"I started playing poker in college at Florida," said Lauren. "I played in home games and fraternity houses in Gainesville. It was always difficult twenty years ago. Most guys figured you didn't know how to play."
As poker became more popular, Lauren's passion continued to grow. Now she's parlaying that love of poker into a new organization.
The High Heels Poker Tour is in launch phase, with its website slated to go live next week. Loosely modeled after the LIPS tour, the High Heels Poker Tour will be a series of tournaments on the East Coast for women. "There still is some intimidation for some women to play with men. I enjoy playing with men, but our tour will really be to try to increase the number of women players and to grow their skills and confidence."
"Only 6% of the poker population are women, so we have a big opportunity to grow," Lauren said. Players have been extremely supportive here at the World Series of Poker. Jennifer Tilly came up to me and asked about the tour. She asked for a visor and said she thought it was a great cause."
Lauren is spending time now organizing events through casinos. "It's a win-win for the property," she said. "We bring together women who are passionate about poker as well as those new to the game. After an event is over, they are very likely to stay and play poker or hit the slot."
"We'll have our first tournaments in September. We'll start in south Florida then the tour will head to Biloxi later in the year. It is a very exciting time, and women can join by heading to our website."
With Lauren's enthusiasm, the High Heels Poker Tour is poised for a great beginning.