Laura is a member Party of Four, a Carlisle-based hospitality group that aims to support their local restaurants. She has supported her businesses through needed changes while being caring for her staff teams. She leads not only for-profit businesses that are a part of the fabric of Carlisle, but also serves several local nonprofits in a staff and volunteer leader capacity.
Who has been your biggest influence?
My surrounding community of friends and neighbors has been the biggest influence on me. The impact they’ve had on me has especially stood out during this time. Our health providers, first responders, educators, our fearless leaders of our non-profits, their staff, volunteers, and Board of Directors that are helping navigate these tough times; the owners of small businesses in our community who started with a dream and now are trying to hold on to that dream, all provide me with the motivation and desire to continue striving to help and support our community.
What motivated you to be involved in your community?
I had a desire to see improvements and changes that would benefit my family and others. I believe you can’t complain unless you get involved. I began getting involved when my children started elementary school as a room mother and PTO member. Even now that my children are grown, I continue to be motivated not just for my own family, but to help improve the community for other families as well.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Travel and learn more languages, which would have increased my appreciation for other cultures and increased the engagement I would have been able to enjoy with others at a much younger age.
What’s your idea of self-care?
Taking time for yourself each day is a very important part of self-care. I start my day slowly, I’m not a morning person. I lay in bed with my coffee and read a little when I can. This helps me start the day off on a positive note to be able to manage my workload and any little crises that may unexpectedly appear.
What message do you have for the future generations of women?
Get involved, please! Get involved in your communities, volunteer with local non-profits or other local civic organizations. Volunteering is good for the mind and soul, builds up self-confidence, gives a sense of purpose and direction to our lives. Inspire other people, mentor, nurture souls, and most importantly, be gentle with each other, we are all on the same team.
Lastly, speed round!
Heels or Flats? Flats, so I can run if I have to!
Pancakes or Waffles? Pancakes
Day or Night? Night
Books or Movies? Movies
Rain or Sunshine? Sunshine
