Five women-owned businesses to support during Women’s History Month
@chillhouse, @mcnallyjackson, @ovenly, @thesimpleshoppe and @havenstudiobk on Instagram
March 12, 2023
Over the past hundred years, great strides have been made in women’s rights advocacy. Suffragists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries worked tirelessly protesting for the right to vote, and on March 19, 1911, women around the globe celebrated International Women’s Day in their honor (though the holiday is now celebrated on March 8). In 1980, President Jimmy Carter announced that the week of March 8 would be National Women’s History Week, and then in 1986, it became a month-long event. To celebrate Women’s History Month, here are five women-owned businesses to support this March and every month thereafter!
It can be intimidating to get a tattoo for many reasons–whether it’s your first one or because it can be a vulnerable experience–but none of those things should deter you from being able to express yourself through artwork. In 2019, Jes Valentine founded Haven Tattoo Studio in Brooklyn as a result of the negative experiences she had in the past at tattoo shops. Her goal has been to create a safe space that feels welcoming for everyone, no matter their body type, color or size. Haven Tattoo is completely owned and operated by women who share this same goal of inclusivity.
Calling all bookworms! Instead of purchasing your favorite novel from a larger corporation, check out McNally Jackson, which is conveniently located in the University’s backyard in South Seaport. For commuter students, there are also locations in Williamsburg, Nolita and more. The independent bookstore was founded by Sarah McNally in 2004 and sells new, used and rare books. In addition to an abundance of reading material at your fingertips, the shop also has its own café and seating area. Grab a snack or beverage, get comfy and escape into a great story!
Got a sweet tooth? Head on over to Ovenly, with locations in Brooklyn and the West Village, to satisfy all your cravings–but beware, it is highly addictive. Founded by self-taught bakers Agatha Kulaga and Erin Patinkin in 2010, Ovenly is a retail space and commercial kitchen that provides over 6,000 baked goods on a daily basis. Aside from being home to an array of delicious treats, Ovenly is in the business of humanity, employing political refugees, the formerly incarcerated, immigrants and anyone else who wants to make a difference in the community. This shop is a must-visit for all foodies.
If you’re in the market for some new candles, look no further; this women-owned and Black-owned business was founded by Carla Friday in 2019 and operates in Westfield, New Jersey. According to their website, they “only use lead-free cotton wicks, and premium fragrance oils infused with natural essential oils in our line for a clean burn.” Simple Shoppe Candle Co. crafts hand-poured, high-quality candles using locally sourced, American-grown soy wax. This means you don’t have to worry about any toxic fumes in your house!
After a long week, the best way to unwind is by treating yourself to a relaxing spa day. Chill House, located in SoHo, was founded by Cyndi Ramirez, a second-generation Columbian-American in 2017 “to combat an increasingly stressful world.” In addition to being passionate about her spa, Ramirez is also a passionate advocate for mental health and donates one percent of Chill House’s proceeds to support the cause. Whether you’re looking for a facial or a unique set of press-on nails, this oasis is the place to go.
