What Happened When Nashville Women in Business Traded Heels for Sneakers
If you believe networking should be more than swapping business cards, our July event proved exactly why.
Women from across the Nashville business community gathered at Crush Yard for an afternoon filled with authentic conversations, new professional connections, community service, and a little friendly competition on the pickleball courts.
From first-time attendees to longtime members, everyone left with something valuable whether it was a new business connection, a future collaboration, or simply the confidence to step outside their comfort zone.
Networking that builds real relationships
One of the greatest benefits of attending a women's networking event is the opportunity to meet professionals from different industries in an environment that feels welcoming and supportive.
Throughout the event, members and guests connected over conversations about business, careers, entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth. Instead of rushed introductions, they had time to genuinely get to know one another, exchange ideas, and discover opportunities to collaborate long after the event ended.
Whether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, corporate professional, creative, or simply looking to expand your network, meaningful relationships begin with conversations—and that's exactly what Heels & Handshakes is all about.
Giving back together
One of the highlights of the afternoon was partnering with Holiday Heroes to assemble sensory packs for children.
Attendees worked side by side filling hundreds of sensory bags with colorful fidget toys and comforting items designed to support children who may benefit from sensory tools.
Watching women come together to serve their community reminded us that networking can create an impact far beyond business. When professionals unite around a shared purpose, everyone benefits including the communities we serve.
At Heels & Handshakes, we believe successful women don't just build careers, they help build stronger communities.
Learning something new on the Pickleball Court
After networking and giving back, it was time for something a little different.
Many attendees picked up a pickleball paddle for the very first time as Crush Yard's team introduced the basics of the game. Laughter filled the courts as women encouraged one another, celebrated every rally, and embraced trying something new together.
The experience perfectly reflected the spirit of Heels & Handshakes: supporting one another, stepping outside our comfort zones, and having fun while making meaningful connections.
Sometimes the best networking happens between games.
Welcoming new faces
One of our favorite parts of every event is meeting first-time attendees.
Several women joined Heels & Handshakes for the very first time, including professionals representing businesses throughout Middle Tennessee. Seeing new members immediately welcomed into conversations is what makes our community so special.
Many shared that they left feeling inspired, supported, and excited to return to future events.
That's the power of intentional networking.
A heartfelt thank you to our partners
Crush Yard for hosting us and creating such a fun, energetic space for connection.
Diana Marie Photography for beautifully capturing the memories we'll cherish.
Fortera Credit Union for being there to connect with our community and share valuable conversations around budgeting and financial wellness.
Splendidly Social for bringing the event to life through creative content and storytelling.
We're also incredibly grateful to Holiday Heroes for allowing us to support their inspiring mission through our Heels Has Heart sensory pack service project. It was an honor to give back alongside such an amazing organization.
Why Women's Networking Matters
Professional success rarely happens alone.
Attending networking events helps women:
Build meaningful professional relationships
Grow their businesses through referrals and collaborations
Learn from other entrepreneurs and industry leaders
Increase confidence through community support
Discover new career and leadership opportunities
Make a positive impact through community involvement
At Heels & Handshakes, we believe networking is about building genuine relationships—not just collecting contacts. Every event creates opportunities to learn, collaborate, give back, and grow together. Because your next opportunity may begin with a simple handshake.
If you missed July's event, Nashville's biggest networking event for women returns on August 13th for our 6th Annual Speed Networking Event at Loveless Barn.
You can sign up here for Early Access for tickets. We would love to see you there!