We had the good fortune of connecting with Sharon Ringier and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sharon, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My journey into entrepreneurship began with a deep-seated desire for a more fulfilling path than what traditional corporate environments offered. While the journey was fulfilling, I felt a persistent urge to explore my creative potential. I wanted what I did to be more than just fulfilling. I wanted to make an impact. This inner drive led me to venture into various entrepreneurial opportunities, each contributing to my growth and clarifying my true passion.
In the spring of 1997, I took a leap of faith. I established Weddings with a Flair which eventually became Sharon Ringier Events, specializing in crafting memorable experiences through wedding and event planning. This endeavor allowed me to blend my love for creativity with milestone events (both personal and professional). I was able to help my clients create captivating moments for my clients. Alongside running my business, I actively engaged with industry organizations, seeking continuous learning and networking with fellow professionals.
Amidst my entrepreneurial journey, I noticed a significant gap—a lack of dedicated support and resources tailored specifically for women entrepreneurs. Again, sparked by determination, I ventured out to build a community where women who were trailblazing in their careers like myself could find empowerment, guidance, and a sense of belonging.
The turning point came in April 2018 when I founded I’m Possible Women’s Empowerment Collaborative, Inc. This platform emerged from a deep-rooted desire to empower fellow female entrepreneurs to live their best lives both personally and professionally, reminding them of their potential and capacity for greatness.
Through the collaborative efforts within I’m Possible, I’ve witnessed women gaining clarity, setting ambitious goals, and achieving remarkable success. Our community isn’t just about business; it’s about nurturing legacies, supporting each other’s journeys, and celebrating every milestone together.
In March 2023, our vision expanded further with the launch of Possible Woman Magazine, dedicated to amplifying women’s voices, sharing their visions, and providing yet another platform for their accomplishments to be recognized globally. It’s about creating a space where women’s stories are celebrated, their expertise acknowledged, and their impact felt far and wide.
My entrepreneurial path has been intertwined with personal growth, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others. I firmly believe in the strength of collaboration, the power of community, and the endless possibilities that arise when women support each other’s dreams. Reflecting on this journey fills me with gratitude for the opportunities to inspire, mentor, and uplift women in their pursuit of excellence.
My legacy is more than just achievements—it’s about igniting a mindset of possibility, empowering women to embrace their uniqueness, and creating a lasting impact that resonates across generations. It’s about building a world where “possible” isn’t just a word but a way of life embraced by women everywhere.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My entrepreneurial journey has been a transformative one, marked by challenges that ultimately shaped my business’s purpose and mission. As moms, we often adopt the idea of being superwoman, juggling multiple responsibilities and putting others’ needs before our own. It’s like being MacGyver, ready to solve any problem with limited resources. However, this constant striving without prioritizing self-care can lead to burnout and health issues.
The turning point for me was when my youngest son pointed out how frequently I ended up in the hospital due to neglecting my well-being. It was a wake-up call to reevaluate my priorities and make self-care a non-negotiable part of my life. My husband’s question, “What if you got all the business you went after? What would you have done?” further highlighted the need for balance and self-awareness.
Feeling overwhelmed and realizing the toll it took on my health, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and self-love. This process taught me the importance of putting my oxygen mask on first before helping others, a crucial lesson that inspired the core philosophy of everything I embark upon.
The branding, mission, and vision are focused on empowering women to prioritize themselves, embrace self-love, and live authentically. As entrepreneurs, our journey isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about sharing our experiences to inspire others to find their inner strength and create a life they love.
That being said, because of my experiences with challenges and wins, I have a deep understanding of the struggles women face, coupled with practical strategies for self-care, empowerment, and personal growth. I believe in fostering a supportive community where women can thrive, uplift one another, and rewrite their narratives with confidence and resilience.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a week-long trip in the area, I’d start by taking my bestie to West Palm Beach to my absolute favorite spot, Havana Restaurant, where the flavors are always a hit.
After that, because we both love soaking in the atmosphere and observing people, we’d spend leisurely afternoons strolling along the Beachwalk in Miami. This nine-mile oceanfront promenade is perfect for joggers, cyclists, and anyone who appreciates a scenic seaside walk. It’s a great way to take in the beauty of the coastline and enjoy some quality time together amidst the lively vibes of Miami.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to express my gratitude and give credit where it’s due. Firstly, I’m deeply thankful to God for all He has done.
I also want to acknowledge the unwavering support of my husband, Dan, and my sons, Keith and Kevin. Despite my sometimes overwhelming creative energy, they stand by me wholeheartedly, even if they don’t always grasp my artistic vision.
My godmother, Rosemary Holloway, deserves a special mention. She made a promise to support me in my mother’s absence, and she has been my biggest cheerleader ever since. I know my late mother would be immensely proud of her choice.
I am also grateful for the guidance and wisdom of my advisors—Dana James, Traci S. Campbell, Sharokina Pazand, Monique Caradine-Kitchens, and Sally Wurr. Their expertise has been invaluable to me.
Last but not least, I want to recognize and appreciate my members and community. They embody the spirit of “The Possible Woman,” and I feel blessed to have such incredible women in my life.
Website: https://possiblewomanmagazine.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/possiblewomanmagazine/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonringier/
Image Credits
Ciara Holloway, BluePanther Studios