Mineral Wells Area News

By Seth Hobbs | CEO Mineral Wells Chamber of Commerce | Special to Mineral Wells Area News

I’m excited to share that EmpowerHer: Illuminate 2026 is happening Friday, March 27 at Holiday Hills Golf Club in Mineral Wells. Once again, the businesswomen of Palo Pinto County and Mineral Wells will take over the course for a morning of connection, encouragement, and inspiration.

VIP access begins at 9:30 a.m., and the main luncheon runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

EmpowerHer is a women’s luncheon series created by the Chamber to celebrate Women’s History Month in March. It’s designed to support and highlight women-owned and women-operated Chamber member businesses while bringing local women together for meaningful connection and practical ideas they can use in business and everyday life.

This is our second annual EmpowerHer Luncheon, and it’s quickly becoming one of the signature events of the year for women in our community. The Friday late-morning format makes it easy to attend — you can connect, enjoy the program, and still get back to the rest of your day.

This year’s theme is western-chic with a cowgirl glam “Illuminate” vibe. We’re encouraging attendees to show off their best boots, hats, fringe, leather, sparkle, pink, turquoise, and even neon accents. It’s fun western flair — polished and professional. Think cowgirl chic, not rodeo rough.

Our keynote speaker will be Courtenay DeHoff, a nationally recognized television personality, former rodeo athlete, and founder of Fancy Lady Cowgirl. Courtenay shares real-world stories from rodeo, agriculture, media, and business in a way that’s relatable, practical, and often humorous. She brings a down-to-earth perspective that resonates with women balancing business, work, and family.

We’re grateful for incredible local partners already on board. Moonscato Designs is serving as the Diamond Spur Title Sponsor. Oak & Third is sponsoring the Shimmer Saloon mimosa bar, and Uncle Matt’s Organics is providing the juices for the mimosa and mocktail experience.

New this year, we’re introducing two awards.

The Woman of the Year Award will honor an outstanding woman connected to a Chamber member business who demonstrates leadership, integrity, and strong impact in business and/or the community.

The Glow Getter Award will recognize a woman who is actively building, growing, or innovating — someone who is making things happen and shining in her lane, even if she’s not always in the spotlight.

Nominations are open now for women connected to Chamber member businesses and can be submitted online through the Chamber’s website and social channels. If there’s a woman in a Chamber member business you believe deserves recognition, we encourage you to nominate her.

Like our inaugural event, EmpowerHer 2026 will feature a curated vendor space reserved exclusively for women-owned or women-operated businesses. Vendor space is limited to approximately 15 spots. Vendors will have the opportunity to sell products, take orders, and connect with more than 200 attendees. We’re not just talking about supporting women-owned businesses — we’re giving them prime space to showcase what they do.

As a fun addition, a group of local businessmen will volunteer as what we’re calling the Glow Posse. These volunteers will welcome guests, assist with seating, collect audience questions for the Empowerment Panel, and provide behind-the-scenes hospitality so attendees can relax and enjoy the experience. It’s a great way for local men and business leaders to show support and help make the day run smoothly for the women we’re celebrating.

Tickets for the luncheon are available now. Sponsor and VIP table opportunities remain open and include strong visibility and additional perks. Award nominations are also open.

All details, including tickets, sponsorship information, vendor applications, and award nomination links, can be found on the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce Website and Facebook page.

Program Highlights

VIP Hour (9:30–10:30 a.m.)

• Early access for sponsors and VIP table
• Time to visit women-owned vendor booths
• Access to the Shimmer Saloon mimosa and mocktail bar

Main Luncheon (10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.)

• Welcome and opening remarks
• Luncheon meal
• Keynote by Courtenay DeHoff
• Empowerment Panel featuring three local women
• Presentation of the Woman of the Year Award and Glow Getter Award
• Door prizes and networking

Cowgirl Cache & Photos

• Each guest receives a Cowgirl Cache cosmetic bag filled with goodies and offers from Chamber member businesses.
• Stic-a-Pic will be onsite, and every guest will receive one complimentary photo magnet.

Seth Hobbs is the President/CEO of the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce. A longtime educator and coach, he now focuses on supporting local businesses and community growth. In his spare time he enjoys fly fishing, running and playing music. Seth and his wife, Joey, live in Mineral Wells with their two daughters.