Graphic by co-founder Adrienne J. Romero.
Between 2019 to 2023, women-owned businesses have been on the rise, outpacing men-owned businesses by 94.3%. According to Wells Fargo Newsroom, women-owned businesses added “1.4 million jobs and $579.6 billion in revenue to the economy.”
In simpler terms, more women are becoming bosses. So, in honor of that, let’s listen to this iconic song from 10 years ago 💅🏽 (PG-13 version… just in case.)
To continue supporting them, especially during Women’s History Month, let’s check out 10 local women-owned businesses!
Hermanitas Design – West New York
Hermanitas Design is a Latina-owned digital design business based out of West New York. Ran by sisters Iris and Rosalinda Ponce, the life-long Hudson County natives focus on mental health, grief, Latin heritage and more in their work.
They sell a number of products including bookmarks, calendars, dominoes, totes, t-shirts and more.
Instagram: @hermanitasdesign
https://www.instagram.com/p/C4WHEE8vobz/
Walker’s Apothecary – Jersey City
Walker’s Apothecary, a beauty boutique spa located in Jersey City, is run by Shalea Walker, a licensed esthetician.
Walker is a firm believer of using natural ingredients in products so she started her own customized line of products consisting of cleansers, serums, moisturizers and more.
Her services include facials, eyebrow maintenance, body treatments and makeup application.
Instagram: @walkersapothecary
https://www.instagram.com/p/C4aw6hZM7fR/
Skye Stylez Studio – Bayonne
Skye Stylez Studio is a Filipina-owned beauty salon located in Bayonne. Rukmini opened up shop with over 10 years of experience in both hair and makeup from salons to TV and fashion. To her, it’s a “pleasure and privilege to help discover, express and accentuate a client’s unique beauty.”
Over the last few years, they increased their services and now offer brow, lashes and tooth gem services.
Instagram: @skyestylezstudio
https://www.instagram.com/p/C3-TDZDOiRT/
Underground Shop – Weehawken
The Underground Shop is a thrift store located on Park Avenue in Weehawken. Originally starting in Union City, the store has been jam packed with vintage finds like shirts, jewelry, decor and more.
The small business is a huge advocate for shopping locally and giving back to the community. They accept clothing donations and also do pick ups. On March 29 and March 30, they have a special 50% off discount off the whole store.
Instagram: @underground_shoppp
https://www.instagram.com/p/C3oKmOyJ8K6/
Book Haven Books – New Jersey
Book Haven Books is a New Jersey-based online bookstore and literary space. It was founded by Cuban-American Tara Torres.
Torres wanted to bring an “inclusive brick-and-mortar bookstore to her hometown of Hudson County, NJ” by celebrating diverse stories of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ authors.
Instagram: @bookhavenbooks
https://www.instagram.com/p/C3p6hSMrKmK/
Hungry by Dre – West New York
Hungry by Dre is an online bakery owned by self taught baker, Andrea Angelos.
The Hudson County resident started selling baked goods in 2020 after growing up with a love for sweets. She currently sells brownies, cookies and knafeh-inspired donuts.
Instagram: @hungrydrekitchen
https://www.instagram.com/p/C3v3lgzpaHZ/
Miss Yvonne Swim School – Jersey City/Hoboken
Since 2004, Yvonne has been teaching people of all ages how to swim through group and private swim lessons. Along with her business, she also teaches swimming as a Health & Physical Education teacher at a local middle school.
MYSS hosts swimming lessons in Jersey City on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday and is in Hoboken on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The school aims to “create memories and foundations that will last a lifetime becoming strong, safe, happy swimmers together!”
Instagram: @missyvonneswimschool
https://www.instagram.com/p/C4TDqH5rYXj/
Cary & Natty’s Dominican Cakes – Union City
Cary & Natty’s is a specialty cake shop on New York Avenue, tucked between 7th and 8th streets. From alcohol-themed to anime-themed and even Lionel Messi-themed (yes, seriously), Cary & Natty can cater to any specific request.
The shop also sells different pastries, drinks and empanadas. If you’re looking for a special cake, just know they’re on vacation until March 17!
Instagram: @dominicancakes
https://www.instagram.com/p/CzuDRG7JD16/
Girl Talk JC – Jersey City
Girl Talk JC is a Latina-owned one-stop shop. The group consists of four women: Channa, a lash tech; Dani, a nail technician; Tina, an esthetician and skin care specialist; and Isabel, a massage and facial specialist.
They emphasize having a safe space for women! While they no longer have a physical location after three years, the group is still available on their own platforms and offer services throughout Hudson County like West New York, Bayonne and Hoboken.
Instagram: @_girltalk_jc
https://www.instagram.com/p/CwLLIpNNG6Q/
Harry’s Daughter – Jersey City
Harry’s Daughter is home to Caribbean home cooking and tropical cocktails, located in the Bergen-Lafayette section of Jersey City. Ran by Ria Ramkissoon and Alasdair Cotter, the restaurant was named in reference to Ria’s father.
Ramkissoon, of Trinidad and Tobago, is an experienced fashion designer, restaurant manager and entrepreneur in New York City. Cotter was born into the hospitality industry, previously helping at his family’s bar in Ireland and, later on, overseeing NYC bars. They both live in the Bergen-Lafayette area.
Every item on the menu finds a way to incorporate staple Caribbean red peppers and jerk spices.
Instagram: @harrysdaughterjc
https://www.instagram.com/p/C30wIvXxJjX/
Inform us! Email tips@sliceofculture.com to send us any women-owned businesses in Hudson County.
