The 9-year-old HerStory and the year-old Wahine in Hawaii Business women's conferences will combine this year, but the economy is not the main reason.

It is a consideration, given table sales at luncheon events of late, said David Tumilowicz, publisher of Hawaii Business magazine.

However, the driving force behind the decision to merge was the promise presented by such a collaboration.

HerStory was created by the 85-year old Junior League of Honolulu and was described in press materials as a day spa for the heart, mind and soul, focused on motivating attendees from inspiration to empowerment and action.

Hawaii Business magazine launched its event last year for executive-level businesswomen as part of its effort to reach out to and become more relevant to more women. It is the nation's oldest regional business magazine.

There likely was some overlap of attendees, but both the Junior League and the magazine saw opportunities to strengthen and grow by combining forces.

“;We have a certain reach of audience with our members, and we really wanted to move into the realm of the businesswomen,”; said Christine Lau, Junior League president.

Junior League chapters around the world have long partnered with other nonprofits and are finding increasing ways to collaborate with for-profit businesses for the greater good, she said.

Hawaii Business has been a corporate sponsor in the past and has had a goal to reach more women, so the strategic partnership seemed “;a nice alignment,”; and “;started looking like a no-brainer,”; said Publisher David Tumilowicz.

To be called the 2nd Annual Wahine in Hawaii Business, the one-day event will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 14 at Sheraton Waikiki.

This year's keynote speaker will be Peggie Pelosi, author of the book “;Corporate Karma: How Business Can Move Forward by Giving Back.”;

Other speakers' topics will include global business, volunteerism, brand-building, entrepreneurship and negotiation.

Tickets will cost $150, though Junior League members receive a discount, and reservations can be made online.