By Kate Bartlett
This February 22-23rd marks the 3rd annual Powder to Prosecco Women’s weekend at HoliMont. This empowering weekend gathers likeminded females to connect in the camaraderie of skiing. Join representatives from Blizzard/Tecnica Women 2 Women Project including Marketing Director and ski enthusiast Leslie Baker Brown.
Kimberly Reading, co-owner of Mud, Sweat n’ Gears, started the event 3 years ago with the intention of gathering women together to share their passion for skiing and the great outdoors. The event has grown steadily since its inception, accommodating more women every year. “We’re honored to bring back Leslie Baker Brown for her third consecutive year at this event. She’s an inspiration with great stories to share.”
As a passionate skier and driven individual, Leslie has carved out her role as a female leader with Blizzard/Tecnica. She championed the most progressive women’s program in the industry and launched the Women 2 Women project. “W2W is a global initiative to design authentic women’s products that will take passionate skiers, regardless of ability, to new levels of confidence, excitement and freedom. Leslie is an icon in the field, and an incredibly interesting woman,” says Kim.
Leslie has worked with Blizzard/Tecnica for over 30 years, gaining experiences throughout the years in order to eventually break the glass ceiling for women in the industry. “She truly has paved the way for women in this industry, as well as across the market. She has incredible stories to share and we are honored to host her again this year. She’s an inspiration and her energy is captivating.”
Additionally, Leslie developed nationwide scholarship programs through W2W in order to further women in the industry. Ellicottville native Hannah Lee was recipient of one of only 30 scholarships to be awarded nationwide; quite an accomplishment. Hannah was granted the opportunity to meet Leslie at last year’s event and is looking forward to connecting again this year. (Read more about Hannah and her experience in next week’s The Villager.)
The event kicks off Thursday February 22nd with an evening with Leslie Baker Brown at Mud, Sweat n’ Gears with complimentary bubbles, brews and snacks. Leslie with hold an educational discussion about women’s ski gear, the Women 2 Women Project, and all things skiing. “It’ll be a good mix of ‘tech talk’ and discussion; a great opportunity to learn from one of the best while discussing the elements of skiing.” This private gathering takes place from 6-8pm open to all event registrants with raffle prizes from Blizzard/Tecnica, Skida and more.
Friday, February 23, will be a full day of skiing and product demonstrations with Blizzard Demo Day at HoliMont. This provides registrants the unique opportunity to try the award-winning collection of women’s skis from Blizard/Tecnica and ski with Leslie Baker Brown and local Blizzard women ambassadors. “The demo truck parks out front with a wide variety of some of the newest and best products on the market. Women are invited to trial as many skis and products as they’d like as they ski throughout the day. It’s a great opportunity to try the brand, find a good fit and learn more about the equipment,” says Kim. Light lunch will be provided and women are welcome to BYOB for après ski mingling at the lodge. Discounted lift tickets are available and can be purchased at HoliMont (no charge for HoliMont members/season pass holders).
After a full day of skiing, attendees are invited to meet at Villaggio for dinner, drinks, appetizers (food/drink not included) and good company. “Nick has graciously welcomed us to gather at the restaurant after the event to continue the conversations and camaraderie. It’s sure to be a good evening after a great day on the slopes.”
Kim invites women of all ages and skill level to join in this weekend to have connect and have fun and learn about the possibilities for their skiing. “It’s such a great opportunity to connect with other like-minded women and learn from an icon in the field. Come find out what the Woman 2 Woman (W2W) team is doing to create better gear for women. It’ll be a great weekend sharing experiences, passions, and skiing in the great outdoors.” For more information visit their Facebook Page, purchase tickets on Event Brite or call the store at (716) 699-8300. Event limited to 50 women.