BELLA BOSS: August 2025 Around Town: The Hamptons Issue
By Lynette Barbieri + Alexis Lombardo
Success in business demands ambition, resolve, determination, and a relentless pursuit of goals. Here, we highlight successful entrepreneurs whose remarkable accomplishments demonstrate the importance of self-belief and daring leaps of faith. If you’re looking to reshape your career journey, let their achievements inspire you to carve your path to success.
Lydia Fenet
New York, NY
Lydia Fenet Agency: Founder & CEO
THE SPARK: When Passion Becomes Purpose
There were two things I noticed in the year before I left Christie's: 1) I was getting requests for over 200 auctions a year 2) I was getting texts from friends at events where they were witnessing untrained auctioneers who called themselves "FUN-raisers" getting onstage and barely raising any money for the nonprofit they were supposed to be helping. It made me realize there was a need for well-trained auctioneers who could ensure the nonprofits were hitting their fundraising goals so they could continue doing the work that so many people depend on.
STAYING GROUNDED: Centered by Connection
I surround myself with family and friends. I am happiest when I'm surrounded by people that I love, and that makes me feel present and grounded.
THE BOLD MOVE: Breaking Away to Build
Launching the Lydia Fenet Agency after 24 years working at a company was bold, but it was exactly what I needed to do to leave behind the corporate world and step into the role of founder and CEO. It gave me access to a new community of people who I love spending time with and learning from every single day.
Laura Damiano
Photography By Jessie Spellmann
Briarcliff Manor, New York
Laura Damiano Designs: Founder & Creative Director
THE SPARK: The Driving Force
I knew this was more than 'just a business' the moment I received my first accolade. It wasn’t just a prize—it was proof that the messy drafts, endless late nights, and relentless creativity were taking me somewhere new, somewhere I didn’t even know I was meant to go. And I was ready.
STAYING GROUNDED: Protecting My Peace
Firm boundaries that protect my peace, clear principles that keep me aligned, taking real time for myself...and let's be honest, a little tequila to keep it all in perspective.
THE BOLD MOVE: Betting on Myself
Leaving a stable corporate job to step into the unknown. I didn’t know how to run a business, and I had no guarantees—just a mix of excitement and uncertainty. But I knew it was time to see what I was really made of. It's always the daring choices that leave the biggest mark.
Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos
Photography By Akris
New York, NY
Flag Luxury Group: Co-Founder, President & COO Women’s Power Series: Co-Founder
FlagLuxury.com | WomensPowerSeries.org
THE SPARK: Inspiration Behind the Brand
I Knew Women’s Power Series was more than just an organization when my daughter Sophia and I launched our first event at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach in March 2023. We brought together over 400 women—founders, artists, students, entrepreneurs—and created space for real connection, storytelling, and momentum that continues to grow with each new conference.
NAVIGATING THE INDUSTRY: Advice for Newcomers
Being a woman in charge in the real estate world often feels like a high-wire act, but I stay grounded by leaning into family, close friends, and my passions—like curating art and giving back through philanthropy. These keep me aligned with my purpose.
BRAND VISION: Approach to Trends
Saying “yes” to starting Flag Luxury with my husband Paul in 1997, fresh out of grad school, was the boldest move I’ve ever made. It was a leap of faith into a male-dominated industry—and it led to defining projects like The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach and The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.
