Palm Springs Life Celebrates Women Who Lead: 2022
Tara Lazar, Photography by: Tracy Nguyen
Through the Women Who Lead Awards, Palm Springs Life annually identifies and celebrates role models in the community who embody the “I Am Woman” feminist anthem - those in the community who make a daily, meaningful impact on the people they serve.
For the first time in three years, Palm Springs Life was able to hold this ever-important event, bringing together over 250 guests at the Ritz Carlton to recognize three honorees who have undeniably left and continue to leave an impact on the Palm Springs community.
“I like to create experiences, however that takes shape.”
Our very own Tara Lazar was named the 2022 Women Who Lead: Business Leader for her fearless entrepreneurial spirit and success, all starting with the opening of Cheeky’s in 2008, which has become a go-to destination for brunch (and bacon flights!) in Palm Springs and expanded into the opening of numerous restaurants, bars, and a hotel as well as her latest ventures in Oceanside with High/Low and High-Pie, a bakery focused eatery serving mini-hand pies with a touch of old-school film nostalgia. Our innovative and risk-taking leader, Tara, shared the stage with two other inspiring leaders from the non-profit and education sectors, Leticia De Lara, and Martha Garcia while Suzanne Somers joined the group on video as the keynote speaker for the event.
We were able to surprise Tara and the whole crowd with a prerecorded message from Tara’s husband, Marco Rossetti. He made a touching video celebrating Tara and her accomplishments because unfortunately, he could not attend the event in person. Mr. Rossetti, we also salute you, as you brought the whole room to tears, sharing how proud you are of Tara and your whole, family-kudos!
After a few-year hiatus, it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces, community members, and leaders all dressed up and ready to celebrate these women and their ever-lasting contributions to Palm Springs. Read on below for a few of our favorite Q&A’s from Tara’s interview with Palm Springs Life!
Excerpt from Palm Springs Life - Interview with Tara Lazar
What do you consider to be the core of what you do?
I like to create experiences, however, that takes shape — whether it’s in hospitality, making great food, or just making people happy. I love to take people out of their lives and create something experiential.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
I created a prototype food truck to feed people in food-scarce areas with dignity. One of the problems with food trucks is people have to queue up. My truck has lockers down the side to keep food hot or cold, and 20 people can approach the truck at a time.
Regarding your work, what makes you happiest?
Seeing my staff happy, making friendships, enjoying themselves, and loving their work. I think that’s just rad.
What is your strongest personality trait?
I am a risk taker.
And we here at F10 couldn’t agree more! Tara - We are all so grateful to you for all the many opportunities you have created for us and we cannot wait to see what comes next. We love you!
Want to read the full feature including additional Q&A from the rest of the honorees?
