October 28, 2026
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Some women build empires. Others build legacies. The late Jessica Vartoughian built a legacy through her business acumen and a reputation defined by elegance, leadership, education, and purpose—proving that the strongest personal brands are created through impact.
That impact was felt at the AIWA–LA “Hats Off to Jessica” celebratory luncheon held earlier this month at the Athenaeum, where Jessica’s life—beloved, cherished, and deeply rooted in the AIWA community—was revisited through heartfelt testimonies from AIWA members and her daughter, Nadia Shamsi.
In a beautiful, canopy-covered patio setting filled with women from all walks of life, attendees came together to honor Jessica’s life and legacy. Nicole Nishanian, a member, masterfully emceed the program, which flowed seamlessly as Houry Aposhian, Chair of AIWA–LA, and Ani Aivazian, Vice Chair, delivered remarks celebrating Jessica’s extraordinary professional and social acumen. They reflected on her elegance, strength, generosity, and the passion that touched countless lives.
Nadia Shamsi delivered an eloquent, heartfelt tribute to her mother—recounting her inspiring journey as an immigrant and her steadfast determination to empower other women by her example. In recognition of her dedication, AIWA–LA presented Nadia with the Jessica Vartoughian Legacy Award honoring her commitment to maintaining her family’s legacy of AIWA membership and support.
Jessica was also famously known for her incredible collection of hats. Her love for them took center stage with a spectacular hat show by Rehn Dudukgian Chavez, a milliner, fashion designer, entrepreneur, and creator/owner of the luxury hat brand Bijou Van Ness. Rehn Dudukgian Chavez shared the history of millinery couture, weaving together the timeless elegance of handcrafted hats and headpieces across Europe, the United States, and Armenia—from the late 1700s to the present day.
Because Jessica loved the opera, the program also featured a powerful musical performance by mezzo-soprano Talin Nalbandian, accompanied by Andy Gladbach on keyboard.
Closing remarks were delivered by AIWA President Silva Katchiguian, who thanked Los Angeles team and all participants and attendees for coming together to honor Jessica’s memory—and for recognizing her fierce commitment to blazing a trail for women everywhere.
