A Word with the Bird: GNO Founder Jaz Artis Talks Event Planning and the Importance of Women’s Empowerment

Girls Night Out (GNO) — a community-driven brand focused on curating events for women, by women through fun, intentional experiences — hosted an intimate and lively event with the Chicago Bulls on Dec. 5, marking the first of many events of this collaboration.

The GNO x Chicago Bulls event took place at the United Center, where the Bulls faced off against the Indiana Pacers, with the Pacers emerging victorious 120-105. Despite the loss, the event offered early access to the game to women who purchased tickets through a special GNO x Bulls ticket link, ranging from $80-200, where women got to see both teams warm up, partake in a photo-op in front of the Michael Jordan statue and enjoy drinks and food before taking their seats for tip-off.

Ahead of the event, The Phoenix sat down with GNO founder Jaz Artis to discuss her start in the event planning industry, the creation of the brand and being a business owner at 24. Both questions and answers have been edited for clarity.

How did you come up with Girls Night Out, and what is the goal of these events?

After starting my career working in the music and fashion industries, I constantly ended up in male-dominated spaces, and I craved environments where women could feel welcomed and just enjoy themselves. The goal is to offer experiences where every woman feels included and able to enjoy themselves as well.

What kind of events does Girls Night Out curate?

We offer wellness-focused experiences and nighttime events. There’s something for everyone, and that’s what makes the community feel so special. There’s a mix of different events for every type of girl.

What’s your story? How did you get your start? 

I started by hosting small events. My first events were with House Calls and a partnership with them. I’ve just always genuinely loved to bring groups of people together, which has now turned into Girls Night Out, which specifically brings women together. 

How did you build your following and brand? What is your marketing strategy?

I gained my following through consistency, authenticity and word-of-mouth — women coming to one event, having a great time and telling their friends. I also focus on clear branding, strong visuals and making sure every experience delivers what I’m messaging. 

How important was it for you, as a young woman in business, to curate events for women?

Extremely important. I understand what it feels like to be the only woman in the room. I am creating spaces for women to feel celebrated instead of overlooked.

How large was the market for women-focused events in the event space industry?

Through my own personal experience of being in male-dominated spaces, I wanted to see more events that I personally had interest in. Everything I curate is very intentional, and just with the thought process in mind of “What can I add to the Chicago event space community that we’re lacking?” And specifically, I did see that there was a market for women, specifically between the ages of 21 and 35, that just needed more of a range of events.

In the event space market, how do you make GNO stand out?

By keeping the energy consistent and the experience extremely intentional, GNO isn’t just another party event company — it’s a space built on inclusivity in real connection, and I believe people can feel when something has purpose behind it.

How do you go about getting these collaborations — specifically with the Chicago Bulls — and planning these events?

Most collaborations come from building relationships over time. With the Bulls, it was about showing how powerful women’s communities are and how much value we bring to any space we enter. Planning is a mix of logistics, creation and making sure the experience feels genuine to both brands.

With this Bulls collaboration, how do you get women to want to engage with male-dominated sectors?

I’m all about creating experiences that feel inviting for every woman. A fun, hosted group experience can change the way someone feels about a space that they never thought was for them. When women see other women showing up confidently, I believe it shifts the whole environment.

In a society where people aren’t going out as much or in a city where the nightlife scene is dying, how do you combat this issue?

By giving people a reason to show up that feels intentional and a sense of community that makes people want to leave the house. They want to be a part of something bigger. I think it’s not just about going out, it’s about belonging to a larger group.

Any inspirations?

My inspiration comes from the woman around me, my friends, peers, strangers who show up solo and believe in the vision, and seeing the connection they form at GNO is definitely what keeps me going.

Girls Night Out’s next event is on New Year’s Eve at the Three Top Lounge from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tickets, ranging from $30-40, are available here and at the door.