By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director
Photographs have always been important to me. I take a lot of them—and they matter. I usually take the time to crop, edit, and frame each shot just right, not for perfection’s sake, but to capture a memory the way I felt it. That’s why Sip and Snap felt so personal and so special. It wasn’t just about taking pictures—it was about the joy of learning something new. And now, I’m even more excited to sharpen my photo skills—and capture them—on an upcoming trip with my family.
On July 16th, Women United hosted Sip and Snap—an evening that turned out to be exactly what many of us didn’t know we needed: calm, colorful, and deeply engaging. Nearly 40 women gathered, spanning generations, each bringing her own story and energy into a space thoughtfully designed for connection, creativity, and presence. It wasn’t flashy or loud, but it was powerfully layered with laughter, lightness, and learning.
"You had me at focus." This simple quote from a guest perfectly captured the essence of the night. Led by Jenny Underhill of Funky Palm Productions, attendees leaned into the art of smartphone photography. Jenny shared smart and simple tips to elevate your everyday camera phone game, covering focus, exposure, angles, editing tools, portrait mode, and the rule of thirds. Everyone walked away with new knowledge, boosted confidence, and a fresh lens, both literally and figuratively.
The “sip” side of the evening offered a mix of flavors and fellowship. Conversations blossomed over sparkling drinks and thoughtful bites. And it wasn’t just small talk. These were soul-stretching, idea-sparking exchanges. You could see it in the way women leaned in—not just physically, but emotionally. The room had a calm energy, but it wasn’t quiet. It was full.
Then came the “snap.” Not just cameras clicking (though there was plenty of that, too). This part was about focus. The kind that reminds you what matters. Through engaging hands-on exercises and guided moments of reflection, every woman had something to learn—and something to contribute. Some found creative inspiration. Others, a sense of grounding. Many rediscovered joy. It wasn’t about getting the perfect shot, it was about being fully present in the moment.
By the end of the night, everyone left with more than they came with. Not just photos or helpful takeaways, but renewed energy, a sense of belonging, and a shared understanding: when women unite with intention, something special always happens.
Until the next gathering—cheers to more moments like this.
Special thanks to our event sponsors: Florida Premier Contractors LLC, Life Celebration Center of Punta Gorda, and our Annual Women United Sponsor, Cruise Planners – Julie Lang.
Next up: Art & Creativity on Wednesday, August 13. Get ready to relax, create, and connect with an inspiring group of women. Shellabrate creativity with Women United! For more information about our monthly events or to RSVP, please visit: unitedwayccfl.org/SipandSnap
For more information about United Way of Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.