Hello hello!

My name is Jenna Bless, and I am the membership director for Women in Retail Leadership Circle (WIRLC). Who am I? Do you want the long or short of it? How about the story of my very first job and falling in love with delivering genuine service and a thoughtful experience?

My very first job was at a local bakery in the sticks of Pennsylvania. The bakery provided lofty smells of fresh baked goods and a never-ending supply of liquid gold, truly the birthplace of my coffee addiction. To my dieting sister’s chagrin, I would bring home boxes and boxes of pastries each day. I was swooned by every piece of the experience. I loved interacting with customers and specifically being a part, hopefully a highlight, of someone’s day. This was the beginning of my journey into the hospitality sector, which later transformed into strategic event planning and, ultimately, has grown into membership.

At the core of both my professional and personal interests is the desire to imagine, create and deliver an incredible experience.

For the past four years I’ve served as the event planner for the Women in Retail Leadership Summit. For those of you who have attended, you’ll get it. I’ve had a blast working with retailer attendees and sponsor partners to dream up the Summit experience, remaking and remolding it each year.

As the membership director for WIRLC, my goal is to imagine, create and deliver an incredible experience for its members. If you’re not a member, let’s fix that. The keystone of membership to WIRLC is nourishment for you — personal and professional growth. I’m here to start the journey with you and lend a hand in helping you achieve your goals. For more on membership benefits and how to apply, check out our website.

Speaking now to those of you who are already members, please reach out and say hello (jbless@napco.com)! I look forward to getting to know you all better, and a great place to start is at our in-person events. This spring is our marquee event, Women in Retail Leadership Summit, taking place at the Ritz-Carton Key Biscayne on April 25-27. We will sell out so don’t miss your chance to register here.

Thank you all for this opportunity and cheers to an incredible group of women leaders.