Q&A with Business Women Who Make a Difference in Our Community
Q&A with Business Women Who Make 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.
Whitney Gilliard, Gilliard and Company
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
The greatest challenge in running a nonprofit is that I am not selling a tangible product—there is no instant gratification, no item to wear or showcase.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
The most rewarding part of running my nonprofit is knowing that every day, we are not just changing lives—we are saving them. As a former foster youth myself, the greatest fulfillment comes from turning my own survival into a mission.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Profits matter, too. As women, we are natural givers—often pouring into others while feeling guilt for taking. But I challenge that narrative: your passion deserves to sustain you, just as much as it serves others.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My greatest cheerleader is my son—his selflessness in sharing his mother with so many other children is a love I never expected but cherish deeply. My family, my community, and our incredible board stand beside me, believing in this mission even when the weight of it feels heavy.
Caroline Sumners, Empower Academic Coaching
How long have you been in business?
7 years
How long in your field of expertise?
14 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Needing to build expertise in so many areas. As a former teacher, I knew I was skilled in my core service offering - supporting students academically. But EVERYTHING else was new: learning how to do business finances, operations, HR, legal, marketing, leadership, client relationships, networking. There’s always more to learn. This is what’s most challenging but also what keeps me engaged in my business.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
When students first begin working with us, they often say things like, “I’m just not smart” or “I hate school.” After working with us, they say things like, “I know how to do this now!” and “I’m so proud of myself.” Seeing that transformation and renewed sense of confidence is incredibly rewarding, especially at this important stage in their lives. It’s also so rewarding to get to build a business based on my values. I love creating the kind of workplace for my employees that I would love to work in and the kind of business I would want to work with as a customer.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Find other women who can support you on your journey. Entrepreneurship is difficult, but it doesn’t have to be lonely. I’m so grateful for the women who’ve supported me as I built my business, and I wouldn’t be here without their support.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My wife, my “business besties”, and my doctor, Dr. Milagros Rivera.
Meredith Bannon, Bannon Law Group LLC
How long have you been in business?
13 yrs
How long in your field of expertise?
19 yrs
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Every day is a new adventure. Working through the hopes of real estate! Balancing all the different aspects into running a firm while simultaneously practicing law and working with clients.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Getting to meet a variety of clients who become friends
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Go for it! It is the most rewarding challenge you can take on. Never limit yourself on what you can accomplish.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My daughter and husband/business partner Jim Bannon
Christie Belle, The Counselors Corner
How long have you been in business?
2 years
How long in your field of expertise?
7 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Being in private practice alone has been the most challenging. Everything has to be done and I have to do it.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
It is always rewarding when clients leave in a better mental space than when they arrived.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Don’t procrastinate. It is better to try and fail than to never have tried.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My greatest cheerleader has been my mentor, Dr. Goldberg.
Jessica Sauls, By Jessica & Co. Beauty Lounge
How long have you been in business?
7 years
How long in your field of expertise?
15 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Recruiting good stylists as the business has expanded.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Making customers feel beautiful and good about themselves.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Don’t give up.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My late mother, my two sons, and many friends.
Lisa Yannett, Horizon Staffing
How long have you been in business?
30 years
How long in your field of expertise?
30 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Finding the right people for the right jobs, especially in a competitive job market and staying on top of changing labor laws, keeping clients happy, and dealing with ups and downs in the economy can be tricky.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
The most rewarding part of running a business is seeing the impact it has on people’s lives. Helping someone land a job and watching them succeed is incredibly fulfilling.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Believe in yourself and your vision. Stay persistent, even when challenges come your way, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or build a strong support network.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My husband, family, friends, and the team at Horizon Staffing. They’ve supported me through the ups and downs of running a business, celebrating my wins and encouraging me during challenges.
Kerry Kavlie, The Citrus Home
How long have you been in business?
3 years
How long in your field of expertise?
I have been designing spaces for others since I was a child.
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
The most challenging part of running my business has been figuring out how to turn a lifelong hobby into something profitable. Going back to school and getting my MBA helped tremendously. I had to retrain my brain to think more mathematically and analytically so I could run a business in which I was paid to think creatively.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
The most rewarding part of running my business has been coming together with other local businesses to support others on their home journey-whether it’s moving to the lowcountry, building a home, renovating an existing space, or simply changing out a few pieces of furniture and home decor. Design is a puzzle. I love finding the right pieces that fit together to help clients create spaces that they can enjoy.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Don’t sell yourself short. Always keep dreaming, pushing, and growing. Find like-minded people and surround yourself with them-people that will bring out the best in you and are not afraid to speak truth into you so you can learn from your mistakes.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My greatest cheerleaders are the contractors I work with, my clients, my friends, and my family.
Wendy Wallace, Lighthouse Financial Group, LLC
How long have you been in business?
20 years
How long in your field of expertise?
22 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Building it while life is happening
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Being able to grow the company and serve others
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Keep pushing and do what’s right not what’s easy
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
Our clients
Jennifer Heyward and Antwonette Bulloch,
Pooler Baldinos Foodtruck
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?
Starting from scratch with minimal help in the industry and still killing it
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Watching the vision come to life
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
If you believe, put action to it and make it happen.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
Our family.
MonaLisa Monroe, Style Architect Image Consulting
How long have you been in business?
17 years
How long in your field of expertise?
15 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Social media marketing
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
The smiles from the women I worked with after they receive their makeover or their closets reorganized.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Keep going no matter what the obstacles.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
Clients, family, and friends
Brandie Menees, Great Oaks Bank
How long have you been in business?
Since 1934: Opened in Pooler in 2020
How long in your field of expertise?
Under 5 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Getting the community and customers to understand all of our banking capabilities. Differentiating how banking at Great Oaks is a different experience.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Being actively involved in the Pooler business community as well as getting to know our customers and anticipating their needs.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Build your network one person at a time. Always make yourself available to help others
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
Her staff and customers! And, of course, her family!
Marissa Reardon, ProCare Wellness
How long have you been in business?
2 years
How long in your field of expertise?
3 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Going from an established business to a start up is always challenging but being able to start from the ground up is rewarding to see the progress that has been made.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Seeing how happy the patients are with their care
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
When the going gets tough, you get tougher!
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My husband, friends and colleagues.
Jessica Lopez, Realtor
How long have you been in business?
3 years
How long in your field of expertise?
3 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Getting use to being my own boss after leaving my dream engineering job at Gulfstream.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Educating others
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Your mindset is your biggest battle, focus on your mind set and know being uncomfortable is temporary.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My mom, my boyfriend and myself.
Belinda Draucker, Draucker Enterprises LLC/DBA Morningstar Games
How long have you been in business?
Morningstar Games has been in business in Savannah for 27 years. I bought the business in March of 2023.
How long in your field of expertise?
I worked in the advertising/marketing field for nearly 13 years, then went into education. I taught music and English in the private and public schools. I left her educational career while at the Savannah College of Art & Design to pursue this entrepreneurial endeavor.
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
The most challenging part of any local business is competing with larger, big box businesses. It is important for consumers to understand the impact of buying local and supporting local business, which of course helps to stimulate the local economy and job growth, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
The most rewarding part of the business is growing a vibrant gaming community for Savannah and the entire area and being a safe place for all ages of gamers to enjoy.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
My advice is to seek God’s guidance first; prioritize honesty and integrity; treat employees and customers fairly; use your business as a platform to serve and be a light to others.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My greatest cheerleaders are my husband, my children, and my amazing team at Morningstar Games!
Angela Lightsey, Tybee Wellness Retreats
How long have you been in business?
3 years
How long in your field of expertise?
20 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
I have been in hospitality for my entire career. When COVID hit, I created TWR to meld my knowledge of the hospitality industry with my love for yoga, energy healing, sound healing, self care and empowering other women. I launched during the 2nd wave of COVID which was challenging logistically. We made it work and women NEEDED to be in a space where they could heal and connect.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Creating a safe space for women to nurture themselves, explore and learn is my superpower! Over the last 3+ years I have hosted over 200 women on Tybee and also in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala where we have an annual week long retreat. The rewards are great. Most specifically we have created a community near and far.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Don’t be afraid to follow your intuition. When I was in the launch phase, I heard many voices of concern that I was making the wrong decision. I knew in my soul that I was on my highest path and this is what I am meant to do for right now.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
I have to say myself! Being able to create these spaces for others I HAVE to do the work. I am not only providing space for other women, I am practicing and learning about everything we offer constantly. In addition, my daughter, my parents, my partner and FOR SURE, the group of women that provide their expertise during the retreats.
Moira Sheehan, Carma Auto Care
How long have you been in business?
16 years
How long in your field of expertise?
40 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Finding a great staff
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Giving my staff a great place to work and providing customers with the best experience in auto repair.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Listen to your gut. If you want it, go for it, even if you are in a non-traditional field.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My two female service advisors and my four male auto technicians.
Stacy Weimer, Weimer Homes
How long have you been in business?
Created in November 2022 but active in June 2024
How long in your field of expertise?
7 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Being a woman in what for years has been a man world but that is definitely changing and loving it!
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Being able to create something from the ground up and seeing my ideas come to life.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Always believe in yourself and embrace every challenge!
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My parents, they are the absolute best!
Melissa Ann, Bel Fiore
How long have you been in business?
2 years
How long in your field of expertise?
15 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Staying afloat as a small business in this economy, and trying to reach out and gain new clients.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Being able to help people feel and look their best while making my own schedule and having a better work/life balance than working for someone else.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Take the leap. It’s so scary but so worth it!
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My family, my boyfriend and my clients
Corina Stewart, Cleaning by Design, LLC
How long have you been in business?
7 years
How long in your field of expertise?
10 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Ensuring the employees that rely on me for a steady paycheck have the work to support that paycheck.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
First is being able to offer people and families in our community the opportunity to take the stress of cleaning off their plate for affordable prices allowing them time to do more important things like spend time with their family.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Don’t stop going for your dreams. Success stems from learning from your failures, not giving up when you fall down.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My family, specifically my mom, stepdad, and my six amazing children and one bonus child.
Amy Costley, Crosswinds Golf Club
How long have you been in business?
I’ve been at Crosswinds for 15 years, Crosswinds Golf Club has been in business for 25 years
How long in your field of expertise?
15 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Wearing many hats. My job is diverse—one day I could be meeting with a corporation scheduling a Charity Golf Scramble, and the next day I can be fully planning a beautiful wedding for a bride.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
The most rewarding part of my position is the relationships that are built with clients. My clients truly become friends.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Relationships are everything, kindness and genuine care are most important.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My family and coworkers are my greatest support.
Cassie Cribbs, Make Your Move Realty
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?
Getting clients and proving I am good at what I do despite my age. I started real estate at 19!
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Helping clients find their dream home and receiving pictures of the ways they make their house a home
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Keep pushing! Even if you don’t feel confident, fake it. It’s all about connections, And you’re never too tall to rock a pair of heels!
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My mom and dad
Olga Loto Williams, Icons Hair Studio and Boutique
How long have you been in business?
17 years
How long in your field of expertise?
27 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
The most challenging part was when we went through the pandemic and having to decide to downsize to being in a suite by myself. The thought of me having to tell the stylist that we were not reopening was very challenging because I knew they depended on the salon as their place of business/income.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
It has been the relationships developed. Knowing that when clients enter the salon it is so much more than a hair appointment but a divine connection.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
My advice to other female entrepreneurs would be to trust God every step of the way. Things won’t always be easy but with challenges come great rewards.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My greatest cheerleaders are definitely my family, church family and my amazing clients.
Anekia Boatwright Mcghee
Rebecca Padgett School of Performing Arts
How long have you been in business?
25 years
How long in your field of expertise?
25 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
The most challenging thing is overcoming the unexpected. COVID taught us to take care of what we have and it’s not just about the money but it’s about connection and community.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
The smiles and the past clients who say you changed my life.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Don’t set limits on your dream. When I started the business I was 21 and decided not to go to law school. I took a chance on myself and it worked ! So no matter how crazy the idea is, give it a chance you never know.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
Heather Mims, Ann Boatwright
Cindy McManus, Noble Beasts Dog Training
How long have you been in business?
14 years
How long in your field of expertise?
40 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Having clients understand the importance of continuing what the dog has learned while with me.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
When a dogs bad behavior turns around and is able to live a happy fulfilling life.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Never give up. Strive to be the best and your business will succeed.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
The dogs.
Jasmine Danielle Polk, Savannah Pelvic Health and Wellness
How long have you been in business?
2 years
How long in your field of expertise?
12 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Juggling running a clinic, speaking at nonprofits and workshops educating on pelvic health, being a mom to two with one on the way
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Empowering women who are pregnant, postpartum, or dealing with sensitive pelvic floor issues
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Don’t give up, chase your dreams, be persistent
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My kids and my patients. They motivate me to keep going
Alicia M. Brown, One Hope Wine
How long have you been in business?
3 years
How long in your field of expertise?
4 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
It is networking and getting my business out to the public. Keeping up your clientele and educating everyone on the different types of wine and which ones that are good for your health.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Meeting new people and receiving medals for the wine.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Keep trying, never give up.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
Friends and new people that I made that love wine.
Morgan Hall, Morgan & Mane Salon and Scalp Facial Spa
How long have you been in business?
Less than a year
How long in your field of expertise?
4 years
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
Navigating social media & trying to stay up to date on the latest products & equipment + trying to get the word out when first opened!
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
Being able to help women who are struggling with hair loss & scalp issues! + being able to give the ultimate relaxation experience to them.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
It’s easy to not feel qualified enough or good enough to start your own business. But if you won’t do it, someone else will!
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
My husband (Joseph Hall) my mom! & my boss at full Bloom salon Hannah Mills/Sikes!
Shirlenia Daniel, Pooler Planning Zoning
How long have you been in business?
Almost 5 years of volunteer work for the City of Pooler
How long in your field of expertise?
As a 20 yr retired Army Logistics Officer I have worked in government now over 25 years.
What has been the most challenging in running your business?
In times past government has somewhat lagged in updating systems, innovation, infrastructure & even city improvements sometimes due to funding & grant approvals.
What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
When you are passionate about your field, staying the course and looking forward to the long term success helps to remind us the challenges were not created overnight, therefore nor will the victories be accomplished overnight.
What advice would you give other female entrepreneurs?
Although working with local & state governments can be challenging, it is wise to get educated not only through your industry but your commitment to discovering new innovative resolutions, personal investments & determination will help you excel beyond personal & professional goals.
Who are your greatest cheerleaders?
Faith, Family, and Friends
