(And Why ‘Soft-Launching’ Was Really Just Playing Small)
If you’d told me a year ago that marketing activation for women entrepreneurs was the “right” way to get my business visible, I probably would’ve given you major side-eye. The idea of hosting an in-person event packed with incredible women business owners? It sounded bold, intimidating—honestly, not something that ever crossed my mind for my launch.
I never pictured something like the SAYge Link Unveiling as part of launching my brand—let alone the whole “marketing activation” Linda pitched.
Let’s back up. My business officially launched in 2018. But in reality—it was a soft launch. (And doesn’t “soft launch” sound all gentle and strategic?) Looking back, I realize I was just playing small. I wasn’t sure how to draw attention to my work, and the idea of “going big” was honestly terrifying. I was scared to launch, scared to fail, and scared of being seen. Maybe you’ve felt that too.
When I first teamed up with Linda, she immediately said what we needed was a “marketing activation.” To be honest, I had to research the term “marketing activation,” as I had no idea what the f*ck it meant. Turns out, marketing activation for women entrepreneurs is all about creating a high-energy, intentional event or experience designed to spark awareness and engagement around your brand. It’s not just posting online or sending out emails—it’s about making a moment that gets people talking, excited, and genuinely connected to what you’re building.
After a few conversations, our event vision started to grow. We wanted a full-on visual storytelling experience—SAYge Link would craft the narrative and go deep into the journeys of ten incredible founders, and I would bring their stories to life with portraits. We pictured a gallery-like setting, a space where guests could wander from story to story, not just reading but seeing every woman’s journey, strength, and impact reflected right there on the wall. Looking back, it’s wild how a couple of brainstorms, late-night texts, and a ton of mutual trust became an unforgettable event above Times Square.
That bold move became a real event: up on the 19th floor, perched over the glow of Times Square’s famous screens. My portraits of ten powerhouse founders filled the space. These women didn’t just share their stories—they took up space and truly expressed themselves. We sipped wine from ECR Vintners (I’m still thinking about that cab sauv!), and yes, there were hiccups behind the scenes, but the energy? Absolutely electric. It was everything I hoped for and more… But honestly, I couldn’t have pulled this off years ago.
Why? I simply didn’t have a tribe like I do now. Remember, you need to get people to help spread your message and show up. If you want to launch big, you need to start building your community long before—networking, supporting others, making room for the right people to show up (and for you to show up for them). A few years back, I couldn’t have offered value beyond my portraits because I didn’t have those support systems or true connections. This time, I came in as a partner, not just a vendor. Two featured founders were from my circles. These weren’t random business cards—they were women who’ve cheered for me and who I was proud to invite into this milestone.
The Real Impact of Marketing Activation for Women Entrepreneurs
So here’s what I’ve learned: Marketing activation for women entrepreneurs isn’t just another industry buzzword. It means doing something with energy—an event, an experience, or a story—that puts your brand center stage and invites people to care. The SAYge Link Unveiling wasn’t about showing portraits; it was about fostering excitement, building genuine connections, and giving people a reason to remember our names.
Honestly, I spent years in “soft launch” mode because I was scared—scared to take up space, scared to celebrate my wins, scared of judgment. But after partnering with Linda and feeling what real marketing activation can do, I get it now. Visibility matters. Community matters. You need your people rooting for you and amplifying your story.
If you’re thinking about launching—don’t play small. Build your community now. Show up for others, and when you’re ready to step into the spotlight, they’ll be there rooting for you.
Teaming up for this experience taught me the shift happens when you claim your space, even if your body trembles. People notice you. They want in on what you’re building. And you, finally, see yourself for what you really are—not just a business owner, but a force.
Stay tuned for what’s next. After making THIS leap, I can seriously say, I’m done playing small.
