Vested Wrapped: A Look Back at 2025
A Year of Connection, Collaboration, and Community
Photo by Emily Star Poole
The end of the year rarely feels calm for women business owners. Many of us are managing holiday orders, family commitments, planning for what is next, and the responsibilities that never seem to let up. Yet even in the middle of it all, there are quiet moments that help us reflect on what the past 12 months have held. For Vested, 2025 brought steady growth, real connection, and a community that continued to show up for one another.
Across all of our gatherings this year, there was a shared feeling that women are hungry for spaces where conversation goes deeper than surface level. Whether we were at a Night Out in the city, connecting on the farm, or settling into the transformative work of the Vested Retreat, I watched women step into each space with curiosity and leave with connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging that is hard to put into words. These moments are a constant reminder of why this all matters.
Behind the scenes, we focused on strengthening structure and increasing access. Our membership program continued to grow. The Rolodex expanded and is preparing to become public facing. The Masterclass Library brought fresh insight from women who generously shared their knowledge on everything from creating a passive income stream to simple changes that make a huge impact on our health. Our partnership with Greater Spokane Incorporated supported the Spokane Inclusive Business Catalyst program and helped bring new resources to female founders who often carry far too much on their own.
This year also reaffirmed how much Vested relies on collaboration. I am deeply grateful to Numerica, Greater Spokane Incorporated, Electric Photoland, and House of Social for believing in this mission and supporting the work that brings women together. I also want to thank the numerous, talented photographers who documented our events with care and authenticity, and the venues, caterers, and creative partners who helped shape the atmosphere of every gathering. Your contributions made so many dreams come to fruition.
And to the women who attended Vested events in 2025, thank you. Whether you came to learn, to connect, to take a breath, or simply to be in a room filled with people who understand the realities of building something from the ground up, your presence made all the difference. This community is strong because of you.
As we look ahead to 2026, there is a sense of clarity and excitement about what comes next. More opportunities to collaborate. More intentional gatherings. More ways to support the women who are building businesses, families, dreams, and futures all at the same time. I am grateful to step into a new year with so many inspiring women walking beside me.
Thank you for making 2025 meaningful. Thank you for showing up with generosity and curiosity. Thank you for helping shape a community that truly reflects the strength and spirit of women in business.
With gratitude,
Mercedes Leahy
CEO and Creative Director, Vested
VESTED BY THE NUMBERS
