South Suburban Female Entrepreneurs Unite to Support Community

MOKENA, IL — Nineteen local women business leaders, led by the SunKissed Greenz owner Misty Nelson, came together on Monday, Sept. 9, at Wildflowers on Wolf, to celebrate their successes and support each other, as well as the broader community.

SunKissed Greenz, a women-owned business located in Mokena, initiated this gathering in an effort to strengthen the network of small women-owned businesses within the community. The event served as a platform for these entrepreneurs to share their success stories, offer sage advice and extend a helping hand to their peers.

"When women come together, there's an undeniable strength that emerges," Nelson said. "We're all walking similar paths in the business world, dealing with the same struggles and celebrating similar wins. By joining forces, not only can we support each other, but we can also make a significant impact on our local community."

The event, apart from being a celebration of unity and strength, was also underscored by a photoshoot. This visual representation of solidarity among women-owned businesses in Mokena and surrounding suburbs is a testament to their commitment to each other and the communities they serve.

These nineteen businesswomen, leaders in their respective fields, represent a diverse range of businesses—from eateries, retail shops, real estate agents and more. Their shared vision is not just about their individual businesses but about fostering a sense of togetherness and mutual support that can spur growth and prosperity for the entire Lincoln Way community.

In the spirit of community support, the participants of this initiative are keen on leading by example, encouraging other women in the community to step into the world of entrepreneurship. They believe that their collective success stories can inspire and guide others to follow suit.

Businesses that participated included: Misty Nelson and Jenna Drew with SunKissed Greenz, Hollie Ardnt with Hollie’s Massage Studio, Cahryssa Coldwater with Moody Blues Jean Boutique, Carly Baranak with Hustle and Heart, Jessica Galloway and Jessica McHugh with Social 45, Jessica McHugh with Hamilton Loft, Kristy Byers with Manhattan Family Chiropractic, Melissa Fedora with the Mokena Chamber of Commerce, Brooke Lonkard with Two Birds and a Doe, Kelly Garver with Sterk Family Law Group, Randi Quigley with Opulent/EXP Realty, Brigitte Ralph with Brigwood Acres, Rachael Gish with @properties, Jess Nowak with Jess Lynsey Photography, Brittany Andrews with Mama Kneads Dough, Samantha Lynn with Rose and Rae Hair Studio, Shelby Koester with Whimsy Bead Works, Beth Feldman with Nothing Bundt Cakes and Andrea June with Gigi on the Scene.