On Wednesday, Morton's steakhouse uptown kicked off the first in a luncheon series called "A Celebration of Women Entrepreneurs."

Designed to give local businesswomen a networking opportunity, the event was filled to capacity with about 50 women.

Guest speaker Ramona Holloway of the nationally syndicated "Matt & Ramona Show" shared her tips on success.

The humorous radio show host said she attributes her success to her mother, Wheezy, whose wisdom has helped guide her career.

Holloway's anecdotes were hilarious, and if you've heard her speak you know that she’s a gifted storyteller with lots to say.

Here are some of the things she said her mother taught her:

1. Have a strong foundation. Remember, it goes beyond what you're wearing. Being prepared and doing research are an important part of becoming an entrepreneur.

2. Pick your battles wisely. "Sometimes you do have to fight but make sure you are getting a piece of the pie,” Holloway said.

3. Have courage; it's necessary at every age.

4. Everyone in your organization is important, from the person who collects your trash to the person who answers the phone. Treat people accordingly.

5. Refuse to be limited by others expectations. There are still people who don't embrace women in professional settings, Holloway said. But, she added, "If we allow others’ expectations to rule us, then we settle for what they think we should have, and that's in their best interest, never ours."

6. Give back. "Giving back as an entrepreneur is simply the right thing to do,” she said. "We have to make sure we are active, involved, caring members of the community."

7. Ask for what you want. This is the biggest lesson she's learned to date. "Often we say no before we give people an opportunity to hear what we have to say." Holloway said her mother often quotes a popular verse of scripture: "You have not because you ask not."

Amen.

The next luncheon is scheduled for June.

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