Next ChaptHER

By: Elle Parker

Next ChaptHER was founded by four friends – Lindsay Gill, Anina Belle Giannini, Alicia McKenzie, and Hilary Phelps- in the Washington, D.C. area with a shared vision to turn the traditional concept of “ladies who lunch” on its head. Our story began over ten years ago when we became close friends, supporting each other through the various highs and lows of life. From marriage to divorce, from starting families to navigating loss, we each experienced transformative changes, and we always found strength in coming together over lunch. Each time we left those lunches, we felt empowered, inspired,
and more connected.

As we moved through different stages in our lives, we realized that our experiences—both the challenges and the triumphs—had equipped us with a wealth of knowledge and insight. We began to see how meaningful it was to share our journeys, offer advice, and encourage one another. With our diverse backgrounds, including expertise in health and wellness, finance, entrepreneurship, hospitality, and nonprofit growth, we felt we could offer more than just lunch; we could create a platform for women to explore the next chapter of their lives. Thus, Next ChaptHER was born.

Our mission is not to dictate what women should do in the next phase of their lives, but rather to provide the tools, advice, and different perspectives to help them navigate their own paths. This could be entrepreneurship, fitness, wellness, career shifts, or any personal growth journey. We want to help women feel empowered to pursue their goals, whatever they may be, with the support of a community that encourages collaboration and learning.