumn turned a passion for uplifting women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs into a flourishing gathering of local industry leaders.
"I wanted to find a way to celebrate women creatives and entrepreneurs in Chicago in an experience that everyone wants to go to," Majekodumn said.
