A Digital Guide of Women Entrepreneurs The ultimate guide to women‑owned businesses in Portland and Seattle, featuring entrepreneurs YOU need to know First Edition
CRAVE Pacific Northwest: A Digital Guide of Women Entrepreneurs A publication of The CRAVE Company 1805 12th Ave W #A Seattle WA 98119 206.282.0173 thecravecompany.com twitter.com/cravecompany facebook.com/cravecompany © 2013 The CRAVE Company. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system nor transmitted in any form, by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise—without prior written permission of the copyright owner. While every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of the information, details are subject to change so please call ahead. The CRAVE Company shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from the publication or use. All editorial content in this publication is the sole opinion of CRAVE and our contributing writers. First Edition June 2013
A Digital Guide of Women Entrepreneurs We CRAVE Community. We believe in acknowledging, celebrating and passionately supporting women-owned businesses. CRAVE is a celebration of women entrepreneurs that showcases some of the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors across North America and beyond. Our goal is to connect these women both to each other and to you. We are pleased to introduce you to the women behind the idea, the design, the product. We CRAVE Quality. CRAVE is all about quality products and thoughtful service. We know that a satisfying shopping trip requires more than a simple exchange of money for goods, and that a rejuvenating spa date entails more than a quick clip of the cuticles and a swipe of polish. We know you want to come away feeling uplifted, beautiful, excited, relaxed, relieved and, above all, knowing you got the most bang for your buck. We have scoured the region to find the hidden gems, new hot spots and old standbys, all with one thing in common: they’re the best of the best! We CRAVE Inspiration. By introducing you to the savvy businesswomen in this guide, we hope that CRAVE will help inspire your own inner entrepreneur. We want you to realize the energy and the desire to light a fire under your own ideas and passions, be it in business or anywhere else in your life. We all have fears and doubts, but the women in these pages refuse to talk themselves out of their dreams. Here’s to following in their footsteps!
4 Your Eyes Only Optical Wallingford, Seattle Fun. Dedicated. Honest. 4 Your Eyes Only is one of Seattle’s premier eyewear boutiques. Hands down they have the most unique collection of frames in town. They are friendly, professional and very adept at selecting eyewear. You will feel listened to, knowing they have taken the time to understand. They are local, independent women dedicated to helping you find your perfect pair of glasses.
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Seattle
Photos by Julia Kinnunen Photography, except portrait by Ingrid Pape-Sheldon Photography
Specialties: Unique Limited Edition Eyewear Wallingford Center, 1815 N 45th St, Ste 211, Seattle 206.547.7430, 4YourEyesOnlyOptical.com facebook.com/4YourEyesOnlyOptical
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Plan well. Understand cash flow. Hire the best you can. Take a deep breath now and then. Relax, you can do it.
Judy Ayers
What do you like best about owning a business? I love being able to set my own schedule. I learned very early on I was not made to be a nine-to-fiver. What is your motto or theme song? You don’t know until you try. What place inspires you? The canyonlands of the Southwest. I have never seen anything more magnificent than the landscape and rock formations of that area. It is truly inspirational. 15
What are your most popular products or services? Savory or dessert party trays, scones, lemon bars, marionberry cheesecake coconut cake, gourmet frozen meals like macaroni and blue cheese, appetizers such as olive crostini, and espresso. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Manage your growth; sometimes smaller is more profitable. What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to be creative.
Joan Williams and her daughter, Jill Forman
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Seattle
Who is your role model or mentor? Julee Rosso and Sheila Lukins from Silver Palate Cookbook. When I made recipes from their cookbook, I could make beautiful, delicious food that I was proud of.
60th Street Desserts Sand Point, Seattle
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Friendly. Local. Tasty. 60th Street Desserts emphasizes a wholesome way of life, taking the time to produce delicious bakery-made treats reminiscent of the simpler times of the 1950s. They are known for more than just desserts. They offer bottled wines, espresso, appetizers, take‑out entrees and tasty pastries as well. Everything is available from their bake shop or drive-up window. Neighborhood one-stop shopping with quality you can count on.
Specialties: Desserts, Espresso, Appetizers and Entrees 7401 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, 206.527.8560 60thstreetdesserts.com, facebook.com/60thStreetDesserts
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What are your most popular products or services? Wedding coordination—every level of service you can imagine—and corporate event planning. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be ready to budget—this goes for time as well as money! You can’t work 24 hours a day, even though you’ll want to! Also, hire a great accountant!
Megan Keller
What is your motto or theme song? “With Love and Pride.” It is my guiding principle for all that I do in my business and personal life. How do you relax? I love getting into sweats at the end of the day, even if I’m going out to a bar; it’s just such a reward after being “on” all day.
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Seattle
A Kurant Event Seattle, Washington
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography, except upper‑left photo (this page) by Laurel McConnell
Fanciful. Offbeat. Life-saving. A Kurant Event delivers a top-to-bottom stress-free experience whether you’re planning a wedding, a product launch or a fabulous backyard bash. While offering planning, coordination and management service for any event, large or small, Megan and her team approach each challenge with grace, aplomb and humor. Let A Kurant Event handle the tough stuff while you kick back, relax and enjoy your own party!
Specialties: Event Planning, Coordination and Management 206.399.7155 akurantevent.com facebook.com/akurantevent Twitter: @akurantevent
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Photo by Barbie Hull Photography
“I love the sense of pride I have from having created something from the ground up and being able to share my passion for what I do with my clients.” —Megan Keller, A Kurant Event
Alexandria Rossoff Jewels & Rare Finds Downtown Seattle Antique. Unique. Thought-provoking. Alexandria Rossoff Jewels & Rare Finds features the finest-quality and most extensive collection of antique and period jewelry in the Northwest. Alexandria Rossoff specializes in hand-selected Art Deco, Edwardian and Victorian engagement rings and expressive one-of-akind pieces either collected on her travels or created in-house. This boutique is located in the heart of downtown Seattle’s luxury shopping district across from the Fairmont Olympic Hotel.
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Stay true to what you love and believe in. It will not feel like work! Differentiate yourself from the mainstream: that will attract others with like minds. What do you like best about owning a business? The most rewarding part of my business is the personal interaction with our clients. I have a happy business full of celebration and beauty.
Alexandria Rossoff
Who is your role model or mentor: Leonardo da Vinci. We share the same love of art and nature.
Specialties: Antique and One-of-a-kind Jewelry, Custom Design, Restorations and Appraisals 402 University St, Seattle, 206.381.3949 alexandriarossoff.com
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Alinga B 足 odywork Phinney Ridge, Seattle Refreshing. Grounded. Restorative. Nestled in a Northwest Seattle neighborhood is a sanctuary from daily stresses and pressures. A place where you can get unstuck from physical and emotional tensions and feel renewed. Where you can move beyond whatever is holding you back from realizing your dreams. Where you can connect your body to your heart and live in the present. Alinga Bodywork provides massage therapy, shiatsu, Reiki and BodyTalk速 energy services for discerning clients who want something deeper and more lasting than surface pampering. Using the body as an access point to identify what is affecting you emotionally or causing physical pain, Alinga gives you the clarity and confidence to manifest a new reality. Alinga also offers a fun, eclectic range of workshops including meditation groups, Reiki classes, manifestation salons, trunk shows and events focused on empowering and inspiring women.
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Seattle
Photos by catherine jeannette photography
Specialties: Shiatsu, Massage, BodyTalk, Reiki Classes 6826 Greenwood Ave N, Ste B, Seattle 206.225.4787 alingabodywork.com Twitter: @alingabodywork
What is the key to customer loyalty? Clients love it when you are able to offer them something that they didn’t realize they needed. The best sessions are when clients unexpectedly get an “aha.� Sometimes this is subtle;other times it is life-changing. They leave surprised and satisfied, and they definitely want to come back!
Andrea Rae
What makes your business unique? We offer pampering with purpose! We help you become more balanced both physically and emotionally. Experts at balancing your energy, sessions allow you to release both tension and emotional stress. Whether it is massage or energy work, you leave feeling integrated and with greater confidence and clarity.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Award-winning pizza, casual Italian cuisine, unique cocktails and a great happy hour. Amalfi’s was awarded “Happy Hour of the Year” by Portland Happy Hour Guidebook and “Best Pizza in Portland” by Portland Monthly (2011). What do you like best about owning a business? The opportunity to be a self-sufficient, independent woman. It also provides an outlet for my inner creativity and vision. What is your motto or theme song? I’m not bossy! I just have better ideas.
Kiauna Floyd 10
What do you CRAVE? Carrying on Amalfi’s success and tradition for another 50-plus years, and on occasion, a king-size Butterfinger.
Alameda
Amalfi’s 4703 NE Fremont St, Portland, 503.284.6747 amalfisrestaurant.com, Twitter: @AmalfisPDX
All photos except portrait by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Warm. Casual. Accommodating. Established in 1959, Amalfi’s features the best pizza in Portland, casual Italian cuisine and unique cocktails. Perfect for date nights, banquet events, girls’ nights out and family affairs, there is something for everyone here. Whether you are in the mood for pizza and a beer or an outstanding entree and fine wine, Amalfi’s offers a quality dining experience in a casual non-pretentious environment.
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What makes your business unique? My business model is directed away from busy public gyms. I provide affordable private sessions designed to help the client reach long term results that can be maintained indefinitely.
Angelina Garrison
What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to make decisions without dictation from a manager. Setting my own schedule and having flexibility with scheduling client training sessions allows me to create a healthy life balance. What motivates you on a daily basis? I am motivated by the dedication and consistency of my clients. It helps me stay focused on my fitness goals and healthy lifestyle.
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Seattle
Angelina’s Strength Training West Seattle
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Motivational. Dedicated. Compassionate. Angelina’s Strength Training provides one on one fitness training aimed at reaching individual wellness goals including weight loss, disease prevention and management, injury recovery, flexibility, and gaining strength. Initial assessment is used to design an exercise program specific for the client, typically three one hour sessions a week. Physical and mental improvement without a crowded gym environment, facilitating goal attainment more effectively.
Specialties: Individualized Fitness Training By appointment only: 6030 California Ave SW, Seattle, 206.276.6888 angelinagarrison.com, linkedin.com/in/angelina-garrison
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What are your most popular products or services? Our one-on-one readings. We think of the astrological chart as a “blueprint to the soul.” Understanding it gives people amazing power over their lives and a rich self-understanding.
Tali and Ophira Edut
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Take it in small bytes, sisters. Have a five-year plan, but leave room for the unpredictable (yes, even as astrologers we believe in this). Enjoy the element of surprise! What motivates you on a daily basis? Being able to help people get unstuck. Although the universe contains many mysteries, there’s no reason we can’t be in the driver’s seat of our own destinies.
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Seattle
AstroStyle Seattle, Washington
Photos by Tracy Toler Photography
Motivating. Insightful. Clarifying. The AstroTwins, Tali and Ophira Edut, bring the stars down to earth, helping you “deSIGN” a life you love using astrology as a guide. Stuck at a crossroads? Starting a new venture? Wondering about the future of a relationship? The AstroTwins’ sharp and insightful guidance will provide a cosmic plan of action. Their horoscopes appear on Elle.com, TV Guide magazine and their site AstroStyle.com.
Specialties: Astrological Consultations, Books AstroStyle.com, facebook.com/AstroTwins, Twitter: @AstroTwins
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Photos by June Lion
Avenue Five Jewelry Pacwest Center, Mezzanine: 1211 SW 5th Ave, Portland, 503.228.7419 ave-5.com, Twitter: @Ave5Jewelry
Refreshing. Twinkly. Inspiring. Avenue Five is an artful jewel box of personal adornments. Have fun in a down-to-earth environment while you try on diamonds and gems from independent Northwest artists. Jacqui and Tricia give full attention to each guest, providing the perfect jewelry experience.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Timeless custom wedding rings by Mark McNown and colorful sterling creations by Patty Lehner. We host small business cocktail parties and fund-raisers for women to come together. What do you like best about owning a business? We control our destiny. What place inspires you and why? Nature. Whether it’s the Oregon Coast or hiking the Gorge, it always puts life in perspective and reveals what’s important. What do you CRAVE? Quiet time relaxing in the backyard or a tropical exotic vacation.
Downtown
Jacqui Reed and Tricia Knepper
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Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
B.I. Barkery Bainbridge Island Whimsical. Local. Helpful. B.I. Barkery is the place to find that perfect treat, not only for your dog, but for the dog lovers in your life! They’ve also got the perfect gifts for you, or your kids, or your dog walker, or your favorite aunt. Their treats come in bulk and are fresh, organic, homemade and locally sourced.
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? For dogs: dragon chew toys, bulk treats, Beer Bones. For people: “Shed Happens” T-shirts, magnets, wall art. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Research. Talk to people. Be yourself and stand behind what you believe in; it’s your money and reputation. Follow your vision.
Kimberly Grover
Who is your role model or mentor? My mom was an inspiration for having that entrepreneurial spirit to begin new projects and businesses even later in her life. It’s never too late! What do you CRAVE? Blue sky, the smell of coffee and that one day, every homeless dog will have a home.
Specialties: Treats for Dogs and the People Who Love Them 278 Winslow Way E, Ste 107, Bainbridge Island, 206.780.8039 bibarkery.com, facebook.com/bibarkery, Twitter: @bibarkery linkedin.com/in/kimberlygrover
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The Bar Method 904 NW Hoyt St, Portland, 503.954.3811 portland.barmethod.com
Empowering. Graceful. Effective. The Bar Method is a comprehensive workout class that incorporates the use of a ballet bar to lengthen, strengthen and sculpt the body. It uses the principles of physical therapy and interval training to work the major muscle groups, elevate the heart rate and burn fat. The class is balanced by elongating stretches, which effectively reshape the body, giving you a long, lean dancer’s body.
Photos by Luminous Studios
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Pearl District
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be passionate. Have a clear mission. Have good business sense. Research, observe, interview, be curious. Make lists. Learn from every experience. Remember to celebrate your journey. What motivates you on a daily basis? Denise: Giving people an amazing experience that will change their life the way it changed mine. Meghann: Knowing that every day is filled with new opportunities!
Meghann Markham and Denise Burchard
What do you CRAVE? Denise: Bar Method “shakes,� Oregon berries, long walks with my husband and playing chess. Meghann: The great outdoors, freshsqueezed juice, movement of all kinds and, of course, Bar Method classes! 15
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? To all of those ladies out there thinking about starting a business, my advice to you is to keep a good work/life balance right from the beginning. What motivates you on a daily basis? I am motivated to get up and keep going every day by knowing how excited my clients are to see their photos.
Barbie Hull
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Seattle
What place inspires you? When I need inspiration, I head to a bookstore or library—so many sources of inspiration!
Barbie Hull Photography Seattle, Washington Creative. Bright. Cheerful. Barbie Hull is one of Seattle’s most sought-after photographers. She is creative, professional and best of all, fun to be around. Not only will the images you receive be amazing, but you will have a great time during your photo shoot! She started her business here in Seattle, but her cameras are always packed, and she is ready to travel anywhere around the world!
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography, except upper‑left photo by Laurel McConnell Photography
Specialties: Wedding and Portrait Photography 206.349.5540, barbiehull.com, Twitter: @barbiehull facebook.com/barbiehullphotography, linkedin.com/in/barbiehull
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Photos by Ella Friberg
barre3 2523 SE 22nd Ave, Portland, 503.206.4453 1000 NW Marshall St, Portland, 503.206.8308 201 B Ave, Lake Oswego, 503.636.0335 barre3.com, Twitter: @barre3sadie
Graceful. Dynamic. Transformative. Barre3 classes are designed to create the dancer’s body: long, lean and graceful. Drawing from the three disciplines of ballet barre work, yoga and Pilates, each class follows a specific sequence for fast body-shaping results and long-term postural benefits. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, barre3 is a growing franchise with locations as close as Washington and as far as the Philippines. 18
Q&A Pearl District
What are your most popular products or services? Our new DVD, The barre3 Total Body Lift, is really popular for people on the go. Clients can now do this workout anywhere from their kitchen islands to our studios!
Lake Oswego
Who is your role model or mentor? Mark Mastrov, founder of 24 Hour Fitness, is my mentor. I am so honored to have him as our business partner. He is as excited as I am about barre3! How do you relax? Sarah Hayes from Acupuncture NW.
Southeast
What place inspires you and why? Baryshnikov Arts Center. And specifically Baryshniknov’s private ballet studio. I had the opportunity to teach barre3 there. Pure inspiration. Sadie Lincoln
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barre3 Bellevue, Issaquah, Kirkland and Seattle Strenthening. Toning. Mindful. As dancers know, the ballet barre is a wonderful prop designed to support the body in both static and dynamic movement leading to long, lean muscles. barre3 evolves the dancer’s workout by combining the grace of the ballet barre with the wisdom of yoga and the strength of Pilates. barre3 classes are set to an upbeat soundtrack and follow a vigorous pace.
Specialties: Ballet Barre, Yoga, Pilates By appointment only: 1020 108th Ave NE, Bellevue, 425.449.8271, facebook.com/barre3bellevue 1091 NE High St, Issaquah, 425.391.1192, facebook.com/barre3issaquah 223 Kirkland Ave, Ste 103, Kirkland, co-owned with Hannah Grubaugh 425.307.1844, facebook.com/barre3kirk 1404 12th St, Seattle, 206.257.1694, facebook.com/barre3seattle barre3.com, Twitter: @barre3
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Fast body-shaping and long-term postural benefits. barre3 also builds longer, leaner muscles and a strong core. We connect mind, body and breath to relieve stress.
Heather Kass and Anna McEvers
What do you like best about owning a business? We love the flexibility that we have in our lives to balance both work and home life. Still being able to drop off or pick up our kids from school is key for us! What is your biggest fear? The status quo. We never want to stop learning how to grow as people, mothers and friends.
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“Don’t let the unknown paralyze you; let it inspire you!” —Heather Kass and Anna McEvers, barre3
What are your most popular products or services? Bel Fiore’s glitter hair ties are their most popular product: handmade with care and sealed at the ends. Bel Fiore pays attention to every detail. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be unique and be yourself. Do something that you love and enjoy, and it will make the work aspect of your life feel like a lifestyle, not a job. Believe.
Jaclyn Schwartz
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Seattle
What place inspires you? Nothing more than the Pacific Northwest. Born and raised in the Seattle area, everything about Seattle inspires me. I love the weather, the people and the natural beauty!
Bel Fiore Seattle, Washington
Photos by Rebecca Ellison Photography
Chic. Functional. Feminine. Bel Fiore was designed to create a simple yet practical way to accessorize. Bel Fiore makes it easy to pull back your hair while feeling fresh and beautiful. Bel Fiore hair ties and headbands are made for comfort and versatile style. Bel Fiore makes it possible for you to wear a chic, fun and easy bracelet that doubles as a hair tie.
Specialties: Designer Hair Accessories 425.233.2770 shopbelfiore.com facebook.com/shopbelfiore Twitter: @Shopbelfiore
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Photo by Rebecca Ellison Photography
“It is amazing to put my ideas into motion. To be able to share my product that I am so passionate about and empower other women is a wonderful feeling.” —Jaclyn Schwartz, Bel Fiore
Photos by catherine jeannette photography, except portrait by Paul Uhl
bellaballs Inc. Downtown Tacoma Timeless. Elegant. Distinctive. bellaballs are handblown glass floats embossed with sterling silver, individually made by artisans in Tacoma, Washington. Their designs come from glass artist Diane Hansen and designer Lesli Jacobs-McHugh. bellas are intended to add joy, hope and a little magic to your beautiful, everyday life. Custom bellas are available in a variety of colors and can be stamped with a design of your choice.
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be confident in your vision and have the courage to go for it. Surround yourself with positive, passionate people. What do you like best about owning a business? Creative freedom and meeting so many interesting and fabulous people.
Lesli Jacobs-McHugh and Diane Hansen
Who is your role model or mentor? All of the small-business owners we know who share their wisdom and knowledge so freely. And the women in the CRAVE community. What motivates you on a daily basis? The quest to be a strong role model and to live authentically. Spreading the bella motto of “living beautifully.�
Specialties: Handblown Glass Floats 747 S Fawcett Ave, Ste B, Tacoma, 253.627.0183 bellaballs.com, facebook.com/bellaballs, Twitter: @bella_balls
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Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Persevere, even when you’re feeling defeated. Know when to take advice and when to leave it. Surround yourself with people who challenge, support and inspire you. What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to design and create jewelry that speaks to me. It’s both heartening and refreshing to envision something and then make it come to life. What motivates you on a daily basis? My passion for growing my business and becoming a household name. Honing my craft and taking it to the next level. Viewing jewelry design as an art form. Colleen Smith 20
BEVIN bevindesigns.com
Photos by Rachel Konty, Konty Enterprises, Inc
Rare. Luxurious. Sensual. BEVIN effortlessly blends a modern aesthetic with a timeless touch. Creator and curator Colleen Bevin Smith hand-fabricates her line from pure metals and gemstones, mixing traditional metalsmithing with avantgarde technique. The end result: fresh, exclusive and offbeat designs that turn heads. BEVIN’s latest collection can be found online.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Styled engagement sessions, event design services, designer look book styling, accessories styling and interior prop styling. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Dig deep to discover what you’re naturally good at; then, develop that natural talent to become an expert in your field. Never stop reaching and growing. Connect and collaborate. What do you like best about owning a business? I like the freedom to think on my feet; I’m really good at improvising. I also really love setting my own schedule.
Kimberly Brandt
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What is your motto or theme song? “Get Better” by Mates of State.
Main and lower-right photos by Erica Ann Photography, portrait by Sarah Giffrow Creative, lower-left photo by Studio Christy, lower-middle photo by Sara Gray
Billede Design 503.537.4806 billededesign.com, Twitter: @kiki714brandt
Exquisite. Curated. Trendsetting. Billede Design is a photo styling and event design studio based in Northwest Portland. The design studio creates inspired settings and beautiful images. With a background in photography, Kimberly has an exceptionally welltrained eye for composition, light and color. A discriminating eye curates the best features of each setting. With exquisite attention to detail, Billede Design pulls together the most swoon-worthy events in Portland. 23
Black Label Films 503.799.2944 BlackLabelFilms.Co, Twitter: @blacklabelfilms
Poignant. Progressive. Priceless. Black Label Films is an alternative wedding film studio for brides and grooms planning to wed their own way, with style. They love same-gender, ethnic, offbeat, retro or punk-rock commitments, and stories of the incredible couples behind them. Each film is custom-fit to the couple’s personality, from playful to passionate. Portland has a vibrant culture. Black Label Films adores showing it off to the world!
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Our Black Label Signature Wedding Films, and Highlight Films for Facebook. Boudoir Films are gaining immense popularity also! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do thorough experimentation to figure out your target market. In some cases you may want to reconsider your target market. Always specialize when possible! What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to put my heart into something knowing that there is no upper management to cancel a project last minute. And, not having to live with Dilbert-style office absurdity. Karyn Reohr 25
What are your most popular products or services? Great Northwest lines such as Prairie Underground and butter London and jewelry from local artists Susan Goodwin and Jennifer Lenel. Liquid Metal bracelets, and fabulous fashions from Velvet, Hudson jeans, Splendid, Three Dots and Sweet Pea. We also offer ear piercing and special home parties.
Janet Davis and Katie Fletcher
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to conduct our business as we see fit. Getting to know our customers and their personal styles and seeing women happy with their purchases. What is your motto or theme song? “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan. How do you relax? Janet: Long walks and hikes. Katie: Being by the water, whether on a boat or on a beach. The smell and sound of the water takes all the worries away!
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Seattle
Blinx Bainbridge Island, Washington
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Fun. Stylish. Friendly. Blinx Boutique continues after 25 years to accommodate women with contemporary clothing, fun jewelry and colorful accessories. They offer exceptional customer service in a relaxed, laid-back island setting.
Specialties: Women’s Fashions, Jewelry and Accessories 278 Winslow Way E, Ste 109, Bainbridge Island, 206.842.3452 blinxboutique.com, facebook.com/BlinxBoutiqueBainbridgeIsland
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Q&A What do you like best about owning a business? The opportunity to give young women an opportunity to build and have their own career within bliss—they are helping us thrive and hopefully we are doing the same for them! What is your motto or theme song? Dessert first (even if that means for breakfast some days)! What do you CRAVE? Our Ooh La La cupcakes—rich chocolate cake filled with a whipped chocolate ganache, frosted with white chocolate buttercream that’s drizzled with dark chocolate and topped with a chocolate-dipped maraschino cherry.
Sarah Cariaga and Jennifer Fast
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Photos by Ella Friberg
bliss BAKE SHOP Bethany
4708 NW Bethany Blvd, Ste E-5, Portland, 503.645.6000 blisscupcakeshop.com, Twitter: @blissbakeshop
Delicious. Family-friendly. Fun. bliss Bake Shop is a local gal’s “go-to” for custom, fresh and fancy cupcakes for all of life’s celebrations—birthdays, weddings, showers, and classroom or office parties! They host cupcake decorating parties, StoryTime Wednesdays, and make custom cakes in addition to cupcakes. They now offer gluten-free and vegan cupcakes daily that you can also buy in local New Seasons Markets.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? The Blowout Fabulous—our signature service; the Bombshell—add a minimakeover and faux lashes to your blowout; Keratin Express—a smoothing treatment. What do you like best about owning a business? It’s been rewarding to take all of the skills and experience we’ve earned over the years and put it toward something that’s ours. And our business is just plain fun! What motivates you on a daily basis? Making women feel good about themselves—adding a little confidence to someone’s day is a very powerful thing.
Kristen Ringo and Tara Delarosa 30
Blowout, A Blow Dry Bar Pearl District
128 NW 12th Ave, Portland, 503.894.5090 blowoutgirl.com, Twitter: @blowoutgirl
Photos by June Lion
Flirty. Fabulous. Fun. Blowout is Portland’s first and only blow dry bar and Portland women are thrilled that this style-savvy concept is here. Blowout does just that— blowouts—cuts and color are for the salons. Women choose from a menu of six gorgeous styles (think Sleek and Chic or Divalicious) for only $32. Fast and affordable, Blowout’s goal is to end bad hair days forever!
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Blue Luna Bellevue, Washington Unique. Avant-garde. Chic. Proprietor Ivetta Arzumanov launched Blue Luna in 2011 to satisfy both an entrepreneurial spirit and a need in the local marketplace for original designs with an urban sophistication. Blue Luna offers avant-garde fashions off runways of Paris, Milan and Barcelona. Specializing in a variety of cutting-edge yet feminine designs, Blue Luna will have you stepping out in high-quality, personalized styles season after season.
Specialties: Women’s Fashion 10619B NE 8th St, Bellevue, 425.974.1145 bluelunafashion.com, facebook.com/BlueLunafashions Twitter: @BLueLunafashion Photos by Sacha Blue
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Cutting-edge yet feminine designs from Europe, including Cop. Copine, Sunlight, Desigual and more. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have a goal, find your target; then find a path to your target that will lead you to your goal; and take risks.
Ivetta Arzumanov
What is your motto or theme song? “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life, so you bought some sweatpants.” —Karl Lagerfeld What do you like best about owning a business? You control your own destiny, and you feel pride in building something of your own. 45
What is the key to customer loyalty? They key to customer loyalty is the individual approach. Clients will feel the difference in a workout tailored to their body as opposed to one for “anybody.� This also means that the results are even better! What are your signature treatments or services? Private Pilates sessions and small-group Reformer classes.
Kristi Quinn and Shane Belau
What makes your business unique? Because we are also a training facility, we stay current with new research in the physical therapy and exercise science fields. Our clients benefit from this continuing education by receiving more individualized focus in their sessions that really addresses their needs. What motivates and inspires you? Watching our clients grow and learn about themselves and be empowered through exercise.
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Seattle
Bodycenter Studios Fremont, Seattle Knowledgeable. Holistic. Passionate. Bodycenter Studios has shared the benefits of Pilates with hundreds of people in the Seattle community over the past decade, helping to achieve balanced bodies, improved movement patterns and an increased level of fitness. “Holistic Pilates” is Bodycenter’s approach, underscoring the organic and functional relationship between exercise, daily movement and the complete well-being of the individual. Bodycenter also offers physical therapy and massage services.
Photos by Steven Miller, except upper‑left photo by Barbie Hull Photography
Specialty: Pilates 4250 8th Ave NW, Ste 100, Seattle 206.633.4800 bodycenterstudios.com facebook.com/BodycenterStudios Twitter: @bodycenterwa
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BoLavish Spa Renton, Washington Vibrant. Beautiful. Luxurious. Through passion and creativity, BoLavish Spa focuses on correcting, balancing and beautifying your skincare needs inside and outside. BoLavish Spa provides services for facials, lash extensions, body sugar, wax and other body treatments. They also offer makeup services for weddings, photo shoots, private parties and other social events. Owner Chanbo Yong Plenkovich believes that beauty is a hidden art within all of us and that each service is about the experience and results. Committed to quality and value, BoLavish Spa licensed professionals are friendly and easy to work with. Unleash the beauty within you!
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Seattle
Photos by Stephanie Skeffington of Seattle Flashing Lights Photography and Danielle Bortone-Holt of Brick House Photography
Specialties: Facials, Lashes, Body Sugar, Wax, Makeup 206.290.4384, bolavishspa.com facebook.com/thebolavishspa
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Embrace your talent and empower yourself by stepping out of your comfort zone; be open-minded to new experiences and new people. What do you like best about owning a business? Fulfilling my passion!
Chanbo Yong Plenkovich
What motivates and inspires you? I am motivated by the opportunity to create a positive experience. I find inspiration in the opportunity to educate clients to reinvent themselves through inner beauty; and within that inner beauty, confidence is born.
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Photos by June Lion
Breken 1800 NW 16th Ave, Portland, 503.841.6359 brekenkitchen.com, Twitter: @brekenkitchen
Welcoming. Fresh. Delectable. Breken means “break” in Dutch. The kitchen is a wonderful gathering place— it’s a place where people naturally come together. Come to the kitchen to just be yourself. Sustainable ingredients from around the Northwest are used, including locally grown organic produce, beef, poultry and lamb. Take a break at Breken!
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Q&A Northwest
What are your most popular products or services? Granola, fried egg sandwiches, tuna melts, lasagna and homemade soups. What do you like best about owning a business? I love people, so working with customers and employees on a daily basis allows me to build great friendships with the people I see every day. Who is your role model or mentor? My mom is my role model because she is an inspiration. As a young mother, she put herself through school and became an independent success. What do you CRAVE? Barbecue! Jessica Carsagno
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Photos by Julia Kinnunen Photography
Bria Pilates Queen Anne / Fremont Inspiring. Rejuvenating. Intense. Bria Pilates is dedicated to the art and wellness of fitness. They believe that skill in integrated movement is the path to whole body health and fitness. Highly trained instructors work with clients of all fitness levels, ranging from those new to exercise to leading athletes looking for new ways to cross-train for their sport. Whether you want to cross-train for a sport, become pain-free, rejuvenate your body after having a baby or simply look and feel your best, you’ll find that Bria provides you with both the place and the skills to reach your goals.
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? One-on-one private rehab-based sessions and over 30 group fitness Pilates classes are on our schedule every week. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It is always easier with help from your community; make sure you get lots of support!
Misty Moon and Christine Jimenez
What place inspires you and why? The Active Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica because the land there is always charged and inspires me to stay energized with the force of life.
Specialty: Pilates 101 Nickerson St, Seattle, 206.781.4576 briaseattle.com, facebook.com/briaseattle Twitter: @BriaPilates
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? If you are a freelancer, never work without a written contract. What do you like best about owning a business? Since I’m the sole owner and operator, I’m fully responsible for my clients getting the best experience and quality I can possibly give them. What is your theme song? “Brick House” by the Commodores, of course! Whenever I feel down, I just remind myself that I am “mighty, mighty”!
Danielle Bortone-Holt
52
Seattle
What place inspires you and why? Rome has this amazing duality of busy city life buzzing around this beautiful ancient city.
Brick House Photography Seattle, Washington
Lower-left photo: Sammy Melashu (model), Ashley Smith (makeup). Lower-right photo: Jeff Summers and Hailey Huffman (models), Ashley Smith (makeup)
Creative. Social. Ever-changing. Danielle of Brick House Photography has been serving the Seattle area for over four years with professional photography. A movable studio allows her to come to your residence or business to photograph you in your natural environment. If you host parties or events, Danielle can bring out the artistic aspects of your event as well as capture the personalities of your guests.
Specialties: Event Photography, Business Head Shots, Portraits and Fashion 425.736.3603, brickhousephotos.com facebook.com/brickhousephotography
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Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Brooke Davis Real Estate Greater Seattle Area Energetic. Personalized. Reliable. Brooke Davis offers personalized service from a Realtor you can count on. Her strong communication skills, expert negotiation and detailed knowledge of the Seattle market have helped her earn rave reviews from buyers and sellers alike. In 2005 she followed her dream to start a career in real estate and has enjoyed helping people buy and sell homes ever since.
54
Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? I love the feeling of accomplishment after every success. Running your own business means there are no limits as to where you can go and what you can do.
Brooke Davis
What is your motto or theme song? “Express Yourself”—really, be yourself, be real and genuine. What place inspires you and why? The mountains: skiing Whistler, Stevens or Crystal; hiking Mt. Rainier, the Olympics or the Cascades. I am a junkie for the beautiful outdoors, and I find enjoyment and peace in it. I certainly love the city, but it’s the contrast of the two worlds that brings calm to my life.
Specialty: Real Estate in the Greater Seattle Area 2312 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, 206.851.0521 brookedavisrealestate.com, facebook.com/brookedavisrealestate Twitter: @BrookeDavisRE, linkedin.com/in/brookecdavis
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Brow Betty 7114 SW Hazelfern Rd, Tigard, 503.968.BROW (2769) browbetty.com, Twitter: @browbetty
Unique. Hip. Sassy. Brow Betty is a premier eyebrow and waxing bar specializing in making you even more fabulous with their waxing, tweezing and trimming techniques. Their carefully handpicked aestheticians have been trained by some of the best in the business. They do brows all day, every day and thrive on achieving the perfect arch for you to take home!
Photos by Darling Diva Photo Design
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Q&A Tigard
What are your most popular products or services? Eyebrow shaping! We specialize in measuring, trimming, waxing and tweezing to create the perfect shape for your face! Also, the “Full Betty,” which is our version of a Brazilian wax. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It’s just like childbirth. Get ready for the worst pain of your life. Then, just like after childbirth, it’s the greatest moment of your life and you’ll forget all the pain! What place inspires you and why? The smell of the juniper trees in central Oregon. It clears my head and reminds me of my childhood in Black Butte, where I learned I could do anything! Jackie Mans 35
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have a product that you believe in, that you’re passionate about and persevere! Listen to and watch other successful people. Glean what you can, but be your own boss! What is your motto or theme song? I love this quote by Moliere: “It’s not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable.” What place inspires you and why? I love wide-open spaces like the beach or the Columbia Gorge where there are spectacular panoramas. Magnificence in nature is humbling, mind clearing and helps maintain perspective.
Susan Inahara 36
What do you CRAVE? Creativity, beauty, honesty, integrity, simplicity and delicious food!
Brownie Me 503.645.7981, 503.460.7622 brownieme.net
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
Divine. Unique. Whimsical. Brownie Me offers the most unique and modern brownies. Presented in individual, uncut form, they are an elegant twist to traditional brownies. They are sumptuously dark and rich, and are available in a wide array of original flavor combinations, each with their own whimsical name! Brownie Me is available most Saturdays at the Beaverton Farmers Market and at The Libertine Deli in Cedar Mill.
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What was the inspiration behind starting your business? I wanted a place to express myself, and Brunette Mix is the perfect creative outlet. What is your indulgence? Playing with my dog, Beso, and shopping trips to New York. What place inspires you and why? The Museum of Modern Art in New York because it stimulates my creativity. Who is your role model or mentor? Ruth Roche from Rare Salon in New York.
Bj Prokopof
56
Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have a lot of passion and a business plan.
Brunette Mix The Junction, West Seattle Vivacious. Eclectic. Passionate. Bj Prokopof uses her passion for the scissors to create unique looks for her clients. Brunette Mix is just that: a mix of style and design that enhances your lifestyle. Bj’s passion for haircutting design has taken her from New York to London in search of perfection.
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Specialty: Hair Design 4306 SW Oregon St, Seattle, 206.932.2401 brunettemix.com, facebook.com/brunette.mix Twitter: @brunettemix33
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Bump Bellevue Bellevue Square Flattering. Modern. Wearable. Bump features the most fashionable maternity clothing and accessories around. Featuring brands such as Michael Stars, Paige Denim, Citizens of Humanity, Maternal America, Ripe, Olian, Bella Materna, Belly Bandit, Aden and Anais, SwaddleDesigns, Melissa&Doug, Petunia Pickle Bottom and more. Bump Bellevue is also the only Passport Store on the Eastside to carry a full line of the Tea collection of clothing for children from newborns to age 4.
Specialties: Maternity and Children’s Clothing 1075 Bellevue Square, Bellevue 425.454.BUMP bumpbellevue.com
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Surround yourself with people who know more than you do.
Kelly Buck
What do you like best about owning a business? Flexibility: being the boss can be amazing and painful. I enjoy learning from my staff; they know a lot! Who is your role model or mentor? My former boss, when I was an attorney in New York City. She was super smart, always supportive to other women, tough as nails when necessary but with a heart of gold. What motivates you on a daily basis? Great customers who love my store. Great staff who want to see Bump’s success. Not wanting to go back to practicing law.
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Photos by Erica Ann Photography
bydesign 503.384.0451 leadbydesign.net, Twitter: @leadbydesign
Unique. Proactive. Reliable. bydesign is a small strategic design agency with big project experience. With 22 combined years they have individually built a solid reputation based on creative problem solving, effective communication, outstanding customer support and value. Whatever your branding needs might be, bydesign has got you covered. bydesign offers fresh ideas and smart solutions in brand, print and web.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Our most popular products and services have been website design, identity packages and company brochures. However, anything that has to do with design is what we love. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Just go for it. Aim to succeed. Failure is not an option. What do you like best about owning a business? The flexibility and the fact that we can treat our customers exactly how we would want to be treated. We are directly responsible for their satisfaction.
Heather Beck and Gretchen Bayless
What is your motto or theme song? Florence and the Machine’s “Dog Days Are Over.” It’s a song that makes us both smile and reminds us of why we are doing what we are doing. What place inspires you and why? Portland is very inspiring. It is very eclectic and fresh. The Pearl has so many small businesses to draw from. It’s a very fun and creative place. What do you CRAVE? Chocolate, adventure and sleep. 39
C-Level Consulting, LLC Greater Pugetopolis Pragmatic. Results-oriented. Experienced. C-Level Consulting provides companies and their leaders with financial, operational and strategic advisory services and solutions to broaden perspectives and establish the path to more business success. With an integrated, cross-disciplinary approach that combines entrepreneurial expertise with best-practice financial systems and tools, C-Level Consulting provides the framework and the foundation for scalability and growth.
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Seattle
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography, except portrait
Specialty: Business Advice 206.276.6296, clevelconsultingllc.com blog: CLevelMaryann.com Twitter: @CLevelMaryann linkedin.com/in/CLevelMaryann
What do you like best about owning a business? Working for myself is both freeing and rewarding. I am able to bring my creativity to business processes that are typically considered rigid, enabling me to work with my clients. We craft solutions that work for them instead of trying to pound their company into a big company off-the-shelf solution.
Maryann Nelson
Who is your role model or mentor? My mom is the most amazing person on the planet. I have always known that I can do whatever I put my mind to because she has been telling me that as long as I can remember. What is your motto or theme song? Do the math. 61
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Coffee beverages, ham and cheese croissants, fresh pastries and hot-from-the-grill panini. What do you like best about owning a business? Having pride in ownership and knowing I am making a difference in my community. What is your motto or theme song? “How wrong it is for a woman to expect the man to build the world she wants, rather than to create it herself” —Anaïs Nin What do you CRAVE? Confidence in young women to pursue their dreams and to inspire future generations.
Megan Kennedy
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Alberta Arts District
Photos by June Lion
Caffé Brioso 3907 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, 503.473.8650 caffebrioso.com, Twitter: @caffebrioso
Yummy. Fresh. Friendly. At Caffé Brioso you can feel confident that you will receive the highestquality product and be treated with phenomenal customer service, while still enjoying a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Specializing in excellent coffee, Caffé Brioso helps people start each day with a smile. Add a locally baked fresh pastry or signature panini to ensure the perfect combination.
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Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Cake Envy Green Lake, Seattle Organic. Tempting. Addicting. Cake Envy is the first and only bakery in Seattle that offers beer, wine and bubbly to pair with cupcakes as well as coffee and tea. Their specialty is everything cakes: cupcakes, cakes, cake-pops and wedding cakes. Baked in-house and made from scratch with local and organic ingredients daily, they appeal to adult palates because the cakes are less sweet and more delicate in texture—a real guilt-free treat!
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Our Almond Cake with Crème Anglaise Buttercream is highly favored, but our Mexican Spice Cake (rolled in our secret blend of cinnamon, cayenne and ancho) is a hands-down crowd favorite! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Surround yourself with encouraging people. It makes all the difference in the world for motivation and helps you get through hard times. What is your motto or theme song? If not now, when?
Helen Noh
What do you CRAVE? Brunch at Macrina’s in SODO. Waffles and thick-cut bacon... so heavenly!
Specialty: Everything Cakes 7900 E Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, 206.453.3337 cake-envy.com, Twitter: @cake_envy
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Photo by Barbie Hull Photography
“I love being able to come to work every day to something I designed, created and established. Every day is an inspiration because I can call it my own.” —Helen Noh, Cake Envy
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Hire great people, exceed expectations at all times and don’t give up!
Colette Courtion
What was your motivation behind starting your business? Calidora is the result of my own personal quest for finding corrective skincare treatments that deliver results in a friendly, aesthetically inviting environment. What do you like best about owning a business? From helping our clients look their best, to giving back to the community or providing growth opportunities for my employees, I love it when I can make a positive impact.
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Seattle
Calidora Skin Clinic Seattle, Bellevue and Redmond Empowering. Trusted. Results-driven. Calidora Skin Clinic is a premier destination for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatments and products in an upscale retail, spa-like environment. Calidora brings together the best in medical technology, qualified skin practitioners and noninvasive cosmetic procedures to address your skin concerns and deliver the results you desire. With four locations in western Washington, Calidora is the leader in skin health, offering youthful, radiant skin solutions to clients throughout the Northwest.
Photos by Jules Frazier
Specialties: Skincare, Botox™, Facials, Laser Treatments 2613 NE University Village St, Seattle, 206.522.2613 412 University St, Seattle, 206.442.1400 10708 Main St, Ste 310, Bellevue, 425.688.7800 17887 Redmond Way, Ste 120, Redmond, 425.882.1800 calidora.com, facebook.com/calidora, Twitter: @calidora
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Photo by Jules Frazier
“Making a positive difference in people’s lives motivates me!” —Colette Courtion, Calidora Skin Clinic
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? You will work long hours, so it needs to be something you are passionate about and love to spend time doing. How do you relax? A hot bath and, I hate to admit it, time with my DVR. What place inspires you and why? I love old homes, buildings and churches. What do you CRAVE? I crave that vintage treasure you might find that is one-of-a-kind, that you have never before seen and probably will never see again.
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Camas Antiques 305 NE 4th Ave, Camas, 360.834.4062 camasantiques.blogspot.com
Photos by Darling Diva Photo Design
Camas
Vintage. Unusual. Ever-changing. Camas Antiques has 10,000 square feet of constantly changing merchandise with more than 70 different artists/dealers involved. Browsing the collection of unusual, well-priced gifts and jewelry as well as vintage and antique home decor items is a delight.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Love what you do and the money will follow. What do you like best about owning a business? That business gives us a creative outlet and allows us to be brave in all ways. What motivates you on a daily basis? Every day is another day to be creative and spend the day doing creative work.
Odette D’Aniello and Mary Ann Quitugua
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Seattle
What place inspires you? Big Island Hawaii. It’s beautiful, relaxing and just splendid.
Celebrity Cake Studio Tacoma, Washington
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Creative. Delicious. Beautiful. Celebrity Cake Studio is a boutique cake shop that specializes in custom-designed cakes and desserts for all occasions. Odette and Mary Ann have come from a family of bakery owners and joke that they grew up with a silver spatula, not a spoon in their mouths. They’ve recently moved into their new 6,000 square foot retail and production facility in Tacoma’s Dome District.
Specialties: Cakes and Desserts 314 E 25th St, Tacoma, 253.627.4773 celebritycakestudio.com facebook.com/celebritycakestudio Twitter: @celebritycakestudio
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“Just stop doing the things that don’t serve you and do more things that bring you joy.” —Odette D’Aniello and Mary Ann Quitugua, Celebrity Cake Studio
Photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Never underestimate the power of networking. Always be receptive to feedback but hold strong to your personal goals and vision for your business. Who is your role model or mentor? Our clients are our inspiration and they constantly remind us why we love what we do! How do you relax? Rachelle relaxes by cooking, gardening and working out. Mandi relaxes by taking pictures, shopping and organizing. We both find relaxation in vacationing and spending time with our husbands and families.
Rachelle Bell and Mandi Wiley
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Main, lower left and middle photos by Lauren Brooks Photography, portrait and lower right photo by Luminous Studios
Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination 503.708.1142, 503.310.2357 champagnenw.com, Twitter: @champagnenw
Energetic. Knowledgeable. Inspired. With a love for detail and organization and a passion for creating unforgettable events with outstanding service, Champagne can make your wedding or event dreams come true. Voted “Best New Wedding Vendor,� Champagne serves clients in the Pacific Northwest and destinations around the world. They offer one complimentary no-obligation consultation! 47
charley + may co. Queen Anne, Seattle Modern. Affordable. Distinctive. charley + may co. features gifts and accessories for men and women, with a sprinkle of whimsy for all ages. Customers love the shop for the tangerine walls, paintings and unexpected objects that make them smile. From squirrel jewelry holders to Tivoli radios, charley + may co. presents distinctive gifts. Pop-up shops within include a cocktail bar and candy bar. Stop by for a piece of sushi (Swedish fish).
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Seattle
Photos by Julia Kinnunen Photography
Specialties: Gifts Featuring Modern Design for Men and Women 2225 Queen Anne Ave, Seattle 206.281.5555, charleyandmay.com
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Plan to have a good stock of socks, you never have time to do the laundry. Who is your role model or mentor? I named the shop after my “modern Millie”–type grandmother May and my old-school grandfather. They called the shots in their lives and never looked back.
Lauren Formicola
What motivates you on a daily basis? I love walking to the shop and opening it up to see who will stop in. Great little stories unfold every day, from the Sri Lankan visitors who stayed to watch the presidential debate to meeting a new local designer who wants to sell her labor of love in my shop. It’s golden to meet people every day. 75
What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to create the life I want. The sky’s the limit, all determined by how hard I work. Who is your role model or mentor? My dad. He owned a dry-cleaning business and always told me not to go into business for myself (!). Gandhi, Oprah, Anuradha Koirala, Maya Angelou—the change-makers! What motivates you on a daily basis? The thrill of the hunt. Going after business and winning it. Creating an event and selling it out. Success, and the high that comes from it, motivates me.
Tracy Klinkroth
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Seattle
ChickChat Seattle, Washington
Upper-left photo (left page) and lower-left photo (right page) by Eric Rust Photography, lower-left photo (left page) and lower-right photo (right page) by Seven of Hearts Photography, left-page right photo by Teeny Turtle Photography
Powerful. Feminine. Fun. ChickChat is a boutique marketing research firm that helps companies figure out what women want. Women on ChickChat’s Opinionista Panel inform the world’s leading brands on what works, what doesn’t and what really matters to one of the most important consumer demographics in the US and beyond: women! ChickChat also hosts events in several cities, bringing women together for Spa Soirees, ChickFlicks, workshops and more.
Specialties: Marketing Research, Women’s Social Soirees 206.909.8382, chickchat.net Twitter: @ChickChatSeattl facebook.com/ChickChatOpinionistaPanel
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Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Chopstix Acupuncture Studio Fremont, Seattle Nurturing. Calming. Quirky. Chopstix is a tucked-away oasis in the upper Fremont neighborhood. Christian brings over 11 years of acupuncture to her practice. Specializing in women’s health and pain relief, with expertise in Chinese herbs, the blend of acupuncture and massage is heavenly and effective.
the Needlery Fremont, Seattle Rejuvenating. Natural. Effective. The Needlery is a skincare and all-natural tattoo removal business, offering creative alternatives to aesthetics and the aging process. The Needlery offers a natural, safe alternative to fillers, botox, expensive lasers or harsh peels. Methods such as needledermabrasion, dermal rolling or acupuncture can safely assist the body’s own healing properties.
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Align yourself with mentors and business owners who are available to give advice and want you to succeed and thrive. What do you like best about owning a business? The only person accountable is yourself: self-motivation and the success of your business are a good monitor for your life. Sometimes, that is not easy to see or change.
Christian Hunt
What motivates you on a daily basis? Thinking about my future. What do you CRAVE? Freedom, the outdoors, being with loved ones.
Specialties: Women’s Health, Pain Relief, Skin Care By appointment only: 4333 Fremont Ave N, Seattle Chopstix: 206.547.1104, chopstixacupuncture.com The Needlery: 206.547.1104, theneedleryseattle.com Twitter: @theneedlery
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be a champion of self-acceptance, selfawareness and endless possibilities. Align the message you want to send to the world about your business with your personal brand and your appearance. What do you like best about owning a business? The flexibility of time to create my quality of life and definition for success: doing what I love, with whom I like, while serving others.
Mayna Sgaramella McVey
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Seattle
Who is your role model or mentor? Tim Gunn for his honesty and gentleness; Stacy London for her talent, humor, and professionalism; and Edith Head for her secrets of building a successful wardrobe on-screen and off-screen.
Closet Fly Seattle, Washington
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Approachable. Educational. Empowering. Closet Fly empowers and educates women going through life’s transitions by helping them create a wardrobe that works for their changing body or lifestyle. What Mayna Sgaramella McVey teaches is based on the belief that anyone can look amazing no matter her size, shape, age or budget—by learning the elements of fit, color and proportion to feel confident about mastering her own personal style. “Learn What to Wear, How to Wear it, What to Purge, and When to Splurge!”
Specialties: Wardrobe Consulting, Styling, Seminars 425.922.0876, closetfly.com, facebook.com/ClosetFly Twitter: @ClosetFly, linkedin.com/in/ClosetFly
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CoachLesley.com Seattle, Washington Personal. Motivating. Welcoming. Coach Lesley and her team are committed to guiding all levels of athletes to their fitness goals, whether they involve swimming, biking, running or weight loss. The Coach Lesley team are experts in helping you create a personalized fitness plan where success can be achieved. Through excellence in training, they will help you be a better athlete and have fun doing it!
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Seattle
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Specialties: Athletic Coaching, Nutrition 206.786.7236, coachlesley.com facebook.com/CoachLesley.comLLC, Twitter: @tricoachlesley
What are your most popular products or services? Training for 5Ks, marathons, triathlons, sprinting for Ironman, cycling and swimming; weight loss; injury prevention strategies; nutrition; pregnancy fitness. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do what you love! There is a lot of time and energy devoted to starting a business and building it into a successful enterprise. Truly enjoy what you do.
Lesley C. Mettler
What do you like best about owning a business? I love that I get to wake up every day and share my passion with others. Trying new ideas, solving fitness challenges and motivating athletes toward their personal success. 83
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Conscious Body Pilates Madrona, Seattle Transformational. Positive. Motivating. A private fitness studio specializing in personal training and Pilates, Conscious Body Pilates offers personal one-on-one and small group classes.
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Seattle
Specialties: Personal Training and Pilates 206.709.2673
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be persistent, believe in yourself and surround yourself with smart people. What do you like best about owning a business? I love the excitement of being able to create something of my own and having my creative vision turn into reality.
Heather Scearce
What motivates you on a daily basis? The ability to change people’s lives. What is your motto or theme song? “Don’t Stop Believing” —Journey What do you CRAVE? Success on my terms.
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What are your most popular products or services? Jewelry. With artists working in sterling, gemstones, mixed metals, resin, steel, and in styles ranging from romantic to edgy, there’s something for everyone! What place inspires you and why? Maxine’s Floral and Gift. I stop by on my way home for an inspiring “minivacation” of eye candy, floral scents, birdsong and like-minded conversation.
Kathleen D. Koch
86
Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? I find it creatively stimulating—sourcing products, meeting new people, merchandising, meeting the day’s challenges. Every day is unique with its own mix of customers to interact with!
Crackerjack
Contemporary Crafts Wallingford, Seattle
Photos by Sarah Barrick
Handmade. Inspiring. Uplifting. From elegant to whimsical, Crackerjack evolved from owner Kathleen Koch’s love of the handmade. Opened in 1986 at the historic Wallingford Center, Crackerjack was the first in Seattle to celebrate the artistry of American craftsmen working in a broad range of media. Known for exceptional jewelry, locally created clothing, luxurious bath products and fun party hats, Crackerjack showcases the creativity of more than 200 artists.
Specialties: Handmade Jewelry, Clothing and Gifts Wallingford Center: 1815 N 45th, Ste 212, Seattle, 206.547.4983 crackerjackcrafts.com, facebook.com/crackerjackcrafts
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? You can do it. Build a good support system of friends, family and other entrepreneurs to help guide and encourage you along the way. What do you like best about owning a business? I’m the boss! I can take a “mental health” day when I’m burned out or I can work overtime if I want.
Ashley A Besecker, RD, CD
88
Seattle
What motivates you on a daily basis? Turning tears into smiles. Health and body image are deeply personal pieces of our lives, and I get to tap into those pieces every day with people.
Crave Health Kirkland, Washington
Left page: upper-middle and lower-left photos by catherine jeannette photography, upper-left and upper‑right photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Warm. Clear. Supportive. Crave Health is a private nutrition practice focused on individual nutritional counseling and education for general wellness and specific health issues. Ashley Besecker believes in individualized, evidence-based care designed to fit your life; she wants to support you and your family in your endeavor for the healthiest lifestyle. Crave Health supports both adult and adolescent nutrition, and accepts all insurance.
Specialties: Nutrition, Weight Management, Medical Nutrition By appointment only: 2260 Carillon Point, Kirkland, 425.828.0100 crave-health.com, facebook.com/CraveHealthWA Twitter: @cravehealth, linkedin.com/in/cravehealth
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Premium denim, affordable fashion and personal customer service. What do you like best about owning a business? Fantastic people we have met, the places we’ve been able to see and the flexibility of making our own decisions on a daily basis. What motivates you on a daily basis? A continuously growing base of loyal customers who have spread the word of our unique shopping experience to other parts of the country. How do you relax? Good wine with great girlfriends.
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Cupcake Couture 214 NE Davis St, McMinnville, 503.472.8285 shopcupcakecouture.com
McMinnville
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
Fashionable. Affordable. Timeless. Cupcake Couture is a fashion-forward boutique for women. Their goal is to carry high-quality fashion pieces that can be worn every day as well as to offer a variety of the latest trends. Cupcake Couture are purveyors of everything from premium denim, tops and tees, and dresses to affordable handbags and they offer a great selection of shoes. Amazing customer service and a fun shopping experience will keep you coming back.
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Portrait by Paul Butterfield Photography
d:floured Seattle, Washington Urban. Delish. Smart. d:floured serves nutritious yet delicious cookies, cakes, pastries and breads using locally sourced ingredients. Currently operating out of a shared commercial kitchen, d:floured sells its products through farmers markets, wholesale at cafes and restaurants, and through special orders (like wedding and birthday cakes) throughout the Puget Sound area.
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Seattle
What makes your business unique? We are a community-centered bakery focused on serving delicious products for all people regardless of their need to withhold gluten, dairy or other common allergens from their diet. What inspired you to start your business? The desire and community need for local, fresh and delicious gluten-free options.
Amanda Bedell and Phebe Rossi
What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? We knew we’d be working harder than we’d ever before but knowing and experiencing are very different. Take time to shut off. Sometimes the best ideas come from time away.
Specialties: Gluten-free Cookies, Cakes, Pastries and Breads 206.395.4623, dfloured.com facebook.com/dfloured Twitter: @dfloured
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Dahlstyle 503.701.7538 dahlstyle.com, Twitter: @dahlstyle
Empowering. Enlightening. Friendly. With an easy going and approachable nature Sara brings to you her years of experience and a passion for making finding your personal style accessible and fun. Through Sara’s guidance and direction you will not only create a personal style unique to you and your lifestyle but you will find a renewed level of self confidence as your hidden beauty begins to shine through.
Photos by kimberphoto.com
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Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? 1. Follow your passion 2. Believe in yourself 150 percent and the universe will follow suit. Who is your role model or mentor? I don’t have just one person, I have a team of people around me whom I admire and draw inspiration from. What motivates you on a daily basis? Reading most fashion publications. There is so little for women ages 30-plus to relate to. I want to bridge that gap. What place inspires you and why? Central Oregon. When I go over those mountains, I get away from all my responsibility in Portland and I come up with so many ideas. Sara Dahlquist 51
What are your most popular products or services? Customized, individual health-coaching programs and my “Meal Planning for Busy People” online workshop, which teaches you to prep and make a week of meals in just three hours. (Seriously.) What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have your website programmed in WordPress. Period. Find a great— and responsive—web developer. And practice relentless self-care.
Lara Dalch
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Seattle
What place inspires you? It sounds corny, but the table (or Skype screen) I share with clients is the most inspirational place in the world. Their commitment to themselves and their health is amazing.
Dalch Wellness Seattle, Washington
Photos by Sarah Barrick, except portrait by Jordan Matter Photography
Inspiring. Compassionate. Real. Dalch Wellness helps busy people balance nutrition, fitness and lifestyle goals with hectic lives through a practical, “whole life� approach to health. As a former New York City media executive, founder Lara Dalch understands the challenges of balancing good health with a crazy schedule. Lara helps clients reach personal health goals with an eye toward making food fun, practical and guilt-free.
Specialties: Health and Nutrition Coaching for Busy People dalchwellness.com, facebook.com/dalchwellness Twitter: @laradalch, linkedin.com/in/laradalch
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Photo by Sarah Barrick
“What I like best about owning a business is flexibility. I love being able to spend time on what’s most important to me, both in my business and in the rest of my life.” —Lara Dalch, Dalch Wellness
Photos by Ella Friberg
Dazzle 704 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, 503.224.1294
Dazzling. Chic. One-of-a-kind. Dazzle has featured up-and-coming artists and local designers since 1985. Located in the Nob Hill/Alphabet district, just minutes from downtown Portland, Dazzle presents clothing and accessories that you won’t see anywhere else. Customers frequently walk out the door wearing their Dazzle purchase!
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Q&A Alphabet District
What are your most popular products or services? Our sales staff provides couturier service for mothers of the bride, special events, dressing for work or play and we help create the taller, slimmer, fashionable you you are looking for. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Go into it knowing it is just like having a baby. You have to take care of it 24/7 and it doesn’t grow up and go to college! Stay focused. What place inspires you and why? Paris. It’s where display is treated as art and fashion is for women and men.
Faviana Priola
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Photos by Tara Gimmer Photography, except lower‑right photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
Debbie Whitlock Greater Seattle Innovative. Transformative. Enlightening. Debbie is an award-winning business coach, radio host, speaker and author. She is described as influential in women’s lives because of her authenticity and unique ability to connect with them on what really matters. Debbie leverages her extensive financial background and coaches women business owners to understand the story of the numbers from their business that tells how to increase revenue and profit.
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Make sure you have your team in place to support you—entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart; the most successful among us have people and systems in place to guide us on our journey. What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to make decisions quickly and decisively and witness the immediate results.
Debbie Whitlock
What do you CRAVE? A culture of financially independent women who believe in their value and worth in the world.
Specialties: One-on-one Coaching, Speaking Engagements 40 Lake Bellevue Dr, Ste 100, Bellevue, 206.749.5111 debbiewhitlock.com, facebook.com/DebbieWhitlockBusiness Twitter: @debbwhitlock, linkedin.com/in/debbiewhitlock
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? My signature crocheted wire pendants. They’re surprisingly unique, easy to dress up or down and go with almost everything. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Trust your instincts, love what you do and work with people who compensate for your shortcomings when you’re struggling. I’m still learning to ask for help when I need it. Who is your role model or mentor? My father, the finest craftsman I know. My mother, the warmhearted visionary. And my sister... the fine artist who sees the world as I only wish I could.
Genna Hall
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Deluxe Delovely 503.724.3602 deluxedelovely.com, Twitter: @deluxedelovely
Memorable. Delightful. Inspired. Accessorize your life. Deluxe Delovely pairs refined simplicity with delicate details, adding pops of color to compliment any style. Known for her signature crocheted wire technique, owner/designer Genna Hall seeks inspiration from natural materials and textures for each collection. Every piece is uniquely designed and created, invoking visions of her coastal upbringing and travels.
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designs by mara, inc. Lynnwood, Washington Sophisticated. Inventive. Friendly. designs by mara specializes in soft furnishings couture for the home. They design and fabricate in their own custom workroom. Their resource showroom is brimming with eye candy: fabrics, trims, drapery hardware, wallpaper, blinds. designs by mara has been creating beautiful window treatments and soft goods since 1996 and has an established following in the Northwest. They are known for their creative solutions and ideas.
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Seattle
Photos by Julia Kinnunen Photography
Specialties: Custom Draperies, Fabric, Pillows, Bedding 6520 212th St SW, Ste 201, Lynnwood 425.582.7152 designsbymara.blogspot.com facebook.com/designsbymarainc Twitter: @maraleev linkedin.com/in/maravollbrecht
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Hold on to your dream and don’t let anyone discourage you. Also find a mentor who has walked the path before you. Who is your role model or mentor? Deb Barrett, owner and founder of Window Dressings. Her brand is an outstanding example of what can be done in this industry. What is your biggest fear? Nothing! I survived emergency openheart surgery; there isn’t anything that scary out there that I can’t face!
Mara Vollbrecht
What place inspires you? Can fabrics be a place? Sometimes I want to just wrap myself up in the samples! 97
Digs Inside & Out 1829 NE Alberta St, Portland, 503.460.DIGS (3447) digs-pdx.com, Twitter: @nicedigs
Creative. Comprehensive. Charming. Digs Inside & Out believes in beautiful spaces, inside or out. Their shop is full of lovely things for your home and garden. The attentive staff at Digs can help you choose something for your space or perhaps a unique gift for someone special. Should you need a little extra help putting it all together, Digs also offers creative interior and garden design services.
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Our interior and garden design services.
Vernon
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t overthink things. Trust your instincts! What do you like best about owning a business? It’s all mine and I am responsible for everything. What is your motto or theme song? Life is short, decorate well. What place inspires you and why? My garden because it is always changing and always beautiful.
JJ De Sousa
What do you CRAVE? Beautiful spaces... and a great Belgian beer. 59
What are your most popular products or services? The DRES Profile, which gives clarity to our clients in a detailed and personalized plan, is the starting point for all our services and the most raved about by far. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? The simplest way to start is by utilizing opportunities that have already been created, such as licensing programs. For example, our stylists each run their own independent personal styling business.
Margaret Spencer
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? Seeing all the women I’ve been able to help through the DRES System. It’s the most rewarding part of my work and has shown me that what I do has power.
DRES System Seattle, Washington
Upper left (left page) and lower-right photos by Tara Gimmer, lower-left photo (left page) by Sacha Blue
Stylish. Confidence-building. Educational. The DRES System is the key to finding self-confidence and gaining control of your wardrobe! Using a science-based formula with four gem body shapes (Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire), DRES System–certified personal stylists help every woman learn how to dress her body type. As founder Margaret Spencer says, “Beauty is found in balance and confidence, and every woman deserves to look and feel beautiful.”
Specialties: Personal Shopping, Wardrobe Edits, Color Analysis 425.286.6190, dressystem.com facebook.com/DRESSystem, Twitter: @DRESsystem
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Photo by Sacha Blue
“I crave innovative clothing! I am always on the lookout for new designs and creative solutions that can help women feel more comfortable and confident.” —Margaret Spencer, DRES System
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Love the numbers, and know them well. And believe that you are smart enough to do this—no matter what anyone says to you.
Sharelle Klaus
What motivates you on a daily basis? Getting to work with the most passionate, intelligent, generous and committed team to make DRY Soda the new standard in carbonated soft drinks. What place inspires you? I’m inspired by the ocean. It makes me realize how small we all are in the midst of its power and consistency. It keeps everything in perspective for me.
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Seattle
DRY Soda Pioneer Square, Seattle
Portrait and lower-right photo by Arthur Shwab Photography, upper-right photo by Kari Heese
Refreshing. Innovative. Revolutionary. Seattle-based DRY Soda has reimagined what soda can be: better tasting and better for you. DRY Soda uses only four all-natural ingredients and keeps the pure cane sugar to a minimum. The result is a less sweet soda that allows its fruit, flower and herbal flavors to shine through. DRY Soda is available in seven unique flavors: Vanilla Bean, Wild Lime, Lavender, Blood Orange, Cucumber, Rhubarb, and Juniper Berry. Each flavor has between 45 and 70 calories per 12-ounce bottle. DRY Soda’s flavors are refreshing to sip, pair or mix.
Specialty: Less Sweet, All-Natural Soda Produced in the Pacific Northwest 410 First Ave S, Seattle drysoda.com facebook.com/drysoda Twitter: @DRYSoda
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Photos by Barbie Hull Photography, except far‑left photo by modern photography
DuBois Cary Law Group, PLLC Fremont, Seattle Compassionate. Experienced. Nuanced. DuBois Cary Law Group provides quality legal representation in estate planning and family law. Facing a divorce can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be a tragedy. Step into your new life as a single person with the security of sharp legal counsel. Likewise, you deserve the peace of mind that comes with preparing your will. Choose now to protect your loved ones later.
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Estate planning, wills, divorce, custody, paternity and dissolution of domestic partnerships. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Just what I say to my daughter every night: always stay confident, curious, courageous and compassionate. Work hard and do good.
Monica Cary
What is your motto or theme song? My father-in-law has an expression that I try to remember when finding a solution that seems out of reach: “There’s more than one way to skin a cat.”
Specialties: Family Law, Wills, Divorce, Custody By appointment only: 927 N Northlake Way, Seattle, 206.547.1486 duboislaw.net, facebook.com/DuBoisCaryLawGroup
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Photo by Barbie Hull Photography
“I’m a lawyer, but I don’t have to wear a suit to work. I’m proud of our corporate culture, too. We support families, local nonprofits and unions.” —Monica Cary, DuBois Cary Law Group, PLLC
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Go for it. Today, not tomorrow—or next week or next year. There is never the ideal “right” time to take the plunge, so breath deep and jump! What is your biggest fear? It used to be lack of balance—but we’ve learned that “balance” is what you make of it. Some days you need champagne; other days you need a shot glass.
Amanda Foley and Rebecca Mosley
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Seattle
What place inspires you? Our “jewel box” office atop the Kolstrand Building. We designed it from the floorboards up, and unlocking the door each morning still carries with it a certain sense of awe.
Duo PR Ballard, Seattle Smart. Inspired. Savvy. Duo PR specializes in creative consumer public relations campaigns, product publicity, influencer connections, social media and branded content development. Passionate about their industry and clients, Duo PR collaborates with local and national companies of all sizes to deliver public relations results that count.
Portrait by Paul Butterfield Photography
Specialty: PR for Consumer Products and Services By appointment only: 4743 Ballard Ave NW, Ste 300, Seattle 206.706.0508, duopr.com, facebook.com/DuoPR Twitter: @duopr, linkedin.com/in/duo-public-relations
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EcoFit Queen Anne, Seattle Transformational. Encouraging. Motivating. EcoFit helps you get outside of the “fitness box� with fun and creative workouts that keep you stimulated and shred fat. Movement sessions take place both indoors and outdoors, making your exercise options unlimited. EcoFit also specializes in premium fat loss and athletic performance nutrition coaching. At EcoFit, you will conquer your biggest fitness fears in a safe, caring and supportive environment.
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Seattle
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Specialties: Fun Workouts, Fat Loss, Small Group Training By appointment only: 2040 Westlake Ave N, Ste 100, Seattle 206.501.1101, ecofit206.com, facebook.com/EcoFit206 Twitter: @EcoFit206, advocare.com/10071768
Hilary Paris
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Stay positive and smile often. It’s amazing how much a smile can brighten someone’s day. Who knows, the next stranger you smile at could be a potential customer! What do you like best about owning a business? Meeting new people from my community who are on a journey of greatness. I am continually inspired by my clients—it’s a two-way street! What motivates you on a daily basis? The current state of our country’s health and finances. As long as these challenges exist, I will never give up.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? The triple circle necklace, symbolizing the Holy Trinity, and the flower power collection. Custom hand-stamped pendants allow for your favorite quotes or your family names to be forever enjoyed. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be passionate! Surround yourself with positive, brave people. Be quick to forgive. Flush perfectionism away. Do it without going into debt. Give yourself grace and love for trying something new! What do you like best about owning a business? Every morning I feel like a kid with a brand-new box of crayons. Molly Rahe
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Portrait by Michelle Pearl Gee
Elizabeth Jewelry 503.701.5498 Elizabethjewelry.com
Timeless. Elegant. Delightful. Since 1996, Elizabeth Jewelry has been providing the Northwest with uniquely handcrafted sterling and 14k gold-filled jewelry, incorporating custom-designed stones and silverwork. As a sponsor of the Portland Rose Festival, Elizabeth Jewelry adorns the Royal Court. Available at dozens of galleries, the Made In Oregon stores, numerous art shows and online at elizabethjewelry.com, Elizabeth Jewelry offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee. 61
Main and lower right photos by Christopher Meyers, portrait by Erica Ann Photography, lower left photo by Mel Barlow, lower middle photo by John Messinger
Ellie Williams Design 818.422.4026 ellie@elliewilliamsdesign.com
Innovative. Couture. Exquisite. Ellie Williams Design is a boutique event design company specializing in one-of-akind events and experiences. Known for their inspired masterful aesthetics, they will transform your event into an extraordinary occasion. They don’t plan events. They design experiences your guests will remember and talk about for years to come.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Wedding and shower design. We are also getting more and more requests for unique children’s parties. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? If you do what you love, success will follow. What motivates you on a daily basis? My work—I just love every minute of it. What is your motto or theme song? Where there’s a will, there’s a way. What place inspires you and why? Nature always helps me refocus and put things in perspective.
Ellie Williams
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What are your most popular products or services? Linen boyfriend and big shirt, sterling silver wrapped knot and freshwater pearl necklace, chunky turquoise, edgy cowhide ring belt, riveted tote purse, Italian wool and cashmere jackets, coats, dusters, scarves. What do you like best about owning a business? Being independent, being my own boss. What is your motto or theme song? It is never too late.
Angela Ehrig
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Seattle
What place inspires you? Nature. Peace and quiet, to be able to listen to your inner voice. Colors in nature.
Engayla’s Designs Studio Ballard, Seattle
Photos by Sarah Barrick
Contemporary. Stylish. Comfortable. Engayla’s Designs Studio features contemporary, wearable art clothing for women, accessories and jewelry. The line is available at juried arts and crafts shows, online and by appointment in her studio in Ballard. Engayla uses natural fiber European fabrics with a lot of texture, embossed unique cowhides, sterling and natural stones. Her accessories, bags and jewelry are designed to go with her clothing line.
Specialties: Wearable Art, Leather Bags, Belts, Jewelry 425.941.6963 engaylasdesigns.com facebook.com/engayla Twitter: @Engayla
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Photo by Sarah Barrick
“Know what makes your heart beat faster in your business.” —Angela Ehrig, Engayla’s Designs Studio
Ensodentistry Redmond, Washington Zen. State-of-the-art. Warm. Ensodentistry is a modern practice that was created through the principles of excellence, compassion and integrity. You will experience this mantra again and again through routine dental care or even a complete smile makeover. Clients of Ensodentistry benefit from Dr. Keerti’s vast training in aesthetics combined with her background in oral medicine and sedation dentistry.
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Seattle
Photos by Sarah Barrick
Specialties: Cosmetic Dentistry, Sedation/Relaxation Dentistry By appointment only: 15446 Bel-Red Rd, Ste 100, Redmond 425.558.3676, ensodentistry.com
What do you like best about owning a business? Owning every decision I make, good or bad. The freedom to constantly invest in technology to improve my practice, the freedom to invest in my continuing education for personal growth. What is your motto or theme song? The enso is a painted circle, in Zen philosophy. It symbolizes tranquility, balance, karma and one’s desire for perfection. It is also at the heart of our practice philosophy.
Dr. Keerti Sahasrabudhe
What place inspires you? Arizona. Learning with like-minded, dedicated clinicians through Spear Education in Scottsdale feeds my mind. A short trip to Sedona leaves me in awe of nature and nourishes my soul. 117
Photo by Sarah Barrick
“There is a time to think, and then there is a time to act. Once your planning is done, don’t look back, don’t stop. Have faith and move forward.” —Dr. Keerti Sahasrabudhe, Ensodentistry
Erica Ann Photography & Fine Art 503.476.5059 ericaannphotography.com, Twitter: @ericaannphoto
Original. Intimate. Real. Erica Ann is a wedding photographer inspired by classic art to capture the truth and beauty of your life. She combines her training in studio art with a photojournalistic flair to create mixed-media artwork for your walls and custom wedding albums that you will cherish forever.
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Wedding photography with fine art photographic prints, acrylic paintings, mixed media and custom flush mount albums. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do your research before starting a business and build it into something that is sustainable for you and your family. Simplify and outsource whenever possible. What do you like best about owning a business? I love the flexibility and control that I have in my life. I can envision my life goals and work hard to make them happen.
Erica Ann Bader 67
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Espresso Dental Phinney Ridge, Seattle Unique. Caring. Friendly. Espresso Dental is a small boutique dental practice that offers high-tech dental care in a comfortable environment. Excellent customer service is their #1 priority. They have private rooms, fresh baked cookies, espresso drinks and many other ways to make you feel comfortable and relaxed so that you can get the dental care you need.
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? The beautiful smiles we can create with Orthodontics and Porcelain Veneers is exciting and can be life‑changing for some people. What do you like best about owning a business? Being the owner allows me to call all the shots regarding how patients are treated in my office: always with respect and kindness.
Connie Manuel, DDS
What motivates you on a daily basis? I enjoy the work of being a dentist, but I love my daily interactions with my patients. I can’t imagine anything more energizing or fulfilling than what I do.
Specialty: Making Beautiful, Healthy Smiles By appointment only: 6725 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle 206.284.2483, EspressoDental.com
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Essance 971.219.9482 essance-us.com, Twitter: @Essancellc
Sexy. Beautiful. Wholesome. Essance is a member of Green America and Indie Beauty Network. They offer premium natural skin and body care for holistic wellness. Products are biodegradable, therapeutic botanical extracts not tested on animals, including perfume, body and massage oils, essential oil blends and spa eye pillows. Essance is only sourced from local suppliers supporting environmental sustainability.
Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Our Revitalize Face Serum and Lusting You Essence are two of our top sellers. Our customers love the fragrance and the effectivenes of the serum. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Bury all fears of failure in a box, lock it up and throw away the key. Any passionate woman can nurture a business into success with focus and determination. What motivates you on a daily basis? Meeting new clients and customers. How do you relax? Everyday yoga, working out and monthly massage therapy. Jasmine Tran 69
Q&A What do you like best about owning a business? We get to remind people that they are beautiful and see that confidence permeate all aspects of their lives. It’s a personal, powerful journey, and we are fortunate to help. Who is your role model or mentor? Italians! They have fewer, betterquality, beautifully tailored things in their closets. Of course, our toddlers remind us to approach fashion with fearlessness and a sense of humor. What is your motto or theme song? “Over the years I have learned that what is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it.” —Yves Saint Laurent. It’s about the person, not the clothes. Tracy Pendergast and Paula O’Neil
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Est Ovest Style 503.572.5898 est-oveststyle.com
Transformative. Warm. Resourceful. Est Ovest Style is a fashion and wardrobe consulting company dedicated to helping their clients, men and women, achieve their own “style nirvana,” the most modern, beautiful and confident version of themselves. They’ll edit what you already own, tell you what to ditch and help you purchase what you really need to start loving how you look. La vita è bella indeed... (Life is beautiful!)
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Flow with the flow and make changes as needed... you may find yourself in a different business than the one originally imagined and find it more meaningful and rewarding. I did! What motivates you? Meeting and exceeding my clients’ expectations. When a client refers a new client to me, I know I have met their expectations.
Evie Huntington
122
Seattle
What is your motto or theme song? “You can either take action or you can hang back and hope for a miracle. Miracles are great, but they are so unpredictable.” —Peter Drucker, business philosopher and author
Evie Huntington & Associates Seattle, Washington
Photos by Sacha Blue
Smart. Strategic. Empowering. Evie Huntington & Associates provides résumé writing and job search consulting, services including coaching clients on conducting productive and successful job searches. Their résumés are organized, information-rich and easy-to-read work histories that hiring managers can use to quickly assess a candidate’s talents and experience. They provide insights on what to expect throughout the entire job search and hiring process, including interview preparation.
Specialties: Job Search Consulting 206.324.7613
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Photos by Erica Ann Photography
Feed Me, Darling 503.703.4979 feedmedarling.com, Twitter: @megworden
Transformative. Supportive. Empowering. Feed Me, Darling is the perfect solution for busy women who are ready, not only to look and feel their best, but to bring their finest work to the world. Hiring a health coach is the most effective way to remove the roadblocks in the way of your abundant success. Feed Me, Darling guarantees a richer, fuller life filled with vibrant and delicious foods, weight loss, luminous skin and unbounded creativity. Contact Feed Me, Darling for a free initial consultation. 72
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Our six-month program offers unparalleled support over a period of time that guarantees full integration of fresh new skills. Clients finish the program lighter, freer, empowered and naturally craving fresh, healthful foods. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Build relationships with other women entrepreneurs that involve support and hearty laughter. Take steps forward each day and make self-care your top priority. What place inspires you and why? I love big cities like Hong Kong and New York and am deeply inspired by density, vitality and the way people navigate relationships. Meg Worden
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Pillows, drapery, hand-printed scarfs, bedding. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Follow your bliss. What do you like best about owning a business? Using my creative ability and respecting artistic resourcing in India. Who is your role model or mentor? All the artists who work for Filling Spaces. How do you relax? A cup of hot masala chai.
Deepali Kalia
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Northwest
Photos by Heather McGrath Photography
Filling Spaces 935 NW 19th Ave, Portland, 503.222.2028 fillingspaces.com
Creative. Exclusive. Textural. Filling Spaces creates exclusive textiles, drapery, window treatments, pillows and bedding. Filling Spaces items create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each piece is tastefully crafted to meet the specific needs of various designers and individuals.
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Far-left and lower-right photos by Barbie Hull Photography, portrait by Ingrid Pape‑Sheldon Photography, right photo (left page) by Paul Butterfield Photography
Fireworks Seattle, Bellevue and Tukwila Functional. Eccentric. Soulful. Fireworks is a standout venue for the uncommon gift. The discerning customer will find an eclectic selection of fashion-forward jewelry, watches, handbags and scarves as well as trendsetting home accessories, lighting and children’s wares. Many local artists are represented. As one happy customer described on Yelp: “Fireworks is a mesmerizing mix of beautiful, funky, funny and exquisite.”
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Find a niche that you know is missing in the marketplace, and if you are confident that there are many who will be clambering to seek you out, then proceed. What do you like best about owning a business? I enjoy getting giggles from customers as well as hearing that they have found just the right gift. I also enjoy the everyday challenges that come with owning a business.
Michele Manasse
Who is your role model or mentor? My role models are my father and brother who both had a passion for life and what they did, had great taste and amazing senses of humor!
Specialties: Neo-utility Home Accessories, One-of-a-kind Jewelry, Trend-setting Handbags and Scarves, Hilarious Books, Infant and Toddler Fashion-forward Clothing and Toys Westlake Center, Seattle, 206.682.6462 University Village, Seattle, 206.527.2858 Pioneer Square, Seattle, 206.682.9697 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, 425.688.0933 Southcenter, Tukwila, 206.805.3038 Sea-Tac Airport, Central Terminal, 206.244.5380 Sea-Tac Airport, C-Gate, 206.242.4300 fireworksgallery.net, facebook.com/FireworksGalleries
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Photo by Barbie Hull Photography
“Visual or verbal cues inspire me, colors, innovative displays, an NPR story, thought-provoking conversations or even a joke.” —Michele Manasse, Fireworks
Flash Photobooth Seattle Seattle, Washington Fun. Reliable. Entertaining. Flash Photobooth Seattle is an exciting addition to any event. They provide the booth, the costumes and a full-time attendant to make sure that everyone has a great time! All of their packages come with unlimited photos during the event, plus a customized caption for each photo strip and your choice of b&w or color photos. Flash is perfect for corporate events or parties, holiday and birthday parties, bar/bat mitzvahs and wedding receptions! If you have an event, Flash has a booth for you!
Specialty: Photo Booth Entertainment 206.792.6217 flashphotoboothseattle.com Twitter: @FlashPhotoBoothSea
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be fearless. Find something that you enjoy doing, and go for it! It is all about finding your niche in the market and what sets you apart from others.
Tracie Teji
What do you like best about owning a business? We are able to create an excellent customer experience with every single interaction. I am able to ensure that every event goes off perfectly and provide the kind of experience that I as a customer would want to have! What place inspires you and why? Costume shops! We love finding new costumes to add to the always-growing collection of props for the booth! 129
Photos by Bunn Salarzon
Folly 1005 NW 16th Ave, Portland, 503.954.1334 follypdx.com, Twitter: @follypdx
Light. Lovely. Comfortable. Expect a full-service experience when you enter Folly. Creations from designer Sarah Bibb are extremely wearable and guarantee day-in and night-out looks that will truly suit your body and lifestyle. You will fall in love with the clothes and the enthusiasm of presentation at this highly talked about Portland boutique.
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Q&A Pearl District
What are your most popular products or services? The HYLA reversible wrap skirt, designed by Sarah Bibb, is definitely the most popular item at Folly. You will get addicted to the ease of this flattering skirt! Who is your role model or mentor? My nana was a professional seamstress. I feel so lucky that I can work with my hands and I know I got that from her. What is your biggest fear? Beige undergarments... the “nude� bra is the least sexy thing you can put on your body! What motivates you on a daily basis? I am a naturally high-energy person. I wake up ready to go and love the challenge of making every day fresh. Sarah Bibb
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What are your most popular products or services? Our award-winning Gray and Smoked Salt Caramels. They are slow-cooked soft, buttery caramels dipped in dark or milk chocolate and finished with a sprinkling of gray or smoked sea salt.
Fran Bigelow
What do you like best about owning a business? The satisfaction of seeing my dreams turn into reality. Who is your role model or mentor? Josephine Araldo, a remarkable French chef who graduated from the Cordon Bleu in 1921. I fondly recall her advice, “Never let anything dampen your spirits.�
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Seattle
Fran’s Chocolates Downtown Seattle, University Village and Bellevue Luxurious. Delightful. Delicious. Fran has shared her passion for fine chocolate since opening her Seattle store in 1982. Recognized in 2009 by the fine chocolate industry as “Outstanding Fine Chocolatier—North America,” Fran is considered a pioneer of the artisan chocolate movement and is renowned for creating exquisite chocolate confections that boast seductive textures with a layering of flavors. While the family business has expanded over three decades, Fran’s standards remain uncompromised.
Specialties: Hand-crafted Confections and Salted Caramels Downtown | 1325 1st Ave, Seattle, 206.682.0168 University Village | 2626 NE University Village St, Seattle, 206.528.9969 Bellevue Old Main | 10036 Main St, Bellevue, 425.453.1698 Twitter: @FransChocolates franschocolates.com, facebook.com/franschocolates
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Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Frenchy’s Day Spa Madison Park, Seattle Welcoming. Relaxing. Memorable. This Parisian-inspired day spa and beauty boutique has been a favorite of Seattle women for more than 16 years. Owned by Susan Friedman, Frenchy’s is recognized for extraordinary treatments, one-on-one service and unique on-trend retail. Frenchy’s is a go-to place for nails, skincare, makeup and gifts. Whether you are looking to book your wedding party for treatments and makeup applications or need a last-minute hostess gift, you will be sure to find it here.
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Seattle
Signature Treatment or Service Tour de Force facial, or your very own customized facial and Frenchy’s pedicure. This is one of the only spas that has individual pedicure bowl liners. Most Popular Products Frenchy’s is a proud retailer of Chantecaille, the exquisite French cosmetic line. About Susan Friedman As an educator and social worker, Susan has a passion for women’s issues and likes to incorporate her enthusiasm into building Frenchy’s as the best spa and retailer in Seattle. Parties and Events Frenchy’s will gladly work with you to coordinate services and refreshments to make your special day memorable.
Specialties: Manicures and Pedicures, Facials, Massage, Makeup 3131 E Madison, Ste 103, Seattle, 206.325.9582 frenchysdayspa.com, Twitter: @FrenchysSeattle
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Always have confidence to ask for what you’re looking for. Starting a business is daunting. It’s much less so when you reach out for resources, connections and knowledge.
Jess Estrada
What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom to design a schedule that fits me, especially in allowing me to blog more. Freedom to work whenever, wherever and with whomever I want! Who is your role model or mentor? Bill Gates Sr. instilled in me a philosophy of always showing up. Whether it’s for an event, for clients, or for those you love, be there for them! What do you CRAVE? Community! We all do better when we can help each other and lift each other higher.
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Seattle
Fresh Jess Media Seattle, Washington
Upper- and lower-left photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Strategic. Experienced. Influential. Fresh Jess Media is dedicated to helping clients bring ideas and relationships to life. Whether it’s in the digital space through blogging and social media, connecting through events or copywriting, or arming you and your team with the tools you need to be successful in online and IRL (in real life) branding, Fresh Jess is here to help you reach your goals.
Specialties: Social Media, Marketing, Writing 206.372.5705, freshjess.com, facebook.com/FreshJessSeattle Twitter: @JessEstrada, linkedin.com/in/JessicaEstrada
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? My signature cluster earrings. They’re versatile, light, easy to wear and come in a variety of different color combinations. Who is your role model or mentor? Julia Child. She was the perfect example of a strong woman who wasn’t afraid to go after what she wanted. She really changed the way people think about French cuisine. How do you relax? I love to sit down with a cup of coffee and read the Sunday edition of the New York Times. What do you CRAVE? Delicious coffee, good books, time to travel and a studio filled with inspiration. Kimberlee Kogane
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Fresh Tangerine 971.219.8851 freshtangerine.com, Twitter: @kkogane
Timeless. Versatile. Effortless. Founded on the principles of the runway, Fresh Tangerine showcases a new collection each season that is inspired by unique places, beautiful objects and new discoveries. Each piece is created exclusively by owner and designer, Kimberlee Kogane. She captures her favorite moments and experiences in statement pieces that are filled with original color combinations, precise detail and a hint of glitz and glamour. 81
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Only start a business if you are passionate about the subject. What do you like best about owning a business? I love the flexibility and creativity it allows. What is your biggest fear? Making the wrong decision. What motivates you on a daily basis? My readers. What is your motto or theme song? Why not? How do you relax? Walks and bike rides. What place inspires you and why? I like water. Rivers, oceans, and lakes.
Chelsea Fuss 82
Frolic! frolic-blog.com, Twitter: @frolicblog
Photos by Amanda Buzard, except portrait
Creative. Visual. Accessible. Frolic! is a daily design and lifestyle blog devoted to pretty finds, effortless style and simple living. Started in 2006 by Chelsea Fuss, a Portland-based prop stylist and floral designer, Frolic! is updated each day with creative projects and DIYs, gorgeous editorials, wardrobe and home ideas, and Chelsea’s latest picks, from music to movies.
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Fuel Coffee & High 5 Pie Capitol Hill, Montlake and Wallingford Hand-crafted. Independent. Community-focused. Fuel Coffee is a neighborhood coffee shop featuring superior coffee and the city’s best baristas. Each shop is proud to be a warm and welcoming place for all! High 5 Pie serves sweet and savory pies, handmade from scratch, featuring Grandma Molly’s all-butter-crust recipe. High 5’s wholesale and retail bakery in the heart of Capitol Hill offers delicious baked goods and serves Fuel Coffee.
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Seattle
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Specialties: Pie and Coffee Fuel Coffee: 610 19th Ave E, Seattle 2300 24th Ave E, Seattle 1705 N 45th St, Seattle fuelcoffeeseattle.com, Twitter: @fuelcoffee High 5 Pie: 1400 12th Ave, Seattle high5pie.com, Twitter: @high5pie
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Start with one step and keep going. If you have an idea, start doing it! Take yourself seriously and make the transition from “I want to” to “I am.” Who is your role model or mentor? My hardworking and amazing family. As my Grammy says, “Be good, do well.” It may have been as a grammar lesson, but it is so much more.
Dani Cone
What motivates you on a daily basis? To be an asset to our communities via serving delicious coffees, baked goods and pies. People come together over coffee and pie, and I am proud to be part of that.
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What are your most popular products or services? Repair, restring and redesign. One-of-a-kind creations... book an appointment for couture designs! We specialize in Swarovski crystals, precious and semiprecious stones, sterling and gold-filled findings. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be ready to lift heavy things. Have courage. Dream the impossible. Ask questions, and ask for help; be open to learning. Have fun being in charge!
Designer Bright Hauser
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Seattle
What is your motto or theme song? If it is to be, it is up to me.
The Gem Garden Mountlake Terrace, Washington
Portrait by Julia Kinnunen Photography
Colorful. Effortless. Chic. The Gem Garden brand, launched in 1999, showcases Bright Hauser’s talent for creating colorful, beautiful fashion jewelry for everyday wear. By staying true to her love for glamour and the natural world, she was able to create her own Northwest style: “Natural Elegance.” Bright is known for her fresh, fashion-forward designs and colorful aesthetic.
Specialties: Couture Jewelry, Designs for Every Day By appointment only: 22725 44th Ave W, Ste 201, Mountlake Terrace 206.783.9794, thegemgarden.com
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Photos by Clane Gessel, except upper-right photo (right page) by Kimberly Curiel, and upper‑left photo by Danielle Bortone-Holt
Girl Power Hour Seattle, Washington Inspiring. Social. Stylish. Girl Power Hour builds community for women with stylish networking events and lifestyle blogs. They facilitate connections from start to finish. Events feature swag bags, the hottest trends and products, nonprofits and other hip elements, encouraging women to expand their business and social circles in a fun and meaningful way. It’s professional networking with a girls’-night-out twist!
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Our ultimate swag bags; women line up around the block for them. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be willing to fail and open to listening to your intuition. Also remember that every no is one step closer to the yes that you are looking for.
Darnell Sue
What do you like best about owning a business? Taking risks in order to make gains, forging pathways and making my mark. What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that every success or failure depends on how hard I do or don’t work.
Specialties: Networking Events and Blogs girlpowerhour.com, facebook.com/GirlPowerHour Twitter: @GirlPowerHour, linkedin.com/in/darnellsue
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Stay committed to your vision, don’t be afraid of risk and make decisions based on integrity. What is your motto or theme song? “Work to live, don’t live to work.”
Alissa Leinonen
What place inspires you and why? I lived in Siena, Italy, when I was in college, and I was completely moved and inspired by the quality of life, the passion for food and family and the slower pace (i.e., no to-go coffee cups: you have to sit down and pause for a bit while you sip your morning coffee). What do you CRAVE? A great steak in a dark restaurant.
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Seattle
Gourmondo Catering South Park, Seattle Innovative. Creative. Dedicated. A unique catering and boxed-lunch company committed to the highest level of quality and service. Using only the freshest ingredients sourced from local vendors and small organic farms, the menus are a reflection of where Gourmondo Catering began over 16 years ago, as a small café in Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Offerings include signature boxed lunches, cocktail parties featuring custom hors d’oeuvres and our line of small batch salad dressings.
Photos by Jackie Donnelly, except portrait by Paul Butterfield Photography
309 S Cloverdale, Ste B24, Seattle, 206.587.0190 gourmondocatering.com, Twitter: @gourmondos facebook.com/gourmondocateringco
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What are your most popular products or services? Printed issues of GRAY. Originally, we planned only for a digital magazine, but feedback pointed us back to print. And we listened. The printed issues sell like hotcakes.
Shawn Williams
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Step back occasionally, take a breath, see your accomplishments. I’m often running in all directions, balancing business with being a wife/mom/taxi driver/cheerleader. Stopping to reflect renews my energy and enthusiasm. What is your biggest fear? In the words of Abraham Lincoln: “I am a success today because I had a friend who believed in me, and I didn’t have the heart to let him down.”
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Seattle
GRAY Seattle, Washington
Portrait and right photo by Hank Drew Photography, upper-left photos by Alex Hayden Photography
Playful. Intelligent. Edgy. GRAY is for design connoisseurs who love Pacific Northwest design. Poring through the magazine, you’ll find the most creative, cutting-edge projects in topics ranging from architecture and interiors to products and fashion. Each issue is filled exclusively with locally based design editorial from Washington, Oregon and British Columbia. GRAY’s team of award-winning editors and photographers proudly trumpet stellar design and resources available in this region.
Specialty: Design in the Pacific Northwest graymag.net, facebook.com/graymag Twitter: @Gray_Magazine
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Photo by Hank Drew Photography
“I crave lickable design. A good friend once called to say that the latest issue’s cover was so good that he could lick it. That’s just what we’re looking for!” —Shawn Williams, GRAY
HABITUDE Salons and Spa Ballard, Seattle Urban. Rustic. Eclectic. Habitude houses Seattleites favorite salons and spa. The warm and inviting urban-rustic decor welcomes their loyal guests home month after month. Their devoted and talented team of artists and wellness professionals truly love what they do. The Offerings Eco‑Boutique is a must-visit for tinctures and whimsical gifts. Their large spa facility and event space is perfect for corporate events, weddings and special occasions.
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Seattle
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Specialties: Cutting-edge Services and Personal Care 2801 NW Market St, Seattle, 206.782.2898 habitude.com, facebook.com/HabitudeSalonSpa Twitter: @habitudeseattle
What is the key to customer loyalty? Our mission: to love and amaze our customers and each other. What makes your business unique? Our urban-rustic decor coupled with our casual Northwest hospitality.
Inez Gray
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Set boundaries from the very beginning for keeping business and personal separate with equal time and energy devoted to both. What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to come up with an out-of-the-box idea on Monday and launch it on Friday. 149
Haute Health Las Vegas, Portland, San Diego Unique. Contemporary. Inventive. Tina Leigh, founder of Haute Health is a downright wellness maven. In addition to holding a license as a certified holistic health counselor, Tina is a certified health chef, author of two nourishing cookbooks, a nutrition speaker and a fun-loving foodie. Her consultancy, Haute Health offers private and group health coaching, recipe and meal plan development, as well as virtual and hands-on cooking lessons and wellness workshops. Having been met with dozens of health challenges from birth to her early 30s, Tina has unlimited compassion for those with whom she works, and it shows in her unique approach to wellness transformation.
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Las Vegas / Portland / San Diego
Photos by Misha Ashton, Yasmin Khajavi and Tina Leigh
Specialties: Nutrition and Health Counseling 503.716.6585, hautehealthnow.com facebook.com/HauteHealthllc, Twitter: @cheftinaleigh
What are your most popular products or services? The Total Body Transformation Package for individuals and businesses. This service includes custom wellness and nutrition coaching, a cooking lesson, healthy recipe development and lifestyle tools and tips to support a supreme elevation in your well being.
Tina Leigh
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? We all have gifts that are under-utilized. Nurture a talent, and turn it into a business by educating yourself on how to market effectively. Hire help for everything else. What place inspires you and why? The kitchen. It is where health is manifested and family and friends come together. It’s where I am completely in my element and my talents are cultivated.
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What is the key to customer loyalty? Community is the heart and soul of this studio. The environment is safe and loving and has a Cheers kind of feeling, where everyone knows your name. häutēyoga Queen Anne has become a second home to many students. What are your signature treatments or services? Power Vinyasa and Hot Hatha yoga classes. Power Vinyasa is flowing yoga sequences combining strength, flexibility, stamina, cardio and concentration. Hot Hatha builds strength, flexibility and balance.
Leah Zaccaria
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Seattle
What makes your business unique? häutēyoga Queen Anne offers a clean, modern high-end feel and makes yoga accessible to the masses.
häuteyoga Queen Anne Queen Anne, Seattle
Photos by Dana Jonas Photography, except portrait by catherine jeannette photography
Inviting. Modern. Motivating. häutēyoga Queen Anne is a state-of-the-art studio located in the heart of Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. häutēyoga Queen Anne offers daily hot yoga classes taught by experienced Power Vinyasa and Hot Hatha instructors. This quiet, clean, insulated studio features an infrared heating system, an outdoor courtyard, cushioned hardwood flooring and an abundance of natural light. This studio also has a retail boutique that is stocked with merchandise from Na La, Be All Love, Manduka, Yogitoes and Vita Coco coconut water.
Specialty: Yoga 2131 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle 206.913.2561 hauteyogaqueenanne.com Twitter: @hauteyogaqueenanne
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Hazel Salon & Organics Phinney Ridge, Seattle Chic. Stylish. Relaxed. Hazel Salon & Organics is a chic little boutique offering haircuts, coloring, skincare, sugaring (hair removal) and more, all with an organic twist. The staff is friendly, passionate and highly trained. Every one of the stylists is a certified organic colorist. They are very active in giving back to the community through helping with charitable donations to Kiva, Matter of Trust, Women for Women, as well as local groups and schools.
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Seattle
Photos by Jeff Berg
Specialties: Hair Cuts and Color, Skincare, Hair Removal 5817 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, 206.453.3515 hazelsalon.com, facebook.com/hazelsalon, Twitter: @hazelsalon
What are your most popular products or services? Ammonia-free color not only smells better but also leaves the hair in fantastic condition. People also rave about how great our facials are! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Trust your instincts; they haven’t failed you so far. Every time I don’t listen to them, I am sorry!
Tara Berg
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom and potential to make it what you want. What is your motto or theme song? For the salon: innate beauty personified. For everything else: make it happen.
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Head to Toe Day Spa and Skincare Admiral District, West Seattle Relaxing. Informed. Attentive. Head to Toe Day Spa is a little gem in the Admiral District. For more than 10 years, they’ve provided outstanding pedicures and manicures, expert massage and body treatments, classic and technical facial treatments and beautiful permanent makeup. The spa is open seven days a week, including evenings, available for gift purchases, scheduling, and makeup or skincare advice.
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Seattle
Photos by Amanda Howse
Specialties: Manicures, Pedicures, Massage, Facials, Permanent Makeup 2328 California Ave SW, Seattle, 206.938.9300 Head2ToeDaySpa.com
What are your most popular products or services? Permanent makeup for the eyes: it’s imperceptible and you look great always! And the Sweetie Combo, which includes extended bikini wax, lash tint and express pedicure. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Ask questions and give yourself time to think about the answers. Trust your instincts, get to know your weaknesses and hire professionals to educate and assist you in those areas.
Joni Buckner
What do you like best about owning a business? I love the creative process and sharing knowledge. 155
What are your most popular products or services? Reception veils are extremely popular... why is this you may ask? It’s a second veil to the ceremony veil. Usually a blusher or smaller piece that is easier to wear. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Learn to understand why you love what you do and truly understand what you gain from your enjoyment. Don’t forget that feeling, and work for that enjoyment!
Zong Her
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Seattle
Who is your role model or mentor? My mother. She taught me how to sew when I was 3 and was an example of creativity for me as I was growing up. She made everything.
Her Couture Bridal Veils & Headpieces Seattle, Washington
Lower-left photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
Beautiful. Elegant. Timeless. Her Couture creates and designs beautiful veil and headpieces uniquely for each bride. Inspired by a bride’s keepsakes that capture her day, the line includes bridal veils, headpieces of bespoken fashion, silk tulles from Europe, vintage beading, delicate fabrics and elegant gems. Each design is made to lie perfectly on a bride’s hair and complement her apparel as well as her personality.
Specialties: Custom Bridal Veils and Headpieces 206.330.3359 her-couture.com Twitter: @famousinseattle
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Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography, except portrait
Hip Zephyr Phinney Ridge, Seattle Confidant. Fashionable. Memorable. Hip Zephyr is Seattle’s hidden gem. Located minutes from downtown with ample street parking, this intimate boutique rivals your favorite LA or NY shopping spots. With celebrity style clothing and Seattle practicality, you’re sure to find a treasure or two, and score many compliments from friends and admirers. Hip Zephyr carries clothing, accessories, and jewelry. They look forward to assisting you.
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Invest in marketing and reserve advertising dollars for the first three years—up front! What is your favorite part about owning a small business? Meeting great women whom I may never have crossed paths with otherwise. What motivates you on a daily basis? Compliments from my customers— when they identify with my style and say: “I love your shop!”
Dana Smith
What is your motto or theme song? “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” —Eleanor Roosevelt
Specialties: Stylish Clothing and Accessories 6421 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, 206.905.6069 hipzephyr.com, Twitter: @hipzephyr
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Readers come for stellar content, beautiful photographs and new things to see and try. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Budget for marketing. Hire professionals to do things you aren’t good at—it will end up saving you time and money later. Make sure you love what you do! What do you like best about owning a business? Having the freedom to do what I love—and to do it right! Who is your role model or mentor? My amazing grandmother, Honey Kennedy. She was smart, savvy, stylish, charming and a real firecracker. Jen McCabe How do you relax? I love to spend time at the ocean. Staring at the sea always puts things back into perspective. What do you CRAVE? A world where people are encouraged to pursue their dreams and passions. And red velvet cake—pretty much constantly.
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Main photo by Amanda Buzard
Honey Kennedy honeykennedy.com, Twitter: @honeykennedy
Curatorial. Obsessive. Lovely. Honey Kennedy is a lifestyle and fashion blog edited by Portland-based writer, Jen McCabe. On Honey Kennedy you’ll find design-focused features on fashion, interiors, products, art, film, music, travel and more. This blog prides itself on highlighting emerging designers and craftspeople from all over the globe, while keeping a focused eye on locally produced goods.
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Hoolie Designs 503.314.8352 hooliedesigns.com, Twitter: @hooliedesigns
Glamorous. Stunning. Irresistible. Hoolie’s creations turn everyday ensembles into classy, glamorous and spirited “haute couture.” Originally inspired by the lack of quality and affordable accessories, Hoolie was born out of that desperation. Unwilling to compromise, Hoolie creates highly fashionable designs—described as big and bold, hip and funky, and exotic. Using natural products, the creations make a statement, the crème de la crème if you will. Hoolie’s pieces are always one-of-a-kind. 86
Q&A What do you like best about owning a business? The creativity. Let’s face it: there are thousands of handmade jewelry entrepreneurs in the market. Bringing an edge—fulfilling a niche in a saturated arena—adds to the appeal. What is your biggest fear? If one of my pieces is damaged or breaks. I stand behind my products. Even if ordinary wear and tear is the culprit, I will “refresh” any piece if desired. What motivates you on a daily basis? Trying something new! Being able to create something totally different. We are all individuals with our own style, and your accessories should be just as unique, stylish and one-of-a-kind. Julie Muir
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What are your most popular products or services? Social media management and consulting, graphic design services (logos, business cards) and sponsored blog posts for companies that want to get the word out about their products or services.
Melanie Biehle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have an awesome support network. I never would have had the courage to leave the traditional workforce and start my own business if it weren’t for my family and friends. What do you like best about owning a business? Being in charge of my own day and spending my time working on fun things that I really care about. Also, having a legitimate reason to be on Pinterest. What place inspires you? Contemporary art museums and galleries. Seeing all of the awesome things that artists and photographers create always energizes me and motivates me to work on my own projects. What do you CRAVE? Authentic one-on-one or small group conversations, more time to just “be,� adventures with my husband and son, good design, humor, going to the movies, experiencing new places, art, reading, Nutella.
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Seattle
Inward Facing Girl Seattle, Washington
Photos by Julia Kinnunen Photography
Optimistic. Smart. Authentic. Inward Facing Girl provides marketing, social media, writing, graphic design and consulting services to creative companies, publications, business owners and bloggers. ​Melanie Biehle has over six years of marketing experience working with major motion picture studios and technology leaders. She loves helping businesses bring personality into their marketing and sharing their brand’s story in an interesting, authentic and visual way.
Specialties: Blogging, Social Media, Graphic Design, Marketing 206.724.8989, inwardfacinggirl.com facebook.com/inwardfacinggirl, Twitter: @melaniebiehle linkedin.com/in/melaniebiehle
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“My mentors are creative women who have the guts to say yes, especially my fabulous group of blogger/ artist/photographer friends.” —Melanie Biehle, Inward Facing Girl
Photo by Julia Kinnunen Photography
What are your most popular products or services? My eight-hour wedding collection that includes an e-session, eight hours of wedding coverage, a large fine art canvas and all digital imagery. It’s everything you want and need!
Jessica Ho
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be prepared to pour in way more time, energy and money than you originally planned on. Having your own business is a ton of work, but totally worth it! What do you like best about owning a business? I love being able to work from home and create my own goals; mostly, I love the luxury of making my own schedule.
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Seattle
Jessica May Photo Seattle, Washington Modern. Imaginative. Romantic. Jessica Ho is an international photographer based out of Seattle who specializes in fine art wedding photography. She is a preferred wedding vendor of Ruffled and the Wedding Chicks; she’s also had her work published on major wedding blogs such as Green Wedding Shoes and Style Me Pretty. She is well known for her hazy light, stylized imagery, and she just loves shooting handmade weddings!
Photos by Jessica May Photo
Specialties: Fine Art Wedding Photography 206.335.9731, jessicamayphotography.com
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Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Rely on fellow business owners who have “been there, done that” and be open to their suggestions and advice. What do you like best about owning a business? Creative freedom. How do you relax? By kicking back in a cozy business class seat with a fine red wine and the promise of new experiences ahead. What do you CRAVE? Lobster tail with mango butter at the private chef’s table dinner on Hayman Island, Australia, followed by watching the sun set with toes in the sand, champagne in hand. Monika Weinsoft 90
Jet Set World Travel 773.840.7945 jetsetworldtravel.com, Twitter: @JetSetMonika, monika@jetsetworldtravel.com
Main photo courtesy of qualia, upper right photo by Heather McGrath Photography
Imaginative. Passionate. Energetic. Jet Set World Travel specializes in creating first-class travel experiences to every corner of the globe. Combining in-depth industry knowledge with firsthand destination experience, Jet Set caters to the traveler who seeks “out of the box” travel experiences. With extra personal attention and added values not available to most travelers, you’ll get an unforgettable vacation tailored to your interests.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be persistent. Stick to your guns, and follow your instincts. There are moments that get really tough, but the end result is entirely too rewarding to turn your back on. What motivates you on a daily basis? Reading my client testimonials comes second best to seeing the smiles on their faces when they see their photos. Knowing I’m partially behind those smiles gives me everything I need.
Julia Kinnunen
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Seattle
What do you CRAVE? More women supporting women in all of their endeavors, and more strangers smiling at strangers on the streets. When those things happen, good things happen.
Julia Kinnunen Photography Seattle, Washington
Photos by Julia Kinnunen Photography
Honest. Positive. Inviting. Julia Kinnunen Photography is all about having an experience in front of the camera unlike any other. Your shoot will manifest warm smiles and goose bumps, confidence, and laughter in a welcoming, open environment. Julia Kinnunen Photography gives people the space that they need to embrace and celebrate the brightest and most positive elements of their beings.
Specialties: Portrait Photography, Weddings, Families juliakinnunenphotography.com, Twitter: @jwkinnunen
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? I like to keep things interesting and shoot just about everything, but my primary focus is weddings. I offer about any product and service a couple would be looking for. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Referrals are your best form of advertisement. Don’t spend a ton of money on online advertising; spend time on getting out and connecting with people. How do you relax? Nature walks with the dogs, having adventures with friends, making mixedmedia art and improving the home my husband and I recently bought.
Kelly Goode
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Photos by June Lion
June Lion Photography 217.473.5605 junelion.com
Artsy. Vintage-inspired. Adventurous. June Lion is Kelly Goode, a Portland-based wedding, portrait and commercial photographer who describes her style as fine art photojournalism. When it comes to wedding photography, she loves to focus on the humor, raw emotion, art and beauty of the big day. Although she calls Portland home, she’s more than willing to travel for out-of-state or destination weddings or events.
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Juniper Martin, ND 503.443.2332 westside-family-practice.com, Twitter: @drjuniper
Compassionate. Practical. Dedicated. Dr. Juniper practices as a family primary care physician. She uses an integrated approach, combining her study of complementary treatments such as herbal medicine, homeopathy and nutrition with her training in Western diagnostics, pharmacology and laboratory interpretation. Dr. Juniper is dedicated to bringing country medicine to the heart of Portland. She currently practices on the east and west side of the Portland metro area.
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? What I hear from patients is that they love the blending of Western medicine and alternative treatments that I offer. They love the feel of having an old-style family physician. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Remember your sisterhood! Reach out for help, and it will be there. Business is not about cutthroat competition anymore. We are most successful when we help each other thrive. What is your motto or theme song? “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” —W. Churchill Juniper Martin 95
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Apart from the bistro and our catering services, monthly cooking classes and seasonal gift baskets filled with my favorite wine, food and entertaining products. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Talent is important but you need business experience to create long-term success. You must have a general understanding and keep tabs on all facets of the your operation. What motivates you on a daily basis? Creating a fabulous experience for every customer. I strive to create trust in me and my staff to challenge our customers to experience new things, be it with food or wine! Kelly Bruce 96
K’Syrah Catering, Wine and Bistro 316 NE Dallas, Camas, 360.833.9429 ksyrahcatering.com, Twitter: @ksyrahcatering
Photos by June Lion
Camas
Elegant. Flavorful. Inspired. K’Syrah bistro is where Kelly Bruce demonstrates a passion for food. It’s oldworld style dining in the heart of downtown Camas and a perfect opportunity to explore combinations of texture, flavor and wine. Enjoy a quick, healthy lunch, experience a world of flavor by taking in a cooking class or savor an elegant dinner with wine tasting. At K’Syrah, only the flavors are complex.
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Portrait, main and lower-right photo by Erica Ann Photography, lower-left and middle photos by Justin Koeppen
Kate Byer Interior Design 503.333.6344 katebyerinteriordesign.com, Twitter: @KateByerDesign
Intuitive. Functional. Organized. Kate’s ability to seamlessly blend a client’s personal style and desire with her own creative vision into a cohesive and beautiful design comes from the intensely personal relationships she carefully builds and maintains with her clients throughout the design process. Successful spaces, no matter what size project or budget, evoke the client’s personality as well as reflecting unified and striking design elements.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Our specialty is designing kitchens and bathrooms. We pride ourselves in being able to properly recommend materials and layouts that are investments for today and tomorrow. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Go for it! Some of my girlfriends have their own businesses and they thrive doing what they love. Yes, it’s scary. You’re strong; don’t let yourself get in the way. What is your motto or theme song? “Investing in your lifestyle.” This is the big picture; this is what I create for a space and want clients to get out of it.
Kate Byer
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Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Listen to your clientele; appreciate their business. Know your limits but don’t be afraid to stretch them. Admire other women and ask for their advice. Be your beautiful self. What do you like best about owning a business? Helping men and women see their best self at every age. Who is your role model or mentor? Every man and woman who recognizes the possibilities within themselves to improve their lives, whether it’s having treatments to look better or smiling at the world and sharing inner joy. What is your motto or theme song? Because looking good never gets old. What place inspires you and why? Downtown Portland. Because our city is so beautiful and diverse. Whether it’s trying a new, wonderful restaurant, walking along the gorgeous waterfront or meeting incredible and entertaining new people. What do you CRAVE? Meaningful, real connections with people.
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West Hills
Photos by June Lion
Key Laser Institute for Aesthetic Medicine
™
9555 SW Barnes Rd, Ste 390, Portland, 503.291.1953 KeyLaserInstitute.com, Twitter: @keylaser
Visionary. Discreet. Radiant. People want to look their best at every age. Key Laser Institute for Aesthetic Medicine is the top choice for men and women who wish to reverse signs of aging, reshape their body and restore the health, appearance and overall well-being of their skin. An advanced cosmetic practice, Key Laser provides state-of-the-art medical treatments to patients who want natural, amazing results with minimal downtime. 103
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Custom furniture, distinctive textiles, unusual antiques, imported hand-loomed rugs and fine art. I am also a full-service designer offering space planning, color consulting, lighting design, drafting and renderings. What do you like best about owning a business? Is there a better way to live than to be paid for doing what you love to do? Who is your role model or mentor? Katharine Hepburn. She was a true trailblazer. I can identify with her athleticism and need for adventure and new challenges. The other side of me loves Doris Day!
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Kimberlee Jaynes Interior Designs 503.407.9525 kimberleejaynes.com
Photos by Greg Kozawa
Professional. Artistic. Meticulous. A Kimberlee Jaynes interior design is where style meets function—a delightful blend of “Why didn’t I think of that?” and “This is the way my home was meant to feel.” She’s an associate member of the Northwest Society of Interior Designers who has practiced both commercial and residential design.
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
KinĂŠ Fischler
Acupuncture + Herbs 1306 NW Hoyt St, Ste 410, Portland, 503.898.0768 kineacupuncture.com, Twitter: @kineacupuncture
Compassionate. Thoughtful. Soothing. Ancient traditions for modern health: mind-body therapies are the future of medicine. Who knew that getting poked with needles would leave one floating on a cloud? KinĂŠ has a gentle technique and offers a personalized approach to health care. Recognizing the uniqueness of each patient, she gets results with acupuncture, cupping, nutritional therapy and custom herbal medicine. Her therapies are covered by insurance.
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Q&A Pearl District
What are your most popular products or services? Blissful acupuncture treatments. Cupping massage that melts your muscles. Custom herbal formulas for stress, allergies, fertility and digestive disorders. Specialized in women’s health within the broader scope of family medicine. What motivates you on a daily basis? Seeing my patients get back in touch with their body’s innate ability to heal. It is exciting to be a partner in their work to transform their health. What is your motto or theme song? “If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask first, and then assist the other person.” Self‑care prepares us to show up for others! Kiné Fischler
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Left page: photos by Mike Chard Photography Right page: photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
kris&kate Seattle, Washington Trendy. Charitable. Fun. kris&kate is a trendy online boutique that combines shopping and giving. They offer daily deals on trendy fashion, and theirs is the only women’s fashion website that gives 10 percent of every purchase to bringing hope and help to women around the globe. Customers have pulled over 20 women out of poverty and into their own business through World Vision microloans simply by choosing to shop at kris&kate rather than any other fashion site.
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to create and to control my own hours. Who is your role model or mentor? Richard Branson, because he thinks out of the box and hires people smarter than he is; these are two of the keys to success!
Christi Sandvik
What motivates you on a daily basis? When I am tired or discouraged, I think of the women who will not be helped if I do not soldier on. Nothing makes me happier than to think of the women whose lives have been changed forever because of our customers’ loyalty and generosity in shopping with us.
Specialty: Fashion krisandkate.com, Twitter: @krisandkate facebook.com/krisandkate
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Lakeville Homes Bellevue, Washington Dedicated. Creative. Experienced. Lakeville Homes has been building, remodeling and beautifying homes in the greater Seattle area since 1985. What is a daunting process to most, is what Lakeville Homes lives and breathes. As a woman-owned, woman-run business, they understand what a big decision choosing between “almond” and “off-white” might be. And who doesn’t want a gal-pal to help in the home improvement decision-making process?
170
Seattle
Photos by Sacha Blue, Michael Walmsley and Aaron Leitz
Specialties: Custom Home Construction and Remodeling 425.453.8388, lakevillehomes.com facebook.com/lakevilleconstruction Twitter: @lakevillehomes
What are your most popular products or services? Turning outdated bathrooms into spalike oasises. Revamping kitchens so that they can be the social center of the house. Outdoor room additions to extend the Pacific Northwest summer. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Know your own weaknesses, and build a team to fill in those gaps. Lakeville Homes wouldn’t be a success with five clones— my team brings out the best in one another.
Jamie Hsu
Who is your role model or mentor? My mom. She started Lakeville Homes almost 27 years ago. An immigrant woman in a man’s industry, she’s a trailblazer and an all-around great person. 171
Photo by Sacha Blue
“I am lucky to have amazing people in my life who make me laugh and remind me to focus on what really matters.” —Jamie Hsu, Lakeville Homes
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? You must have a passion for what you do! Passion is more compelling than monetary advancements. Passion will set your eyes on fire and make you successful. What do you like best about owning a business? Finally waking up every day and living my dream! What motivates you on a daily basis? The fear that if this doesn’t work out I will have to work for my father. What do you CRAVE? Shopping! I guess that is why this job is just perfect for me!
Leanna Carreon
108
Pearl District
Photos by June Lion
Leanna NYC 402 NW 12th Ave, Portland, 503.719.6197 LeannaNYC.com, Twitter: @LeannaNYC
Innovative. Sustainable. Distinctive. Leanna Carreon has created a fresh, urban, laid-back environment while bringing the hottest trends from New York City. Encompassing every aspect of New York City’s urban environment, you will feel like you have stepped into a Manhattan boutique. Leanna NYC is a moderately priced New Yorkstyle women’s clothing boutique featuring happening fashions while providing an approachable retail atmosphere with top-notch customer service. 109
LKc Style 888.703.9171 lkcstyle.com, Twitter: @LKcStyle
Easy. Visionary. Involved. LKc Style is an affordable image consulting and personal shopping company exclusively for men—for any man with any budget! Started out of Chicago and growing in the Northwest, LKc Style has helped men of all ages find their own style identity from street clothes to suits. It’s often difficult to find time or know how to shop by yourself—LKc Style does all that for you!
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Q&A Who is your role model or mentor? The Sartorialist—through pictures only, he always captures form, function and the absolute creativity and individuality of people on this planet. What motivates you on a daily basis? Satisfied clients. The awesomeness of technology. Meeting new people. Diet soda! What place inspires you and why? Multnomah Falls—immense power, beauty, and you have to climb to get to the top! What do you CRAVE? Travel adventures, a hardy laugh, inspiring books, an awesome happy hour and A-line dresses of all sorts!
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LoveTrueNatural.com Kirkland, Washington Fresh. Rejuvenating. Effective. LoveTrueNatural.com is a retailer as well as wholesaler of certified natural and organic beauty products. They do the research for their customers and test each item they carry themselves to ensure it delivers the results it promises as well as has the cleanest ingredients. A team of aestheticians and beauty experts guided by the owner, who is a chemist herself, provides education about skincare and helps you select from more than 500 natural beauty products to find the right skincare regiment, choose natural makeup colors as well as offer tips on anti-aging. Most of the products are imported from Europe. Their new signature line is True Natural, which includes anti-aging treatments, self-tanners as well as sunscreens; this line received the highest rankings from Environmental Working Group and is NPA-certified.
Specialty: Natural, Organic Beauty Products LoveTrueNatural.com 877.515.8783 facebook.com/lovetruenatural Twitter: @lovetruenatural
Portrait by Sacha Blue
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Seattle
What makes your business unique? We take the guesswork out of purchasing safe beauty and personal care products for you! We read labels, evaluate ingredients and preservatives and make sure, all products we offer to you meet our strictest standards. Our team of beauty experts stays up to date on ingredients—we don’t settle for synthetics!
Uli Jacob
What tip would you give to women who are starting a business? Be prepared to work long hours and learn to enjoy your time off—it’s very valuable as it is short in the beginning. Start each new day energized and with a fresh mind. Hot yoga and saunas help me stay relaxed and balanced.
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Photo by Sacha Blue
“I see the glass as half full. I always look at the positive aspects of life and that keeps me motivated and working towards the next goal.” —Uli Jacob, LoveTrueNatural.com
What do you like best about owning a business? Watching the business and the people grow as well as teaching people to challenge themselves to be leaders. When this happens, you see success in people and in the business. What is your motto or theme song? A positive attitude. I love taking on challenges and seeing the wonderful results that you can achieve when you view the challenges as an opportunity instead of a problem with no solution.
Christine McCullugh
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Seattle
What do you CRAVE? I crave time; time to start an educational nonprofit organization for children and adults. I think we can all make society better by working at our full potential.
LTC Solutions Seattle, Washington Proactive. Strategic. Innovative. LTC Solutions is a full-service national brokerage firm that specializes exclusively in long-term care insurance as an employee benefit. LTC Solutions facilitates the entire long-term care insurance benefit process, from carrier and plan design selection to customized enrollment, along with comprehensive benefits service and administration.
Specialty: Long-Term Care Insurance 877.286.2852, ltc-solutions.com
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t let fear of not knowing everything stop you. Speak up, ask questions, learn as you go, seek mentors, do your research and go for it! What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom to shape the direction of our career goals. Although things don’t always turn out as planned, owning our own business allows us to be creative and pursue our dreams.
Caitlin Agnew and Lana Morisoli
180
Seattle
What motivates you on a daily basis? Watching the MAKERS community grow and interact. It’s inspiring to see the new connections made and relationships formed.
MAKERS Pike Place, Seattle
Photos by Will Foster
Collaborative. Creative. Social. MAKERS is an expansive 7,000 square foot coworking space in downtown Seattle. Members enjoy access to premium business amenities, conference rooms, telephone booths, large presentation kitchen, and comfortable lounge area. All industries are welcome here—including small businesses, telecommuters, entrepreneurs—techies and creative contractors alike. At MAKERS we are building the future of work, together.
Specialties: Coworking, Private Suites, Conference Rooms 92 Lenora St, Seattle, 206.457.3130 themakersspace.com, facebook.com/themakersspace Twitter: @makersspace, linkedin.com/in/the-makers-space
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Photos by Sacha Blue
Malibu Doll Swimwear Seattle, Washington Flirty. Glam. Sexy. Malibu Doll proves that under every swimsuit, there’s a doll, and in every doll is a woman uniquely expressed through color, design and embellishments. Every girl should make her splash unforgettable and with Malibu Doll, whether she is feeling sweet as candy or loud as a rock star, she can choose from a variety of swimsuits to express her inner doll.
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Our swimsuits with chains, pearls or lace. Girls and women love the extra bling! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do research, talk to others in a similar field and make sure you love what you’re doing so that work is fun and something you can be passionate about. What is your motto or theme song? Go big or go home.
Chanel Prineas and Alyssa Silver
What place inspires you and why? Malibu and the feeling it provokes to put the top down, blast music, put on red lipstick and sing at the top of your lungs with girlfriends.
Specialty: Sexy Swimwear malibudollswimwear.com Twitter: @malibudollswim
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Photo by Sacha Blue
“Proving the people who doubt us wrong motivates us. We put up with a lot of flack for being so young and starting so many companies.” —Chanel Prineas and Alyssa Silver, Malibu Doll Swimwear
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Treat your customers like guests at your home. And always remember to put away your sales tax money in a separate account! What is your favorite part about owning a small business? Creative freedom.
Maxine Nicklos
Who is your role model or mentor? My mother was one of the most wonderful women in the world. We did crafts and handmade projects from the time I was a small child. She was my best friend. What is your motto or theme song? “Lovely Day� by Bill Withers. What do you CRAVE? Any pastry from Bakery Nouveau.
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Seattle
Maxine’s Floral and Gift Maple Leaf, Seattle
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography, except portrait by Ingrid Pape-Sheldon Photography
Flowery. Feathery. Fragrant. Maxine’s Floral and Gift has been around since 1983. When you walk into Maxine’s, it’s like walking into a secret garden, Sophia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette and Munchkinland all at once. First you get hit with a burst of large crepe paper flowers in all colors, then orchids in bloom, live canaries and parakeets in aviaries and fancy, fresh florals.
Specialty: Creative Floral Arrangements 8811 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, 206.523.4200 maxinesfloral.com
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? The iPhone holder has been a popular new item. What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to structure my day. I can start sewing at 4am, then take the afternoon off, or if I have a busy day, sew late into the evening. What place inspires you and why? Purse watching in coffeeshops or on the Max or other public places. I’m always getting new ideas from what other women are carrying! What do you CRAVE? A well-made latte. Meghan Corbin
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Photos by June Lion
MegExpressions 206.779.7133 megexpressions.com, Twitter: @megexpressions
Recycled. Handmade. One-of-a-kind. MegExpressions features fun, over-the-top purses and accessories creatively hand-sewn from recycled materials. Meg has an eye for color and each of her bags, expertly sewn to ensure longevity, is a beautiful, one-of-a-kind creation! Meg has built a loyal fan base at the Beaverton Art Court and also sells her purses at several shops throughout the Portland area.
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What are your signature treatments or services? Hair extensions are package-priced and include haircut, home hair-care products, follow-up visits and removal. Package prices range from $175–$2,195. They have packages to give you a small pop of color, add more volume to your style, or get a full head of long gorgeous hair. Consultations are provided free of charge to determine what type, color, and texture of extensions would work best for you.
Cindy Reynolds
188
Seattle
What makes your business unique? Mermaid is a “team salon”—meaning that you will usually have more than one stylist working on your hair. This cuts the time sitting in the chair down to about half of what you would expect to spend somewhere else.
Mermaid Hair Extensions Kirkland, Washington
Photos by Danielle Bortone-Holt of Brick House Photography
Thoughtful. Creative. Distinctive. Mermaid Hair Extensions is the “Salon That Gives You MORE Hair.� The certified, professional stylists are passionate and committed to the art of hair extensions. They are constantly attending training classes and industry events and are up to date on all the latest trends and techniques! The salon is conveniently located in downtown Kirkland at Marina Park on Lake Washington.
Specialties: Hair Extensions, Color, Smoothing Treatments 14 Lakeshore Plaza, Kirkland, 425.827.5664 mermaidhairextensions.com, Twitter: @mermaidsalon facebook.com/MermaidHairExtensions
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? If you really want to make the jump into starting a business, think long and hard, and listen to the universe. When the signs say jump... jump!
Kirsten Helle
What do you like best about owning a business? I love helping others and knowing that I am directly responsible for helping make their lives better. I love the flexibility, of course, too! Seeing hard work come to fruition. Who is your role model or mentor? Chef Jamie Oliver, who started Food Revolution, and all the women entrepreneurs that I see going for their dreams and really making it work.
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Seattle
Mesa de Vida... Table of Life Seattle, Washington
Upper-left photo by Studio Soul Photography, lower-left (left page) and right photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Delicious. Nourishing. Affordable. Mesa de Vida...Table of Life founder Chef Kirsten Helle is a personal chef and nutrition consultant in the Seattle area. Kirsten lost over 100 pounds and shares recipes, nutrition tips and tools to help others reach their goals at Mesadevida.com. Kirsten has a weekly gluten-free, low glycemic healthydinner-menu membership program that makes rock stars in the kitchen!
Specialties: Personal Chef Service, Nutrition, Weekly Menus 253.468.2974, mesadevida.com facebook.com/mesadevida Twitter: @mesadevida linkedin.com/in/chefkirstenhelle
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Mindful Nutrition Seattle, Washington Compassionate. Insightful. Empowering. Mindful Nutrition is a nutrition coaching practice dedicated to helping others rediscover the joy of eating well and feeling great—without dieting. Located in Fremont, Mindful Nutrition’s mission is transforming food and body worries into food and body confidence through personalized nutrition and wellness coaching, Intuitive Eating groups and dynamic presentations.
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Seattle
Photos by Rebecca Ellison Photography
Specialty: Nutrition 206.673.4700, mindfulnutritionseattle.com facebook.com/MindfulNutritionSeattleProCoach Twitter: @mindfulRD, linkedin.com/in/minhhai
What are your most popular products or services? One-on-one nutrition coaching, either in-person or over the phone, which allows clients to receive personalized care to address their unique nutrition concerns. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Consult with mentors and coaches whom you admire to fast-track your growth.
Minh-Hai Tran
What do you like best about owning a business? I love having the freedom and flexibility to offer my clients the best nutrition care that I can without compromise. And I appreciate being in charge of my own schedule!
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Photos by June Lion
MKP Creative, Inc. 1200 NW Naito Parkway, Ste 330, Portland, 503.419.7677 mkpcreative.com, Twitter: @maggiekpalmer
Cutting-edge. Dynamic. Results-driven. MKP Creative isn’t a PR agency, and it’s not a design, ad or marketing firm. It’s a hybrid. Maggie Palmer, a writer, former television producer and marketing executive, gives businesses an alternative to hiring big agencies or dealing with various freelancers. Specializing in traditional PR and social media outreach, MKP is a results-driven firm whose clients enjoy local and national media attention.
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Q&A Pearl District
What do you like best about owning a business? I love the freedom of being my own boss, coming and going as I want, and I adore my clients and the challenges I face every day. What is your motto or theme song? “Don’t Stop Believing.” When I first started my company, I would sing that song in my head over and over, reminding myself to believe in my dreams. What is your biggest fear? Going back to work in a cubicle from 8–5! Dealing with a “boss.” Not being able to take my son to the park whenever I feel like it. What place inspires you and why? Sitting on the front porch of the home where I grew up in Ohio. It reminds me of where I come from and how far I’ve come. Maggie Palmer
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Photos by Corban Cooper
Mode Organic Salon Downtown Seattle and Redmond Inviting. Attentive. Rejuvenating. Mode Organic Salon is committed to you as experts in their industry. The full-service organic salons and spas are known for great customer service, cutting-edge technical skill and natural, effective products. Recognized as “Best of the Decade: Beauty� by Seattle Magazine, they love what they do and it shows. Now with two locations to serve you. The downtown Seattle location is in the heart of the shopping district, and the Redmond location is at the Commons. Mode offers hair care, skincare, massage, nail care and cosmetics services in a relaxing, urban environment. Welcome to Mode.
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Seattle
What are your signature treatments or services? Mode Signature Facials are customized for each guest and feature luxurious and effective Eminence Organic Skincare. Our Mode Signature Massage includes a refreshing back scrub. We also feature organic blue chamomile wax for hair removal services. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Focus on what you are passionate about, keep it simple and use technology to create ease.
Michelle Fusman
What motivates and inspires you? I am passionate about creating health and well-being for myself and others, inside and out.
Specialties: Skincare, Massage, Hair Care 1424 4th Ave, Ste 415, Seattle, 206.623.0195 15253 NE 40th Ave, Redmond, 425.861.7693 modeorganicsalon.com, Twitter: @modeorganic
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Building your own box of assorted truffles. You can customize a selection of your favorites, including our adorable critters. And everyone loves our delicious, handcrafted milkshakes. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Complete a business plan. Talk to other business people about your ideas and take their advice to heart. Be proud of your business; don’t be afraid to tell the world! What place inspires you and why? A brainstorming session at Moonstruck Headquarters. The creativity that our artisans have and the way they work our ideas into chocolate is true inspiration. Sally Bany 118
Moonstruck Chocolate CafĂŠ
Northwest
526 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, 503.542.3400 608 SW Alder St, Portland, 503.241.0955 Pioneer Place Rotunda: 700 SW 5th Ave, Portland, 503.219.9118 Beaverton Town Square: 11705 Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Beaverton, 503.352.0835 Lake Oswego Village: 45 S State St, Lake Oswego, 503.697.7097 moonstruckchocolate.com, Twitter: @moonstruckchoc
Downtown
Beaverton
Photos by Steve Cherry of Polara Studios, except portrait by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Lake Oswego
Whimsical. Delicious. Handcrafted. Moonstruck Chocolate handcrafts artisan chocolates that not only delight the senses but also nourish the imagination. Using only the finest and freshest ingredients, including superior quality cocoa beans originating from some of the most exotic locations in the world, Moonstruck Chocolate’s award-winning creations are handcrafted, hand-decorated and hand-packaged in Portland.
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Mother’s Bistro & Bar 212 SW Stark St, Portland, 503.464.1122 mothersbistro.com, Twitter: @mothersbistro
Warm. Friendly. Comforting. Chosen as Willamette Week’s “Restaurant of the Year” and “Best Comfort Food” by Citysearch, Mother’s serves home-style, authentic cooking from mothers around the world for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Everything’s made from scratch, perfected in the hands of four-star restaurant-trained chef Lisa Schroeder. At night, the sunny dining room transforms into an elegant chandelier-lit space, perfectly complementing the beautifully crafted wine list and the attentive service. 120
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Signature dishes include tender “Painted Hills” beef pot roast, chicken and dumplings and a different macaroni and cheese daily, as well as specialties from a different mother each month. What do you like best about owning a business? I can be efficacious and effect change (hopefully for the better) both in my business and community. What place inspires you and why? Beautiful gardens always entice me; they make me feel connected to the earth, nature and something greater than me.
Downtown
Lisa Schroeder
What do you CRAVE? Time to enjoy the gifts I’ve been given, like my wonderful grandchildren.
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Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Bellevue, Washington Educational. Motivating. Encouraging. Since your wealth touches many lives in many ways, it’s vital to get advice from a reliable source. At Morgan Stanley, you can expect to work with a financial advisor who invests time in understanding your specific situation and has the experience and resources needed to help you prepare for the future. Sara Asatiani strives to find where her valued clients are today and where they desire to be in the future, and then she works toward creating a comprehensive financial strategy to help ensure that they get there.
10
Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? “Without leaps of imagination or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning.” —Gloria Steinem. Dream big! Who is your role model or mentor? Eleanor Roosevelt, a woman who overcame an unhappy childhood, a betrayal in marriage, a controlling motherin-law and a gripping depression, all while staying true to her passions.
Sara Asatiani
What motivates you on a daily basis? Curiosity. Every woman has a special and unique story. I get the pleasure of listening to those stories every day while helping them achieve financial success along the way.
Specialty: Wealth Management for Women By appointment only: 500 108th Ave NE, Ste 1900, Bellevue 425.453.2211, morganstanleyfa.com/saraasatiani linkedin.com/in/sara110
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Photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
“About half of the world’s population lives on approximately 2 dollars a day. They inspire me!” —Sara Asatiani, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
What are your most popular products or services? Half-gallon jugs and home brew kits of the dry spice blend. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Know your heart, know your customers and know your numbers.
Jessica VidicanNeisius-Holguin
196
Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom to pursue my passions. What place inspires you? Anywhere that feeds my nomad soul: gardens, any secret hollow of nature, the deep woods, the ocean and interesting architecture.
Morning Glory Chai Seattle, Washington
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Spicy. Healthy. Invigorating. Morning Glory Chai is a spicy tea brew that warms your body and feeds your soul. This classic chai blend of ginger, clove, cardamom and black pepper also features exotic tonic herbs such as astragalus, fo-ti and gotu kola and is lightly sweetened with pure honey and organic maple syrup. Served in popular coffeehouses throughout the metropolitan Seattle area, Morning Glory Chai is also available nationally.
Specialties: Chai, Spice, Tea 206.297.CHAI, morningglorychai.com
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t sweat the small stuff (pun intended). It is easy to get stuck thinking small-scale. Remember, everything doesn’t have to be perfect for a business to be successful.
Paige Wager
What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to handpick the people who I work with. Not only do they offer awesome support to our members, but they keep me in shape as well. What place inspires you? Blue Zones: Pockets around the globe where people live long lives, are healthier than average and report an elevated level of happiness.
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Seattle
Northwest CrossFit Ballard, Green Lake and Bellevue
Photos by Rebecca Ellison Photography
Fun. Intense. Rewarding. Northwest CrossFit gyms feature a fresh approach to the tried-and-true basics of strength and conditioning far removed from the machine-stuffed gym experience of yesteryear. The everchanging WOD (workout of the day) combines variation, intensity and functional movement geared to produce dramatic change in strength, stamina and body shape, regardless of your fitness experience. Be prepared to sweat and groan and laugh. And succeed.
Specialty: Fitness 466 NE 70th St, Seattle 6419 15th Ave NW, Seattle, 206.420.3830 13203 NE 16th St, Bellevue, 425.881.4440 nwcrossfit.com, facebook.com/NWCrossfit
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Oasis Spa & Salon Woodinville, Washington Relaxing. Soothing. Serene. Nestled within the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, this is an oasis of warmth and serenity, a taste of paradise that you can experience any day of the week. Oasis Spa & Salon is where ambience and expertise work together to enchant the senses, enrich the body and nourish the soul.
Specialties: Haircuts and Color, Massage, Skincare, Body Treatments 18600 Woodinville–Snohomish Rd NE, Woodinville 425.486.9200, oasisspaandsalon.com Twitter: @oasisspasalon
Photos by Sacha Blue
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? We offer a variety of services from head to toe: haircuts, hair color services, massage, skincare, body treatments, manicures and pedicures are among the favorites. Who is your role model or mentor? Many come to mind. If I had to pick one, it would be Coco Chanel. What motivates you on a daily basis? My daughters. I feel it’s important to teach them to be loving, outgoing, independent and responsible. My staff members have been amazing role models for them.
Michelle Michael
What place inspires you and why? Hawaii. It is a feel-good place where you can kick back and relax. 201
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Prioritize, allow tons of room for grace and write down why you started in detail to inspire when needed. And make sure you have amazing cheerleaders for support! What do you like best about owning a business? Doing what I love, partnering with my clients to enhance their joyful celebration, creating expressions of others’ visions and shaping them with sweets and beautiful touches. What is your motto or theme song? Think big thoughts but relish small pleasures!
Amy Childs
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What place inspires you and why? I love window browsing, travelling to new places, fabric and antique stores, flea markets and bakery shops!
Main photo by Soul Mates Photography, portrait by Erica Ann Photography, lower left and middle photos by Jessica Hill Photography, lower right photo by Powers Photography Studios
One Divine Party 503.849.0716 onedivineparty.com, Twitter: @onedivineparty
Fun. Whimsical. Sweet. One Divine Party specializes in distinctive dessert, sugar and snack bars. Custom creating one party at a time to reflect the story behind the couple, company, mother-to-be, bride-to-be, graduate or a simple summer soiree. Each design element and confectionary is chosen to delight the palate and continue the vision being expressed to create one memorable signature to any event or party!
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Organize the Whole Shebang 360.921.2843 organizethewholeshebang.com, Twitter: @kristacolvin
Functional. Empowering. Sassy. Krista Colvin is the lifestyle expert for AM Northwest, author of The Shebang! The Smart Girl’s Pocket Guide to Doing It All and a recovering perfectionist. As a professional organizer and owner of Organize the Whole Shebang, Krista helps women get it and keep it together among all things S.H.E. (self, home, endeavors).
Photos by June Lion
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? The Shebang! The Smart Girls Pocket Guide to Doing It All. My free online Shebang lifestyle plan. The S.H.E. Consult—dedicated to answering your lifestyle management questions. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Carve out an office space designed to run your business. Remember that the key to being organized is staying organized. Take the time to maintain your space. What is your motto or theme song? Put on your big girl panties and deal with it! “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass... it’s learning to dance in the rain.”
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What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to make an idea come to life. Who is your role model or mentor? We’ve always admired visionaries, people who give back, who take risks and lead the way. Richard Branson has been a role model since the planning stages of our business.
Kathy Nelson and Jennifer Donogh
What motivates you on a daily basis? Bringing live, online video to the average brand. The ability to bring people together over a shared experience, regardless of where they are is incredibly powerful. How do you relax? We relax with family, wine and music.
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Seattle
Ovaleye Seattle, Washington
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Innovative. Effective. Engaging. Ovaleye is a brand-building engine fueled by live streamed content. The team behind the virtual event production studio first started streaming their own content to promote the hosting brand of their business. After seeing how the interactive, multi-platform events extended their brand, they began offering their platform and production services to others. Today Ovaleye produces virtual launch events, conferences and weekly shows for brands.
Specialties: Live Streaming Video Hosting and Production 877-OVALEYE, ovaleye.tv facebook.com/ovaleyellc Twitter: @ovaleye
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Clothing suited to your lifestyle that you’ll love to wear. Having clothing that fits makes you feel and look good. Who is your role model or mentor? Independent business people who care about their customers and who use positive attitudes and forward-thinking as their guides. What place inspires you and why? Portland, because of the social sensibilities of the people. What do you CRAVE? A vibrant, loving community that works and supports each other, both personally and in business. Holly Bressler-Harris and Leslie Bressler 128
Oxalis 1824 NW 24th Ave, Portland, 503.206.8568
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
Northwest
Helpful. Embracing. Nonpareil. Nestled in a century-old house is the warm, inviting store, Oxalis. This unique garden boutique features an eclectic mix of savvy clothing and shoes; fetching, artful personal and home accessories; and a spacious garden filled with distinctive plants and garden decor. Everything has already been edited for you; the owners only purchase the best, whether it’s plants or clothing.
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Photos by Lovely Photography by KC
the paper feather Downtown Seattle Fun. Fancy. Handmade. Located in the world-famous Pike Place Market, the paper feather specializes in fun and fancy paper goods and small gifts designed by owner Jennifer Cullin. Featured items include postcards, gift tags, journals, canvas prints, gift boxes and vintage paper goods. In addition to the items in the shop, custom design is available for special events and more!
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Definitely my postcards, gift tags and handmade greeting/vintage cards. They can be used for any occasion, for any person. Who doesn’t love receiving a handwritten note in the mail? What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Take a leap of faith and follow your heart. It’s scary venturing into the unknown, but you just have to try! Networking with other business owners is also vital.
Jennifer Cullin
What do you like best about owning a business? I love creating products that make people happy. I am excited to help people find that perfect card or gift for their loved one.
Specialties: Paper Goods, Gifts and Custom Designs 1520 Western Ave, Seattle thepaperfeathershop.com, Twitter: @paperfeatherjen
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What are your most popular products or services? Antique paintings of original textile and wallpaper designs, antique and vintage textile documents, yarn-dyed woven textile documents and Edwardian garments for their trim and design details. What do you like best about owning a business? I use all of my creative talents, merchandising skills, customer service experience and business acumen—sometimes all at once!
Pat Nugent
206
Seattle
What is your motto or theme song? “All beautiful things belong to the same age.” —Oscar Wilde
Patricia Nugent Design Queen Anne, Seattle
Photos by Lovely Photography by KC
Artistic. Inspirational. International. Patricia Nugent Design is a niche business selling design inspiration and concept in the form of original antique designs, antique and vintage textiles, wallpapers, botanicals and women’s Edwardian garments. Customers include textile designers for clothing, crafts, home, accessories, tabletop, top of bed and paper goods. With an archive of over 500,000 designs located in a cottage on Queen Anne Hill, to-the-trade customers travel to Seattle from the US, Canada and the UK for inspiration. The designers at Patricia Nugent Design travel to major cities for international design shows and private design trunk shows.
Specialties: Design Inspiration from Antique Designs and Textiles 206.285.6658, patricianugenttextiles.com linkedin.com/in/patnugenttextiles
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Photo by Lovely Photography by KC
“Be clear about what you want to do and align your actions to support that vision. As soon as cash flow allows, hire talented people to do what you do not do well so that you can do what you do best.” — Pat Nugent, Patricia Nugent Design
Q&A What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to fix things that aren’t working immediately and not having to consult a committee or five tiers of management. Who is your role model or mentor? My 12 fellow EWOP (Entrepreneurial Women of Portland) ladies. We have been supporting each other for the past five-plus years by providing advice, crying on each other’s shoulders, etc. What motivates you on a daily basis? My clients. My shop attracts the most interesting and inspiring women I could ever hope to meet. Their enthusiasm keeps me motivated in the most challenging of times.
Jo Carter
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Pearl District
Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
physical element 1124 NW Lovejoy St, Portland, 503.224.5425 physicalelement.com
Architectural. Experimental. Approachable. Physical Element offers fashion-forward collections with a nod to the avant-garde. If you are looking for offbeat, distinctive labels from Europe and Japan as well as the US and Portland, this is your store. Lines are carefully edited and aren’t ordered “deep,” so you can rest assured that your look is indeed unique.
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Photos by Lisa Warninger, except portrait by Alicia Carrier
Pigeon Toe 727 SE Morrison St, Portland, 503.709.5479 pigeon-toe.com, Twitter: @pigeon_toe
Understated. Eclectic. Charming. Pigeon Toe is a contemporary decor company with a simple aspiration: to provide humankind with everyday beauty. Their goods can be found in boutiques internationally, including their flagship store located in southeast Portland. Shop their line of heirloom-quality ceramics, handcrafted on-site, alongside a finely curated selection of home decor and personal accessories made by companies that share their vision for well-designed products that transcend trends. 132
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Some of our customers’ favorite products include our outdoor string lights, tabletop and hanging planters, nesting bowls and ceramic drawer pulls. We also carry a diverse selection of air plants. Who is your role model or mentor? Eva Zeisel is one of my design icons, a great designer with an amazing life story. I also admire how Jonathan Adler built his empire starting with a single potter’s wheel. What is your motto or theme song? From Design House Stockholm: “Don’t make something unless it’s both necessary and useful. But if it is both necessary and useful, don’t hesitate to make it beautiful.” —Josh Porter
Buckman
Lisa Jones
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Pink Pagoda Style Seattle, Washington Inspiring. Versatile. Detailed. Pink Pagoda Style was created from a love for fashion and helping women look and feel their best. Assisting clients define their own personal style and moving them through any fashion impasse they find themselves in, gives the client a new sense of self and a fresh boost of confidence. Pink Pagoda Style has grown to include speaking engagements and events in the Pacific Northwest.
Specialties: Closet Consults, Private Events, Personal Shopping 425.765.3589 pinkpagodastyle.com facebook.com/PinkPagodaStyle Twitter: @PinkPagodaStyle
Black-and-white photo by Connor Surdi Photo
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Talk (and listen) to a lot of people, you will learn a ton; ask for help, you can’t do it all yourself; and always trust your instinct! What do you like best about owning a business? Flexibility to adjust as I need to, opportunities to give back to the community through my job and the happiness I feel when I’ve made a breakthrough with a client.
Kim Brooks
What motivates you on a daily basis? My tween daughter, who I want to be a fabulous role model for. And the need to get women out of their yoga-wear wardrobes!
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Always be on the lookout for a “need” that you can satisfy through your business. Where you find a need, you’ll find a business opportunity. Never become stagnant or complacent.
Marlena Stahn with Sierra Ortega (Director of Operations and PR)
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? I can make it whatever I want. I can be creative and explore ways to set my business apart from the competition. The sky is the limit. What motivates you on a daily basis? Financial success. I want to help my family as well as charities through our fundraising events. Fund-raising for charities is one of my favorite aspects of this business.
Plan Ahead Events of Seattle - Bellevue
Enthusiastic. Creative. Distinctive. As a full-service meeting and event management company, Plan Ahead Events of Seattle - Bellevue can conceptualize and implement meetings and events of all sizes and calibers. As experts in the industry, they maintain national strategic relationships and an extensive knowledge base that allow them the resources to execute meetings and events at any level. Their understanding of customer service and commitment give them a significant advantage above the rest.
Specialties: Corporate Events, Fund-raisers, Travel Incentives 425.405.4900, planaheadevents-seabell.com, Twitter: @PAESeaBell facebook.com/PlanAheadEventsSeaBell
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“I met a hotel employee who was so genuinely enthusiastic and happy that I was drawn to ask him why. His answer? ‘Happiness is between the seconds.’ I love it!” —Marlena Stahn of Plan Ahead Events of Seattle - Bellevue
What makes your business unique? We create unique opportunities for travelers to open their hearts and minds to people and places they might not otherwise know. We also offer some very special experiences—from cooking at an Indian home stay, to drumming in Brazil or getting up close and personal with animals in Namibia.
Marta Rabins and Heather Murchison
What inspired you to start your business? We’re kindred spirits with similar backgrounds—we met when we chaperoned a 3-day field trip and by the time we returned home we had a framework to start building Ponte Travels. What do you CRAVE? Dark chocolate, undiscovered places and meeting new people.
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Seattle
Ponte Travels Seattle, Washington
Portrait by Paul Butterfield Photography
Adventurous. Spirited. Compassionate. Ponte Travels is a boutique travel company whose mission is to explore, have fun and give back. They create custom itineraries for individuals and groups to experience some of the most culturally and wildlife-rich places on earth. Their goal is to make connections, not just see the sights. Every trip contributes to an NGO working within the host country and focuses on sustainable tourism.
Specialties: Custom, Special-interest Travel to Exotic Places 206.226.5877, pontetravels.com, Twitter: @PonteTravels facebook.com/pontetravels
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Portland Fighting Fillies Women’s Football Team fightingfillies.com
Dynamic. Bold. Disciplined. The Portland Fighting Fillies are a women’s full-contact football team comprised of women from all walks of life. The Fillies provide the greater Portland area entertainment with fast-paced, NFL style football as well as with a variety of off-season events for the athletic and non-athletic alike. The Fillies strive to empower women one yard at a time.
Photos by Andy Redford
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Q&A What do you like best about owning a business? Being a player-owned team is refreshing and innovative, and makes working with so many intelligent and driven women who share the same passion for football a joy. Who is your role model or mentor? The Fillies look up to professional athletes who work really hard, don’t showboat, play through adversity and shine in situations that are typically difficult for others. What motivates you on a daily basis? Being a part of the Fighting Fillies becomes more than trying something new. You become part of a family. The love of the family is what motivates us every day. How do you relax? Surprisingly, playing soccer. But there is always something satisfying about a hot shower, baggy sweatpants, getting into bed and watching Friends with your favorite pet by your side. What place inspires you and why? Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Spokane and the NICU at Deaconess Hospital. Inspiration comes from the tenacity, fight and specialized environment in which these fragile children start their lives.
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Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
PrettyStick Beauty Downtown Bainbridge Island Healthy. Beautiful. Informative. PrettyStick Beauty is a beauty store with a heart and a conscience. This beautiful store is filled with everything you need to feel beautiful and stay healthy, plus lots of fun gifts and sexy (and comfortable) lingerie! PrettyStick carries a wide range of makeup, skincare, hair care and bath and body products, all without any harmful chemicals.
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? I love being allowed to juggle the micro and macro decisions, planning for the future while still working oneon-one with my customers. What motivates you on a daily basis? My two beautiful daughters motivate me to do more and to do better every day. How do you relax? A very hot, very salty bath!
Lari Seltzer (Kellie Creamer not pictured)
What place inspires you and why? Napoopoo Beach in Hawaii, a place with the perfect combination of strength and grace.
Specialties: Natural Organic Skin, Hair and Body Care 278 Winslow Way E, Ste 105, Bainbridge Island, 206.842.3333 prettystickbeauty.com, Twitter: @prettystickbi facebook.com/prettystickbeauty
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Photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
“Embrace the concept of giving. If you truly enjoy what you do and want to ‘give’ it to everyone, they’ll be happy to come pay a fair price for it.” —Lari Seltzer, PrettyStick Beauty
Photos by Paige Jones
Productive Flourishing Portland, Oregon Innovative. Change-making. Supportive. Productive Flourishing is a small-business development company helping people build better businesses by focusing on getting more customers, increasing profit and growing strategically. Productive Flourishing understands small company growth dynamics like few other people do. With a focus on productivity, planning and team development, Productive Flourishing grasps what makes individuals, organizations and the marketplace tick and shares those insights in accessible, actionable ways.
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Portland
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It’s important to be “all in” when you are in business. If you’re not making mistakes when you start, then you aren’t building the best business for yourself.
Angela Wheeler
What do you like best about owning a business? I love having the opportunity to serve other small businesses and help ownerexecutives see their vision come to fruition. Being hands on with someone’s business/dream is an honor. What motivates you on a daily basis? I’m motivated by having the gift of another day. I almost passed away from health complications and since then have seized every day as if it could be my last.
Specialties: Business Consulting, Marketing and Website Design 971.255.0918, productiveflourishing.com facebook.com/ProductiveFlourishing Twitter: @AngelaWheeler, linkedin.com/in/angelawheelerproflo
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“‘Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.’ These words are a beautiful reminder for me in my daily practice of openness, patience, love and acceptance.” —Angela Wheeler, Productive Flourishing
Photo by Paige Jones
How do you measure success? Getting a full night of sleep each night, not feeling tethered to my computer or phone, having an amazing team surrounding me and seeing my clients prosper! What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Listen to your intuition. It will tell you when to move, when to stay put and when to speak. The more you use it, the sharper it gets.
Jamie Teasdale
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Portland
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be flexible, always be learning and write down your journey. I wish I had started journaling my journey when I first started out. The lessons I’ve learned are treasures.
Propel Businessworks Downtown Portland
Photos by Jessica Daniels
Strategic. Passionate. Visionary. Propel Businessworks is devoted to growing small businesses. Since their launch in 2009, their innovative approach to communication strategies has supported companies in developing their unquie voice in the marketplace. Utilizing branding, collateral, website presences and online communication planning and management, Propel makes it easy for any company to succeed in reaching and growing their audience.
Specialties: Planning and Promoting Small Businesses 1230 SW 1st Ave, Ste 200, Portland, 503.273.5574 propelbusinessworks.com, Twitter: @propelbizworks facebook.com/PropelBusinessworks, pinterest.com/propelbizworks linkedin.com/company/propel-businessworks
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What are your most popular products or services? One of our most popular spaces is the Butterfly Lounge on the second level of Grim’s. It’s a perfectly beautiful, sexy space for private parties. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Always do what you’re passionate about, and through the tough times remember why you began that journey in the first place!
Laura Olson
220
Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? I love the challenge. Each day presents itself with a new hurdle, and every day is different. I love the constant demand for creativity.
Pterodactyl{Group} Seattle, Washington Sexy. Invigorating. Delicious. Pterodactyl Group houses four amazing restaurants and bars including Po Dog, Grim’s and Auto Battery Bar. They specialize in unique culinary and bar offerings. Po Dog started the brand with gourmet wieners while its neighbor, Auto Battery, caters to sports fans. Grim’s offers a unique three-level dining, drinking and dancing experience. Diversity is Pterodactyl Group!
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Specialties: Unique Culinary and Bar Offerings pterodactylgroup.com, facebook.com/pterodactylgroup Twitter: @pterodactylgroup, linkedin.com/in/olsonlaura Grim’s: 206.324.7467, grimseattle.com facebook.com/grimsprovisions, Twitter: @grimseattle Po Dog: 206.325.6055, podogs.com facebook.com/podogs, Twitter: @podog Auto Battery Bar: 206.325.2886, autobatterybar.com facebook.com/autobatterybar, Twitter: @autobatterybar
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Queen Anne Dispatch Queen Anne, Seattle All-encompassing. Warm. Colorful. Two sisters, Sabrina Rinderle and Tara Espinoza, have evolved Queen Anne Dispatch into an amazing shopping and shipping location. Imagine the possibilities of being able to buy, wrap, box and send all in one fell swoop. Having accomplished the task, you leave Queen Anne Dispatch guilt-free while carrying a craft shopping bag with the perfect necklace, baby gift, dress, or humorous card inside.
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Seattle
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Specialties: Gifts and Shipping 2212 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, 206.286.1024 queenannedispatch.com
What are your most popular products or services? The store is part boutique with a wide variety of apparel, shoes and gifts, and part personal mailbox area with shipping services. Who is your role model or mentor? Our mother, who started this crazy rollercoaster ride. What motivates you on a daily basis? Pleasing our customers in new ways. Finding ways to do anything better.
Tara Espinoza and Sabrina Rinderle
What place inspires you and why? Other local small businesses and neighborhoods that have evolved to include shopping districts.
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Show up every day to work, mentally, physically and emotionally. Who is your role model or mentor? Oprah Winfrey. She inspires me because she lives her dream every day and has such a profound effect on people. What is your biggest fear? Going back to work for corporate America!
Laura A. Ko
What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that every day I have to start at zero. What place inspires you? India, for all its magical wonders and landmarks.
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Seattle
Real Estate by LK Eastlake, Seattle
Photos by Rebecca Ellison Photography
Professional. Exciting. Gratifying. Laura began her real estate career in 2004 after spending six years working in property management. Over the years, she’s gained valuable knowledge and experience in putting the client first. Equipped with strong customer service skills and sales experience, strong analytical and organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, Laura has been crowned a “Zillow 5-Star Agent.” She’s passionate about serving clients with their real estate needs and helping them find their dream home!
Specialty: Real Estate By appointment: 214 E Galer St, Ste 300, Seattle 206.371.7506, laurako.com
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“The best part of owning my business is that I have my own schedule and my own work ethic.” —Laura A. Ko, Real Estate by LK
Photo by Rebecca Ellison Photography
Rebecca Ellison Photography Seattle, Washington Honest. Quirky. Relaxed. Becca Ellison is all about getting true portraits of you being you. She focuses on the momentous times in your life, be it a wedding, expecting a child or those first whirlwind months with a new baby in the house; it’s these moments that you can look back on to see your life changing. Based in Seattle, she’s also open to capture life-changing moments worldwide.
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Seattle
Photos by Rebecca Ellison Photography
Specialties: Wedding and Portrait Photography 206.250.9105, rebeccaellison.com facebook.com/rebeccaellisonphotography Twitter: @rebeccaellison linkedin.com/in/rebeccaellison
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Write a business plan so that you have something on paper that helps guide you where you want to take your business. What do you like best about owning a business? Flexible hours, and the power to really craft what my business will look like. What I get out of it depends 100 percent on what I put into it.
Becca Ellison
Who is your role model or mentor? My mother. The amount of energy and creative willpower she has is awe-inspiring. What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that the images I am capturing will be important keepsakes for my clients for the rest of their lives. 229
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Color consultations, custom draperies, bedding, re-upholstery of family heirlooms, a full range of textiles and wall treatments. Also, we are known for having timeless gifts for loved ones and/or colleagues. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Start in phases and always budget expansion costs with a realistic view. I’d recommend that you review estimates a week later, then double your projections as you list the details.
Trisha Guido 138
Who is your role model or mentor? Diana Platika of Platika Financial Solutions—one of the most gifted business women I have ever met. Although she’s a business/financial consultant, she takes a very holistic approach to money.
Relish Home and Interior Design Pearl District
1715 NW Lovejoy St, Portland, 503.227.3779 shoprelish.com, Twitter: @relishinteriors
Photos by Kimberly Brandt, except portrait by Rachel Hadiashar
Modernist. Organic. Timeless. Relish features a showroom full of well-curated interior lines as well as a full menu of interior services for the home. All lines represented are timeless, sustainable and functional. The value to clients is that Relish believes in local, as well as international designers that give a home a unique, artistic personality and reflect the values of the owner(s).
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Photos by Erica Ann Photography
ReStyle Resale 633 NW Hickory, Ste 120, Albany, 541.928.7315 restyleresale.com, Twitter: @restyleresale
Thoughtful. Inspiring. Innovative. ReStyle was born from a passion to create a setting for those who enjoy shopping but also care about the environment. Both men and women can consign their current fashion clothing and accessories for a chance to delight someone else. Items such as premium denim, designer handbags and unique accessories are a mainstay at the upscale boutique.
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Q&A What do you like best about owning a business? The feeling of pride when a client truly adores what you are doing tells you how much they love what you’ve created.
Albany
What motivates you on a daily basis? The desire to always be making the store even better. I want to be setting the example of how to do things well rather than following others’ examples. What place inspires you and why? One of the places that I draw a ton of inspiration from is actually a virtual space: Etsy. I can get lost in all of the lovely handmade items.
Marianne Fox
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Floral design for event, gifts or home that is artful, detail-obsessed and uniquely tailored to the personality of my client or recipient. I’m often told, “You read my mind!� What do you like best about owning a business? I love that no one is standing over me telling me to make the arrangement faster or use less ingredients. I run an art studio, not a factory. What do you CRAVE? Travel, the perfect meal, time with charismatic friends new or old, time with family and more space for my ever-growing collection of unique vaseware and event props. Rosemary Stafford
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Alphabet District
Portrait by June Lion
Rosemary Stafford Floral Design By appointment only: 2892 NW Upshur, Portland rosemarystafford.com
Vibrant. Detailed. Tailor-made. Rosemary Stafford Floral Design can offer you what most busy retail flower shops cannot: highly detailed, personalized, luxe floral design for your wedding, event, gifting needs or home. Rosemary adores having the opportunity to truly get to know each client’s vision, personality and sense of style. She recognizes that as the lifespan of a flower is brief, it should be celebrated by being artfully, uniquely and gloriously displayed. 145
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Know who you are, know what you expect out of your employees and be creative. Give your employees the chance to express their ideas and opinions. What motivates you on a daily basis? My motivation is my family. Without them, I have no reason to work so hard. What is your motto or theme song? Live each day like it was your last. What place inspires you and why? Egypt inspires me. Too see such wonders that no one today can figure out. What do you CRAVE? Success. Jamie L. O’Neill 146
Tualatin
Rumours Salon 7715 SW Nyberg St, Ste B, Tualatin, 503.692.3848 alluringlook.net, Twitter: @rumourssalon
Photos by June Lion
Fun. Artistic. Fashionable. At Rumours Salon, experienced hair artists specialize in styles that fit your individuality, lifestyle and facial features. Rest assured, you will receive the best style and haircut that makes it easy for you to look good every day. Rumours Salon offers the services you need to look and feel your best. From hair and nails to skin and more, they have it all.
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What are your most popular products or services? Couch to 5K Class, half-marathon training, boot camps and social events. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It doesn’t have to be “Go big or go home.” You can grow at your own comfort level. Relish in your accomplishments, rather than focusing on your next conquest.
Beth Baker
230
Seattle
What do you CRAVE? Change. I love witnessing it. Evolving is something greater than me, and seeing people change from thinking they couldn’t run to becoming runners is amazing.
Running Evolution Seattle, Washington
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Active. Friendly. Rad. Running Evolution is a “new to exercise” running program. It’s for people who have never run before or for whom it’s “been a while,” to get them to start being active, empowering them with exercise. Fun and accessible in a social setting, Running Evolution takes the fear out of running. Now they’ve evolved to run boot camps and clinics, and corporate and community events.
Specialties: Teaching People Who Have Never Run Before How to Run 206.291.7513, runningevolution.com facebook.com/running.evolution Twitter: @runningevolve
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Establish solid safety habits for your personal life as well as for your business life. What do you like best about owning a business? Setting my own schedule and having the ability to change things up when I discover something else might be more effective. How do you relax? I love, love, love Thai foot massage spas where I can get a full hour massage for only $30!
Donna M. Angevine
232
Seattle
What do you CRAVE? A world in which women are not fearful because they have been empowered by knowledge.
Safety Sirens Seattle, Washington
Left page: upper-right photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
Empowering. Engaging. Informative. Safety Sirens is a consulting and educational agency with a focus on teaching women how to live full and exciting lives while still keeping themselves safe from criminals, predators and stalkers. Safety Sirens provides empowering, engaging and dynamic personal safety workshops to provide women with the information and skills that personal protection specialists (aka bodyguards) employ when protecting celebrity and high-net-worth clients.
Specialties: Personal Safety, Firearms Instruction 480.495.0118, gunbetties.com
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Photos by Amanda Howse Photography
sandylew Downtown Seattle Chic. Edgy. Fun. sandylew makes getting dressed every day fun and interesting! Carrying over 150 different worldwide and local designers, sandylew cherry-picks the best for us all! Sandy and the wonderful women who work with her are always ready with a good eye and honesty to create looks for every day and special days, too! The welcoming atmosphere makes finding new, chic looks easy!
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? The women I work with and the women who come in every day are amazing! Helping a woman to look and feel good is pure joy! What motivates you on a daily basis? For whatever reason, I wake up excited every day; it’s the new day that motivates me.
Sandy Lew-Hailer
What is your motto or theme song? “Having fun getting dressed!” This is the motto of sandylew, and I mean it! What place inspires you? The golden light that filters through Seattle buildings just before sunset. This warm, eerie glow makes me understand the excitement of this moment and the possibilities of the next.
Specialties: Fashionable Fun for Everyone 1408 1st Ave, Seattle, 206.903.0303 sandylew.com facebook.com/sandylew.seattle
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Photo by Amanda Howse Photography
“Why you are going into business? The core of your thought must be intense enjoyment—this sustains you. The excitement, not the money; this permeates your business, making success sweet!” —Sandy Lew-Hailer, sandylew
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Find what you love. It always shows when you truly love your work, and you’re going to spend a lot of hours doing it! What do you like best about owning a business? I really enjoy being in the thick of things. I’m creating and learning, and I’m building relationships with all kinds of people. I love seeing how my work helps them. What motivates you on a daily basis? Creating for and working with awesome people are always great motivators for me! It’s also very cool to play different roles and take on new challenges.
Sarah Giffrow
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Sarah Giffrow Creative 971.338.9218 sarahgiffrow.com, Twitter: @SarahGiffrow
Expressive. Clean. Powerful. Sarah Giffrow Creative is a creative powerhouse of design, coding and photographic skill. Custom website design is Sarah’s forte, but she’s also skilled in print and graphic design, and lives and breathes the Internet. She also offers professional photography for portraits, weddings and businessess, and has several years’ experience creating expressive photos for a variety of clients and personalities throughout Portland. 149
What are your most popular products or services? Guests love our signature Pike Place Market Food & Cultural Tour. From flying fish to debunking the “original” Starbucks myth, we pack a lot of rich history and delicious food tasting into two hours that excite locals and visitors alike. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t be afraid to seek out mentors proactively. You aren’t alone!
Angela Shen
What motivates you on a daily basis? The desire to remain the leader in our industry. I guess you could say I’m a little competitive! What is your motto or theme song? Stop waiting. Just go!
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Seattle
Savor Seattle Seattle, Washington
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Delicious. Inviting. Happy. Savor Seattle offers unique food experiences that show off the best culinary attributes of our city. From award-winning food tours to private evening dine-around events, you will learn about the exciting culture of food with top chefs who make Seattle a delicious place to live. Tantalize your taste buds with Pacific Northwest seafood, fine wine, gourmet chocolate and much more!
Specialty: Award-winning Food Tours 1-888-98-SAVOR (888.987.2867) savorseattle.com, Twitter: @savorseattle
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Photos by Lovely Photography by KC
Seattle Chocolate Company Seattle, Washington Chic. Expressive. Gourmet. Seattle Chocolates has been crafting premium, all-natural European chocolates with no preservatives, additives or extenders for 20 years. In a state-of-the-art facility just south of downtown Seattle, the Seattle Chocolates’ team continues to expand with innovative new lines, beautiful packaging and delicious new flavors. Seattle Chocolates’ extensive products are available in gourmet and specialty shops, and at more than 8,000 grocery stores nationwide.
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Most popular: San Juan sea salt truffle bar. My favorite: blackberry crème, dark chocolate truffle made with fresh, freeze-dried blackberries. What do you like best about owning a business? I like the creative outlet that my company gives me to express my likes and taste. Plus, I love chocolate and I get to call it my job.
Jean Thompson
What motivates you on a daily basis? The energy of the team of people who work at my company. It keeps me going and makes me want to go to work every day.
Specialties: Chocolate Truffles, Truffle Bars 1180 Andover Park W, Tukwila, 800.334.3600 SeattleChocolates.com, facebook.com/SeattleChocolates
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Photo by Lovely Photography by KC
“Love your product and understand your customer and everything else will fall in place.” —Jean Thompson, Seattle Chocolate Company
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Many people come for our burger and all our entrﾃｩes are great as are our homemade pastas and hand-tossed pizzas. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Make sure your business fits in with your passions and daily life. What do you like best about owning a business? I love the creative collaboration of the restaurant business from developing the menus to the design of space to the service philosophy窶馬othing works unless it all works together!
Julie and Alex Bond 150
Alphabet District
Serratto Restaurant 2112 NW Kearney St, Portland, 503.221.1195 serratto.com, Twitter: @serrattopdx
Portrait and upper-left photo by Erica Ann Photography
Delicious. Friendly. Fresh. Serratto is a neighborhood restaurant serving authentic and innovative dishes from Italy, France and the greater Mediterranean region. The seasonal menu is built around a commitment to using natural meats, the freshest seafood and locally grown fruits and vegetables. With an outstanding wine list, knowledgeable staff, a beautiful dining room, relaxed lounge and full bar, Serratto has the perfect table!
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SHE-SHE 541.760.5268 sheshepdx.com, Twitter: @sheshepdx
Flattering. Comfortable. Feminine. Jenny Greenup, designer of SHE-SHE, can find inspiration in the simplest of moments. The way the sunlight parts the trees or how the bridges intersect across the Willamette River. These moments of inspiration, combined with her lifetime love of nature and her strong connection to her family, create each unique piece. SHE-SHE can be found in beautiful boutiques all over the Northwest.
Photos by Heather McGrath Photography
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? SHE-SHE’s Portland-inspired, screenprinted tees are very popular around the city. They are high-quality and have a flattering cut that accentuates and celebrates the shape of women’s bodies. What do you like best about owning a business? I love meeting all the boutique owners, designers, creatives and inspiring people doing the same thing. We are like one big family helping each other—it’s wonderful. Who is your role model or mentor? My father was an entrepreneur and gave me advice about business my entire life. He also showed me that hard work will get you everywhere. Jenny Greenup 153
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be passionate about what you do. You will eat, live and breathe your business, so when you love what you do, it makes it easier to keep going. What do you like best about owning a business? Being able to provide the kind of quality care that I know is best for my patients.
Dr. Mimi Jackson
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Seattle
What motivates you on a daily basis? Watching women’s lives transform right before my eyes. Making the world a healthier place by making a difference one life at a time. What do you CRAVE? Educating women on how to live a healthier lifestyle. How to be happier, healthier and more fulfilled in their daily lives.
SHE|WELLNESS Seattle, Washington Progressive. Vital. Life-changing. SHE|WELLNESS is the place to get well and stay well, offering a spectrum of wellness services dedicated to helping women look and feel their very best, in every way. SHE|WELLNESS integrates functional nutrition services, massage, chiropractic and emotional release techniques to help you reach your wellness goals, your way.
Photos by Sacha Blue
Specialties: Functional Nutrition, Massage, Chiropractic 206.259.8882, sheiswell.com
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Photo by Sacha Blue
“Eat well, move well and think well.” —Dr. Mimi Jackson, SHE|WELLNESS
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Trust your instincts. What do you like best about owning a business? Being creative and growing as a person while growing my business. What is your motto or theme song? “Be a first-rate version of yourself, not a second-rate version of somebody else.” —Judy Garland
Elizabeth Noblitt
248
Seattle
What place inspires you? Carmel, California. The beauty of the landscape is so close at hand. And the golf.
Shi Shi Putter Seattle, Washington
Left page: upper-left photo by Paul Butterfield Photography, upper‑right photo by Todd MacMillan. Right-page photos by Brian Keith.
Sophisticated. Stylish. Modern. Shi Shi Putter™ is a premiere online resource for women golfers who play like their style depends on it—on and off the golf course. The online boutique offers the garments of women-owned golf fashion designers that are stylish, flattering and functional. Shi Shi Putter™ also hosts inspiring workshops and trunk shows around the country, helping women to bring their best selves to the course.
Specialty: Women’s Golf Fashion 888.775.4780 shop.shishiputter.com facebook.com/loveyourgolfstyle Twitter: @shishiputter pinterest.com/shishiputter
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Photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
“Helping women own their power motivates me.” —Elizabeth Noblitt of Shi Shi Putter
Clockwise from upper-left: photos by Shane Macomber, Cory Parris, Jonas Seaman, Wallflower Photography and David Oh. Right-page photos by Barbie Hull Photography.
Shindig Events Ballard, Seattle Funky. Whimsical. Bold. Shindig Events is a full-service event planning studio based in Ballard. Specializing in the more offbeat consumer, owner Kelli Bielema creates quirky and unique events including weddings, block parties, office morale boosters, house parties, nonprofit fund-raisers and the totally original backyard movie party, Cinefresco.
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Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Marketing events, wedding coordination and Cinefresco, our intimate backyard pop-up movie party, which launched in 2012. What do you like best about owning a business? I make the rules and break the rules. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Network like crazy and not just within your industry. You never know where your next client is hanging out. Chat with everybody!
Kelli Bielema
Who is your role model or mentor? RuPaul. Yes, the drag queen! She is fierce and a pioneer in her field and an example of how to be true to who you are.
Specialties: Event Coordination, Design and Production 206.669.0939 shindigevents.org Twitter: @theshindiggery linkedin.com/in/kellibielema
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Photo by Barbie Hull Photography
“I crave discovery and exploration. When I find something new in my world, I eat it up with a spoon. And sometimes, I eat the spoon.” —Kelli Bielema, Shindig Events
Main photo by Amanda Buzard, portrait by Melissa Tomeoni Photography
Shopping’s My Cardio shoppingsmycardio.com, Twitter: @shoppingscardio
Indulgent. Irreverent. Glamorous. Shopping’s My Cardio is devoted to making everyday life a little more stylish. Editor Becki J. Singer takes style seriously, but isn’t afraid to have fun with fashion. In addition to covering the latest trends, sartorial tips and bargain finds, you’ll also find hot tips on home design, the latest in beauty news and covetable picks from the best of Portland’s retail scene.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Whether we’re talking fashion, trends, beauty, home design, reading or random finds, it’s always about what’s beautiful, chic or just fun to have in your life. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? A great dress and a kind word will take you far. What do you like best about owning a business? My readers! I love interacting with them, helping with style dilemmas or just celebrating their latest finds. Who is your role model or mentor? My mom. And maybe Nina Garcia. Both are unfailingly poised, well-spoken and honest. Becki J. Singer What is your biggest fear? Capri pants, bare midriffs and sensible shoes. What do you CRAVE? A bigger closet!
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Silver Lining Consignment Clothier 7044 SE Milwaukie Ave, Portland, 503.238.5578 silverliningco.com
Stylish. Addictive. Affordable. Silver Lining has been dressing women in incredible re-fashioned finds since 1983! Karen’s great consigners stock the store with fabulous stylish and contemporary clothes for those who love to shop, but also like to save. Local and women from all over the country flock to the store to see what treasures they might discover. Be warned, this store is addicting!
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Q&A Sellwood/Westmoreland
What are your most popular products or services? Everything! Clothing to wonderful accessories, jewelry, purses and shoes. We also stock one of the largest selections of very fun and stylish reading glasses. What do you like best about owning a business? I have always had an independent streak, so being my own boss is the best. How do you relax? I relax and recharge by seeking out physical activities and adventures. I am currently taking the Mazama basic mountain climbing class. My goal is to climb Mt. Hood! What do you CRAVE? Life, fun and adventure. Karen Ripplinger 159
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Free cupcakes on Saturday, free gift wrap, free parking and fantastic silver jewelry. Who is your role model or mentor? Always my family—self-employment runs deep on my side of the family. We are tough, optimistic, hopeful and grateful. What is your biggest fear? That I am a serial entrepreneur! What place inspires you and why? Europe, especially France. I love their food, I love their style, I love the simplicity of their life and culture. Also Inc. business magazine.
Jackie Lamb
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Tigard
Photos by Bunn Salarzon
Silverado Portland 7363 SW Bridgeport Rd, Tigard, 503.968.3275 silveradoportland.com
Handcrafted. Practical. Jewelry. Silverado Portland is a jewelry boutique specializing in local, Americanmade jewelry. Look for jewelry designers and artists who handcraft beautiful jewelry that is fun and priced for everyday wear. Silverado Portland has relocated to Bridgeport Village after eight years on NW 23rd. The new location is a must-see, with a creative staff and lots of good energy.
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Skin by Marywynn 1500 NW 18th Ave, Ste 103, Portland, 503.200.5745 skinbymarywynn.com
Professional. Relaxing. Addictive. Skin by Marywynn offers treatment facials customized to each client’s need at the time of her visit. Pulling from a well-curated line of professional skincare products, they customize a home care routine to help continue the glow. Skin by Marywynn wants you to look and feel great about your skin weeks after your visit, so product recommendations are tailored for your personal needs.
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Northwest
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Facials with microdermabrasion, along with our amazing retail products that we recommend our clients take home in order to achieve their skincare goals. Long live glycolic and SPF! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be ready to work really hard for five years, I mean really hard. Do your homework before you start and go to it. Most important, ignore the fear-based naysayers. What motivates you on a daily basis? I love coming to work. Walking through the front door and being allowed to make skin pretty while empowering and developing my employees is addictive. Marywynn Ryan 163
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Combining the expertise of our acupuncturist and aesthetician, our acupuncture rejuvenation facial allows us to get to the root of problems, resulting in improved overall health and amazing results for skin. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be true to what you really believe and make sure everything you do lines up with those beliefs. Your business will reflect you and be something you’re really proud of. What motivates you on a daily basis? Being able to help people improve their health as well as make them feel more confident by looking good. Jessica Tatieze and Marcy Heidenreich 164
Skin Zen:
Acupuncture & Esthetics Industrial District
By appointment only: 833 SE Main St, Ste 212, Portland, 509.590.8928 skinzenpdx.com, Twitter: @skinzenpdx
Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Comfortable. Unique. Natural. Skin Zen Acupuncture & Esthetics is all about making people look and feel great. Their individualized holistic treatments focus on inner balance to create outer beauty and help patients meet and exceed their health and skincare goals. The Acupuncture Facial Rejuvenation “face-lift� is their specialty and with acupuncture, massage, holistic facials and body treatments all on the menu, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
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What do you like best about owning a business? Meeting with clients to help conceptualize their ideas into reality, and see it played out on their big day. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? The only person who is telling you that you can’t do something is yourself. As soon as I realized that, I started to make things happen.
Madeline Sanborn
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Not scheduling time for myself. You cannot work 24/7. Your work will be much better if you take the time to relax. What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? You don’t need to have everything figured out right away. It will be a learning process and the business will grow and change as you learn.
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Seattle
The Social Collective Seattle, Washington Chic. Modern. Adaptable. The Social Collective is a wedding styling and coordination studio to help couples create their dream wedding. Their passion for stress-free entertaining and innovative design allows clients to create an unforgettable experience for their guests. Packages are tailored based on client needs; ranging anywhere from helping refine their inspiration and venue recommendations, to full-service assistance all the way to “I do!�
Specialties: Wedding Styling and Coordination 206.854.2523 thesociallcollective.net
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SOHO Solutionist 360.907.6485, sohosolutionist.com, Twitter: @bkajino SOHO Tech Training: 360.907.6485, sohotechtraining.com
Fun. Savvy. Organized. SOHO Solutionist helps women entrepreneurs overcome business technology frustration, through upbeat and understandable one-on-one consulting and group training. SOHO Solutionist understands the needs of women entrepreneurs and the overwhelming flood of technology on the market, pinpointing the best solutions for each client and ensuring they have help along the way.
Main photo by Erin Wallace Photography, portrait by Kate Singh of Aevum Images, upper right photo by Blue Olive Photography
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? “Show Me How” consultations and SOHO Tech Training memberships. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be exactly who you are. Clients will resonate with that and come back for more. What do you like best about owning a business? My business revolves around my life, not the other way around. My everyday choices make sure that I won’t be celebrating my success by myself. What is your biggest fear? Wild, untamed success. Sounds weird, but many women I know struggle with this. I’ve worked to define my own meaning of success. What motivates you on a daily basis? Curiosity and accountability. I love to learn, and one lifetime just isn’t enough! I use my curiosity to serve my clients, hopefully to be a better person in life. What do you CRAVE? Dark chocolate, coffee, solid relationships, and making a difference in my corner of the world. Brandie Kajino 169
Photos by June Lion
Sorella Luna 416 NW 12th Ave, Portland, 503.973.LUNA (5862) thesorellaluna.com
Gorgeous. Unique. Classic. Sorella Luna offers a beautiful selection of Italy’s most exquisite ceramics for your home. Each piece is hand-painted and imbued with an artistic tradition that has been perfected by the Italians over the centuries. Sorella Luna also has an assortment of hand-detailed fresco paintings, the highest-quality linens, and also proudly supports local artisans: two painters, a glass blower and a Venetian mask artisan.
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Q&A Pearl District
What do you like best about owning a business? Our customers! They are the best! We meet so many fascinating people from all walks of life, from all over the world, and they all have a story to tell. How do you relax? I take full advantage of my “me� time with the perfect book. The mountains are my Zen. Exercise brings me balance. But my favorite relaxation time is with my family. What place inspires you and why? Southern Italy. The Italians are full of passion, the countryside is magnificent, and la dolce vita is more than just a beautiful phrase, it is a way of life!
Mary F. Johnson
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Sorella Naturale 360.201.3227 sorellanaturale.com, Twitter: @sorellanaturale
Sustainable. Distinctive. Delicious. Sorella Naturale has created a sin-free way to please your senses by featuring individually crafted all-natural soy candles and an exclusive tea line that will rock your palate in a way that a cup of tea has never done before! Their products are designed to be refilled; making wasteful habits a thing of the past. They are quickly filling the shelves in local shops.
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? 14K Cake Tea—customers refer to it as the “sin-free dessert,” and the Anthony candle—it is the first product we created exclusively for charity, it’s dear to our hearts. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Going into business requires a need for thick skin; you’ll want to be able to give and receive constructive criticism to/from whomever you select to work with... Remember to be kind. What do you CRAVE? Living a life that leaves this world feeling a little better than when we first arrived.
Dyana Canavan and Kristy Surovic 173
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Choose something you truly love, not money. Owning a business requires lots of time, energy and strength of will. Money will never be enough if you don’t love what you do. What do you like best about owning a business? The gratification of watching something build and gain momentum with my hard work, drive, talent and love. That is worth all of the long hours, stress, craziness and dark circles. What do you CRAVE? A life that is exciting, challenging, fun and filled with laughter, friends, family and love. And souchi’s continued growth and success. Suzi Johnson 174
souchi 807 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, 503.525.0043 souchi.com, Twitter: @suzisouchi
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
Northwest
Luxurious. Modern. Distinctive. Suzi Johnson, founder and designer of souchi, hand-looms three luxurious and sophisticated knitwear collections a year made from the finest cashmeres, merinos and cottons. She also handpicks work from other designers to showcase at the souchi store in Portland. The current season’s best finds merge effortlessly with favorite past souchi purchases, together creating a beautiful, distinctive and modern wardrobe to enjoy wearing for years.
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The Spot Sport Seattle, Washington Informative. Collaborative. Evolving. The Spot Sport is a hub of communication for youth sports. They are an accessible resource to players, parents, coaches, leagues and other organizations. The Spot Sport organizes and hosts youth tournaments and offers personal training as well as group and team training camps. The Spot Talks are events that encourage community involvement to discuss topics related to youth sports.
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t hold back. The minute that you begin to doubt yourself, it will show in your work. You make you. No one else. What is your motto or theme song? Family is everything.
Andrea Chiodo
How do you relax? I’m plopped on the couch reading a romance novel, my kids are running around, my husband is cooking up something delicious, our dog is lounging: this is relaxed. What place inspires you? Spezzano della Sila, Italy. The Philippines. We find family there. Foundation.
Specialties: Youth Sports and Communication 206.414.8298, thespotsport.com facebook.com/thespotsporttournaments Twitter: @thespotsport
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“The best part of owning a business is the fact that I own every decision, good or bad. I take responsibility for every decision made even if it ends up biting me. I still made the decision.” —Andrea Chiodom, The Spot Sport
Sprout Health 4418 SE Hawthorne, Portland, 503.384.2627 sprouthealthpdx.com, Twitter: @sproutpdx
Healthy. Educational. Flexible. Sprout Health is a health coaching and donation-based yoga studio. Their mission is to help you cultivate the healthiest lifestyle, designed especially for you, so that you can dedicate your energy to making the world a better place. Sprout Health is located on the corner of SE 44th and Hawthorne, making it accessible to bikers, drivers, hikers and busers.
Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Group health coaching, guided cleanses, donation-based yoga classes and cooking classes. What do you like best about owning a business? The room for creativity! If you have an idea and it sounds exciting, there is no one to tell you that it is impossible.
What do you CRAVE? Chocolate, spinach, figs and Mary’s Gone crackers. (Not in that same order, and not together.) And community! Skylor Powell
Hawthorne
What place inspires you and why? The mountains in Colorado. It is so inspiring to be surrounded by simplicity and strength, coexisting in nature.
What are your most popular products or services? Fashion styling and closet analysis tailored to the client’s specific needs and goals. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Never lose sight of your tenacity, and push yourself beyond your limits. What do you like best about owning a business? Having the ability to express creative freedom and knowing I am exactly where I want to be.
LaEisha Barton
260
Seattle
What is your motto or theme song? “Don’t think outside the box. Think like there is no box.” —Oprah Winfrey
Style By LaEisha Barton Seattle, Washington
Photos by Shawn Kinney Photography, except right photo by Jinda Photography
Creative. Unparalleled. Inspiring. LaEisha Barton is a wardrobe stylist and image consultant providing individuals with a unique, creative and inviting approach through personal style branding. LaEisha gives speeches around the country, sharing her expertise on building your personal brand through fashion. She actively blogs on fashion and lifestyle.
Specialties: Fashion Styling 206.465.9725, laeishabarton.com facebook.com/StyleByLaEishaBarton Twitter: @LaEishaBarton
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Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Style Shimmy Seattle, Washington Approachable. Collaborative. Enlightening. Style Shimmy affords women a friendly go-to guide to help calm the chaos of personal wardrobe and home styling challenges. Whether clients wish to simply edit their items, elevate visual interest and enhance lifestyle function or seek decision-making comfort in having an experienced design eye along for the shopping ride, owner and stylist Liz Weber will identify what truly personifies and simplifies... regardless of project size.
262
Seattle
What are your most popular products or services? Clients like that I utilize pieces that they already own and propose a clear plan for adding key elements that work with how they live, ultimately saving them time and money. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Listen to your inner voice, get organized, take mental breaks, give exceptional customer service and surround yourself with loving, hardworking, fun people.
Liz Weber
What do you like best about owning a business? The flexibility and creative opportunity to make a personal vision a reality.
Specialties: Personal Wardrobe and Home Styling 206.719.5289, styleshimmy.com facebook.com/StyleShimmy linkedin.com/in/lizslaterweber
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Photo by Paul Butterfield Photography
“I crave collaborative creativity, connecting with really awesome people in unexpected places, thoughtful design details, a Seattle sun break, fabulous shoes, a good belly laugh...and dark-chocolate-withsalted-caramel anything, of course! —Liz Weber, Style Shimmy
Michelle Burns and Tobi Kirsch
What are your signature treatments or services? Every aesthetician on staff can rock a 30-minute Brazilian and leave the customer feeling baby-soft for weeks. Also, from the tippy top of your forehead to the bottom of your dĂŠcolletĂŠ, these girls give the best facial massage you have ever experienced, leaving your skin refreshed, plumped and glowing for days. What makes your business unique? The customer experience itself is what makes our business unique. No matter the situation, our staff makes it a point to be sure each and every customer feels appreciated and appropriately attended to throughout their entire visit.
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Seattle
Sugar Sugar Greenlake, Seattle
Photos by Julia Kinnunen Photography, except portrait
Sugar Sugar is a spacious and inviting spa with four treatment rooms. The aestheticians are not only amazing at what they do, but they are entertaining and at times, hilarious. They know how to keep you comfortable even when the situation does not necessarily loan itself to being so. To make things even better, for those typical Seattle days, there are fluffy, heated beds to make your sugaring or facial experience one that will have you coming back for more.
Specialties: Sugaring, Organic Facials 510 NE 65th St, Seattle, 206.789.1127 sugarseattle.net
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“Love what you do. Do what you love. And for what you don’t know, seek the answers.” —Michelle Burns and Tobi Kirsch of Sugar Sugar
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography, except upper‑left photo and portrait (right page) by Danielle Bortone-Holt of Brick House Photography
Swink Style Bar Downtown Seattle and University Village Fun. Confident. Sexy. Swink Style Bar is the first blow dry bar in Seattle and the place to go for quick and affordable confidence builders. Swink features their signature blowout and great hairstyles that match any occasion. About $35 in about 30 minutes. Swink also offers makeup applications and semipermanent eyelash extensions. The bridal packages are the best deal in town with attention to the details, so there is zero stress about hair and makeup on the biggest of days. Swink makes it fun, easy and simple: Swink + outfit = you, ready for the day or night.
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Seattle
What makes your business unique? We don’t cut or color your hair. We offer services that are quick and affordable, producing amazing results—the blowout or style you can’t give yourself at home.
Natalie Angelillo and Jacquie Byrne
What motivates and inspires you? The strength of the mothers and young women we have met through our Swink Cares program; they have really inspired us. We work with Children’s Hospital to brighten the day of a cancer patient by providing Swink services on-site or in the salon free of charge. What is your motto or theme song? “You Only Better.” We don’t want to turn you into something you are not. We want to take your natural beauty and enhance what you already have. It is you, only better.
Specialties: Blowouts, Hairstyling, Makeup, Lashes 611 Stewart St, Seattle, 206.682.7070 University Village: 4610 Village Court NE, Seattle, 206.673.5070 swinkstylebar.com, facebook.com/SwinkStyleBar, Twitter: @swinkstylebar
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What are your most popular products or services? Social media marketing, brand design and identities, advertising design, music and video promotions, public relations and press releases. What do you like best about owning a business? Unlimited opportunities and the freedom and independence to be creative and develop new concepts. What motivates you on a daily basis? My projects motivate me. I am inspired by ideas to create.
Suzanne Haddad
What is your motto? Do the right thing, the right way, at the right time. What place inspires you? Seattle inspires me. Between the tech industry, music and arts scene, cultural diversity, pool of intelligent, networking professionals, fantastic restaurants, lakes, mountains and overall environment, it just simply inspires creativity. What do you CRAVE? Great music and being around happy, positive, inventive or creative people, whether it’s work-related or personal. When you have that combination, a lot of great things can happen.
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Seattle
SZNE Brand Kirkland, Washington
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Dynamic. Influential. Motivating. SZNE Brand is a multiservice boutique marketing and advertising firm specializing in the creative and strategic business aspects of building brands into “rock star� brands. Anything is possible, whether it’s personal, celebrity, product or business, or a need to elevate an existing brand. Services include branding, public relations, photography, video, documentaries, design, copywriting, print ads, advertising campaigns, radio and TV spots, social media and music promotions.
Specialties: Branding, Ad Design, Social Media Marketing, PR 425.503.8403, sznebrand.com Twitter: @SZNEBRAND, linkedin.com/in/suzannehaddad
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Photo by Barbie Hull Photography
“Make sure you absolutely love what you are doing because you will most likely be eating, sleeping, breathing and living your niche.” —Suzanne Haddad of SZNE Brand
Jen Mueller
What are your most popular products or services? We recently launched a program called “What Do I Say?” It covers conversations from start to finish and helps even the most timid women engage with confidence and know-how. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Know where the money’s going and make sure the money spent is coming back to you in the way you expected. If it’s not, then change course. What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that there are thousands of women who are missing opportunities because they’re not getting seen in their work environment. Knowing that I can help change their lives keeps me going.
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Seattle
Talk Sporty to Me Seattle, Washington
Photos by Rebecca Ellison Photography
Empowering. Vivacious. Insightful. Talk Sporty to Me provides a practical game plan to productive conversations. Jen Mueller’s communication techniques and insights help business professionals increase their likeability and visibility in the workplace and understand the value of sports conversations as winning business strategy. Talk Sporty to Me provides a step-by-step guide to better conversations.
Specialties: Better Conversations 425.280.4513, talksportytome.com facebook.com/talksportytome, Twitter: @TalkSportytoMe linkedin.com/in/jenmuellertalksporty
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Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
tanQ 541.595.tanQ (541.595.8267) tanQ.us, Twitter: @_tanQ
Compassionate. Social. Proactive. Each month, tanQ creates an original T-shirt design for a nonprofit organization and donates 100 percent of the net profits from the sale of the shirts directly to the organization. tanQ wants to make a positive impact on the world by fostering hope and encouragement. Their goal is to bring people closer together by creating common threads. It’s as simple as that!
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Our April T-shirt, which supported Japan Relief, sold out after the first week of release! tanQ T-shirts are an expression of the core message of each good cause we support. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t let anyone tell you what you cannot do. Believe in yourself, do what you are genuinely passionate about and don’t give up! What is your motto or theme song? Kindness is contagious. I hope that tanQ will travel like a wave, washing over thousands of people, nudging them toward happiness and charity like a ripple effect of kindness. Judy Tan
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TEN PACHI Modern Salon University District, Seattle Hip. Innovative. Crisp. TEN PACHI Modern Salon specializes in hip, modern haircuts, hair color from conservative to edgy, Japanese thermal reconditioning services (straight perm), texture and digital perms (not your grandmother’s perm).
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Seattle
Lower-left (left page) and upper-left (right page) photos by Aaron Leitz. Portrait and upper-right photos (right page) by Paul Butterfield Photography.
Specialty: Texture and Digital Perms 5611 University Way NE, Seattle, 206.985.1010 tenpachi.com, Twitter: @TENPACHIseattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? The biggest mistake any person can make when opening a business is underestimating the currency of good design and branding.
Dot Hachey
How do you relax? I’ve recently discovered running. It relaxes my body, mind and spirit. I also love going to movies alone. It’s a great way to get out of myself for a couple hours. I find it to be incredibly restorative and it’s nice not having to share my popcorn with anyone. What place inspires you and why? Tokyo, Japan—from the strong group work ethic and exemplary customer service to super-innovative architectural interiors and retail design. And don’t even get me started on Japanese gift wrapping... 279
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Terrene’s modular concrete vessels (1, 3 and 5 Series) in black or white are just four inches deep and are striking as a table centerpiece or mantle artwork. What do you like best about owning a business? You are able to see the direct results in one way or another from every ounce of effort you put into your own business. What do you CRAVE? As an architect by training, I inherently crave beautiful spaces. I walk into a room and appreciate every detail that makes it pleasing to the eye.
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Terrene 503.610.8201 terreneproducts.com, Twitter: @Terreneproducts
Photos by Sarah Giffrow Creative
Simple. Unexpected. Tactile. Terrene specializes in living works of art for your space. The idea for Terrene originated out of an observation. After struggling to fit all of her individual potted plants on a windowsill, Melissa designed the first Terrene vessel to artfully contain them all in a single unit. Thus, the windowsill series was born.
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Left photo and portrait by Paul Butterfield Photography
ToyBox Consulting Seattle, Washington Loyal. Professional. Creative. ToyBox Consulting adds a fresh perspective to any sales, marketing and PR-based project. Featured services include document preparation, event planning and management, celebrity bookings, fund-raisers, personal events, personal branding and image consulting. ToyBox Consulting is dedicated to inventing new ideas for the creative uniqueness of each project and its overall success with the affordability of short-term contracts.
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? The freedom of managing my own calendar, helping my clients reach their goals and the proud feeling of finishing a project with great success! Who is your role model or mentor? My son. He was born with severe health considerations and watching him fight over the years has encouraged me to be proactive and hardworking with minimal complaints.
Katoya R. Palmer
What do you CRAVE? Interesting conversations, beautiful people, places and things, people watching and sharing my passion with the world through my business!
Specialties: Public Relations, Sales and Marketing 206.841.9361 toyboxconsulting.net facebook.com/toyboxinc Twitter: @katoya318 linkedin.com/in/katoya318
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“If you are starting a business, plan accordingly and set realistic goals. Owning a business is a choice and a lifestyle; nothing comes easy out here. Be patient, and know your worth!” —Katoya R. Palmer, ToyBox Consulting
Photo by Kariba Jack Photography
TRAY Creative Seattle, Washington Insightful. Strategic. Socially conscious. TRAY Creative is a Seattle-based branding, marketing and digital solutions agency with a drive to help forward-thinking businesses and organizations better engage their audiences. They deliver brand identity and messaging, integrated marketing campaigns, print and digital design, social media consulting and much more. TRAY helps companies build brand loyalty and connect with their customers in smart, captivating ways.
Specialties: Marketing, Branding, Graphic/Digital Design 206.420.3972, traycreative.com Twitter: @traycreative facebook.com/TRAYcreative
Portrait by Ingrid Pape-Sheldon Photography
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Seattle
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Forging relationships and collaborations will prove to be invaluable. People will surprise you with their willingness to share advice and resources, even if they are technically a competitor.
Bridget Perez
What do you like best about owning a business? I like knowing that I’m contributing something meaningful to society, and having the ability to choose the clients who are a good fit and with whom we enjoy working. What motivates you on a daily basis? Our clients keep me motivated. We become very invested in the companies that we serve, and we care deeply about their success. 285
What are your most popular products or services? Our Red Velvet cupcakes and Salted Caramel cupcakes are endlessly popular. Our party supplies have been a huge hit. And our Party Room in Wallingford has been rented out for all kinds of fun parties.
Jennifer Shea
What do you like best about owning a business? It feels positively wonderful to have created something from scratch (pun intended) that has grown into a beloved Seattle business. I love that Trophy brings joy to people’s lives—and that my cupcakes are part of their celebrations. When I see parents bring their child into Trophy for a cupcake to help celebrate their very first birthday, I’m so touched. And excited! What do you CRAVE? A trip to Paris! I want to eat my way through the pâtisseries!
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Seattle
Trophy Cupcakes Wallingford, University Village, Pacific Place and Bellevue Decadent. Festive. Delicious. At Trophy, they believe every day should be a celebration—filled with delicious moments, beautiful treats and happy surprises. So they pour their hearts into bringing you partyperfect confections and accoutrements, at all four Seattle-area shops. Trophy cupcakes feature the finest ingredients, swoon-worthy buttercream and smile-making decorations. Every one of them is a mouthwatering masterpiece with a party hat on top!
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Specialties: Party-perfect Baked from Scratch Cupcakes Wallingford Center: 1815 N 45th St, Ste 209, Seattle University Village: 2612 NE Village Ln, Seattle The Bravern: 700 110th Ave NE, Bellevue Pacific Place: 3rd Floor Pop-up Shop trophycupcakes.com, facebook.com/trophy.cupcakes 206.632.7020, Twitter: @ trophycupcakes
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Photo by Barbie Hull Photography
“Life is just the stuff we do between parties!” —Jennifer Shea of Trophy Cupcakes
What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom! I especially love the freedom to affect and influence others, to stir them to greatness on my terms, not some corporate mandate. Who is your role model or mentor? Patrick Lencioni. I read everything he writes, agree with his philosophy and use his stuff with every organization I coach. What is your motto or theme song? Be you. Be real. Be the best you can be today!
Shandel Slaten
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Seattle
What place inspires you? Italy! The history, culture, people, food, wine, beauty! Every time I go, it slows me down and takes me back to my “why.�
True Life Coaching Seattle, Washington
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Wise. Inspiring. Truth-telling. True Life Coaching offers customized, practical plans to get the results you’re looking for, whether it’s a more productive team culture or a fresh approach to a business challenge or key relationship.
Specialties: Executive Team Leadership, National Speaker 206.718.5656, truelifecoaching.com, facebook.com/truelifeinc Twitter: @shandel, linkedin.com/in/shandel
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Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Work to constantly reignite the spark in your passion for what you do. Trust your instincts. Be fearless but strategic. Grab an idea and go for it! What do you like best about owning a business? Choosing work hours that coordinate with my personal peak productivity times and, most importantly, with my family’s schedule. Family first, always. What motivates you on a daily basis? The challenge to constantly create, innovate, empower and improve. I get the biggest rush from striving to make my clients smile and their businesses shine.
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Urban Bliss, LLC 503.268.1106 urbanblissdesign.com, Twitter: @designmama
Photos by June Lion
Modern. Creative. Empowering. Urban Bliss brings modern, fresh and fun graphic design and creative strategy services to growth-stage companies around the globe. They bring high energy, intuitive design skills and fresh innovative marketing/PR ideas to help boost brands through identity design, print materials, web graphics, social media strategy and more. They empower entrepreneurs creatively and strategically.
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Urban Planting 10473 SE 172nd Ave, Happy Valley, 503.810.0982 Urban-Planting.com, Twitter: @Urban_Planting
Colorful. Personable. Lively. Urban Planting creates curb appeal for your home or business with flourishing flowers, adding vibrant color and textures to your entryway, garden or patio space. Specializing in custom-planted containers and garden design, they plant flowers in existing gardens and containers or install new containers, providing year-round seasonal color! Urban Planting makes the exterior of your home and business just as personal as the interior.
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
Q&A What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t ever walk away from a project your client is unsatisfied with. I will work to make sure Urban Planting’s projects are a perfect reflection of my business.
What place inspires you and why? Spending time in my greenhouse is my very own sanctuary. I get to channel my creativity to design container gardens and hanging baskets with an endless amount of plants. Amanda Karam
Happy Valley
What do you like best about owning a business? Enhancing the ambiance of any outdoor space! I get to create an oasis for an urban dweller, design a courtyard for a restaurant or brighten the entrance to my favorite Portland shops. I love outdoor living!
Q&A Who is your role model or mentor? My Father. He’s an entrepreneur and manages to get what seems to be a million things done each day. He’s constantly positive and always looking forward. What do you like best about owning a business? Urban Weeds is just so much fun. I love the freedom that comes from working on my own. I get a lot of satisfaction from being able to create exactly what I want to put out there. How do you relax? Daily yoga and meditation. What place inspires you and why? I love being in nature. I lived in Sedona for a good bit of time and adore a desert landscape. Lisa Warninger
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Photos by Lisa Warninger, except portrait by Chelsea Fuss
Urban Weeds www.urbanweedsblog.com, Twitter: @urbanweedsblog
Real. Inspirational. Quirky. Urban Weeds is a Portland-based street style blog. Professional photographer Lisa Warninger scouts Portland’s streets to find hip style. Many of Portland’s top designers and creatives have been featured on the site and it’s become a virtual who’s who of Portland. Urban Weeds is internationally recognized and has been featured on Elle.com, New York Magazine, Nylon Magazine, CNN and more.
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Photos by Erica Ann Photography
Vanillawood 1238 NW Glisan, Portland, 503.327.8065 vanillawood.com, Twitter: @vanillawood
Organic. Urban. Inviting. Vanillawood is a full-service design/build and interiors firm owned by Kricken and James Yaker. Their Pearl District studio doubles as a retail space, offering an inspired selection of fabrics, wallpaper, lighting, mirrors, rugs, tabletop and gift items plus custom upholstery, furniture and built-in cabinetry. Green building practices are an integral part of Vanillawood’s design/build/live philosophy, blending open-plan urban living with functional comfort and luxury. 192
Q&A Pearl District
What are your most popular products or services? Home and commercial design and remodel projects. “Live edge” dining tables custom-designed from salvaged Oregon Black Walnut slabs. Affordable gifts that showcase the Vanillawood aesthetic at every price point. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be fearless. Don’t take no for an answer, just find another door or path. Think for yourself and filter advice because only you know what’s best for you. Who is your role model or mentor? Anyone who is blazing their own trail. My amazingly talented and kind friends who are finding ways to balance both their work passion and their family passion. Kricken Yaker
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Venue Ballard, Seattle Inspiring. Eclectic. Interactive. Venue is a progressive boutique in historic Ballard with a varied collection of work by Seattle artists and designers. Since Venue is owned and operated by artists, the staff can help you find the best decorative, functional or wearable art that reflects your own good taste. With work studios on-site and space to teach classes, Venue is a creative place for all.
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Seattle
Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Specialty: Local Art 5408 22nd Ave NW, Seattle, 206.789.3335 venueballard.com, facebook.com/Venue.Ballard Twitter: @venueballard
What are your most popular products or services? Venue showcases a discerning selection of beautiful, affordable art and well‑designed goods for the home, all made by local artists. We’ve become a destination for original and thoughtful gifts. What do you like best about owning a business? I find the challenges and opportunities for growth that owning a small business provides quite invigorating.
Diane Macrae
What motivates you on a daily basis? Overhearing customers telling their friends when they walk through our door that Venue is one of their favorite shops.
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Virtually Savvy Seattle, Washington Savvy. Creative. Fun. Virtually Savvy is your go-to source for understanding and learning the what, why and how of social media marketing and website enhancement to create your best web presence. Owner Katie Kay will teach you or your employee how to do the work or she will do it for you. Through creative brainstorming, communication and a bit of hand-holding, Katie will create a plan for you.
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Seattle
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography, except portrait by Ingrid Pape-Sheldon
Specialties: Social Media, Web Presence, Wordpress 206.920.2442, virtually-savvy.com, facebook.com/virtuallysavvy Twitter: @virtuallysavvy, linkedin.com/in/katiekay4u
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Listen to your inner voice; do what feels best to you. Too many opinions can sometimes cause you to secondguess yourself and your true vision. What do you like best about owning a business? I like being in control of my work schedule, my projects. I especially love the freedom I have to work from anywhere in the world... as long as there is Wi-Fi!
Katie Kay
What motivates you on a daily basis? My clients do! I truly mean that. I want my clients to feel less stress and to feel relieved that they have someone to help make sense of it all.
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Wax On Spa 734 E Burnside, Portland, 503.595.4974 3808 N Williams, Ste 123, Portland, 503.517.9945 waxon.com
Professional. Thorough. Funky. Wax On Spa Portland combines style with hip aesthetic and boasts some of the most qualified aestheticians. Wax On prides themselves on their customer service and thoroughness. The Willamette Weekly continues to award them “Best of Waxing,� which proves they have a great love affair with Portland!
Photos by Paul Butterfield Photography
Williams Avenue
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? The three Bs: Brazilians, bikinis and brows! As for products, our exfoliating products sell the best, PFB Vanish, No Bumps, Ingrown Zone and, of course, our very own shea butter!
What motivates you on a daily basis? Continuing to offer Brazilians and other waxing services so that people won’t feel embarrassed or feel awkward because they want this service.
Anne Uhlir
Lower Burnside
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Hire reliable people to work with you and who appreciate what you are creating and the goals you are moving toward.
What do you like best about owning a business? What I love the most are the relationships that I’ve built over the years with our clients and the vendors I’ve worked with. And, of course, the people I work with at Wax On! I couldn’t do it without them... What motivates and inspires you? There was no one offering Brazilians, let alone specializing in them, and I saw a need. I wanted not only to be the first, but I also wanted people to feel comfortable coming to us without the potential for embarrassment. Twelve years and seven spas later, I still feel the same way!
Anne Uhlir
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Seattle
What is your motto or theme song? We’ve always been and will continue to be the “Home of the Brazilian” and “SAVE A TREE, EAT A BEAVER.”
Wax On Spa Belltown, Capitol Hill, Fremont and Kirkland
Photos by catherine jeannette photography, except portrait by Paul Butterfield Photography
Professional. Thorough. Funky. Anne Uhlir, a veteran aesthetician, opened the doors of the first Wax On Spa on April 6, 1999. Wax On Spas combine style with a hip aesthetic, with only the most qualified aestheticians on staff. Wax On Spas pride themselves on their customer service and thoroughness. Their specialty is the Brazilian: starting with a blank canvas, these talented aestheticians can deliver the goods, specializing in shaping and coloring. On approach, the window of the spa reads “Home of the Brazilian: Waxing, Beauty, Serenity”—but that’s not all the spa offers. Services range from as little as a brow wax to a men’s full-body wax. For the less adventurous, Wax On offers the Standard Bikini and can even extend it for a more modern and polished look. Wax On welcomes parties (be they bachelor or bachelorette) but as always folks, B.Y.O.B. Welcome to the spa!
Specialties: Waxing, Facials 521 15th Ave E, Seattle, 206.726.8655 93 Wall St, Seattle, 206.267.2929 621 & 3516 Fremont Pl N, Seattle, 206.547.9227 25 Central Way, Ste 240, Kirkland, 425.739.7346 waxon.com, facebook.com/waxon.spa.3
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Photos by Barbie Hull Photography
Welcome to Living Seattle, Washington Fervent. Emphatic. Honest. It doesn’t matter where you are in your life, there are always new goals to pursue and dreams to realize. I help clients to envision and articulate what they want their lives to look like and support them in making it happen. I help each client create a rich, dynamic life that is fulfilling, having been designed and created by the person who will actually live it!
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? The best thing about owning a business is being able to work with so many amazing and wonderful people. Every one of my clients inspires me. What motivates you on a daily basis? Working with amazing clients and supporting them in realizing their full potential by envisioning and verbalizing their dreams and goals, and transforming their lives toward a more vibrant, fulfilling future!
LaVonne Dorsey
What is your motto or theme song? “Be the change you want to see in the world.� —Mahatma Gandhi
Specialties: Life and Career Transition Coaching, and Organizational Development 206.941.3422, welcometoliving.net Twitter: @welcometoliving
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? Monthly first Thursday half-off childcare. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Go for it! Never be afraid to start, even if you feel you do not have enough money. Make it work. If you don’t know how, ask. What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom to do whatever I want for my customers and not having to ask! And seeing the look on a parent's face when they find out about our service. What motivates you on a daily basis? Following my vision and executing it to my best ability. Karen Beninati 196
WEVillage: Urban Playcare 424 NW 12th Ave, Portland, 503.935.5590 Twitter: @wevillage
Pearl District
WeLuncheon 424 NW 11th, Portland, 503.314.7304 weluncheon.com
Photos by Heather McGrath Photography
Modern. Convenient. Flexible. Located in the heart of the Pearl District, WeVillage: Urban Playcare is a community-oriented drop-’n’-go childcare center where kiddos ages 2–12 can mingle and network over games of tag, frenetic dancing and naptime. WeVillage combines original, fun curriculum in a modern, safe and beautiful space. With real drop-in childcare, date night is made simple and easy every night.
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Q&A What are your most popular products or services? The fabulous selection of interior fabrics and our free in-store design service provided by an incredibly skilled and talented staff. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be sure you love the product or service you are offering. Work in the field in some way before opening your own place. Have a mentor. What motivates you on a daily basis? Creativity, learning new things and taking the high road. Always. What place inspires you and why? The Columbia Gorge, Chicago, or any place that my family and friends are hanging out. Amy Estrin
Photos by Erica Ann Photography
The Whole 9 Yards Inspiring. Beautiful. Colorful. The Whole 9 Yards thrives on creativity and color! For 19 years this locally owned interior fabric store has been helping people find the perfect fabric for their home. Whether it be for the entire house or fabric for the back of a pillow, The Whole 9 Yards staff are always informative and helpful.
Central Eastside
1820 E Burnside St, Portland, 503.223.2880 w9yards.com, Twitter: @w9y
What motivates you on a daily basis? Natural beauty: the interaction between light, color, water and cloud in our Northwestern landscape. People who say yes to life and implement their unusual ideas with gusto. What is your motto or theme song? Drink in brilliance, every day!
Marcia Ann Wiley
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Seattle
What do you like best about owning a business? Delighted customers who say “I collect Waterford and Wileyware. I use the Wileyware.” Hearing how much people appreciate the colorful functionality and conversation my glassware brings into their homes. It’s easy to make a useless object amusing. The real challenge is designing everyday objects that make you smile.
Wileyware Ballard, Seattle
Portrait by Julia Kinnunen Photography, lower-left photo by Hank Drew
Brilliant. Playful. Kaleidoscopic. Marcia Ann Wiley of Wileyware believes that everyday objects have a special obligation to delight us. Her stylish and practical hand-blown dichroic drinking glasses sparkle, toss vibrant color into beverages and are perfect for everyday use and entertaining. They come in six sizes, are dishwasher-safe and are a go‑to wedding and special occasion gift. Glasses can be engraved with a personalized message and are hand signed. Buy them online or arrange a studio visit.
Specialty: Extraordinary Everyday Drinking Glasses By appointment only: 8323 28th Ave NW, Seattle, 206.706.6051 wileyware.com, facebook.com/wileyware, Twitter: @Wileyware
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Photo by Julia Kinnunen Photography
“Pace yourself... All of your fabulous ideas don’t have to be birthed at the same time! When you say no to something, keep in mind what you are saying yes to!” —Marcia Ann Wiley, Wileyware
Main photo by Tim Acock, portrait by Sarah Giffrow Creative, lower-left photo by Matthew Brush, lower-left and right photos by Lauren Coleman
Yakuza 5417 NE 30th Ave at Killingsworth, Portland, 503.939.2949 yakuzalounge.com
D.O.C. 5519 NE 30th Ave at Killingsworth, Portland, 503.946.8592 docpdx.com
Bold. Intimate. Delicious. Inspired by the Japanese izakaya concept, Yakuza is a true food-lover’s bar, offering exceptional drinks and signature dishes best shared with good friends. D.O.C serves farm-to-table meals in an intimate setting featuring local produce, wild forages and organic, pasture-raised meats from favorite area farms. Both restaurants are warm, intimate and approachable, offering one-of-a-kind dining experiences. 200
Alameda
Q&A What are your most popular products or services? At Yakuza, the Sashimi Trio, Yakuza Burger (Portland Monthly’s Best Burger 2009), Beet Martinis and Whiskey #2. At D.O.C, the five-course tasting menu with accompanying wine pairings. An epic deal! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be steadfast. Stay true to yourself and to your vision. What do you like best about owning a business? Having two great spaces to share with friends, family and the neighborhood. The ability to support local businesses and nonprofits via trade and donations. Living upstairs with my son Bishop. Dayna McErlean
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Zealyst Seattle, Washington Fun. Personal. Sincere. Zealyst is a curated networking service that identifies personal and professional interest combinations and matches individuals in small group event settings to provide the foundation for future relationship growth. Zealyst delivers consistently outstanding social experiences by utilizing smart technology and creative design, leaving each attendee feeling like the event was created for him or her.
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Seattle
Photos by Nick Spang
Specialty: Curated Networking Events zealyst.com, Twitter: @zealyst facebook.com/zealyst
Holly Robins, Britta Jacobs and Martina Welke
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Develop a keen awareness of your network from the beginning—what skills, expertise and resources are available—so that you know who is accessible and who you need to meet. What do you like best about owning a business? The endless responsibility to create. Every day, we have to come up with new ideas, address new challenges or change directions entirely. It’s never dull! What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing that our work has the potential to change lives and seeing the impact of the connections that we’ve made.
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Melody bIringer Innovative. Feminine. Connective. Melody Biringer, self-avowed “start-up junkie,” has built companies that range from Biringer Farm, a family‑run specialty‑food business, to home furnishings to a fitness studio.
CRAVE Founder thecravecompany.com startupjunkie.com
Her current entrepreneurial love‑child is The CRAVE Company: designed to creatively connect entrepreneurs who approach business in a fresh way with the consumers they desire, as well as with each other. CRAVE is a resource for women entrepreneurs to promote their business and support likeminded women. Melody has taken CRAVE from Seattle to more than 30 cities worldwide, including New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago, Amsterdam and Toronto. Melody is a loyal community supporter, versed traveler and strong advocate for women-owned businesses.
What are your most popular products or services? The global CRAVE community connects savvy business owners through online networks and in-person events. We believe in the power of collaboration amongst smart, successful women entrepreneurs and we facilitate these relationships through our dynamic community. Our new online directory creates a hub for discovering women-owned businesses, with personal insights to attract followers to your business and encourage them to pursue dreams of their own. What was the motivation behind starting your business? I saw my best friend twice in a year and thought, “This is not right.” So I created excuses to get together so that we’d get it on the calendar, instead of giving it lip service. I crave girlfriend time. What is your motto or theme song? “Flashdance... What a Feeling” by Irene Cara. Every time I’m feeling a bit low, I play that song, and my spirits lift immediately.
CRAVE is about building bonds among friends and fostering connections with inspiring, entrepreneurial women. CRAVE cultivates friendships through quality girl time, strengthens the local community by supporting small businesses and serves as a guide to one-of-a-kind shopping, indulging and urban adventures. Learn more about the CRAVE network, including our guides, business events, girls-night-out parties and online networking at:
thecravecompany.com
Being an entrepreneur can be the most rewarding and thrilling choice you make in your business life. CRAVING SUCCESS is a peek into a sister entrepreneur’s head. Melody Biringer, founder of The CRAVE Company, invites you along for a readable romp through the up‑and‑down lessons of being an adventurous and independent businesswoman. Read reviews, get a sneak peek and purchase an e-book or paper copy at: thecravecompany.com/cravingsuccess
CRAVE Pacific Northwest is a celebration of women entrepreneurs that showcases some of the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors throughout our area. Let us introduce you to a fabulous new designer, to a miracle-worker masseuse, to a confectionery queen, to the amazing women in this region who will help satisfy your next craving. WHAT DO YOU CRAVE?
“CRAVE is all about community and stands out as a model of collaboration across female entrepreneurs from every industry. Now recognized across the country and expanding internationally, when you become a part of CRAVE, you are joining a truly diverse and powerful network of women. As a community and as a business, the brand reminds us to answer the desire-driven question, ‘What do you CRAVE?’” —Liz Lange of Liz Lange Maternity, Completely Me by Liz Lange and Shopafrolic.com “CRAVE is a modern treasure hunt for woman-owned businesses. Mapping a network of business owners throughout the world, CRAVE creates a sense of solidarity, support and goodwill that crosses all genres of business in one incredible collective.” —Robin Coe Hutshing, founder of STUDIO BEAUTYMIX