Mount Pleasant is home to a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs who are making their mark across various industries. From real estate to retail, these women-owned businesses in Mount Pleasant Towne Centre are not only shaping the local economy, but also inspiring future generations of leaders.
Sweet Julep’s
Amy Calandra, owner of Sweet Julep’s, took the reins of this beloved Charleston confectionery in 2018. After meeting founder Julie Righetti, Calandra’s passion for sweets and community made it a perfect match. Inspired by Righetti’s entrepreneurial spirit, Calandra expanded Sweet Julep’s brand and team, embracing the challenges and rewards of running a business. Her advice to women entrepreneurs: Dream big, build a solid support system and embrace challenges with resilience.
LŌLEO Juice Bar
Leonella and Lorenna Gonzalez, owners of LOLEO, were inspired to start their juice bar after recognizing the need for healthier eating options in Myrtle Beach. Their mission is to provide nutritious, delicious alternatives while fostering community. As women entrepreneurs, they’ve faced challenges, particularly in industries with gender stereotypes, but they’re motivated to break barriers. Their advice to other women: Trust your vision, build a supportive network and embrace every step of your journey.
Vestique
Morgan Lashley, owner of Vestique Boutique, founded her business out of a love for fashion and a desire to offer trendy, affordable styles. After realizing there was a gap in the market for designer-inspired looks on a budget, Lashley turned her passion into a thriving business. As a mom and entrepreneur, she faces the challenge of balancing work and family but stays motivated by showing her children the power of hard work and belief in oneself.
Lizard Thicket Boutique
Sydney Herwig O’Neill and Samantha Herwig, co-owners of Lizard Thicket Boutique, were inspired to start their business after a love for shopping together and a desire for something different from corporate life. Samantha, with 25 years in the corporate world, and Sydney, a recent grad, took the leap to open their own store. Their advice to women entrepreneurs: Build a solid business plan, network and embrace the challenge of balancing work, family and flexibility.
Millie Lynn Boutique
Stacey Weismann, owner of Millie Lynn Boutique, was inspired to start her business by her love for style, Charleston and honoring her grandmother’s legacy. After facing challenges as a woman entrepreneur, including being underestimated, Weismann proved herself through hard work and dedication. Her advice to aspiring women business owners: Research your market, stay passionate, be ready to adapt and most importantly, enjoy the journey.
Sweetgrass and Sand Dollars Boutique
Caroline Yodice, owner of Sweetgrass and Sand Dollars Boutique, was inspired to start her business by her desire for flexibility as a single mother, alongside the work ethic she learned from her parents. While the journey of entrepreneurship is challenging for anyone, Yodice believes it’s incredibly rewarding. Her advice to women: Go for your goals, stay true to yourself, enjoy the process and never let others tell you what you can’t achieve.
Hairy Winston Pet Boutique & Grocery
Jennie Dudley, owner of Hairy Winston Pet Boutique & Grocery, was inspired by her love for animals and her family’s retail background to create a business focused on pets’ health and wellness. Starting in 2008 during the financial crisis, Dudley faced naysayers but followed her passion, and 17 years later, Hairy Winston is thriving. Her advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs: Trust your passion, go for your dreams and never let fear of failure hold you back.
These exceptional women are far more than community business leaders, they’re role models.
By Cari Lawson