On August 1st, the group embarked on a memorable journey to Port Jefferson, facilitated by the commendable efforts of Barbara Ransome, the CEO of the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce (PJCC). This collaboration marked a significant revival of the relationship between BRBC and PJCC.

A Warm Welcome and Historical Insights

Our day started at Danfords Hotel & Marina with a delightful continental breakfast, and a warm welcomed by Barbara and Mayor Lauren Sheprow. The Mayor highlighted the potential for strengthening relationships between Port Jefferson and Bridgeport. This interaction underscored the importance of our visit and opened doors for future collaborations and mutual support. The morning set the stage for an enriching experience that was both educational and inspiring. 

One of the highlights of our tour was the Drown Meadow Cottage Museum Tour, providing us with a glimpse into the vital role Port Jefferson played in the American Revolutionary War, particularly through the George Washington spy trail. This trail is renowned for its historical significance, where secret messages were once carried between spies, contributing crucially to the war efforts.

Engaging with Local Entrepreneurs and Businesses

The trip wasn’t just about looking back; it was also firmly focused on the present and future. We had the pleasure of visiting several women-owned businesses, supporting and learning about their unique challenges and successes. Lunch at Pasta Pasta provided a perfect setting for in-depth discussions on economic development and its relevance to our professional and personal lives.

Women Owned Business Visited on Tour!

• Home Kingdom 
• East End Shirt 
• Celtic Apothecary 
• Tabu

Building Connections and Fostering Community

One of the most effective aspects of our trip was the proactive approach to networking. On the ferry ride over, all participants were encouraged to fill out a card to introduce themselves, which sparked lively conversations and new connections. This wasn't just a social outing; it was a strategic move to ensure that even a relaxing day away was filled with opportunities for professional growth and community building.

The easy walkability from the pier through the town allowed us to engage freely with the bustling local commerce and enjoy the quaint aesthetics of Port Jefferson. The town’s parks and open spaces invited us to relax and engage in meaningful conversations, making the hot weather a small footnote in a day of productive interactions.

Reflections and Looking Forward

As much as the trip provided a much-needed getaway, it underscored the importance of integrating educational elements into our excursions. By exploring economic development and its impacts through such visits, we equip our business owners and professionals with knowledge that influences their decisions daily.

The success of our trip to Port Jefferson has set a precedent for future excursions, promising not only to offer a retreat but to serve as a catalyst for growth, networking, and empowerment. Stay tuned for more initiatives from the Women’s Leadership Network as we continue to elevate and expand our horizons.

For anyone interested in joining future trips or learning more about the Women’s Leadership Network, please feel free to reach out natalie@brbc.org. Here’s to more exploration, education, and empowerment!