Enjoy Women-Owned Businesses Making History in Evanston
Lena, NiceLena in Main Dempster Mile | Photography by Becca Heuer
In Evanston, IL, approximately 1 in 3 businesses are owned and operated by women. From your favorite local restaurant to retailers that customers travel far and wide to visit, we have a league of entrepreneurs who build their businesses, elevate public spaces, and provide for the local community.
Join us this March in celebrating Women’s History Month by supporting some of our favorite women-owned businesses.
Claire's Korner | Church & Dodge
📍1827 Emerson Street
Claire’s Korner is a beloved local eatery offering authentic Jamaican cuisine, known for its bold flavors and hearty portions. Owner Andrea Claire Bhalai has been serving the community for over 20 years with signature dishes like jerk chicken, oxtail stew, and plantains. This cozy spot is a must-visit for anyone craving Caribbean comfort food.
The Wine Goddess | Downtown Evanston
📍702 Main Street
https://www.winegoddess.com/
Owned by Diana Hamann, The Wine Goddess is more than just a wine store—it’s an experience. This charming shop offers a carefully curated selection of wines from around the world, wine-tasting events, and educational workshops. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper, this women-led business provides an inviting atmosphere to explore and enjoy wine culture.
Beards and Bellas | Howard Street
📍751 Howard Street
https://www.beardsandbellas.com/
Beards and Bellas, owned by Shelley Carillo, is committed to providing the best in clean beauty care products for all gender identities. Their collection of minority-owned brands offers a diverse range of options to suit your needs and style. Shop the selection of beard oils, skincare, makeup, and more today.
niceLena & Friends | Main Dempster Mile
📍1235 Chicago Avenue
https://www.nicelenaandfriends.com
Lena Kim’s boutique, niceLena & Friends, is a haven for unique, handcrafted gifts and artisan goods. This eclectic shop features jewelry, home decor, and accessories from independent designers and makers, many of whom are women. Shopping here means supporting a small business that values creativity, sustainability, and community.
Tag's Bakery and Tag's Café | An Evanston Legacy Business Member
📍2010 Central Street
https://tagsbakery.com/
Tag’s Bakery, under the ownership of Gretchen Vetter, has been an Evanston staple for decades. Known for its delicious cookies, cakes, and pastries, this bakery combines tradition with innovation, offering both classic treats and new, seasonal delights. In addition to the bakery, Tag’s Café provides a cozy setting for coffee lovers looking to enjoy a warm drink with a sweet treat.
Tomatae Fresh Kitchen | Noyes
📍914 Noyes Street
https://www.tomatefreshkitchen.com/
Established by chef and founder Tania Merlos-Ruiz, Tomate Fresh Kitchen started among Chicago’s farmer’s market selling her beloved fruit & spice-infused sorbets and hand-crafted empanadas! A well-kept secret among Northwestern students in Evanston, Tomate Fresh Kitchen opened her doors in 2013, transforming typical Latin street foods to a gourmet experience. Tomate Fresh Kitchen takes an innovative approach to her cuisine, using locally sourced fresh ingredients.
Chicago Ballet Arts | Maple Foster
📍915 Foster Street
https://www.chicagoballetarts.org/
Chicago Ballet Arts is a premier dance school offering top-quality ballet training for students of all ages and skill levels. Led by artistic and executive director Maliwan Diemer, this women-led institution is committed to fostering a love for dance while emphasizing technique, discipline, and creativity. The school provides a supportive environment where aspiring dancers can refine their skills and express themselves through movement.
Heartwood Center Evanston | West Village
📍 1818 Dempster St
https://www.heartwoodcenter.com/
Heartwood Center Evanston is a holistic wellness center dedicated to providing alternative healing practices, including acupuncture, massage therapy, and meditation. Founded by wellness practitioner Nancy Floy, the center is home to a diverse group of practitioners who focus on integrative health and well-being. Heartwood Center is a peaceful retreat for anyone looking to rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit.
Brella Productions | Ashland Arts
📍 1601 Simpson S
https://www.brella.com
Brella is a strategic event optimization agency for corporate meetings, events, and learning programs led by Bernadette Burke. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Brella Productions helps brands connect with their audiences through high-quality multimedia content.
Dance Center Evanston | West End
📍1934 Dempster St
https://dancecenterevanston.com
Dance Center Evanston, led by director Bea Rashid, has been a cornerstone of the local dance community for years. Offering a variety of classes in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and tap, the studio welcomes dancers of all ages and skill levels. Known for its strong technical training and supportive environment, Dance Center Evanston is dedicated to fostering creativity, discipline, and a lifelong love of dance.
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Let’s Keep Making History
These seven businesses are just a small sample of the many women-owned enterprises that contribute to Evanston’s vibrant economy and culture. By supporting women-owned businesses, we help foster a more inclusive and thriving local economy for everyone.
