Being a woman in business is a source of great pride for many brand owners, businesses and entrepreneurs, but it does present unique challenges. There’s no denying that women still have a long way to go to equality, where one day women will be on the same level playing field as everyone else, especially in industries that are still typically still boy’s clubs. Progress and change is happening every day, but there’s still work to be done.
“Women supporting women” is a phrase that’s come to be associated with highlighting women’s strengths and successes, supporting and uplifting each other along the way. No matter what industry a woman finds herself in, it’s definitely something to be recognized, supported and applauded – because every female success story is a step further in the right directly on the long road to equality.
New York based artist and owner of Cheery Designs decided that as we approach the festive season, this was the perfect time to not only spotlight female owned businesses, but encourage people to shop small. She reached out to her favorite women-owned, small businesses on Instagram and asked them to share the products they are pushing this holiday season to create a gift guide.
Elyssa’s commitment to supporting female businesses goes back to her college days. She says: “While I was a student, I was a founding member of Skidmore Women in Business, a club all about women of all disciplinaries supporting each other. That has stuck with me ever since.”
With Elyssa’s mission being to spread cheer through her art, her own personal taste can be seen throughout her personally curated gift guide with many products bursting with the color and cheer that characterizes her own products. Elyssa spotlighted the businesses that could even be seen as her competitors, but she emphasizes “we have to remember that there is room for all of us at the top.”
She adds: “We are all thankful for someone who has given us a chance. Now, it is our turn to take chances on someone who needs it.” Elyssa’s project is a reminder of how building up others will build yourself up too. As she too continues to navigate the ever-evolving world of small business management, she makes time to support others on the same path as her. “Women are strong but even stronger together.”
Check out Elyssa’s female-owned small business gift guide here.
