
By: Tracey L. Schroeder
On April 15, 2025, the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois was proud to attend “Pearls of Etiquette: An Evening of Fine Dining and Networking” hosted by our colleagues at the Black Women Lawyers’ Association (BWLA) and the Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois (HLAI). Held at the vibrant Carnivale restaurant in Chicago’s West Loop, the evening combined elegance, education, and connection.


Attendees enjoyed a delicious multi-course meal while participating in an interactive etiquette training covering everything from formal table settings to how to gracefully navigate unexpected moments—like spills or dietary restrictions. The program also offered valuable tips on professional networking in social settings, all in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Events like these remind us that professionalism extends beyond the courtroom—and that confidence, courtesy, and community go hand in hand. WBAI thanks BWLA and HLAI for hosting such an enriching evening and for their continued collaboration in supporting the next generation of legal leaders.

This article was originally published in the WBAI Spring 2025 Newsletter on page 66.
