The Women of the Year Dinner You Haven’t Heard About Yet

Just when you thought we’d shared every last delicious detail about Glamour’s 2024 Women of the Year Awards, we’re here to give you more: a behind-the-scenes peek at a more intimate event held in the lead-up to the big night. The Glamour x Marriott Road to WOTY dinner—held Thursday, September 26 at The Bazaar by José Andrés at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad—welcomed a group of trailblazing women from finance, fashion, beauty, and activism, who shared a delicious meal, stories of their travels, and plenty of laughter. Co-hosted by Sam Barry, Glamour global editorial director, and Tina Edmundson, president of luxury for Marriott International, it was a memorable night full of powerful, personal conversations and connections. “The magic of these types of dinners is when you get to know someone new—talk to the people across from you, next to you, over the table,” Barry said when greeting the guests. “Make a friend, grab an email address, plot a plan for an adventure.”

The Glamour x Marriott Road to WOTY dinner: Tina Edmundson (center), president of luxury for Marriott International, flanked by Glamour‘s Samantha Barry (left) and Ru Wolle (right).Sean Sime Photography

While introducing her co-host, Barry explained why the executive embodies the Women of the Year ethos. “Under Tina’s exceptional leadership, Marriott has embraced inclusivity and empowerment in every aspect of the brand,” she said. “Tina’s dedication to celebrating and uplifting women resonates deeply with our mission at Glamour.” Edmundson, a lifelong explorer, is helping define the future of luxury travel as she oversees Marriott’s international portfolio of 520 hotels across 70 countries, including The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Edition (the 2024 Glamour Women of the Year Awards were held at Times Square Edition’s Paradise Lounge), The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott, and W Hotels. Also worth noting, in the spirit of WOTY: Marriott was co-founded by a woman.

In her own opening remarks, Edmundson shared thoughts on how progress often begins with woman-to-women connections, like those fostered by this intimate dinner. “We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in today’s world,” she said. “The challenges we face are complex and multifaceted, yet within them lies an extraordinary opportunity for connection and collaboration. We live in a time where women are redefining leadership, creativity, and advocacy. We’re breaking down barriers and forging new paths. The relationships we cultivate here, tonight, can serve as the foundation for future endeavors, powerful partnerships, and unwavering support systems.”