The WOMÄN Project Story
We didn’t start this because we had it all figured out.
We started it because we didn’t.
Because somewhere between raising families, navigating relationships, rebuilding parts of our lives, and figuring out who we are now… we realized something:
The conversations that changed us most weren’t the polished ones.
They were the honest ones.
The ones that probably shouldn’t have been said out loud—but needed to be.
The ones that made us laugh, cry, question everything, and somehow come out stronger on the other side.
We’ve lived through some wild seasons.
The kind that stretch you, break you, and then quietly rebuild you into someone stronger, wiser… and a little more honest.
And what we’ve found is this:
grace doesn’t show up in perfect moments—
it shows up right in the middle of the messy ones.
So this isn’t a space built on having answers.
It’s built on showing up anyway.
On telling the truth.
On finding pieces of your story in someone else’s.
And realizing you’re not the only one walking through it.
If you’ve lived a little, lost a little, and learned a lot—you’ll feel right at home here.
Meet the Voices Behind
The WOMÄN Project
Ilonka Deaton
Founder
Ilonka is married, raising three young kids, and living proof that life is anything but quiet. Based in Nashville, she’s a recording artist, worship leader, speaker, author—and the unofficial chaos coordinator of her home.
Between school runs, music, and everything in between, she brings a mix of depth, humor, and honesty that comes straight out of real life. Her faith isn’t just something she talks about—it’s something she’s lived through in the middle of the everyday and the unexpected.
Summer Elliott
Founder
Summer is married and raising two sets of twin daughters—13.5 years apart—so if you’re wondering if she has stories… she absolutely does.
Living out in the country just outside of Dallas, Texas, her life is a mix of grit, grace, and a whole lot of real-life moments that don’t fit into neat categories. She’s walked through seasons that have shaped her deeply, and she brings a perspective that is both grounded and refreshingly honest.
She’s not afraid to say what most people are thinking—and that’s exactly what makes you lean in.
Together, they created The Woman Project as a space where women can gather, grow in their faith, and encourage one another through the power of real shared stories.
We Saved You a Seat
This isn’t just another space to scroll through.
It’s a place to show up, be known, and find pieces of your story in someone else’s.
Real conversations.
Real faith.
Real women figuring it out as they go.
If that sounds like what you’ve been looking for…
we're glad to have you.
