Unfortunately in my past I have been around many women who seem to delight in cutting other women down. This was so prevalent in my life that I had stopped talking to people about the things that I was doing.
I had learned the hard way that it was safer to keep quiet and minimise achievements. So although this book looked like a great opportunity, I did have some hesitation in being involved. Despite this, there was something that told me to go forward. Ashley's vision for this project involved far more than the publication of a wonderful book, but extended to the creation of a lifelong professional network between the participants. When I spoke to her on the phone that first time she was so passionate, so excited, I knew I wanted to be part of this.
Now, several months down the track, I really want to let the world know that every person I have met through this project has been the most wonderful, friendly, inclusive, warm human being and I feel so proud to stand among them. Being part of Lounge to Boardroom has forever changed the way I relate to my female peers, and I am no longer afraid to say that I've done a good job of something.
Thank you so much.

Karen Martin ND, BTeach, MDEd
Director
Australian Centre for Natural Health & Wellness

Business networking and building relationships with other like minded business people is the ultimate way to success in promoting you and your business. I know, because this is what my business is all about! Helping people build their business with maximum exposure and with other successful people.
My journey with Lounge to Boardroom has not only been a rewarding and most enjoyable experience but has delivered all the above ingredients to bring more success and recognition to all the business women involved.
My sincere thanks

Sue Redman
Author ‘Creative Cooking with Confidence’
Lunch with Sue Redman Business Club, Beauty & the Beast Business Luncheon Club

Being part of L2B has been an awesome experience so far, and I am looking forward to lots more fun and activities. I was delighted to find I already knew 5 of the other ladies in the book, and obviously we have a lot in common. It has further cemented our friendships, as well as helping to support and promote each others businesses.
I am also meeting more of the exceptional women in the book and this is proving very interesting. The networking possibilities are fantastic.
A wonderful book, an inspiring group of women from South Australia.

Sally Couper
Author, Speaker, Investor

Not only was the humbling experience of sitting along side a group of such successful, empowering women so special. It was also the insight into their business ethics, networking capabilities and "can do" approach that shows just why they are all a part of this great experience - being Lounge to Boardroom. Ashley Knoote-Parke's vision is always time appropriate and site-ful.
She herself is the ultimate "modern woman" and has driven this book with passion, grace and fun!

Lucy MacGill
Designer / Director
Angel Wings Pty. ltd
Lucy MacGill Agencies Pty Ltd.

Ann Grenci celebrated her being in the book with style!
Dynamic, inspiring and motivated in her role as Advanced Skills Lecturer at TAFE SA for the last 28 years, Ann Grenci has been featured along with 54 other successful South Australian business women in the recently launched Lounge to Boardroom book published by Ashley Knoote-Parke in November 2009.
Once selected, Ann was involved in a whirlwind of interviews, for editorials, photo shoots, media workshops, cocktail parties and an official launch with media personality Jane Riley.
Ann says the parts she has enjoyed the most are the inspirational stories, backgrounds, networks and friendships made with the many other women featured in the book.
Ann Grenci believes that her story featured in the book has opened more doors for her, empowering her to open more doors of opportunity for others.
For example, she was invited by Jing Lee to set up a display in Chinatown during the Chinese Lunar Year Celebrations, highlighting her presence and opening up more networks in the community.

An Ode to Ashley

You came to our shores and we treated you with disdain
But you bit right back and became quite a pain
Never deterred, you were the one who always tackles
Even though it has raised, some person’s hackles
Dale and your animals wait devotedly around the hearth
Frankly however I’m sure all you want is a bath
We are truly blessed us women and constantly amazed
Yet you dear Ashley just carry on and don’t get fazed
So It’s true to say on this auspicious day Ms Knoote-Parke
That without you, we would all be hidden, in the dark

Kerrie Akkermans
Akkermans Consulting