A Tribute to Female Entrepreneurs

Happy (Belated) International Women's Day! In honor of this day, I wanted to acknowledge a few female small business owners that inspire me. Being your own boss and starting something new requires a lot of bravery, and these women are doing it with style. Without further ado, I present to you five lady-owned small businesses that prove that women have the guts and the smarts to make it all happen:

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Heather Terry: Founder of NibMor Chocolate
Heather is a yogi, a mom, an author, an actress, and now a CEO of a delicious and healthy chocolate company that is in grocery stores all around the United States. I am constantly impressed by how articulate and passionate she is.  Here is a video that displays all of that. Find more details about her chocolate at nibmor.com.

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Chrissy Carter: Yoga Teacher
Chrissy Carter is one of my yoga teachers and business role models.  She not only knows her yoga, but also has the street-smarts to grow her brand from yoga teacher to a yoga lifestyle company.  You've probably seen her Gaiam DVDs at Target, or taken a short course from her on happier.com. Find her at chrissycarter.com.

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Katharine Lucic and Katie Vohwinkel Lucas: Founders of OhmK Apparel 
Katharine is a dear friend of mine who teamed up her dear friend to create a NYC-based cheeky yoga and cycling apparel line.  I am in awe of their determination and enthusiasm in business, but also their commitment to spreading the message about self-acceptance. Here is a moving piece by Katharine about her recent health and identity struggles.  Find their clothes at liveohmk.com (and use the code "DebbieIsOhmK" to get 15% off your order!).

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Phyllis Sa: Design Extraordinaire at Phyllis Sa Design
Phyllis is a childhood friend of mine who has recently made the decision to refocus on her design career after having two beautiful girls. I can say from personal experience that she is incredible at her work.  If you are choosing to invest in the aesthetics of your company, please consider her!  Find her at phyllissadesign.com. 

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Emily Abramson: Founder of Yogiemmie Yoga Bags
Emily is a beautiful soul and yoga teacher who decided to create a line of waterproof yoga mat bags. She saw a need while transporting her mat through the rain and snow in NYC and filled that need with functional bags in beautiful prints. Emily showcases her work at trunk shows not only in the city, but also in Washington D.C.  Find her patterns at yogiemmie.com.