Press Release

For Immediate Release: March 24, 2026

For More Information Contact:
Kelly Criddle, Director of Operations
830-997-5000 / kelly@fbgtxchamber.org

Fredericksburg Chamber to Host Inaugural Women in Business Panel & Networking Luncheon April 10

FREDERICKSBURG, Texas (March 24, 2026) – The Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Metro SA Chamber will host its inaugural Women in Business: Panel & Networking Luncheon on April 10, bringing together women business owners, professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs for a day of connection, insight and inspiration.

The event will begin with a panel discussion from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Pioneer Museum Sanctuary, where attendees will hear firsthand from experienced women leaders about the realities of building and leading in business. Panelists will share their personal journeys, lessons learned and practical advice for success.

“Bringing together women from different industries and stages of their careers is what makes this panel so exciting,” said Kelly Criddle, Director of Operations at the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce. “We have an incredible lineup of panelists who will share their journeys, lessons learned, and practical advice. Our hope is that attendees will leave inspired, with new connections and insights, and that this becomes the first of many annual Women in Business events.”

Featured panelists include:

• Heather Mallinckrodt, Fredericksburg Cast Iron Co.
• Sinéad King, Handle It, LLC
• Jill Elliott, BlackChalk Home & Laundry + Haberdashery
• Leah Flores, laTEAda
• Marcia Garcia, MCG Fraud Services, LLC

The panel will be moderated by Emily Kirchner, Vice President of Economic Development at Texas Regional Bank and Fredericksburg Mayor Pro Tem.

Mallinckrodt had nearly 25 years of healthcare experience from institutions such as Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, before she transitioned into entrepreneurship. She co-founded Fredericksburg Cast Iron Co. to create durable, chemical-free cookware rooted in family tradition and community connection.

King is a seasoned entrepreneur with more than 30 years of experience across international markets. With a background in financial and operational management, she specializes in helping businesses identify challenges and implement strategies for sustainable growth.

Elliott is the founder and creative force behind Haberdashery boutique on Main, a beloved Fredericksburg destination celebrating 25 years in business. She also launched BlackChalk Home & Laundry, now in its ninth year as a curated home store, and owns Ololo, a Hill Country bed-and-breakfast. Elliott combines her passion for style, community, and meaningful retail experiences to help shape Fredericksburg’s creative landscape.

Flores, founder of laTEAda, transitioned from a career in education to entrepreneurship after discovering a passion for loose-leaf tea. She built her business from the ground up, gaining firsthand experience in all aspects of small business ownership.

Garcia, a former senior vice president of treasury management, is an award-winning leader and mentor who recently launched MCG Fraud Services, LLC. A certified treasury professional and newly certified fraud examiner, she is also deeply involved in community service and professional organizations.

Following the panel, attendees will continue the conversation during a networking luncheon from noon to 2 p.m. at Western Edge. The event will conclude with additional time to network, explore downtown Fredericksburg and support local businesses from 2 to 5 p.m.

Registration is $40 per person for Chamber members and $50 for non-members, and includes lunch. Registration is available online at fbgtxchamber.org. For more information, contact the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce at (830) 997-5000 or info@fbgtxchamber.org. 

The mission of the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce is to champion our business community through collaboration, information and service.

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