12 NOLA Area Woman-Owned Businesses Shaking Up the City
And Sage Advice For Future Businesswomen Owners
September 22, 2022 is American Businesswomen’s Day! So, this month we’re celebrating local New Orleans area business owners who are representing for the ladies. These champions of enterprise are breaking glass ceilings and breaking the mold, and we want to support them! During the month of September, we’re challenging you to help celebrate the women who help keep our local economy booming! They are doctors, designers, mothers, architects and so much more! Here’s a list of just a few of these amazing women, plus a bit of advice they have for their fellow CEOs in training.
1. Eye Wares
Owner: Dr. Lauren Agnew, OD
Website: EyeWaresNOLA.com
Social Media: IG: @eyewaresnola, FB: @eyewares
Eye Wares, a luxury eyewear boutique, optometry practice, and dry eye treatment center, has quickly expanded to 3 locations since Dr. Lauren Agnew, OD opened her first practice in early 2020. Collectively, Eye Wares has the largest, most diverse selection of luxury designer frames and funky independent eyewear in the New Orleans area. Aside from eye exams and vision correction, the optometry practice has invested in the most advanced eye care technology. For example, patients can avoid dilation with Optomap retinal imaging. Patients suffering from chronic dry eye will find relief at Eye Wares Dry Eye Centers, equipped with IPL and RF treatment options. Locations are in Old Metairie, Mandeville and on Magazine Street in New Orleans. Insurance is accepted. Saturday appointments available.
Her Words of Wisdom
“No one will understand the hard work you put into building your business. Not even the ones closest to you. Don’t let that hold you back. Build relationships and bond with other women business owners. It’s a very important part of the journey to success.”
2. AMB2 Architecture
Owner: Ana Batista Borden
Website: AMB2Architecture.com
Phone: 504-451-7377
Did you know only 17% of registered architects are women? That’s according to the American Institute of Architects. Ana Batista Borden followed her calling to become an Architect, fueled by her extensive experience and passion for the field of design and construction. Her eye for design and detailing, knowledge of construction, as well as her hard work and dedication to her clients were the leading forces that propelled her to start her firm, AMB2 Architecture in 2013. A few of her accolades include being featured in New Orleans City Business Construction/Engineering Ones to Watch and featured as one of ENR Texas & Louisiana 2016 Top 20 under 40. AMB2 Architecture is a full-service firm providing design services from conception to construction for all programs, including commercial and custom residential design.
Her Words of Wisdom
“Use your life experiences, especially challenges, to propel you to excel. Leave the world around you better than you found it.”
3. Furious Viola
Owner: Mindy Christie
Website: FuriousViola.com
Social Media: @FuriousViola
Furious Viola serves up cool, comfy, and stylish undergoodies made by women for every body. Founder and owner Mindy Christie was raised in the hot, humid South. Her mother encouraged her to wear a slip under dresses and skirts. Mindy was forever searching for cooler and prettier solutions, but nothing fit the covered, yet sexy and spunky vibe she desired. So, she dreamt them up! Whether you’re strutting your way to work, dancing the night away, or lounging at home with your special someone, do it with carefree confidence in Furious Viola. Oh, and did we mention they have pockets?! Join the revolution of your underthings at FuriousViola.com and follow on Instagram and Facebook to join the comfy and welcoming community.
Her Words of Wisdom
“You are not too old, and it is not too late (to wear sassy Furious Viola undergoodies AND to start your own business😉).”
4. NOLA’s Finest Pet Care
Owner: Twila McGee
Website: NOLAsFinestPets.com
Phone: (501) 410-6326
Social Media: @NOLAsFinestPetCare
No one cares for your fur babies like Twila McGee, founder of Nola’s Finest Pet Care and in-home pet care facility. With almost 10 years of professional pet care experience and specializing in various care techniques, you can trust that Twila will give your pets the love and attention they need while you’re away. She also sells homemade gourmet treats that are created with love, and then taste-tested by her very own fur baby, Arabella. Visit Twila’s website to see her full-service list and for a look at all her treats, tips and more!
Her Words of Wisdom
“Never give up! There isn’t a straight line to success; it’s a constant roller coaster of ups & downs. Sit back and enjoy the ride because it’s so worth it.”
5. Out of the Office-Notary Service
Owner: Pati Kates
Email: OutOfTheOfficeNotary@gmail.com
Phone: 504-256-9422
Pati Kates, owner of Out of The Office – Notary Service is bringing the notary office to you. She’s been called “the Uber of notaries,” and boy does she deliver! This mobile notary is dedicated to providing convenient legal services at any time. As a commissioned Louisiana notary and a certified signing agent with almost 30 years of paralegal experience, there is no limit to the ways that Pati can help you. If you’d like more information, just give her a call.
Her Words of Wisdom
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the number of moments that take our breath away. Don’t be afraid to shock yourself with the truth of your dreams. Run after them, tackle them, dress them up, and parade them in the streets. We are NEW ORLEANS baby! The only one that is truly stopping you is you!”
6. Bypass Lines
Co-Owner: Charon Flowers Maple
Website: BypassLines.com
Email: info@bypasslines.com
We all love the convenience of ordering ahead. So why not give a local online delivery service a try! Charon Flowers Maple, female co-owner of Bypass Lines, knows that in this day and age we like everything delivered to us fast, and that’s what Bypass Lines is all about. Order food, groceries, and retail items all with the click of a button. Skip all those worrisome long lines. Download the app or visit them online and start ordering from your favorite spots or inquire about a partnership today!
Her Words of Wisdom
“There are things in your control and there are things that are not. Make sure to pour your energy into things in your control.”
7. Dark Matter Oddities & Artisan Collective
Co-Owner: Chrystal Nause
Etsy Account: Etsy.com/shop/DarkMatterOddities
Instagram: @darkmatteroddities_nola
Email: dark.matter.oddities.nola@gmail.com
Address: 822 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70116
At Dark Matter Oddities & Artisan Collection, every day is Halloween! Browse the shelves at this charmingly unusual boutique located just minutes away from the historic Jackson Square. Co-founded by Chrystal Lea Nause, this peculiar shop has stricken an artful balance between the macabre and the appealing. See more of their captivating art via social media or buy online through their Etsy account.
Her Words of Wisdom
“Dream big impossible things, and never stop dreaming. As a child, I was encouraged to use my imagination and creativity, which continues to move me forward even now. I’ve taken bigger and bigger leaps into the unknown, and though my current path is very different from where I thought I would find myself it’s been an interesting journey to say the least. Surround yourself with those that will be your champions as you make this journey and return the favor by helping others to do the same.”
8. Le Boulevard Marketplace
Co-Owners: Sandra Faught & Deborah Boudreaux
Website: Le-Boulevard-Marketplace.MyShopify.com
Phone: 504-455-4515
Instagram: @leboulevardmarketplace
Address: 3815 Veterans Blvd, Suite B, Metairie LA 70002
Go antique finding at this adorable fine consignment shop in Metairie. This place is over 8,000 sq feet of upscale antiques, unique art, and heirloom furniture. Run by Co-Owners Sandra and Deborah, this shop is the perfect place to look if you’re searching for one-of-a-kind items to fill your home. Visit their website to shop their listed items, find vending opportunities, or find them at their next big event.
Their Words of Wisdom
“Be passionate about your business idea, and above all, provide excellent customer service.”
9. Joe’s Cafe Lapalco
Owner: Stacey Armand
Website: JoesKnowsFood.com
Phone: (504) 328-1234
Address: 5957 Lapalco Blvd, Marrero, LA 70072
More please! Stop by Lapalco Blvd in Marrero and stock up on dozens of donuts, delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner plates, and so much more! Joe’s Cafe is a 6-location local eatery, first known for their famous handmade donuts. The Lapalco location just happens to be run by female donut connoisseur and culinary professional, Stacey Armand. Enjoy a quick bite to eat with friends while supporting a local female businesswoman. Get full location details at JoesKnowsFood.com
Her Words of Wisdom
“Keep it positive and be an encourager. I’ve found that you get the best out of people when you learn to recognize their strengths, instead of their shortcomings. That’s true no matter who it is, whether you’re talking to an employee, a customer, or even to yourself.”
10. Adeeta Corporate Staffing
Owner: Lola Lass
Website: Adeeta.com
Phone: 504-523-1786
Adeeta Corporate Staffing is owned and operated by Lola Lass, native New Orleanian, mentor, boss, and staffing extraordinaire. Whether you’re looking to hire short term, long term, or temporary personnel, Adeeta Corporate Staffing has the resources, connections, and expertise to help you find the right talent for your business. And if you’re looking for a job, Adeeta can help you find quality work within the fields of office administration, accounting, marketing, HR and some IT. Visit Adeeta.com to learn more about how these professionals help local individuals build their careers, and help local companies build successful work teams.
Her Words of Wisdom
“As a small business owner, YOU lead the charge. No one that works for you will be more invested in the success of your company than you. So, it really is up to you. And if you know something needs to be done, getting your fear out of the way is the most important step. So, when you find yourself at the doorstep of fear, just ask yourself what you would do if you weren’t afraid. Then remember how badass you are and do it.”
11. Happy Raptor Distilling
Co-founder: Meagen Moreland-Taliancich
Website: HappyRaptor.com
Social Media: @504rum
Address: 1512 Carondelet Street New Orleans, LA 70130
The drinks are flowing and everybody’s having a great time over at Happy Raptor Distilling. New Orleans has a new rum distillery, located on Carondelet St., and they’re putting an eclectic spin on traditional Louisiana rum. Co-owner Meagen Moreland-Taliancich is leading the team in their mission to create premium infused 504Rum inspired by our culture, our community, and the things that bring us joy. Happy Raptor is the perfect place to book a tour and tasting with the gang or a fun date night bartending class with their award-winning mixologist. You can even rent the event space (free for nonprofits!) and make the party your own. For booking information visit HappyRaptor.com or follow them on social media @504rum.
Her Words of Wisdom
“Far too often, women are forced to choose between our ambition or our family. This is not what we deserve. Still, forging our own path through entrepreneurship can be an uphill climb with very few resources. It’s worth it – but be prepared. Trust yourself. Be kind to yourself. Go one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to claim your space in the world.”
12. JB Communications
Owner: Jaquie Bonano
Website: JBCommunications.net
Phone: (504) 512-0147
Define, tailor, and streamline your brand with JB Communications. Founded by Jacquie Bonano in 1994, this integrated marketing and advertising firm has almost 30 years of experience helping brands reach their highest potential. Not only do they have the talent and the expertise to help you turn your business into a success, but they also have the connections. In fact, our very own Shop Local NOLA was created by the JBC team. With their help, we’ve become the largest database of Louisiana registered local businesses in the state! Contact JB Communications today to schedule your free consultation.
Her Words of Wisdom
“Don’t let the fear of failing prevent you from pushing forward to your goals. You’ll have to make some sacrifices along the way. Always prioritize a work-life balance, and don’t forget to funnel that to your employees. Life’s too short, enjoy the ride.”
Shop Local This American Businesswomen’s Day
These amazing women are rocking it in the business world, and they are such a huge part of what makes New Orleans so special. Shop Local NOLA wants to say thank you to these ladies for their sage advice and for adding their special flair to our home. This September, support these superstars and so many others by shopping local. Happy American Businesswomen’s Day!