A political organizer once said to me, “Half of success is showing up.” Isn’t that the truth? Every moment you’re out in public, you’re open to amazing opportunities for PR and partnership. Deborah Brenner, founder of Women of the Vine Cellars, invested a little time and money away from her business to promote her wines at The Food and Wine Festival at National Harbor, and came away with an invaluable connection for her business.

Deborah was passing out samples of her wine, all produced by women winemakers, and found herself talking to the Executive Chef for Secretary of State Clinton. Incredible, no? He was very interested in serving her wine at an upcoming dinner (Monday, June 22) to be held by Secretary Clinton honoring all of the women currently serving in the Senate. 

Besides the obvious thrill of having her product recognized by one of the most powerful women in America, Deborah told me she has personal reasons for her excitement. Secretary Clinton, as New York State Senator, championed the Healthy New York program that offers deeply discounted healthcare coverage to small businesses and sole proprietors. Having low-cost health coverage after her divorce, after her COBRA coverage expired, allowed Deborah to stay afloat as an entrepreneur. 

Today, Deborah is taping the Elevator Pitch segment for MSNBC’s “Your Business,” which she was selected for after meeting with the show’s producer at the M3RACE First 100 Days event back in April. After her taping, she’s hopping in a car and driving down to Washington to meet with Secretary Clinton’s Chief of Protocol to discuss serving Deborah’s wines at future events and to the women diplomats visiting the White House. She also gets a tour of Ms. Clinton’s private dining room. I asked Deborah to take lots of pictures and let me know how the interview goes so that I can share this very unique experience of getting a government contract with all of you. 

Believe in you,
Nell