Women of Monaco Lunch in the Garden Celebrates Empowerment

Women of Monaco Lunch in the Garden Celebrates Empowerment, Philanthropy and International Connections
The gardens of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo provided an elegant setting for the 15th edition of the Women of Monaco Lunch in the Garden, held on June 9, 2026. Organized by Five Stars Events and supported by Barclays Private Bank, the annual gathering brought together an inspiring community of women connected to Monaco, celebrating entrepreneurship, creativity, leadership, and meaningful connections while raising €19,300 for charity.
More than 60 women from diverse nationalities, professional backgrounds, and industries attended the luncheon, reflecting the dynamic and international spirit that has become synonymous with the Women of Monaco community. Over the years, the event has established itself as one of the Principality's most anticipated gatherings dedicated to female empowerment, networking, and philanthropy.
At the heart of this year's edition was support for Monaco Aide et Présence (MAP), a humanitarian association founded in 1979 under the Honorary Presidency of H.S.H. Prince Albert II. For more than four decades, MAP has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of vulnerable communities, particularly women and children, through sustainable initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and social assistance.
Guests learned about several of the association's impactful projects, including the "School in the Streets" initiative in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The program provides literacy classes, counselling, educational resources, and school reintegration support to vulnerable children, helping to prevent child labor and early marriages while creating opportunities through access to education.
The event also highlighted the continued commitment of Barclays Private Bank to promoting inclusion, leadership, and women's empowerment. Representing the institution, Montserrat Marchetti delivered an inspiring address titled "Women, Growth & New Chapters," exploring the evolving role of women in shaping influence, purpose, and positive impact within international communities.
Another key moment of the luncheon came from Oriel, an independent advisory platform founded by Maja Frenkel. Dedicated to helping women and families navigate wealth-related decisions with greater confidence and clarity, Oriel joined the event as an engaged partner. During her speech, Frenkel shared the company's vision of making financial guidance more accessible, personal, and meaningful, encouraging women to embrace informed decision-making as a tool for empowerment.
Luxury, craftsmanship, and creativity were also celebrated throughout the afternoon. Arije Monaco showcased exceptional creations from two iconic Houses: Breguet, one of the most influential names in haute horlogerie, and Pasquale Bruni, the renowned Italian fine jewelry Maison celebrated for its artistic excellence and heritage. Selected pieces from both Houses were featured during the fashion presentation, offering guests a glimpse into a world where fine watchmaking and jewelry artistry meet timeless elegance.
A highlight of the event was an exclusive fashion show dedicated to emerging women-led brands based in Monaco. Guests discovered the refined universe of Di Iorio Monaco, the first Monégasque Maison devoted exclusively to luxury women's footwear. Combining Italian artisanal craftsmanship with the delicate beauty of Calais-Caudry lace, the brand presented creations designed as wearable works of art, embodying femininity, heritage, and sophistication.
The runway also introduced the debut Spring/Summer 2026 collection by designer Yasmina Aljaramani. Characterized by flowing silhouettes, delicate textures, and graceful designs, the collection captured a poetic vision of contemporary femininity. Presented in collaboration with CoolBay Monaco, the showcase brought an atmosphere of elegance and artistic expression to the afternoon, celebrating creativity through fashion.
Beyond the inspiring speeches, charitable initiatives, and fashion presentations, the luncheon once again fulfilled its core mission: strengthening meaningful connections among women linked to Monaco. Through shared experiences, new introductions, and valuable conversations, participants contributed to the continued growth of a supportive and influential international network.
As the 15th edition came to a close, it left a lasting impression of solidarity, generosity, and empowerment. The success of the event not only highlighted the strength of the Women of Monaco community but also demonstrated the powerful impact that collaboration and philanthropy can achieve when women come together with a shared purpose.
Special thanks were extended to all partners, contributors, and guests whose support made the event possible, as well as to media partners Luxury Magazine, Stylezza, Monaco Woman, and Monaco Life for helping share the spirit and success of this remarkable occasion.