Women you must
and do business with
vol. 3
#knowraleigh
2020 1
KNOW CARES IS MAKING A BIG IMPACT The KNOW WomenTM is excited to unveil its newest initiative called KNOW Cares, a non-profit focused on empowering, educating, and raising funds for women and youth worldwide. KNOW Cares provides emergency relief funds for businesswomen, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities as well as provide grants to aspiring
female entrepreneurs. KNOW Cares also aims to help women in 2nd and 3rd world countries better their lives by ensuring educational opportunities. KNOW Cares will be an extension of The KNOW WomenTM which currently has more than 6,100 members across the globe.
KNOW CARES SUPPORTS We believe that all women and youth should have access and opportunity to engage in leadership development programs.
1
We create an educational experience for women and youth focusing on knowledge, problem-solving, leadership, communication, interpersonal skills, health, and well-being.
3
We support and educate women in business through our signature program.
We serve & provide financial assistance to local, national, and international communities.
2
4
KNOW Cares mission is to Empower, Educate and Engage women and youth globally through give-back initiatives related to LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, WOMEN IN BUSINESS, COMMUNITY IMPACT, and EDUCATION. To get involved:
hello@knowcares.com To donate:
www.knowcares.com 2 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
WHAT IF YOU COULD CONNECT WITH WOMEN ON A GLOBAL SCALE WHO WANT TO HELP YOU SUCCEED? We have been listening carefully to what you really want in a women’s collaborative. We’ve created the KNOW Women Global Membership with the features that are most important to you. You’ll unlock business development opportunities, publicity and marketing help, outreach opportunities, and the chance to continually connect and grow through collaboration and connection with your global sisterhood.
A MEMBERSHIP LIKE NO OTHER
Online Portal
Member Events
Promote
As soon as you join you’ll have access to The KNOW Women Global portal where you will find all of your members-only resources from CEO chats to connection calls. You’ll unlock business development opportunities, publicity, and marketing help, outreach opportunities, and the chance to continually connect and grow through collaboration and connection with your global sisterhood.
Register to attend a weekly ‘Let’s Have Coffee’ series, a bi-weekly masterclass, or a monthly CEO Chat to help build your business or grow your career. Join the new member meetup or virtual events to connect with female members all over the globe.
Get exclusive opportunities to promote your brand, speak at an event, host a master class, and sell your products through our KNOW Women marketplace.
A CLASS OF LIKE-MINDED BUSINESS WOMEN WHO ARE COMMITTED TO LEVELING UP The KNOW Women Global Membership is built around women who will help you achieve your goals. You’ll be seen and heard, acknowledged, and supported. You won’t ever have to question if you are in the right room or if you have a seat at the table. Our movement is built to help you rise through inclusivity, positivity, and collaboration.
we promise
1. To align you with motivated women from across the globe. 2. Provide access to female industry leaders who will educate and inspire. 3. An opportunity to promote and elevate your brand to a global audience.
KNOW Women Global Membership: KNOW this is where you belong.
www.theknowwomen.com/membership
2020 3
Launched in 2017, The KNOW WomenTM began as a way to bring more attention to dynamic women doing remarkable things in the Phoenix metro. We knew there were an outstanding number of women impacting the community and making big strides in their industries. Our goal was to get those women out from behind their computer screens and into the public eye. Thus, we created the KNOW Book, a carefully curated publication that would feature vision-led women in a glamorous and authentic style. As the momentum grew and we recognized the need for more, we launched our Collaborative around the women featured in our KNOW Book. Our mix & mingles soon ensued and we witnessed incredible things happening. We saw our women doing business with each other, creating friendships, supporting each other, collaborating on projects together, and so much more. What started as a fun project to spotlight women, has turned into a full-blown movement. The KNOW WomenTM has expanded beyond its birthplace of Phoenix, Arizona; its aim is to launch in every major city across the United States and Canada.
Sarah Benken
4 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
from the
FOUNDER & CEO
FOUNDER & CEO 2020 5
STATISTICS ON WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES women employ more than
9 MILLION people
37%
1.6 trillion 0
10
20
30
OF WOMEN EARN MORE THAN THEIR HUSBANDS
40
50
60
70
80
WOMEN FIRMS GENERATE
IN SALES
more than
OF ALL BUSINESSES ARE OWNED AND OPERATED BY WOMEN
11.3 40% MILLION
SOURCE: AMEX OPEN / WOMENABLE
6 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
firms are owned by women
design & layout Myra H. Ray Emma Catarino photography Rose Trail Images Revolution Studios
CONTRIBUTORS Big thanks to our contributor for all her efforts and contributions to 2020 KNOW Raleigh!
ambassadors Melissa Ternes Somer Handley contributor Paulette Evans publisher Sarah Benken admin team Sara Mayer Ashley Scrivner Taylor Gladden public relations Mack Media Relations
PAULETTE EVANS
connect @theknowwomen @theknowwomen subscribe: theknowwomen.com 2020 7
AMBASSADORS
8 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
Incredible Raleigh Ladies, You are all so amazing! Welcome to the KNOW community where you will be inspired, supported and encouraged by the many ladies of KNOW. Our hope for each of you is that you will meet new sisters to connect and collaborate with, new friends for life. When you dive into the community here in Raleigh and in the many other cities across the globe you will find women who are ready to lift and rise together. We all came together by nomination and notable achievements. Professionally and personally we may have different views, but choose to unite despite diversities as women, leaders, mothers and friends. We have had successes, overcome challenges and most importantly know the power of coming together. We want to thank Sarah Benken, The KNOW Women’s fearless leader, for bringing this community together. And ladies of Raleigh, you are an inspiration! Cheers to 2021!
Somer & Melissa
2020 9
COLLECTION We are a collection of highly successful, authentically driven women. COLLABORATION We collaborate to support one another & build clout that inspires & motivates the advancement for all women. COMMUNITY We support our local & global communities by actively searching for ways to pay it forward. MANTRA
Lift & Rise
Nominations for the 2021 KNOW Raleigh open January 2021. Follow KNOW Publications for the latest information.
theknowwomen.com @theknowwomen @theknowwomen hello@theknowwomen.com 10 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
table of contents
11 BEAUTY
13 BUSINESS 28 FOOD & BEVERAGE 30
HEALTH & WELLNESS
33 HOME & LIFE 41 MEDIA 42
NOTABLE
BEAUTY
LINDZY PLOTT (IN) TANDEM
Lindzy is the owner and operator of (in) tandem, a boutique hair studio in Cary, NC. She brings 12 years experience to the professional cosmetic industry, and with it her goal to cultivate mutual growth, support, and the highest level of professionalism. Lindzy founded (in) tandem to work alongside, and together with, her clients and fellow leaders in the community. Her joy and growth comes from building these long lasting relationships, delivering consistent, quality results, which empowers her and her clients to achieve their best. As a hairdresser, Lindzy has become a specialist in customized hair color, design, and the transformative power of luxury hair extensions. “There are few things more incredible, inspiring, and gratifying than to elevate one’s aesthetic, and even self-esteem, simply with active listening and follow-through. It all starts with a conversation, aligning our mindset, and then moving forward to succeed (in) tandem.” @lindzyplott_hair intandemsalon.com PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
lindzy@intandemsalon.com 2020 11
BEAUTY
SARAH WOODSON DRYBAR
Sarah Woodson fell in love with the exceptional Drybar experience and how confident she felt after the service, which is why she decided to look into becoming a franchise partner. Drybar’s over the top customer service and amazing company culture were the tipping point for making the decision to join the Drybar family. Sarah has been able to combine her background in sales and customer service with her love for beauty and is passionate about Drybar’s mission to make women feel confident and happy. She has an amazing staff and enjoys splitting her time between her shops in Waverly Place in Cary, and in Midtown East in Raleigh. Outside of work, Sarah love spending time with her family and friends; traveling, boating and enjoying life.
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
302 Colonades Way Suite 206 Cary 12 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
1111 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 Raleigh
thedrybar.com
BUSINESS
Ocain Mediation
BARBARA OCAIN OCAIN MEDIATION
It seems almost counter-intuitive to say an attorney wants two conflicting parties to work together to resolve their differences out of court, but that’s what Barbara thrives on. With an initial career as a school psychologist, there was a natural path toward counseling and helping people with their problems. In law school she successfully led a movement to seek the courts to consider mediation as an alternative method. Mediation is now mandated by the courts of North Carolina where Barbara is a licensed mediator. In her personal mediation practice, she operates with a unique approach to quickly and collaboratively fix disputes between individuals – contract, employment, family, even community issues in a win/win manner that allows people to continue to live and work together. When not mediating, Barbara is an executive adviser for a global software company, permitting her to travel around the world – her lifelong passion. If that doesn’t keep her busy enough, she is also designing and building a home at the beach, is actively engaged in community events, and loves spending time with her grandchild. barbara.ocain@gmail.com PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
/barbara-rushing-o-cain-08a5205 2020 13
BUSINESS
BRIGID O’BOYLE HELP ONE NOW
Brigid O’Boyle is the Chief Operating Officer at the nonprofit organization, Help One Now. After graduating from East Carolina University, she returned to her hometown of Raleigh, NC to begin a career in clinical research. Brigid found herself facing a lifechanging career move after seven years in clinical research project management. She had a desire to do more for the global community and work for the greater good. Making a career shift is never an easy decision, but in this case, it was the right one. Help One Now empowers families in developing countries through highcapacity local leaders with proven solutions to end extreme poverty. In these communities, empowering families through education and entrepreneurship is proven to be the most effective course for long-term change, creating pathways for families to build a better future for themselves. Brigid is immensely grateful for the opportunity to spend her days working towards empowering the next 100,000 families.
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
helponenow.org 14 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
@helponenow
brigid.oboyle@helponenow.com
BUSINESS
CARLETHA WARD | LEGACY LIFE COACHING & CONSULTING, LLC
After a career as an HR professional in one of the top 10 financial services institutions, Carletha uses her career experience, along with her work in ministry, to support women who are ready to shift into living with greater confidence and authenticity; living more intentionally and better aligned with their sense of purpose. She’s inspired by women who choose fulfillment over what’s easy or expected. As a “Master Your Mindset” Coach, her mantra is “Shift your thinking; change your life.” Carletha is the Founder of LEGACY Life Coaching & Consulting, LLC. She holds degrees in Business, Ministry and Biblical Counseling along with several coaching certifications. She’s a member of ICF, and serves on the boards of NAWBO Greater Raleigh, where she is Director of Membership (2020- 2021), and the Wilson (NC) Chamber of Commerce. She’s a minister, author of two books and other writings, and loves spending time with her family. legacylifecoachingllc.com 252.371.1363 info@legacylifecoachingllc.com
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
2020 15
BUSINESS
FLORIDA DEVAUL-DUDLEY FLORIDA SOARS/ SHINING LIGHT IN DARKNESS
Florida is the Executive Director of Shining Light in Darkness as well as a Certified Life Coach in the field of trauma, which includes Family Trauma Professional, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Trauma Treatment for Children, and many others. She believes everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life’s difficulties. She purposefully incorporates multicultural concepts into each case because she feels culture influences how we interact with those around us and can help us to define our strengths. She also assists her clients define strengths so they can be used as a roadmap to overcome barriers and trauma. Florida helps clients with a variety of concerns including grief, PTSD, addiction, relationships, etc. She believes clients have the answers and with assistance they will find a deeper awareness of who they are, who they want to become, and how to propel onto a path of healing, growth, and actualization.
PHOTO CREDIT: BROOKE BRYAND PHOTOGRAPHY
floridasoars.com 16 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
info@slidfnd.org
919.791.5578
BUSINESS LISA WESTER LABCORP
Lisa Wester is a dynamic, innovative and strategic business development leader who has achieved tremendous success in her career spanning over 25 years. Lisa is a Senior Marketing Executive for LabCorp. With a mission to improve health and improve lives, LabCorp delivers world-class diagnostic solutions, brings innovative medicines to patients faster, and uses technology to improve the delivery of care. She has been the recipient of LabCorp’s GEM Club Award and Best of Class Award for multiple years. Lisa helped spearhead the launch of the Women’s Empowerment Network (WEN) employee resource group at LabCorp’s global headquarters in Burlington, North Carolina. To inspire and empower women to achieve their goals is the vision of WEN. Lisa designed the WEN charm bracelet as a way to connect members globally. She is passionate about mentoring women to see themselves as leaders and CEOs of their lives. Lisa is a North Carolina native, lives in Raleigh, and is a graduate of East Carolina University. Spending time with her amazing family — husband, Al; daughter, Taylor; and son, Davis — is what she enjoys most.
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
/lisaawester
LabCorp.com 2020 17
BUSINESS
MEGAN SUMRELL MEGAN SUMRELL, LLC
Megan Sumrell is a former corporate tech exec turned entrepreneur. As a business owner, mom, and wife, she knows exactly how hard it is to juggle #allthethings while still maintaining your own sense of self and purpose. When her daughter was born in 2010, life as she knew it completely changed. After struggling to manage work, motherhood, family, etc, Megan set about a new way to manage her time and organize her calendar. She took her 20+ year career in systems and processes and applied it to one of her favorite things‌time management! As a Time Management and Productivity Coach, Megan teaches specific strategies to help other women get on top of their time, their calendar and their goals while getting rid of stress, overwhelm, and exhaustion. She is the creator of the TOP Program and TOP Planner, a program and planner that teaches her proprietary system and processes regarding time management, organization and productivity for female entrepreneurs. megansumrell.com @megansumrellfan PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
18 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
apple.co/3gDcCdw
BUSINESS
MELISSA TERNES MASTER YOUR MONEY NOW Melissa Ternes is a financial empowerment coach, speaker, author and CEO of Master Your Money Now. Having advised millionaires and multiple six-figure earners, she’s learned no one is immune from financial stressors! Melissa is most passionate about helping successful women get out of the all-too-common money traps of emotion, mindset and strategy. She shows women how to go from making money to building wealth, without the pain of deprivation and restriction. Melissa’s lived that story herself. She’ll tell you she tried over 150 times to stay on a budget before she mastered money! Now, with her signature program, “Aligned Money Life,” Melissa has guided thousands of women on how to transform their relationship with money. Through her unique approach, her clients are able to reclaim ease with money – ready to keep wealth, grow their businesses, and live the lives they’re dreaming about. Melissa is based in Raleigh, and when she’s not out speaking, she’s seeking island adventures on the “pretty blue water” of Belize.
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
melissa@masteryourmoneynow.com
www.masteryourmoneynow.com
@masteryourmoneynowwithmelissa 2020 19
BUSINESS
MYRA RAY PRINT AND WEB DESIGNER
Print and Web Designer is a dynamic, forward-thinking print and website design company based in North Carolina. P&WD develops creative solutions to transform businesses, brands, and reputations. Myra, Founder and CEO, started her career a bit differently than most graphic designers: she was a mom. She did print jobs for other moms. This turned into managing a print shop and learning design on the side. This became a passion for design, managing print and web projects end-to-end, and doing it right. Today, she runs her integrated design, management, and training business with the same creativity, fierceness, determination, and individualized touch that she used throughout her life – in both personal and business adventures. She is proud of the diversity her team brings to their clients, allowing P&WD to offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions that drive success. Myra is a creative thinker, an efficient project manager, a gifted and patient trainer, and a skilled design professional. In her spare time, Myra pursues her two passions as a Reiki Master and a proud Gramma. /myra-ray 336.684.6505 @printandwebdesigner
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
20 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
BUSINESS
Nicole Case is a Career and Leadership Coach for women corporate leaders who are asking themselves “what’s next?”. With over a decade of experience in corporate Human Resources, she saw countless smart, driven, and talented women stall in their careers or continue working in soul-crushing jobs. Now, Nicole helps women identify their strengths, set boundaries, and rebuild their confidence to find and succeed in their ideal careers. In her coaching programs, she uses her corporate insights on how decisions get made and what it takes to get ahead to coach her clients in navigating the crazy corporate world and to make the money they deserve. Nicole also supports women in their careers as the Co-President of the NC Triangle Chapter of Ellevate Network, a global professional women’s organization. Nicole is a professional aunt and champagne enthusiast who lives in Apex, NC, with her husband and their two cats, Neville and Luna.
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
NICOLE CASE
Nicole Case Coaching /nicolercase
nicolecasecoaching.com
@nicolecasecoaching
2020 21
BUSINESS
PAULETTE J. EVANS EVANS EFFICIENCY EXPERTS
Paulette J. Evans is the Senior Business & Quality Improvement Leader - Revenue Cycle at UNC Health. She partners with leaders to improve their processes, identifies ways to enhance project team performance, and serves as a key champion of the organization’s strategic priorities. Since completing her Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Master of Business Administration, Paulette has acquired certifications in Six Sigma Black Belt, Healthcare Quality, Project Management, and Kaizen Facilitation. She is currently completing her Doctor of Education degree, specializing in Performance Improvement Leadership. Paulette also has a passion for empowering women to be strong, self-reliant, and successful, so she enjoys volunteering for organizations that have this same focus. Having the desire to own a business since she was young, Paulette recently launched her consulting firm, Evans Efficiency Experts, which focuses on helping people, especially working women, convert chaos to calm before they burn out. paulette@evansefficiencyexperts.com /evans-efficiency-experts 864.650.8000 (mobile) 22 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
BUSINESS
SAHAR SULTAN THE BUSINESS GIRL FRIDAY Sahar Sultan, founder of The Business Girl Friday, is your go-to outsourced executive. Whether you need a CFO, COO, or a perfect blend of both, Sahar’s knowledge and experience will take your business to the next level. With a background in Accounting and Wealth Management, Sahar has created a business unlike any other financial professional or typical accountant. Her specialty is working with business owners on a personal level, diving deep into their businesses to set them up for financial growth and success. Sahar’s unique business model means that she is truly an extension of the team. Not only can you count on her financial expertise, her insightful business savvy along with her warm and encouraging personality, make her an invaluable asset to every business she partners with. As a Raleigh native, Sahar is passionate about her local community and being a part of the Triangle’s growth.
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
919.588.4570
thebusinessgirlfriday.com
info@thebusinessgirlfriday.com 2020 23
BUSINESS
SARAH C. FORNEY, FINANCIAL ADVISOR LONG VIEW GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY
Sarah grew up sailing on the Long Island Sound in Connecticut. She went on to help run the community sailing program there and joined the nonprofit board at 18 years old. Staying plugged into the nonprofit world continues to be a priority. Sarah focuses on advocating for women and children, education and (financial) literacy Sarah has over 15 years of investment experience and has held roles ranging from client service to business development to project management. Sarah has spent time working with private clients including individuals, families, business owners and institutional clients (predominately endowments and foundations). Today, Sarah is focused on helping clients navigate transitions and simplify their financial lives. She is passionate about working with women, multigenerational families and impact investing (ESG). Sarah hosts a women’s educational luncheon series, Navigating a Women’s World, where she is dedicated to helping empower women to understand and take PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
The returns on a portfolio consisting primarily of Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) aware investments may be lower or higher than a portfolio that is more diversified or where decisions are based solely on investment considerations. Because ESG criteria exclude some investments, investors may not be able to take advantage of the same opportunities or market trends as investors that do not use such criteria. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. | CRC 3220642 09/2020
24 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
control of their financial lives.
Sarah.Forney@morganstanley.com 700 Spring Forest Rd., Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27609 /sarah-caslowitz-forney-2a035052
BUSINESS Come as you are with the courage to speak up and tell a better story. That is the mission of the Girls Who Do Stuff podcast. Your hosts Jenny Midgley & Sarah Madras are soul sisters with a passion for creating a space for authentic storytelling. No topic is off limits and no conversation is too hard. It’s raw, real, vulnerable and leaves you with all the feels. Their guests will make you laugh, cry, and want to be BFFs. All while learning from thought leaders, successful entrepreneurs, real estate moguls, coaches, and creative geniuses. When they aren’t having fun in the studio, they are leading their businesses. Sarah as a Business Therapist + Mindset Transformation Expert & Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator based on the research of Brené Brown. Jenny as a Digital Content Specialist & Brand + Marketing Photographer. Or they’re wrangling their children, binge watching Outlander, and escaping to the Salt Lounge.
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
SARAH MADRAS & JENNY MIDGLEY Girls Who Do Stuff podcast info@girlswhodostuff.com
girlswdspodcast
@gwds_podcast/
2020 25
BUSINESS
SUSAN CREWS HUNTSBORO HEMP COMPANY (HHC)
Are you tired of struggling with pain, anxiety, focusing, inflammation or sleep issues? Have you heard about CBD, but you think it is snake oil? Guess what? For years, Susan thought the same thing and today she is the President/CEO of Huntsboro Hemp Company (HHC) – a company dedicated to producing high-quality CBD products from locally grown hemp to help improve the wellbeing of customers globally. She is a trusted entrepreneur and soughtafter speaker whose mission is to educate people on the history and benefits of CBD. Susan and her husband, Jimmy, live on the family farm where to date Huntsboro Hemp Company’s hemp has been organically grown. Also, on the farm Susan tends the honeybees who produce the honey used in HHC products. When Susan is not at her desk or with customers you will find her at networking events. She is an incredible connector and promoter who finds joy in seeing other women shine bright.
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
susancrews@huntsborohempco.com 26 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
@huntsborohempco.com
huntsborohempco.com
BUSINESS
TAMMY SMITH MILLER AND SMITH LAW
“Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she can conquer the world.” That’s her motto…and chances are you will find her in a pair of high heel shoes rocking the courtroom. It’s her signature. Tammy’s passion has always been to help people. She is a dedicated attorney with a focus on Family Law. With over 20 years of experience, she helps clients resolve issues related to separation and divorce. Perhaps most impressive about her services is her commitment to personalized representation. Clients have direct access to Tammy. She understands clients are frightened and uncertain about the process, so she is committed to personally responding to them. Tammy offers both virtual and in-person consultations at no charge, because no one should have to pay to have their questions answered. As a wife and the mom of 2 energetic boys, she understands how precious family is, which drives her to zealously represent every client through the challenges of divorce. harnettlawyer.com tammy@harnettlawyer.com PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
@ms.divorce 2020 27
FOOD & BEVERAGE
LILIANA CONTRERAS BALLANCE WILLIAM AND COMPANY
Lily was born and raised in Mexico City and moved to North Carolina during her teen years. The experience of moving to USA was both a culture shock, and a major challenge learning a new language. She began working in Raleigh at Five Star Restaurant, while attending NC State University. She fell in love with the service industry and saved her hard-earned money to make her dreams a reality. She opened her first restaurant in 2010. In 2014 she opened her favorite endeavor of all - William and Company, named after her son Liam. Located in the cozy neighborhood of Oakwood in Raleigh. This cocktail bar is eclectic and cozy, filled with good music and amazing well-educated bartenders. This venture has allowed her to grow so much as a woman entrepreneur and mixologist. The cocktails at William & Company are inspired by her Latin heritage and made with love.
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
@willcobar 28 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
@willcobar
@willcobar
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Lili’s Sweet Shop started as an idea of Shanika Ruffin, the youngest daughter, Taliyah nickname Lili. Shanika always made desserts for her four children’s birthday and Taliyah thought it would be a great idea to create a cupcake shop. And the rest is history. A wife and a mother of four, LiLi’s Sweet Shop was created in 2014. They specialized in bitesize gourmet desserts and cake, celebration boxes, and dessert bars for every occasion. After the death of her oldest son, Shanika dive into creative mode and created Cake Kernels, gourmet popcorn with a sweet twist. She does both businesses while holding down a position as a Media Supervisor in the corporate world.
PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
SHANIKA RUFFIN
LiLi’s Sweet Shop lilisweetshop.com
info@lilisweetshop.com
@lilisweetshop.com
2020 29
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Dr. Hoda Bassiri earned a Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the prestigious University of North Carolina School of Dentistry in 2012. Her interest in developing her proficiency in cosmetic and implant dentistry lead her to complete a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry at the Fayetteville VAMC. In 2014, Dr. Hoda Bassiri and her husband Dr. Kiarash Bassiri, an optometrist, followed their dreams of starting a joint private practice in Raleigh, NC where they could serve the local triangle community with the highest quality of care from their respective professions. Their joint practice, fittingly named Fusion Dental & Eye Care, is truly unique as they provide two great services in one convenient location while focusing on delivering world class customer service. When Dr. Bassiri is not working on creating beautiful smiles, she loves spending time with her husband and their sons, Kiyan & Ryan. She also enjoys art & music, dancing & traveling.
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
DR. HODA IMENI BASSIRI
Fusion Dental & Eye Care fusiondentalcare.com
30 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
919.977.7438
6400 Creedmoor Rd. #103, Raleigh
HEALTH & WELLNESS
KAELA BHALAI I.B. FIT&WELL
Kaela Bhalai is the owner and Founder of I.B. Fit and Well. Known for her silver hair and lightning personality, Kaela created her wellness company from the ashes of termination from her last 9-5. I.B. Fit &Well is a wellness company created solely to help people discover their own superpowers and to refill their internal wells of wellness. She believes in transcendent lifestyle changes over fitness by itself. At first, Kaela used fitness as an outlet for healing. She would spend hours watching YouTube videos and practicing workouts in the gym with her coworkers, who later became her first wellness clients. Kaela is a dog mom, an artist, and an overall Jane Of All Trades. She enjoys painting, woodworking, and connecting with nature. Kaela is determined to show everyone that wellness is accessible and affordable. And she will not stop until the entire world knows that she was here.
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
@indigobhalaifit
indigobhalai@gmail.com
@I.B. Fit&Well 2020 31
HEALTH & WELLNESS
ROBIN EISENBEIS JUICE PLUS
Feisty & Badass is how Robin’s network describes her. A health ambassador for eight years, she’s changed the health/mindset of thousands, and is recognized globally. Robin practices what she preaches, from 5am workouts, to holding a record of 91 push-ups and a 32-minute plank. A “professional volunteer” for 17 years, Robin has rediscovered her passion to show women they are MADE FOR MORE. Imparting knowledge about disease prevention with whole food nutrition, plant powders and vertical gardens, Robin & her husband make a dynamic team inspiring healthy living. A mother of 3 happy, healthy & grounded children, Robin is writing a book to share her wisdom. Through social media you can witness Robin’s family adventures including camping, birding, hiking, field hockey & lacrosse! Robin is a professional networker, with a natural ability to ask curious questions that reveal common factors. There’s not a stranger in the room after Robin arrives.
healthylivingrevolution.com PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
robin2109@me.com 919.306.8145
32 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
AUDREY PRIEL | ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
HOME & LIFE
Audrey Priel of Rose Trail Images is a North Carolina family, wedding, and mitzvah photographer serving the Triangle area and beyond. She takes a very lifestyle and photojournalistic approach with her clients, focusing on authentic moments, storytelling, and connections. Audrey loves to make others laugh and strives to give her clients happy memories as well as gorgeous photos. She is inspired by warm sunlight, infectious laughter, and all of the Boston sports teams. After being a special education teacher for 14 years, Audrey has become the recipient of several photographic and wedding industry awards and has been featured in over 40 online blogs and publications, as well as numerous books and magazines such as Volume I and II of The Raleigh Know Book, CIRCA magazine, Shutter Print
Magazine, and Iconic Bride Magazine.
PHOTO CREDIT: IMAGES BY AMBER ROBINSON
rosetrailimages.com/
audrey@rosetrailimages.com
@rosetrailimages 2020 33
HOME & LIFE
FARRAH MORGAN BRAND JANE STUDIO
Farrah Morgan is the founder and creative visionary of Brand Jane Studio, a visual arts space and sounding board for brand seekers and enthusiasts. She unveils identities and develops fingerprint messaging through storytelling and powerful communication tools. Morgan, a Cary-native, has meticulously crafted design for a range of worldwide clients including BET, Def Jam, and Disney. Morgan’s gift to assist all of her clients with thinking BIG, and identifying their brand has led to her years of success serving in roles such as brand strategist, art director, and designer. A visionary and innovator in her own right. PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
brandjane.com 34 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
@seejanebrand
917.656.6987
HOME & LIFE
GRETCHEN COLEY THE COLEY GROUP
Gretchen Coley continues her commitment to the KNOW Tribe as the Founder of one of Raleigh’s Top Producing real estate teams. Her dedication to serving the Triangle’s new home and exclusive luxury market by ensuring her clients find their dream home provides a priceless advantage, especially in today’s market. Gretchen is known for her innovative use of social media and video marketing. In her series Discover the Triangle and The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen gives potential home buyers a behind the scenes peek at what makes life in the Triangle so special. Collectively, these videos have had over a quarter-million views. Since she was licensed in North Carolina, Gretchen has closed more than 1100 homes. That’s more than $300 million, placing her among the top 1% of agents in North Carolina. When Gretchen isn’t working, she enjoys time with her husband and her three children. Additionally, much of her spare time is spent supporting programs that empower women through entrepreneurship as well as through her numerous health and wellness initiatives. She joins the KNOW Tribe because she believes women in business need more avenues to connect intentionally while supporting and collaborating with one another to increase the experiences they provide to the communities they serve. PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
thecoleygroup.com
919.526.0401
gc@thecoleygroup.com 2020 35
HOME & LIFE
LIZ WILLIAMSON METRO’S OTHER WOMAN
Liz Williamson, Owner of Metro’s Other Woman® of the Triangle and her team of assistants bring the solution to your biggest challenges with all-in-one services for the busy professional and business owners who are on-the-go but wise enough to delegate and share the load. A fully licensed and bonded business and personal assisting firm, Metro’s Other Woman® understands your busy life. Offering an array of services that cover every last one of those demanding details that complicate your life. From errands and laundry to complete overhauls and moves, consider it done. It’s through hustle and heart that her team of assistants ensure every client feels like they can breathe again and have accomplished their to do list. Not only does she empower those that work for Metro’s Other Woman® to live their best life, they help empower their clients to do the same. triangle@metrosotherwoman.com PHOTO CREDIT: DANI NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
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metrosotherwoman.com 919.935.8130
HOME & LIFE
SOMER HANDLEY REVOLUTION STUDIOS | SCOOP
Meet your Ambassador Somer Handley! Mother of 6 boys (9-19), superstar artist, driven business owner, advocate for women entrepreneurs... we can go on and on! Her roots and how she earned her name and fame in Raleigh is by empowering individuals through statement photography at her Raleigh-based studio! The passion of her business and its continuous success isn’t just the dynamic imagery produced but the focus placed on an unparalleled customer experience. Two years ago Somer and her husband opened a unique Corporate Entertainment Company called Scoop. The crazy idea to offer a “carpool karaoke” type of experience for companies for corporate events exploded and is now offered in 8 cities across the US! Her latest adventure? Creating large format mixed media pop art which you can now find around town! Its part-time crazy but full-time awesome in her world and she wouldn’t want it any other way!
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
info@revolution-studios.com
revolution-studios.com
@revolution_studios 2020 37
HOME & LIFE
STEWART CORCHIANI CAMBRIDGE & ASSOCIATES | REAL ESTATE GROUP
Stewart Harris Corchiani, co-owner of Cambridge & Associates Real Estate Group, has invested and sold Real estate for over 25 years in the Triangle. Stewart’s investor’s eye helps her clients identify the perfect property and negotiate the best possible deal. As a Raleigh native, she has watched the area grow and kept up with the market trends. Her passion for Real estate started when she was young with the influence of her father, a successful Real estate attorney in Raleigh. With Real estate being in her blood and her passion in life, she feels like she hasn’t worked a day in her life since entering the business. Her greatest achievement however is her children. Every day with them is fun and exciting. She gives them accolades for keeping her young and “giving her a life”. PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
cambridgeandassociates.com 38 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
info@cambridgenc.com
@cambridgerealestatenc
HOME & LIFE
TULA SUMMERFORD DESIGN BY TULA
As a dynamic entrepreneur, Tula combines a deep respect for tradition and history with a profound appreciation of current design trends. She enjoys incorporating modern elements with classic design in her forward thinking projects. Tula finds inspiration in her custom designed office where she is surrounded by an array of colors, intricate fabrics, and extraordinary textures. This exciting and stimulating space provides the ideal environment from which to create the perfect plan to capture her client’s individual personality and style. Tula’s forte is incorporating unique objects from her many travels around the world. Design By Tula provides design and decorating expertise for both residential and commercial clients throughout the Triangle. Through her passion, knowledge, and experience, Tula offers expert design solutions. 535 Hertford Street tula@designbytula.com @designbytula
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
2020 39
HOME & LIFE
VALERIE DELOACH WHY REALTY GROUP
It’s her WHY that makes Valerie DeLoach stand out among other agents. Having a strong purpose while linking arms with agents who are trustworthy and client-centric has helped her gain a strong presence in Eastern Wake County. Valerie heads up Why Realty Group with her husband, Joe, in Wendell, North Carolina where they cover from the Triangle to the Coast. Valerie has become an expert in the Wendell Falls subdivision, where she has helped 60+ families buy/sell. Valerie believes that it’s the quality of her team and their passion in service to others that has propelled the Why Realty Group success. She encourages each person on the Why team to actively serve in different volunteer roles throughout Eastern Wake County. She is proof that if you do the right thing for the right reasons - motivated by a love of your community and other people - then success will follow.
whyrealtygroup.com 252.916.5048 PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
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@valdeloach23
MEDIA
JAMICA A. WHITAKER ADALAE CONSULTING
Jamica A. Whitaker is a published poet, essayist, and short storyteller. Jamica’s careers in communications includes journalism, media relations, public relations, event planning, and public engagement. Jamica earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies (Elizabeth CIty State University) then her master’s in English with a concentration in Multicultural Literature (East Carolina University) by defending her thesis “Heroes and Legends: African-American Identity in Graphic Novels and Comic Books”. She’s earned certifications in Social Media Strategy, Inbound Sales, Content Marketing, and Event Planning; and earned awards from the N.C. School Public Relations Association for Excellence in Writing, Publication, and Image/Graphic Design. Jamica is a wife and mother of a 2 year old son. She is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., the Triangle Chapter of the American Marketing Association, and Ellevate NC Triangle Chapter. Jamica is starting a movement demonstrating the power of authentic communications. PHOTO CREDIT: ROSE TRAIL IMAGES
jamica@adalaeconsulting.com
/adalae-consulting
/jamicawhitaker 2020 41
NOTABLE
Cynthia Kornegay is a Major with the Durham County Office of the Sheriff and the highest-ranking female in her agency. She has served with the Sheriff’s Office Detention Services Division for 31years. Having started as an entry level detention officer and rising through the ranks she more than understands the extensive challenges women face in male dominated professions. Cynthia has a distinct passion for leadership, specifically for developing and empowering women who lead and those with leadership aspirations. She is considered one of the foremost authorities on Leadership and Supervision within her agency and is known throughout the Detention and Law Enforcement Community as a sought after leadership expert. In 2021, she is looking forward to retiring and utilizing her passion, knowledge and expertise to continue providing mentorship, empowerment and training to the next generation of women leaders.
PHOTO CREDIT: REVOLUTION STUDIOS
CYNTHIA KORNEGAY Durham County Office of the Sheriff cynthia@cynthiakornegay.com
42 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
@Leadership 101
durhamsheriff.com
CHASTA HAMILTON | STAGE DOOR DANCE VOL. 1
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ALUMNAE
KNOW RALEIGH BOOK ALUMNAE JENNY CIMINO | LAVISH RALEIGH VOL. 2
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index Lindzy Plott..................................................... (IN) TANDEM...................................................... Beauty.............................................................. 11 Sarah Woodson............................................... DRYBAR............................................................. Beauty.............................................................. 12 Barbara Ocain................................................. OCAIN MEDIATION............................................. Business........................................................... 13 Brigid O’Boyle................................................. HELP ONE NOW.................................................. Business........................................................... 14 Carletha Ward................................................. LEGACY LIFE COACHING & CONSULTING, LLC... Business........................................................... 15 Florida DeVaul-Dudley..................................... FLORIDA SOARS/SHINING LIGHT IN DARKNESS...... Business........................................................... 16 Lisa Wester..................................................... LABCORP............................................................ Business........................................................... 17 Megan Sumrell................................................ MEGAN SUMRELL, LLC....................................... Business........................................................... 18 Melissa Ternes............................................... MASTER YOUR MONEY NOW............................. Business........................................................... 19 Myra H. Ray................................................... PRINT AND WEB DESIGNER............................... Business........................................................... 20 Nicole Case..................................................... NICOLE CASE CONSULTING............................... Business........................................................... 21 Paulette Evans................................................ EVANS EFFICIENCY EXPERTS, LLC..................... Business........................................................... 22 Sahar Sultan................................................... THE BUSINESS GIRL FRIDAY.............................. Business........................................................... 23 Sarah Forney.................................................. MORGAN STANLEY............................................ Business........................................................... 24 Sarah Madras and Jenny Midgely................... GIRLS WHO DO STUFF........................................ Business........................................................... 25 Susan Crews.................................................. HUNTSBORO HEMP............................................ Business........................................................... 26 44 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
Tammy Smith................................................. TAMMY SMITH.................................................. Business........................................................... 27 Liliana Contreras Ballance............................... WILLIAM AND COMPANY................................... Food & Bev....................................................... 28 Shanika Ruffin................................................ LILI’S SWEET SHOP............................................ Food & Bev....................................................... 29 Dr. Hoda Imeni Bassiri..................................... FUSION DENTAL & EYE CARE............................. Health & Wellness............................................. 30 Kalea Bhalai.................................................... I.B. FIT&WELL.................................................... Health & Wellness............................................. 31 Robin Eisenbeis............................................... JUICE PLUS........................................................ Health & Wellness............................................. 32 Audrey Priel.................................................... ROSE TRAIL IMAGES.......................................... Home & Life...................................................... 33 Farrah Morgan................................................ BRAND JANE STUDIO........................................ Home & Life...................................................... 34 Gretchen Coley............................................... GRETCHEN COLEY PROPERTIES......................... Home & Life...................................................... 35 Liz Williamson................................................. METRO’S OTHER WOMAN.................................. Home & Life...................................................... 36 Somer Handley............................................... REVOLUTION STUDIOS....................................... Home & Life...................................................... 37 Stewart Corchiani........................................... CAMBRIDGE & ASSOCIATES REAL ESTATE GROUP.. Home & Life...................................................... 38 Tula Summerford............................................ DESIGN BY TULA................................................ Home & Life...................................................... 39 Valerie DeLoach.............................................. WHY REALTY GROUP.......................................... Home & Life...................................................... 40 Jamica Whitaker............................................. ADALAE CONSULTING........................................ Media................................................................ 41 Cynthia Kornegay........................................... DURHAM COUNTY OFFICE OF THE SHERIFF....... Notable............................................................. 42 2020 45
46 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
2020 47
BRING
TO YOUR CITY FEATURING WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW AND DO BUSINESS WITH
The KNOW Women Book + Collaborative We are searching for influencers, tastemakers, and fellow dynamic women who are well-connected, savvy, in tune with community, and believe in our mission to lift & rise women. If this is you, become a KNOW Ambassador! Connect with us at KNOW Publications to find out how to bring how to bring the KNOW Women to your city!
For more information: hello@theknowwomen.com
48 THEKNOWWOMEN.COM
2020 KNOW RALEIGH BOOK Community Partners REVOLUTION STUDIOS | ROSE TRAIL IMAGES | METROS OTHER WOMAN
KNOW Raleigh is an annual publication that features dynamic women in virtually every industry. Every woman featured in KNOW Raleigh has been vetted through peer-review. Because our mission is to showcase the best and brightest, the only way one can claim their slot is through nomination. The women featured are a compilation of proven leaders, high producers, and rising stars. Those published in KNOW Raleigh are also considered trendsetters, influencers, and women to watch. KNOW Raleigh is published annually and distributed to affluent decision makers through social and networking events and partnering businesses. While deemed the new who’s who, KNOW Raleigh also delivers readers a vetted list of local female-run businesses. Simply open the KNOW Book and find the next local woman-led business you can support with goods and services you need now!
KNOW Raleigh is produced by The KNOW Women TM. The women featured in this volume have been vetted by their peers and are known leaders in their industry. For consideration in an upcoming volume of KNOW, go to theknowwomen.com and complete a submission.
BEAUTY | BUSINESS | FASHION | FOOD & BEVERAGE | HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & LIFE | MEDIA | ENTERTAINMENT | NON-PROFIT | NOTABLE Bring the KNOW Book to your city! Š2020 The Know Tribe, LLC., all rights reserved.
theknowwomen.com | hello@theknowwomen.com