I was honored to be featured recently in Authority Magazine for their series, “5 Reasons Why Women Build Great Companies,” by Vanessa Ogle. The experience gave me an opportunity to pause and reflect on a few of the most meaningful parts of my journey — the values that guide me, the people who shaped me, and why I believe so deeply in leading with empathy, resilience, and intention.
As many of you know, I wear a few hats — founder of Michelle Durpetti Events, managing partner of Gene & Georgetti, daughter, wife, Italian-American, board member, equestrian, and storyteller. It’s not always simple, and it’s rarely easy. But it is deeply fulfilling — and always driven by love.
I was born into the hospitality world, watching my grandparents and parents build something rooted in family, integrity, and community. Over the years, I’ve found my own way of expressing those same values — through events that feel like art, weddings that feel like cinema, and leadership that (hopefully) makes space for others to grow.
In the interview with Vanessa and Authority Magazine, I shared a few reasons why I think women build such powerful, impactful businesses.
5 Reasons Why Women Build Great Companies
💛 1. Empathy is a Superpower
We lead from the heart — not instead of strategy, but alongside it. I’ve learned that people may not remember every detail of what you said or did, but they’ll always remember how you made them feel. That’s the essence of hospitality, and the foundation of any great business.
🔄 2. Multitasking is in Our DNA
Whether it’s planning a wedding in Sicily and flying home to produce another in Chicago just two days later, or balancing operations, creative direction, and client relationships — women are expert jugglers. We pivot fast, prioritize smart, and problem-solve like pros.
💪 3. We Are Built for Resilience
I’ve made mistakes. (I was once fired by my dad — lovingly! — while hostessing at our family restaurant.) But each moment, especially the hard ones, has taught me something vital. Resilience isn’t just about strength — it’s about grace, growth, and learning as we go.
🤝 4. We Lead with “We,” Not “Me”
Some of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned came from mentors who led by lifting others — my father, my first boss Rick Jasculca, and women like Holly Bartecki. I try to carry that forward in everything I do. When one of us rises, we all rise.
❤️ 5. Heart Drives Vision
At the end of the day, I do what I do because I love people. I love stories. I love the art of creating beautiful moments that leave a lasting mark. Whether it’s an event, a restaurant experience, or a piece of content I share — my goal is always to create something meaningful.
More Than Just Business
I also shared a bit about the work I do outside of business — from co-founding the Illinois Events Coalition to serving on the boards of organizations like PAWS Chicago and the Illinois Restaurant Association. To me, success is never just about the bottom line. It’s about impact. Purpose. Community.
I hope that as more women step into leadership, we continue to redefine what success looks like. That we create companies that are not only profitable, but human. That we keep lifting each other up. And that we never forget where we came from — or who helped us get there.
If you’d like to read the full interview, you can find it here.
And if something in my story resonates with you, I’d love to hear about it!
Thank you, always, for being part of this journey with me.
With gratitude,
Michelle 🤍
