Los Angeles, CA – August 27, 2025 – Imagine 100 dynamic women of color, gathered on a century-old yacht once graced by Jackie Kennedy, raising their glasses to sisterhood, success, and soulful connection. That was the scene this past Sunday in Marina del Rey, where Shades of Sisters, the membership community founded by CPA, impact investor and author, Ursula Garrett, officially relaunched with a transformative Yacht Brunch Launch Party.
With stunning views of the harbor, live jazz, gourmet brunch, affirmational rituals, and networking as rich as the champagne being poured, the event was more than just a relaunch, it was a declaration: women of color deserve spaces of luxury, wellness, and empowerment that celebrate their brilliance and elevate their journeys.
A Powerful Partnership on the Water
This relaunch was made possible through a collaboration between Shades of Sisters founder Ursula Garrett and community partner Aloni Ford, a sports management executive, television producer, and one of Southern California’s most passionate advocates for diversity in boating.
Earlier this year, Garrett donated copies of her two books to a women’s Yacht event hosted by Ford celebrating Women’s History Month. Their connection was instant. “It felt natural to join forces,” Garrett shared. “Shades of Sisters is about creating spaces where women of color can grow, thrive, and be celebrated. Partnering with Aloni brought that vision to life in the most extraordinary way.”
Ford, who serves as Ambassador for the California Yacht Club and sits on multiple boards promoting inclusive sailing, sees deep alignment with the Shades of Sisters mission. “For too long, boating and luxury spaces have been gatekept,” she said. “This partnership is about rewriting that narrative, showing women of color that the water belongs to us too.”
About Shades of Sisters
What began as a Meetup group of more than 800 women of color in the Inland Empire has now grown into a powerful movement. Under the leadership of Ursula Garrett, Shades of Sisters is relaunching as a membership community dedicated to empowering women of color in their 40s, 50s, and 60s through connection, financial freedom, health, and personal growth.
“Our mission is to inspire women to take charge of their futures, build meaningful networks, and live with purpose,” said Garrett. “We believe in creating spaces that combine luxury with legacy, spaces where women can recharge, connect, and rise together.”
Shades of Sisters fosters an environment where women can thrive in purpose, abundance, and sisterhood, while also opening doors to entrepreneurship, wellness, and self-improvement.
The Yacht Brunch Experience
Hosted aboard the historic Northwind, a 134-foot yacht with a legacy of its own, the event drew women from five different Southern California counties for a day of connection and celebration. Guests enjoyed a soulful jazz performance, a gourmet brunch with curated mimosas served on multiple decks, and intimate networking that sparked meaningful collaborations. Uplifting affirmations and rituals rounded out the experience, leaving attendees renewed and inspired.
The California Yacht Club generously sponsored the event, with its General Manager, Scott Fenton, personally welcoming guests on board. Luxury transportation was provided by Elite Auto Source directly to the docks, and Senti Booth Co. captured the day’s magic through a vibrant photo booth experience.
What’s Next for Shades of Sisters
Following the success of the Yacht Brunch, Shades of Sisters is charting a bold course ahead. Upcoming plans include a second Yacht Brunch this coming October 19th, themed around wellness and self-care, featuring spa-inspired experiences and conversations on “Healing the Hustle” and “Managing Stress and Aging with Grace.”
Membership to Shades of Sisters is now open and free through the remainder of 2025, offering women access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and a powerful circle of like-minded sisters.
Community partners and sponsors are also invited to join the movement, helping expand access to luxury, wellness, and personal development experiences for women of color across Southern California.
Join the Movement
For membership details or partnership opportunities, visit https://www.shadesofsisters.com/join
For media inquiries, please contact:
Gianluca Gibbons
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