Upcoming events with Bellissimo Weddings
International Women's Day Event 2026
Join us this International Women’s Day on Friday 6th March 2026 for our annual celebration — a special gathering dedicated to Women in Business. Hosted by Melanie Egan, Owner and Founder of Bellissimo Weddings, this inspiring event brings together ambitious, like-minded women for a day of connection, empowerment, and growth.
Enjoy uplifting talks from inspiring female guest speakers, meaningful networking opportunities, and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Indulge in wholesome food and refreshments, including a delicious lunch and fresh juices, while also taking advantage of professional branding headshots to elevate your business presence.
Come along, connect, celebrate, and leave feeling motivated, supported, and inspired.
Thompson Wedding Films
Highlights from last year's iwd event!
Friday 6th March, 2026 - 9am-4pm
“Last years IWD event was amazing – really inspiring, brilliantly organised and full of positive energy. It brought together such a great mix of women in business and I came away feeling really motivated.”
Photo Credit: David Wheeler Photography
Sophie Maidman, Director - Store & Secure
“Melanie’s IWD event was absolutely fantastic. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive. I left feeling very inspired and empowered. I cant wait to go again next year!”
Photo Credit: David Wheeler Photography
Charlotte Raymond, Cake Designer
“I attended Melanie’s International Womens Day event at Came House this year and really loved it! I came away inspired by the speakers as well as the other women who attended."
Photo Credit: David Wheeler Photography
Kirsty Batey, Co-Founder - Fossil Food Catering
“What a special time to be surrounded by an uplifting energy followed by a delicious and generous lunch! Not only this, but we were all utterly spoiled by the thoughtful touches from the flowers to the juices which was so special. Thank you for having me – cant wait for the next one!"
Photo Credit: David Wheeler Photography
Kirsty Batey, Co-Founder - Fossil Food Catering
Kind Words
Join us for an empowering session with four incredible female entrepreneurs! Our speakers are ready to share their entrepreneurial journeys and the secrets to their success, offering insights and inspiration for both aspiring and experienced business owners.
Discover inspiration and connection
OUR INCREDIBLE speakers
“Navigating your way in todays business world”
Melanie serves as both your host and a guest speaker for the event, bringing a unique perspective shaped by a significant career pivot. Originally a successful lawyer at partnership level, she transitioned into the events industry in 2008 with the establishment of her business, Bellissimo.
With nearly two decades of experience running her events business, Melanie has earned numerous regional and national awards, establishing a reputation for professionalism and deep industry knowledge. Having built her business from the ground up, she shares practical lessons on resilience and adaptation. Her insights are designed to motivate and inspire women navigating the complexities of today’s modern business world.
Owner & Founder
Bellissimo Weddings
@bellissimoweddings
Melanie Egan
Joannah is a hugely successful multi-business owner in Dorset and has some amazing stories and advice to share.
Joannah brings to this event her unique and amazing journey through business which has taken her from a Youth Training Scheme in Fleet Street back in the day, an exciting radio career and now she has built up a highly reputable private care company and a pottery café in Dorset! Joannah has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share along with amusing stories and valuable lessons learned along the way. Her captivating speaking style will have you hooked! Joannah wants to share her pillars of knowledge in business based around Trust, Like & Respect
Multiple Dorset Business Owner and Entrepreneur
“Trust, Like & Respect”
@bettercraftandpaint
Joannah Bishop
We are thrilled to welcome Georgie to this event. A poet by trade and a performer by nature, Georgie is fast becoming one of the most compelling and authentic voices in contemporary poetry. A Roundhouse Poetry Slam finalist turned Resident Artist and BBC Words First alumni, Georgie is known for her humour, heart and ability to make a room full of strangers feel like old friends.
Her debut show “Ish”, toured to sell-out audiences across the UK, earning her a flurry of 5 star reviews. Online her warm and witty poems have reached millions. Her debut poetry collection “And The World Spins Anyway” is a lot letter to the unfiltered, the unfinished, the uncertain. A celebration of the messy, magic, bountifully beautiful business of being human.
Georgie will be speaking at our event to bring you specially written poetry to help celebrate women and will have you all feeling incredibly special and in great spirits. If you don’t already follow Georgia on the socials – you are missing out!
Poet, Performer, Comedian and Champion of Women
@georgie_jonez
Georgie Jones
Anneli returns to our event in 2026 having been a huge part of the success of 2025. Women will be blessed by Anneli in two ways – firstly with her professional branding photography skills you will be able to have your new headshot taken. What a honour!
Secondly, Anneli will be sharing her business with us MMB40 – “Mind & Muscle Beyond 40”and she is also a Certified Menopause Movement Coach. Anneli is a motivational force dedicated to helping women over 40 build physical and mental resilience. Anneli is an inspirational speaker and has so much energy to share with us at our event. Be prepared to be inspired, motivated and captivated by Anneli!
Branding Photographer and Founder of MMB40
(Mind and Muscle Beyond 40)
@mindmusclebeyond40