Local, Women-Owned Retailers Live United
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United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County

Local, Women-Owned Retailers Live United

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December 2, 2016

Written By: Adriana Mehta and Gabriela Grbic

On Wednesday, November 9th, United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County hosted it’s first-ever Women United Shopping for Change, or “SPREE,” event. This event provided a one of a kind luxury shopping experience with a collection of select, locally-based, women-owned retailers as well as a live auction. In total, the event raised $12,000, which will go to United Way’s Community Fund.

Adriana Mehta and Gabriela Grbic are the owners of Canela-Canela, a Greater Milwaukee-based business and one of the retailers at the event.

In a time when women’s empowerment is as relevant as ever, we were thrilled and honored to be chosen as one of the woman-owned businesses sharing our products at United Way’s first-ever Women United Shopping for Change, or “SPREE,” event. This was a night we will treasure. We had such a welcoming experience, both with familiar faces and new ones. We could feel the genuine care and support for the cause and we were lucky enough to also get a lot of love our way! One pretty lady told us that she is traveling to Lebanon soon and is excited to take along the beautiful and fun messenger bag she bought from our stand. How exciting is that: Canela around the world! Our hearts are full.

Since we started our company four years ago, we have had a very committed and strong vision of independence, strength, and balance for both our business and our families. We have been blessed with tons of support, not only from our husbands and families, but our beautiful friends and community. Organizations like United Way, with whom we share the same values, help build stronger communities and impact the well-being of so many. We are grateful for this opportunity to collaborate and look forward to contributing to this great cause. Keep up the great job United Way…we appreciate it so much!

Learn how you can join our Women’s Leadership Council and be invited to exclusive events like SPREE.

Visit the Canela-Canela website to learn about their beautiful products and where you can find them.

View photos from the event.

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