Los Angeles Magazine - Women of Impact 2024

Page 1

WOMEN OF IMPACT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
LOS ANGELES' LEADING WOMEN PROFESSIONALS

ALANA CROW OWNER

LAW OFFICES OF ALANA CROW

Alana Crow's childhood fascination with murder mysteries set the stage for her distinguished career in law.

“As a kid I was a big-time murder mystery junkie and read a ton of Nancy Drew and Agatha Christie books. I also watched a lot of loved the idea of using deductive reasoning and persuasive language to problem solve.”

While breaking barriers at the negotiating table sometimes proved challenging as a female lawyer, Crow tenaciously pursued her goals, relying on her positive attitude and unwavering work ethic to propel her to new heights in her career. Currently celebrating her silver anniversary, marking 25 years as an entertainment lawyer, Crow embarks on her

“It’s easy to start a business and have a string of luck for awhile, but to stay on the steady and stalwart path year after year and become a valuable, go-to resource for your community is truly an honor,” Crow said.

actively contributes to the broader Los Angeles community through her involvement in Legislation, which advocates to make it illegal to leave dogs in hot cars in addition to other animal protections. Crow takes

by becoming a founding member of an elite Anti-Hate Task Force made up of primarily making a positive impact on the community and the world at large in 2024 and beyond.

1880 Century Park East, Suite 1600 Los Angeles

310.569.1651

Alana@ac-entlaw.com AC-entlaw.com

106 LAMAG.COM

ALEXANDRA KAZARIAN

SENIOR LITIGATION ATTORNEY AND PARTNER

GERAGOS & GERAGOS

In the demanding realm of law, where resilience and tenacity are prerequisites, Alexandra Kazarian stands out as a distinguished senior litigation attorney and partner at Geragos & Geragos, navigating her course with unparalleled passion and unwavering determination.

president, Kazarian's trajectory took an unexpected turn during commitment to trial advocacy and criminal defense and laying the foundation for an extraordinary career.

Despite being on the right trajectory, Kazarian faced genderbased challenges, recalling encounters with male judges resistant to change.

“It was hard to maintain professionalism in the face of these wellrespected male legends of the law literally yelling at you to shut up while you tried to make your argument or represent your client, Kazarian said.

Crucial milestones punctuate Kazarian's career, including fearlessly navigating jury trials and becoming a distinguished legal analyst. Her Kavanaugh underscored her expertise, while her representation of as a fervent advocate for small businesses. Kazarian also famously medical malpractice settlement in the US in all of 2022.

Los Angeles community. Advocating for the fusion of education with entertainment, she plays a pivotal role in the upcoming Paramount+ documentary "As We Speak," shedding light on the weaponization of rap lyrics in the criminal justice system.

“I truly believe that educating the public is the best way to prevent wrongful convictions, and to derail prosecutions of people who

A case in point, Kazarian takes immense pride in her work on the from the comfort of home with his family.

644 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles 213.625.3900 | geragos.com

LAMAG.COM 107

ALEXANDRA LASKY

FOUNDER & CEO

THE INFLUENCE

In the heart of Los Angeles, Alexandra Lasky stands as a dynamic force, steering the course of brand PR and event curation as the Founder York's fashion and hospitality scene, Lasky collaborations, creating a unique one-stop shop

navigating Paris Fashion Week, and leaving an indelible mark at prestigious events like Super

fostering a sense of community and collaboration among her peers, transcending the industry's

Despite male dominance in the hospitality, results-oriented approach have earned her business environment, she employs hands-on CEO involvement, cross-pollinating relationships, and leveraging referrals to establish familial

publicists, and event planners consistently overlap, creating an incredible community of

Beyond her role as a trailblazing entrepreneur, Lasky takes pride in mentoring the next

celebrating its seventh year, thrives on integrity, stands as publicist, event producer and deal curator, but as trailblazer shaping the landscape

108 LAMAG.COM

ANGELICA HALE

FINE ART, ENTERTAINMENT AND MEDIA CONNECTOR

ANGELICA HALE PROJECTS

Angelica Hale's trajectory from confronting racism and homelessness to becoming a guiding force in the Los Angeles art scene is

resulting in job loss and homelessness. establishing herself as an award-winning global creative campaigns that connect the public with artistic entertainment and media

experiences into catalyzing positive and celebrity artists but also championing emerging Los Angeles artists. She provides impactful social justice messages and highlighting the crucial role of art as a medium for change.

"I am fortunate to use my platforms to inspire through art and world peace social justice

invest in these art and entertainment-based of educating the public and those wishing to Los Angeles Century City/Beverly Hills 310.489.7727

angelica@theangelicahale.com theangelicahale.com

LAMAG.COM 109

ANN MCELANEY-JOHNSON, PHD

PRESIDENT | MOUNT SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY

Dr. Ann McElaney-Johnson is the president of Mount Saint Mary’s University, the only women’s university in Los Angeles and one of the most diverse in the nation. Dr. McElaney-Johnson is nationally recognized as a thought leader for the advancement of women and a champion for innovative teaching and learning. Since her appointment in 2011, Mount Saint Mary’s has been recognized as a top independent university for student social mobility and transformative outcomes by The New York Times , U.S. News & World Report and Money magazine.

Dr. McElaney-Johnson led the creation of “The Report on the Status of Women and Girls in California.” The report continues to be the most authoritative collection of research and girls in California, and it is a national

benchmark that has informed public policy and funding priorities statewide.

A strong advocate for college equity and access, Dr. McElaney-Johnson serves on several executive boards. As chair of the board for the Women’s College Coalition, Dr. McElaney-Johnson has been a champion for increased federal support and opportunities for women’s colleges across the nation. She is also the chair of the board of the executive committee of the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities and the vice-chair of the St. Joseph Center Board of Directors.

For more than four decades, Dr. McElaneyJohnson’s career in higher education has been driven by her commitment to educating and empowering students to reach their full

year students in her current role. A French professor prior to assuming leadership roles, Dr. McElaney-Johnson was awarded the Ordre des Palmes Académiques (Order of Academic Palms) rank of chevalier (knight) last year by the French government for her lifelong dedication to and promotion of the French language, culture, and history.

WEST LA

Chalon Campus 12001 Chalon Road, Los Angeles 310.954.4000

DOWNTOWN LA

Doheny Campus

10 Chester Place, Los Angeles 213.477.2500 msmu.edu

110 LAMAG.COM

CATHERINE GRAY

SHOW HER THE MONEY

In a world where women face countless barriers and limitations, Catherine Gray is a trailblazer determined to bridge the gap in venture capital funding. As the founder and CEO of She Angel Investors, co-founder of the She Angels Foundation, and the host of the popular podcast Invest In Her, Gray has become a voice for change in the maledominated investment world.

to the cause is in producing and executive producing the feature-length documentary Show Her the Money . This groundbreaking that women receive less than 2% of available venture capital, leaving them at a severe disadvantage when it comes to funding their innovative ideas. By tapping the talent of award-winning documentary director Ky Dickens to help create her vision by poignantly sharing the personal stories of exceptional women and demystifying the world of venture capital, Show Her the Money aims to tackle the issue head-on.

Gray understands the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on shifting perspectives. "We want Show Her the Money to move the needle by telling the stories of exceptional women," says Gray, “by highlighting the experiences of female investors who support diverse women entrepreneurs, this documentary emphasizes the importance of women having equal access to funding to achieve true equality.”

Driven by a passion for fostering change, Gray is not content with simply raising awareness. She raised over $1 million to to embark on a 50-city grassroots screening event global tour for change, which includes Wells Fargo as a title sponsor, that will be aimed at increasing awareness about femalerun venture capital funds and encouraging more women to become angel investors. Through these events, Gray hopes to create a movement of encouraging more women to invest in venture capital—especially womenfounded funds that are funding women, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+, to move that needle beyond 2%.

With her expertise, charisma, and drive, Catherine Gray is a true force to be reckoned with. As a sought-after keynote speaker, connector, and innovator, she is making a

women and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in the business world. The Show Her the Money documentary and unwavering dedication to gender equality and her determination to break down the barriers that still hold women back in the venture capital world.

Gray believes it takes a village and is grateful to the investors and donors including executive producers Dawn LaFreeda, Diana Greshtchuck, Wendy Ryan, Ky Dickens and Actress Sharon Gless, who got behind her to make this endeavor possible. It is through the

like Catherine Gray that real change begins to take shape.

Instagram: @showherthemoney showherthemoneymovie.com

LAMAG.COM 111
PRODUCER & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

DANIELLE GRONICH

CO-FOUNDER & CEO | CLEARSTEM SKINCARE

FOUNDER | SAN DIEGO ACNE CLINIC

LICENSED CLINICAL ESTHETICIAN, KNOWN AS THE ACNE GURU ®

KAYLEIGH CHRISTINA

CO-FOUNDER & CMO | CLEARSTEM SKINCARE

INVESTOR / ADVISOR | HEALTH-CENTRIC BRANDS

CERTIFIED HOLISTIC NUTRITIONIST

Danielle Gronich and Kayleigh Christina, the visionary co-founders of CLEARSTEM Skincare, have transformed their personal struggles with debilitating cystic acne into a mission to revolutionize

Licensed Clinical Esthetician, established the renowned San Diego Acne Clinic, earning a stellar 98% success rate as The Acne Guru. Christina, inspired by her own acne journey, joined forces

In 2017, they founded CLEARSTEM, aiming solutions for both acne and aging. Gronich's with products like CELLRENEW designed to heal scars across all skin tones. Christina,

the synergy of nutrition and skincare, leading to the groundbreaking Acne Lab Test that explores deeper connections between lifestyle factors and skin health.

“Most ‘clean’ skincare at the time was

ingredients so we decided to partner with a world-renowned cosmetic chemist to create market,” Gronich said.

This internal approach to skin health led to the viral CLEARSTEM MINDBODYSKIN hormonal acne supplement, a clean alternative to prescription acne medications. Gronich & Christina have plans to expand their

sake of their skin.

“We believe that skin health is so much deeper than the products you apply and the tools you use (although we do love a good ice roller!) It even goes deeper than nutrition - sometimes people will eliminate dairy, gluten and eggs and still break out because they don’t truly know what’s going on within,” the founders said. “That’s why we launched the revolutionary Acne Lab Test. Getting your labs drawn and

nutrition practitioner can be transformational, helping you see the connections between your food, movement, relationships, stress levels, your skin.”

As an example, the founders highlighted how prioritizing sleep and wake schedules directly

the founders of CLEARSTEM hope to shift the beauty mindset and have plans to launch popup locations in LA.

“As it stands today, the skincare industry is last,” they said. “We are making blood work analysis an integral part of anyone's skin care routine, and we’re committed to making it LA and beyond.”

For PR inquiries, please contact sara@clearstemskincare.com

clearstemskincare.com

112 LAMAG.COM

DANA ASHMORE FOUNDER

GRATITUDE COLLABORATIVE, OLLIE BLOSSOM

hello@gratitudecollaborative.com

hi@ollieblossom.com

gratitudecollaborative.com

Ollieblossom.com

DIANA BIANCHINI FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

DI MODA PUBLIC RELATIONS

Diana Bianchini, the founder and president of Di Moda Public Relations, has carved a niche for herself in the competitive world of Los Angeles public relations. Her journey began in fashion PR, where the allure of energy and passion spurred her to establish Di Moda in 2002. With a focus on cultivating a client roster within the lifestyle sector, Bianchini's agency has become a force to be reckoned with leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

As a female founder based in Los Angeles, Bianchini encountered early challenges, but her unwavering dedication and hard work proved pivotal in dispelling the notion that New York agencies held exclusive power. Demonstrating the robustness of her LA-based PR agency, she forged profound Times, Vogue, GQ, and O! Magazine.

“What felt like a disadvantage when I started, became a bit of a superpower as LA-based clients saw what I could do,” Bianchini said. “Being a woman and more importantly, being a mother who was focused on building a career based on

and the best angle. Classic publicist mentality, I guess!”

Bianchini's commitment to mentorship and empowerment is evident in her involvement in initiatives promoting equality in the workplace. Serving on panels focused on female with students at local colleges and universities, she sets a powerful example for the next generation. Despite these pride is yet to come.

“My son is graduating college soon and when he does, I will have achieved a dream and a goal of mine,” she said.

“I wanted to be able to go to work every day doing what I love, work hard, and bring enough success with it to be able to pay for his college and provide an incredible life for us. 2024 will be a year full of achievement, gratitude, and celebrations!”

2525 Main Street, Suite 205, Santa Monica diana@dimodapr.com

310.288.0077 dimodapr.com

114 LAMAG.COM

ILONA CASELLINI, DMD DENTIST

SWISS QUALITY SMILE

Dr. Ilona Casellini, a prominent dentist in the LA area, discovered her passion for dentistry through a rich family legacy spanning four generations in the dental profession. Raised by dental technician parents who mentored her, she cultivated a deeprooted love for dentistry from an early age.

A highly accomplished dentist holding a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Casellini integrates her passion for dentistry with her family's legacy, bringing over 100 years of collective family experience and Swiss heritage to her practice. She combines art, science, and technology to deliver precise, quality, and aesthetically pleasing smiles to her patients.

Dr. Casellini's approach to patient care goes

lavender-scented hot towels, blankets, and pillows to enhance the overall patient experience.

"In my practice, we see our patients as part of our family and treat each patient with individualized care. Our goal is to make people feel as comfortable as possible in a situation most people fear or don’t look forward to," Dr. Casellini notes.

As a powerful female leader in the community, Dr. Casellini tailors her dental services to meet the unique needs and preferences of the diverse population in Los Angeles. At Swiss Quality Smile, she has created a boutique-style environment where each patient receives a VIP experience,

"I think my role as a female leader in Los Angeles, who grew up here, has led me to see what the community is looking for and provide a dental concludes.

10921 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1013

Los Angeles

310.208.3125

swissqualitysmile.com

LAMAG.COM 115

GRETA SCHMID

FOUNDER/CEO

RAGDOLL PR

Greta Schmid's childhood fascination with Vogue magazine laid the foundation for an illustrious career. As the dynamic Founder & CEO of RAGDOLL PR, her passion for media and brand placement ignited during her tenure at a Beverly Hills PR agency, setting the stage for a remarkable 14-year career.

“I’ve been in the industry now for 14 years and still to this day, I get a rush of excitement daily when I see all the top-tier placements we generate for all our incredible clients on the

“I just love how instrumental media placements and PR can be for brands and individuals looking to grow and scale their

Schmid's commitment to excellence is palpable in RAGDOLL PR's impressive portfolio, managing diverse clients in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, wellness, and health. From securing top-tier media placements to adeptly handling clients' social media, Schmid's agency stands out as a powerhouse in brand elevation, a success she attributes to meaningful relationships.

“When I speak with new potential clients, they trust me, they get excited with me, they know I am genuinely excited

deleting industry jargon from our vocabulary, banishing snobby opinions, and saying good-bye to boring. Instead of making empty promises, we just get to work securing coveted

Despite its humble beginnings, RAGDOLL PR evolved from a modest beauty brand client to a thriving agency with 50+ global clients and 10 full-time employees. Key milestones placements for small brands on renowned shows like the Today Show and Good Morning America, as well as in major and GQ.

“We consider ourselves an extension of our clients’ team — with the same passion, drive, and commitment to excellence.

Schmid added. “I’m also really proud of the incredible team I’ve built and the culture we have at RAGDOLL PR. It's fun to be at

111 N Sepulveda Blvd Suite 335, Manhattan Beach 310.999.9933

greta@ragdollpr.com | ragdollpr.com

116 LAMAG.COM

JEN BETTS

FOUNDER/CEO

INNOVATIVE PR & MEDIA

In the dynamic and competitive realm of public relations in Los Angeles, Jennifer Betts emerges as a trailblazing entrepreneur, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. As the founder and owner of Innovative PR & Media, Betts found her calling in PR ignited by a fervent desire to unite groups with similar interests.

“My parents helped with my initial career path at an early age. I watched them work hard and provide for our family. My early adult career started in Nursing. Helping others was similar to the work ethic of public relations,” Betts said.

Today, Betts' agency boasts an impressive portfolio, collaborating with over 500 brands and gaining international recognition through global campaigns unfolded as Betts played a pivotal role in propelling Beautycon from its 2011 inception to the status of the world's largest beauty festival by 2019. Betts also created 2 turn key programs for Shiseido USA; Shiseido Surf Week & Shiseido Malibu Beach House.

which led to nine million dollars in funding interest. It was never the same. As for Shiseido, one of my proudest moments was when I learned that the 2021 Shiseido Beach House garnered 3.8B impressions in

Navigating the dynamic business landscape of Los hiring, collaboration with the right businesses, and community engagement. Key strategies encompass understanding the competition, demonstrating problemsolving prowess, and upholding an unwavering work ethic.

“I am most proud that I have stayed in business since 2009 independently with no additional funding, no investors, solely on my own. I have employed 32 to

am proud we have done internationally and globally recognized campaigns and programs. I am proud that we are a west coast agency that has made it through the pandemic and still thriving,” Betts concluded.

12400 Moorpark Street, Unit 4

Studio City, CA 91604 innovative-pr.com

LAMAG.COM 117
118 LAMAG.COM breaking barriers and establishing herself as a wealth manager at Signature Estate and 2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1600 Los Angeles 310.712.2323 seia.com JENNIFER KIM WEALTH MANAGER SIGNATURE ESTATE AND INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC (SEIA) is an SEC-registered investment adviser; however, such registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training and no inference to the contrary should

ANNA AXSTER + WENDELIN VON SCHRODER

CO-FOUNDERS | LODESTAR WHISKEY

Anna Axster and Wendelin von Schroder extend an invitation to the party with Lodestar Whiskey, a brand crafted with female millennial consumers in mind. The dynamic co-founders embarked on this venture after a decade of working and sharing drinks in their former

“What we loved most about our work in entertainment was bringing people together to connect over shared experiences,” the founders said. “And having acquired a taste for whiskey backstage and in countless venues, bars, and restaurants across the country, we started really understanding what we, as female millennial consumers, did not feel very represented in what was out there

so we wanted to create a whiskey that wholly represented us, and when the pandemic hit and everything in entertainment came to a screeching halt, we realized there was no better time.”

Despite facing skepticism related to their gender, Axster and von Schroder drew resilience from their entertainment experiences. One groundbreaking idea that garnered attention was the decision to blend Straight High Rye Bourbon and American Single Malt Whiskey, resulting in a distinctive

“It was also important to us that our whiskey was clean and high-quality, so we only used those two components and zero additives,”

they note. “The result really nails what we had set out to create – a smooth, well-balanced whiskey that is complex yet approachable and will delight the palates of many.”

Schroder infused the ethos of communitybuilding into Lodestar Whiskey. Actively engaging with local communities through events, they ensure that their high-quality whiskey remains accessible. Lodestar Whiskey, a true embodiment of the California lifestyle, aspires to unite people in joyful and inclusive ways, creating memorable moments over a delicious drink.

lodestarwhiskey.com

LAMAG.COM 119
Photo by Sally Peterson

MADISON BRODSKY

HOST, BOOKING PRODUCER

TALKSHOPLIVE FREELANCER FOR VARIOUS OUTLETS

Madison Brodsky, a rising star in the realm of entertainment news reporting, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with both on embarked on her career without any industry connections, driven solely by her unwavering passion for storytelling within the glamour childhood fantasies of celebrity interviews on red carpets as she watched award shows as a young child in dazzling heels to play the

Despite initially thinking that a career in television was too good to be true, Brodsky

university, she completed an impressive 12 internships, paving the way for a successful Currently serving as a talent producer and streaming and social selling online network, Brodsky not only continues to interview stars globally but also takes on freelance gigs from remarkable success underscores her tenacity and dedication to transforming childhood dreams into reality within the competitive asked about her ultimate dream, Brodsky, with a smile, remarked, “it already came true, but if I had to pick a new dream, it

Instagram: @madisonbrodsky madisonbrodsky.com

120 LAMAG.COM

MICHELLE GRIFFIN

FOUNDER/CEO

THE CULTURE CLUB

LAMAG.COM 121
Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite A711 West Hollywood 833.688.8488 | muttgut.com
8424

NANCY DAVIS FOUNDER

CURE ADDICTION NOW RACE TO ERASE MS

Nancy Davis, the visionary founder of Race to Erase MS, embarked on a mission 31 years ago when diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Faced with a lack of answers and the dire need for research, Davis initiated a groundbreaking approach bringing together the best

nationwide and the initiation of groundbreaking research.

Originally confronting a landscape with zero drugs and zero hope, Davis has now facilitated the approval of 25 FDA drugs.

“Nothing feels better than taking people's pain away

In addition to her work with Race to Erase MS, Davis founded Cure Addiction Now, inspired by her son Jason's struggle with addiction. Motivated by a desire to understand the root causes of addiction, Davis sought to address both addiction and mental health simultaneously, eliminating the stigma associated with this disease.

wellness advocacy, Davis acknowledges the challenges purposefulness, and breaking societal stereotypes.

disease when everyone told me the impossible, you have to push through and work really hard. You have

MS appear as weak or unable, and as long as you have

pride in the transformative power of FDA-approved drugs, symbolizing a beacon of hope for countless individuals whose lives have been positively changed through her unwavering commitment to the cause.

1875 Century Park E, Los Angeles

310.440.4842

erasems.org

CureAddictionNow.org

122 LAMAG.COM

RENEE WHITE FRASER, PHD

CEO | FRASER COMMUNICATIONS

HOST | WHY WOMEN, KABC RADIO

Renee White Fraser is a renowned psychologist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who has dedicated her career to helping individuals, organizations, and communities reach their full potential. She is the founder and CEO of Fraser Communications, an award-winning advertising and marketing agency based in Los Angeles that specializes in social impact campaigns. The agency is one of the largest women-owned and

Under Renee’s leadership, the agency has used its expertise in behavior change and social impact to develop and implement powerful, award-winning national and statewide campaigns for organizations such as Toyota, Lexus, Brightline, First Five California, Saint John’s Health Center, and the State of California, to name just a few. Its campaigns have addressed social issues in public health, environmental sustainability, and racial justice, and the agency has had

the honor of working on notable initiatives for topics including early childhood development, education, anti-smoking, antiamphetamine usage, clean water, diabetes prevention, homelessness, and more. In addition to working with the general population, the agency has developed

underserved communities, helping these populations receive the goods, services, and support they need and deserve. With Renee at the helm, Fraser Communications has not only grown into a $30 million business, but it has done so all while making a positive impact for the clients and communities it serves.

Dr. Fraser is deeply committed to

boards, including the American Red Cross, Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles, Wise and Healthy Aging, and the national board of 50/50 Women on Boards. She is a member of the International Women’s Forum and has also been on the Harvard Kennedy School Women’s Leadership Board.

As the host of a popular podcast and radio show "The Dr. Renee Fraser Show: Why Women" on KABC, Dr. Fraser interviews

and discusses topics such as leadership, entrepreneurship, and the meaning of success. Sought after as a speaker, Dr. Fraser also shares her insights at conferences and events.

Having received her PhD in social psychology from the University of Southern California, Dr. Fraser also served as a faculty member for nine years at the Annenberg School. She has published numerous articles in academic journals and has been a sought-after expert for media outlets, including CNN, The Today Show , and The New York Times

As a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, Renee has been recognized

L.A., received the SBA CEO of the Year award, and been awarded the Women Leading the Way award from the LABJ.

Overall, Dr. Fraser is a visionary leader who inspires those around her to strive for excellence and create lasting change. Through her work as a psychologist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, she has dedicated her career to making a positive impact in the world.

1631 Pontius Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90025 310.319.9101 frasercommunications.com

LAMAG.COM 123

ROBIN FISHER

CEO & FOUNDER | BLACE

Transforming LA's Eventscape with BLACE

In the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, Robin Fisher is revolutionizing the event industry with her groundbreaking platform, BLACE. Boasting over two decades of real estate expertise in New York, Fisher's legacy is

marked by notable achievements, including being named the Real Estate Board of New York’s Young Real Estate Professional of the Year.

Launched in New York and expanded to Los Angeles in April 2023, BLACE

It streamlines the entire event planning Fisher's innovative vision. BLACE’s platform clients with exceptional venues like the U.S.

The Pavilion, alongside a curated array of top-tier vendors, including caterers, audio/ entertainers, and event planners, simplifying the process. This central booking tool fosters symbiotic relationships between landlords, vendors, and clients, making it a win-win for all involved in the bustling event landscape of Los Angeles.

Fisher's acumen in tenant representation, corporate advisory, and asset repositioning cements her as a luminary in commercial real estate. Her commitment to philanthropy and innovation shines through BLACE, revitalizing underutilized spaces into premier event locations, transforming LA's event landscape, venues and vendors.

Recently featured in the Empowered Network's documentary series hosted by Meg Ryan, Fisher articulated her vision for BLACE. It's not merely about providing venues but cultivating human connections and sparking creativity. This philosophy underscores her dedication to reshaping the very nature of gatherings and community engagement through inventive event solutions.

Robin Fisher, through her foresight and leadership, is not only transforming the event impact on the Los Angeles real estate,

Her approach perfectly embodies BLACE’s mission of reimagining how people gather, turning every event into a unique opportunity for fostering connection and creativity.

LA OFFICE

2029 Century Park East Suite 400 N Los Angeles, CA 90067

NYC OFFICE

35 East 21st Street, Unit 8E New York, NY 10010

212.574.7970 blace.com

124 LAMAG.COM

TIMEA BOTYANSZKI FOUNDER/CEO

ERGONOMIA (FURNITURE)

Timea Botyanszki stands as a leading female force in the world of interior decor, bringing a touch of European luxury to the heart of Los Angeles. Born and raised in Hungary, her journey into the realm of design began in her teenage years, fueled by a desire to reimagine spaces and experiment with layouts. After a detour into corporate roles, Timea's passion for furniture and design led her to interior design school and, eventually, the creation of her company, Ergonomia, in 2015.

Bringing over 15 years of expertise in commercial furniture, Timea adeptly navigates the delicate balance of aesthetics, quality, and functionality. Working with diverse clients, including interior designers and architects, her focus on contract projects requires a nuanced understanding of both design and budget considerations, infusing lifestyle.

"Los Angeles is a wonderful melting pot of so many what we love about it so much,” Timea said. "What I think is common in Angelenos and Italians is the appreciation of life, wanting to enjoy it fully and surrounding ourselves with beautiful things that serve our well-being. I can see that the new hotels and restaurants that are designed and built these days follow this idea, and I very much enjoy being a part of creating those beautiful spaces.”

in the resilience it took to establish her own company and persevere through challenges.

team's dedication and the passion they bring to every endeavor. For Timea, creating inspiring and beautiful spaces is not just a profession—it's a lifelong pursuit driven by a deep love for design and a clear vision of the future.

424.443.3376

timea@ergonomia.com

ergonomia.com

LAMAG.COM 125

Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

818-679-3680

2202 Broadway, Santa Monica

Stephanie.mcinnis@ferguson.com build.com/showroom

626-390-9082

2202 Broadway, Santa Monica

Stefanie.stroud@ferguson.com build.com/showroom

STEPHANIE MCINNIS

STEFANIE STROUD

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LEADERSHIP

FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY

In the competitive realm of the building industry, Stephanie McInnis and Stefanie Stroud have emerged as dynamic leaders, steering Ferguson's Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery Southern California operations towards unprecedented success. With a decade-long journey marked by passion and expertise, these leaders bring a unique blend of vision and dedication to the forefront.

Stroud, armed with a background in Interior Design and Architecture, joined Ferguson a decade ago as a lighting specialist during the company's foray into Southern California. Spearheading the residential segment, she seamlessly integrated design and strategic management, ensuring Ferguson delivers unparalleled products and services to its clientele.

McInnis, on the other hand, seamlessly connected with Ferguson's culture due to her family legacy deep rooted in building and decorating when she was introduced to the company during a presentation to her marketing class at Penn State University. Over 15 years later, her enthusiasm remains undiminished.

In an industry traditionally dominated by men, McInnis and Stroud have overcome gender-related challenges, establishing Ferguson's reputation for reliability and excellence.

“Our commitment to going above and beyond for our clients has been pivotal in overcoming genderrelated challenges,” they said. “We recognize the building industry is relationship-driven, and our dedication to client satisfaction has become a cornerstone of our success.”

Beyond business prowess, Ferguson actively engages with the local community through its "Ferguson Cares" program, aligning with environmental, social, and governance principles. This commitment recently manifested in a $25,000 grant awarded to the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art – Southern California, supporting education initiatives for girls' schools in the region.

Stephanie McInnis Southern California Leadership Ferguson Bath,
126 LAMAG.COM
Stefanie Stroud Southern
California Leadership Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.