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Effingham Magazine

Q & A With Business Women who are Making a Difference in Our Community

Q & A With Business women who are Making a Difference in Our Community

 

The National Women’s Business Council reports that women-owned businesses “contribute substantially to entrepreneurship in the United States.” 42% of all U.S. businesses are owned by women (13 million) and employ more than 9.4 million workers. Women are three percentage points more likely to start a business than men. Here we celebrate women in our community who are making a name for themselves while lifting up others in the process.

 

Korin Sutherland, Owner, The Stamper’s Boutique & Sweet ‘n Sassy Stamps, LLC

How long have you been in business?

2 years in the brick and mortar store, 15+ years online

How long in your field of expertise?

18 years+

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Running a business has so many challenges, but I think juggling everything that needs to be done while accomplishing those tasks well has probably been the biggest challenge for me. Delegating and not taking on more than I can handle are high up there, too.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

I have been in business for over 15 years primarily serving an online market, so opening a brick and mortar store has allowed me the great honor and pleasure to meet, teach and serve people in my local community. I love building relationships with my customers and there is nothing better than doing that face to face.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

You can do hard things. When you fail (you will at times) allow yourself to learn and grow. Don’t allow defeat to discourage you. Give yourself grace, pivot if you must and keep pressing on!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My husband Dan, many dear friends and my amazing customers have offered so much support and encouragement along this journey. I couldn’t do this without them.



Edith De la Vega, Fashion Designer, Savage Soul Apparel

How long have you been in business?

7 years

How long in your field of expertise?

Over 10 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

As a Latin woman entrepreneur in the USA, I’ve faced numerous challenges running my business. Access to capital has been a significant hurdle, with Latin women-owned businesses receiving less funding than other demographic groups. Language barriers and cultural differences have further complicated things. Despite these obstacles, I’ve managed to overcome them with the help of my family, professors and close friends that support me as an entrepreneur woman. I’ve also built a strong network of supporters who provide guidance and mentorship. By staying focused on my goals and maintaining a positive attitude, I’ve been able to succeed and thrive in my business.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The most rewarding thing for me is being able to leave a legacy for my kids. Through my work as an entrepreneur, I am teaching them the values of perseverance, discipline, focus, and hard work. Seeing my work come to life and creating apparel that fits my customers perfectly and makes them feel confident in their own skin is also incredibly fulfilling. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that I’m making a positive impact on people’s lives through my business.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

As a female entrepreneur, my advice to others is to believe in yourself and your abilities to reach your goals. It’s important to never give up and to remain focused, even when faced with obstacles and challenges. Surround yourself with people who push you to be the best version of yourself and who believe in your vision. These people can provide you with the support and encouragement you need to keep going. It’s also essential to never stop learning and growing. Continuously seek out new knowledge and skills that can help you improve your business and stay ahead of the curve. Finally, always remain humble and open to feedback. Accept constructive criticism and use it to make improvements in your business.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

I have been fortunate enough to have some amazing cheerleaders and sources of inspiration throughout my journey as an entrepreneur. My biggest supporters have been my husband, who has always had my back and encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and my parents, who bought me my first sewing machine and have always believed in me. My children have also been an incredible source of motivation, always cheering me on and standing beside me in every project. My closest friends have given me the opportunity to design and create for them, and their support has been invaluable. Finally, my college professor Hope Wallace has been a rock for me during the most challenging moments in my career. Her name speaks for itself, as she has given me hope and helped me find my strength when I needed it most.



Erica Seguin, Owner, Victory Roofing

How long have you been in business?

Our doors opened in the middle of COVID in 2020. Going on 3 years.

How long in your field of expertise?

5 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

I would say, for me the most challenging obstacle I have run into is BALANCE. I throw myself into everything I do, fully. I had to learn how to set boundaries and limits. When I am home with my family, I have to be home with my family.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The most rewarding part of running Victory Roofing is knowing that I can make a difference in someone’s life. I help to the fullest of my ability to provide everyone with a solid roof over their heads. We go above and beyond to make sure we do it right! The roof is the biggest thing to protecting someones prize investment...THEIR HOME. We treat everyone’s home, as if it was our own.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

The advice I would give to other female entrepreneurs is to just stick with it. It will get hard, count on it. The balance is going to be non-existent for a while. You will immerse yourself into the company to nurture it and foster for growth and development. Just know once that is complete, you will be able to incorporate balance into your life once again. Having a company is just like having an infant to care for. It will drain you, but in the end, it will all be worth it!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My greatest cheerleaders are my family...my amazing husband of 20 years and our two awesome young men. They always have my back and have picked me up several times over the past 3 years. They help me keep my eyes on the dream.


Mary Cain, Owner, Empire Gym

How long have you been in business?

In Rincon 4 months with the gym and 1.5 years with personal training

How long in your field of expertise?

19 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

The hurdles of opening.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Seeing lives change right in front of your eyes; mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Do NOT give up! Make a plan and go after it!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My husband, kid, and long term friends and some new friends locally.



Brittney Novickis Mccarthy, Owner, A2BMECHANICS LLC

How long have you been in business?

8 years

How long in your field of expertise?

Played softball 10-28 (coached 24 to present)

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Trying to find balance—making room and time for everyone and having a balance between work and life.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Seeing so many athletes fulfill their dreams.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Never back down, never stay quiet, and always go after what you want. Don’t be afraid to speak up and no dream is too big.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

The amazing athletes and their families.



Felicia Wilcox, Owner, Modern Moon Boutique & Decor

How long have you been in business?

1 year and 6 months

How long in your field of expertise?

1 year 6 months

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Opening a brand new business in a town where I did not know anyone. However, it has been well worth the risk!

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Being able to use Modern Moon as a way to give back to the community. Specifically, getting involved with supportive employment.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Take the risk! Also, it’s important to support one another and build each other up.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

Effingham County! The entire community has welcomed me with open arms. I am so thankful for all the once strangers who have turned into amazing friends.



Ashley Boyette, State Farm Agency Owner, Ashley Boyette State Farm

How long have you been in business?

10 years

How long in your field of expertise?

16 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Staffing the agency to reflect who I am and how I expect my customers to be treated.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Taking care of Effingham County residents.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Never give up. Keep persevering.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My husband, sons, and mother


Heather Wright, Owner & Candle Creator, Wright Wicks Candle Co.

How long have you been in business?

2.5 years

How long in your field of expertise?

3 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Running a candle business alone is tough. I handle everything from making candles to managing social media, updating the website, and bookkeeping. Clear expectations, regular communication, and staying up-to-date help me stay on track. Obstacles come, but learning and growth are valuable.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The most rewarding part of running my candle business is hearing the heartwarming stories of how much customers loved the candles and what they used them for. It’s like seeing my own children succeed and make me proud.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Believe in yourself and pursue your passions with confidence. It’s perfectly okay to ask for help and accept it graciously, as it will only make you stronger and more determined in the end.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My greatest cheerleaders are my supportive husband and kids! They always encourage me to believe in myself and pursue my passions with confidence. And when I need help, they’re always there to lend a helping hand.



Maggie Dale-Mackie, Owner/Chef, Baked by Maggie

How long have you been in business?

4 years

How long in your field of expertise?

7 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

The hardest part of running my own business is definitely finding time for that work/life balance.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The most rewarding part of owning my own business is knowing that I am helping families come together at the end of the day, and have a meal around the table. That is the reason I opened this business to begin with.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Do it! Don’t quit, don’t look back, be honest and work really hard.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My kids, my husband, and my family for sure, but I will tell you that since moving here I have met some friends that have turned into family! I definitely could not do what I do without them.



Melissa Stille, Health Insurance Agent/Agency Owner, Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC

How long have you been in business? 

3.5 years

How long in your field of expertise?

15 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Overcoming the misleading commercials about health insurance.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Helping my clients with their health insurance needs.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Believe in yourself!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My husband, my family, my clients and the community!



Alaina Davis, Owner and CEO, STEM Powered Kits

How long have you been in business? 

2 Years

How long in your field of expertise?

2 Years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Keeping up with ongoing market research has been the most challenging part of running STEM Powered Kits. Over the past 2 years I have learned the importance of making business decisions based on up-to-date information.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The most rewarding part of running STEM Powered Kits has been watching something that started as a hobby continually grow, evolve, and make its way around the world to different classrooms and homes.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Take yourself seriously or no one will. Know that you have something to unique to offer. Be strong, work hard, and never give up.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My mom and my entire family.


DeeDee Morris, CEO, Ellen Claire Soapery

How long have you been in business? 

I opened my boutique 4.5 years ago.

How long in your field of expertise?

I’ve been a Nurse for 35 years, but started creating skin care products 8 years ago.

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

I constantly challenge myself to create new products, to stay current on trends and educate myself on ingredients and skin care formulations. I do enjoy this because I love learning new things.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Being my own boss and working with my family. As a nurse, I never had the opportunity to work with my family before. Having my business in the same building as my husband’s has really been a lot of fun and given us more time together! Plus my daughter is there creating products with me when she’s not in her nursing class, and my niece Abby works with me in the store and with Effingham Women in Business.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

To go for it! We are often hesitant to step out of our comfort zone and try something new. I adored being a nurse, it’s a calling for me. But I was ready for a new challenge and starting my own business has given me a new passion. I get to combine two of my favorite things, my knowledge of nursing and our skin, with my love for everything fragrant and bubbly!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

Definitely my family and friends. I’m surrounded by such wonderful cheerleaders. When I doubt myself or have concerns, they remind me to just keep being me.


Marilu Michel, Owner, CEO, Flacos House

How long have you been in business?

Business owner 6 years

How long in your field of expertise?

Food industry 24 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Labor shortage in food service industry.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The most rewarding part of running my business is that I work in a field I’m passionate about, I have my dream job. I love hearing customers say they love Flacos!

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

The advice I would give to other females would be to believe in your ideas and take the risk! Be willing to work extra hard for yourself, long hours, make sacrifices and be persistent. My road has not been smooth but it has definitely been worth it!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My son Lennon, my mother Maria, my fiancé Miguel, my sister Carol and my brother Flaco.


Janet Wilson, Owner, MooMcGinn’s Magic Creamery

How long have you been in business?

6 years

How long in your field of expertise?

7 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Since Covid...Finding and keeping employees.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Smiles on the customer’s faces, especially seeing the little one’s faces light up when they see their ice cream made.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Don’t give up at the first obstacle, (there will be many), trust your gut instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My family and friends

Dr. Kathryn Klock-Powell, PhD, LMFT, RPT-S, Marriage and Family Therapist - AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor, Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider, Building Blocks Family Counseling

How long have you been in business?

5 years with offices in Rincon, Pooler, and now Savannah

How long in your field of expertise?

I have been a family therapist and play therapist more than 25 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

The most challenging part of running a business has got to be COVID. As a business owner I felt the pressure of wanting to keep my clients and my staff safe with all of the changing guidelines. We are a mental health provider for children and we wanted to continue to provide our much needed services, even while we were in shutdown. My staff was amazing and provided telehealth counseling without any pause in service. Now clients enjoy the option of being able to come into the office or do telehealth from home for therapy services.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The most rewarding part of running Building Blocks has been working with therapists who are passionate about working with children and families. I had started out as a solo practitioner and I prefer to work as part of a team. I am able to bring interns into the practice and find training that next generation of therapists very rewarding.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

My biggest advice to female entrepreneurs would be to NETWORK! Connecting with other professionals, both therapists and non-therapists has been so helpful. Networking helps with referrals, business advice, and avoiding burnout!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

Ashley Moore is my partner in Building Blocks. Ashley brings an attention to detail and follow-through that I just don’t have. I’ve always had more of a big-picture leadership style. Her easy going, supportive attitude has made all of this possible. She knows that I would never have been able to do all of this without her! Thanks Ashley!


Lisa Bush - Manna House Food Pantry & Thrift Store

Lisa Bush, the executive director of the Manna House Ministries has been hospitalized since January 29 and diagnosed with Guillian Barre Syndrome.

Lisa has been a tireless advocate for people in need and has served our community for many years. She is a true woman in business—the business of helping others. There is no timetable for her recovery. Please join the Effingham Magazine family and the entire community as we pray for Lisa Bush.

There is a GoFundMe set up for Lisa: https://gofund.me/d141f22c



Billi Jo R. Cape, Realtor,  Next Move Real Estate

How long have you been in business? 

17 years

How long in your field of expertise?

17 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Work life balance but we get it done every day!

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Helping so many families and the relationships I make!

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Don’t quit. When it gets hard, push harder!! You can do hard things! Take care of your people and be real!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My family and my clients!

 


Dr. Amanda Conner, Director of Science & Scientific Research ECCA EdTech Coach, Effingham College & Career Academy

How long have you been in business?

16 years

How long in your field of expertise?

16 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Dealing with the changing needs of students. As students needs and learning styles change, teachers constantly adapt.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Students. I have students reach out to me as they enter various fields or industry. Their words of appreciation are truly rewarding.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Follow what you love and pursue it all of your heart!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My husband and my colleagues. They constantly cheer me on as I continue my education, try new things, or spread my wings.


Tiffany Long Edwards, Owner, Merle Norman/ Lulu’s Closet

How long have you been in business? 

5 years

How long in your field of expertise?

15 years

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Surviving through Covid.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Growing relationships with my customers and knowing they trust me with their makeup needs, fashion and making them feel good about themselves.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Whatever field they choose, they need to be in the know and always looking for ways to better their business. They must believe in their business and themselves.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My family, they are always cheering for me and my business. The most important thing is giving God the glory because without him my business would be nothing, but with Him the sky’s the limit.



Dr. Fran Witt, DNP, MBA, LNHA, RN, President and CEO, Effingham Health System

How long have you been in business? 

Effingham Health System was established in 1969. I joined the health system in 2015 and have served as the President and CEO since 2016.

How long in your field of expertise?

A registered nurse by background, I have over 35 years of healthcare leadership experience.

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Managing operations during the global coronavirus pandemic.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

The creation of new or expansion of healthcare services that meet the needs of our community.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Know oneself, focus on your desired outcomes and be confident that perceived failures are opportunities.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My children who are in their 20s remain incredible supporters, but I also value the perspective and guidance that my parents and mentors continue to contribute to my life.



Tina G. Browning, A.V.P. At Work Banking & Financial Literacy Coordinator, CFEI Coastal Region, Queensborough National Bank & Trust

How long have you been in business? 

Current Position 10 Years

How long in your field of expertise?

Over 20 Years.

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Time management, sound familiar?

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

In working with people through the IQ University and IQ Jr. financial literacy programs it didn’t take long for me to see that managing money is a skill that isn’t being taught. Assisting others by helping them build assets and achieve their goals through financial education is my joy!

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Believe in yourself! If you think you can or you think you can’t, both will be right. Don’t be afraid to dream big and chase hard. As a previous business owner and in my current role of business development I have personally lived the ups and downs of owning and managing a small business. There is no better pleasure than the joy of finding you true gifts and doing what you love, seeing your business production and profits growing.

If I decided to open up a small business again, I know that the first step is to research your community needs. See that your product or service can live, earn and grow your brand. I believe the best way to know that is to go to your local chamber of commerce and have a great discussion with the CEO. If you are not connected in the community or active philanthropically, I highly recommend you look for ways to get involved. The people and relationships you build will also support and give back just as you will to their cause.

Find your own confident voice and spend the time to find the right partners, investors and teammates that will respect and support you as a female business owner. Having a great team beside and behind you cheering you on and will not be afraid to give you constructive criticism is a blessing.

Of course, you know that I recommend a good local business banking development officer. One that you can meet with, talk with and help you make good financial decisions.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

God, who has always directed my decisions through His word. My faith has guided me through the most challenging times in my life.

My Kentucky grandmother Rachel Powell, who raised me to be a hard-working woman who loves children and giving back to community.

 My devoted good looking, amazing husband Alvis, of 39 years, who often lets me know I need to slow down.

Our genius SCAD Grad, sound engineer son who most recently made me a grandma and assists me with the most important issues of how to or which one to use with the 4 remotes I have for one TV.



Ann Lovely Brown, Owner, Vintage Character LLC

How long have you been in business?

8 years

How long in your field of expertise?

A lifetime

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Trend Changes to Lifestyle Changes

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

More time for family

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

Don’t stop believing in yourself and pushing yourself to accomplish your dreams

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

Family and Friends


Wanda Plummer, CEO, Rise of Phoenix Cleaning Service, LLC

How long have you been in business?

Since October 1, 2022

How long in your field of expertise?

5+ years of various housekeeping positions with other companies. Also, being a mother to 5 kids should also count as experience.

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

The most challenging part is maintaining my role as a care giver and partner while ensuring that I can focus on getting my business off the ground. It is a delicate balance because being a mother and wife along with being a small business owner all have important jobs that need to be done. It is a never ending cycle of “what is next” on my to-do lists. It is a challenge, but I get it done with the support of my family.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

I love having the opportunity to offer my cleaning services to help alleviate those daunting tasks. Families should be focused more of spending time together. Go outside and have fun! To receive a message from a client about how clean everything looks and smells is very rewarding. While this profession can be very labor-intensive my clients have been amazing to recognize that it is, and their positive feedback means so much to me. Without them I would not be able to do what I do each day.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

We are so much more than what people believe we can be. We have to rise up from the ashes to become a Phoenix and then inspire others there is hope and room for positive transformation to develop. We control our own paths and destinies, not them!

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

My husband, Tony, along with my children. Also, my family and friends. I cannot forget about my clients. Thank you all for investing into my company and sticking by me as it continues to expand. Thank you all for the encouragement and support.


Destiny D. Wright Bradshaw, President and CEO, Ready2Connect

How long have you been in business? 

8 years

How long in your field of expertise?

I have served in education/career development for more than 25 years.

What has been the most challenging in running your business?

Navigating the learning curve of operating a nonprofit like a business, not a not-for-profit.

What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?

Seeing the growth and transformation of families we’ve served over the years and earning the public trust as a reliable source for career empowerment and family resources.

What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?

1.Trust God. Trust His plan for your life. Trust the process and remember to have joy in the journey.

2. Journal. Write out your visions for yourself, your family, and your business.

3. Build a network of trustworthy, honest, dependable, courageous, wise, disciplined, driven, and faith-filled people that you can tap into professionally and personally to help you along the way.

Who are your greatest cheerleaders?

I’m blessed to have a community of supporters, partners, and friends who believed in me, the mission, and the vision of R2C from the beginning. Having people around you who tell you the hard truths, know you at your best and worst, and keep you grounded and centered is imperative. My greatest cheerleaders are my closest family and friends. Holding the largest pom poms are my husband, children, parents, and my sister! I’m thankful for my close village of supporters.