In a world where women are balancing careers, families, and personal growth, Devin Wilmott Johnson is carving out intentional spaces for them to connect, exhale, and thrive. As the founder of Girls Trip Society and CEO of DWJ & Co., Johnson blends branding expertise with a passion for event production to create experiences that go beyond networking. Her Takeoff Series launched in Dallas as both a celebration and a call to action: ambitious women deserve spaces where they can build authentic relationships, share resources, and grow together—personally and professionally.
What inspired you to create the Takeoff Series, and why was Dallas the right place to launch it?
Girls Trip Society, part of DWJ & Co., was born from my love of branding, creativity, and operations. I wanted to create powerful events where women could connect beyond “what do you do?” Dallas was the right launchpad because it’s where I found my passion for events and built my network. The Metroplex is home to ambitious women from diverse backgrounds, and it has supported me since high school. Starting here pays homage to that foundation while setting the stage for pop-ups, retreats, and international expansion.
How do you envision the Takeoff Series making a lasting impact on women entrepreneurs?
The series creates a safe space where ambitious women can build real relationships beyond job titles. At our events, a new entrepreneur could connect with a Fortune 500 executive without labels at the forefront. That intentional design allows people to bond over personality and life experiences, which often translate into professional collaborations. For me, scaling my business has come through personal connections that became professional. Girls Trip Society fosters that same environment, where women can support one another, grow together, and form authentic partnerships that last beyond the event itself.
Can you walk us through the planning process behind the Girls Just Wanna Have Brunch and Girls Just Wanna Night Out experiences?
The branding is intentionally bold and elevated, reflected in our events. Each space will transform into a travel destination, such as the Bahamas or Paris, so women feel transported without leaving Dallas. Partners and sponsors will create immersive activations tied to each destination. Beyond décor, we’re also focused on impact. At Girls Just Wanna Night Out on Oct. 25, we’ll award a $10,000 business grant, supporting women beyond the event itself. Every detail is designed to offer escape, inspiration, and resources that ambitious women can carry into their personal and professional lives.
Why did you decide to include a $10,000 grant, and what kind of applicant are you hoping to see?
We wanted to bless a woman who puts everything into her business. Grants of this size are more common for nonprofits, so we’re extending it to for-profit entrepreneurs who need that extra push. It could cover marketing, operations, or other growth needs. DWJ & Co. will award it through a live pitch competition, hosted by B. Simone. The grant reflects the Girls Trip Society’s mission—meeting ambitious women where they are and giving them tools to succeed. We want to empower someone ready to take the next big step in her journey.
As a brand strategist and event curator, how do your professional skills shape this initiative?
Branding is key—people buy brands, not just services. My role is to clearly communicate the purpose of Girls Trip Society to ticket holders, sponsors, and vendors while ensuring flawless execution. Successful events marry branding with production, so I only take on projects I can brand and market. That way, the visual and psychological experience aligns with the event flow. This approach, rooted in strategy, sets our events apart. At DWJ & Co., and now through Girls Trip Society, branding and curation work hand-in-hand to create experiences that feel intentional and memorable.
What challenges have you faced building the Takeoff Series, and how have you worked through them?
The biggest challenge has been securing sponsors and vendors for a new event without a track record. Early conversations were tough because potential partners couldn’t visualize what we were planning. Once our branding and marketing launched, those same partners reached back out after seeing the buzz. It confirmed that effective marketing is critical—people don’t buy products or services. They buy brands. Having a strong strategy and a clear vision allows you to overcome initial doubts and attract support. Consistency in branding builds the trust you need to move forward.
What role does community play in sustaining women entrepreneurs?
Community is everything. Women thrive on connection, yet we’re still breaking glass ceilings in business. Having a strong network helps us push through barriers together. Girls Trip Society is about creating a community where ambitious women lift each other as they climb. Too often, people forget those who supported them at the start. Our mission is to encourage reaching back while moving forward. As women, we can rise personally and professionally while also helping others do the same. That spirit of shared growth is at the heart of Girls Trip Society.
How do you see the Takeoff Series growing after Dallas?
The Takeoff Series is just the beginning. After Dallas, we’ll expand with pop-up events across the U.S. and internationally. In 2026, we’re planning a trip to the Bahamas and a retreat at Martha’s Vineyard. We’ll also launch masterminds, retreats, and other initiatives to strengthen the community. A Girls Trip Society app is in development so women can connect year-round for both personal and professional collaboration. Ultimately, the goal is to grow from a single event into a global platform where ambitious women find community, support, and shared opportunities to thrive.
What advice would you give women who hesitate to attend events like these?
Many hesitate because networking can feel intimidating. But if you don’t put yourself out there, people won’t know what you offer. The worst response you’ll get is “no,” and every no brings you closer to a yes. Remember, not every product or service is for everyone, and that’s okay. Research the rooms where you need to be—where your customers, clients, and collaborators are—and go. Girls Trip Society blends personal and professional connections, so attendees can find both business partners and new friends. Growth begins when you show up.
Be’n Original
