Women's History Month Hits a High Note on International Women's Day
by Grayling Holmes
Observed worldwide this year on Saturday, March 8, International Women’s History Day is celebrated in the middle of March, which is Women’s History Month. The month is dedicated to women’s achievements in social, economic, cultural, and political realms. On March 8, women across the globe stand proudly and metaphorically cry the anthem that singer Helen Reddy made famous in the 1970’s — “I Am Woman.”
One can almost hear them sing in unison, “I am woman, hear me roar in numbers too large to ignore.” Their history month hits a high note on the 8th of March.
Beginnings
The first International Women’s Day began in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. The day is observed partly because of a massive protest in Russia on February 23, 1917, that led to Russia’s withdrawal from World War I. The United Nations began celebrating Women’s International Day in 1975.
In the United States, March is Women’s History Month. The roots of Women’s History Month go back to 1857 when women protested working conditions in New York factories.
One can almost see actress Sally Field standing atop a table silently holding a sign that powerfully shows solidarity. On March 8th, instead of UNION, as is said in the pivotal scene in the movie “Norma Rae,” it might say, WOMAN. On March 8th, step outside and you might just see signs all around the world with the that word proudly displayed…everywhere.
How Women Are Observing
Saint Louis Fashion Fund, a leading voice and advocate for the region's fashion industry, is celebrating Women's History Month with its annual "St. Louis Women Making History in Style" series. This year's profiles will feature Shereen Fischer, a novelist and active community volunteer, Cheryl Jones, President and CEO, Girls Incorporated of St. Louis, Kristin Johnson, Chief Transformation Officer, Edward Jones, Kelly Malone, Vice President of Corporate Communications, Caleres, and Angie Minges, Nestle Purina North America Director Partnerships Marketing.
Shereen Fischer, novelist and active community volunteer.
Cheryl Jones, President and CEO, Girls Incorporated of St. Louis.
Kristin Johnson, Chief Transformation Officer, Edward Jones.
Kelly Malone, Vice President of Corporate Communications, Caleres.
Angie Minges, Nestle Purina North America Director Partnerships Marketing.
In honor of International Women’s Day, there are two powerhouse female founders who are revolutionizing modern dating!
Sandra Hatton and Mariel Filippone, co-founders of When We First, are on a mission to bring the human touch into online dating—and they’re doing it with the first-ever female-founded, largely female-funded, and 100% women-run hybrid matchmaking platform.
Recently launched on Valentine’s Day, “When We First” is more than just another dating app—it’s a concierge-style matchmaking service that blends expert matchmaking with innovative technology, offering a deeply personalized approach to love. Unlike traditional dating apps, this platform prioritizes real human connection by integrating in-person matchmaking, access to a team of dating experts, and hands-on support at every step.
Sandra, a leading matchmaker with 15 years of experience in the industry, has seen firsthand the frustrations of modern dating. Accompanied by Mariel, who has spent her entire career focusing on health and wellness, When We First's co-founders knew there had to be a better way—one where women don’t have to settle for exhausting online dating experiences, but can instead be guided with intention, expertise, and care. When We First is that solution: a platform designed by women, for those who are ready for something real.
At a time when female entrepreneurs are reshaping industries, Sandra and Mariel’s story is a testament to the power of female leadership, innovation, and vision. Their mission is not just to help people find love—but to redefine how we approach dating altogether.
Another strong group of women who daily lead the call of womanhood are the women of Hearth & Soul. Owner Suzie Bush-Transou and her team celebrate International Women’s Day and Women History Month each time one of their treasured customers walks through the door. Their customer base in 70% women, and has trinkets, fragrances and treasures uniquely fitted to the female sensibility.
Suzi puts her heart and soul into her dream store, Hearth & Soul. Whether you are here in St. Louis at her Clayton store or traveling to her other boutique in Tallahassee, Florida, you can always discover beautiful things for yourself, your home or someone special.
Her wide array of merchandise will both warm your heart and feed your soul. Learn more at hearthandsoul.com.
Hearth & Soul Owner, Susie Busch-Transou and her team.
