Women-Owned Businesses In Butler County, PA

From women-owned farms, retail stores, restaurants, event planners, and event spaces, each business has its own unique story.

But when hearing from every entrepreneur, there were common threads in the passion each woman has for their work, their community, and the support they express for each other. Let’s hear their stories and support women-owned businesses all year!

BUTLER

HARMONY & ZELIENOPLE

Melissa Turner , Studio Z Yoga

After experiencing a personal loss, Melissa Turner found that practicing yoga helped her to process her grief. She wanted to bring that service to others with an emphasis on making the classes accessible for everyone.

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EVANS CITY & RENFREW

MARS, SAXONBURG, AND VALENCIA

PETROLIA

PORTERSVILLE & SLIPPERY ROCK

Christine Scheer , WestPark Alpacas

“It is wonderful to see both the reactions of the people AND the alpacas when meeting one another. Special too are the groups of seniors and folks, young and old, with special needs that brighten up when visiting the alpacas!”

READ MORE

BUTLER

Angie Kupas from Vintage Coffeehouse

Angie Kupas and her husband Peter took a leap of faith when opening Vintage Coffeehouse in 2022. True to its name, Vintage is decorated with cozy chairs and couches with beautiful antique and thrifted decor. They serve tea and coffee drinks flavored with house-made syrups and a smile. In addition to their coffee, Vintage collaborates with Batch and Pennie’s bakery. Angie says the connection to the community is the best part of her job.

“Being a business owner is one of the greatest joys of my life. I’m so happy to be part of this community, but also building relationships with others in the community.” she said “I’ve never felt more connected to Butler County than when opening the coffeeshop.”

To those looking to start their own business venture Angie encourages finding your support system. “Have a good core team behind you- helping and encouraging you.”

Christine Steele from Steele’s Brushes & Ceramics

If you love to relax by painting, Steele’s Brushes & Ceramics is the place for you! Painting, community, and creativity are the guiding principles behind the studio run by Christine Steele. The studio offers a variety of fun classes such as painting with goats, couples painting classes, pottery classes, and murder mystery paint nights. Christine’s goal is to offer something for every type of artist.

“I wanted to create a place where people felt they were accepted no matter what their abilities were!” Steele said “I wanted to make a place where people could be themselves and create friendships.”

In addition to scheduled classes, the studio also welcomes walk-ins so people can come in at any time to enjoy ceramics, wood designs and DIY canvas art.

In the future, Christine hopes to find ways to collaborate with other businesses and organizations. “We love supporting other locally owned businesses, so if we ever can collaborate please let us know!” she said “Butler is such a beautiful community and we would love to bring more opportunities to our studio.”

Christine Steele, Steele’s Brushes & Ceramics

“I wanted to create a place where people felt they were accepted no matter what their abilities were!”

Sherry Lynn from Pinehall at Eisler Farms

“I love weddings and I love managing my own business.”

Pinehall at Eisler Farms is a rustic and intimate wedding space located in Butler. The historic barn and beautiful outdoor venue allows for a celebration of love and happiness, while giving guests a night they will never forget!

Sherry says, “It is never easy, but hard work and dedication pays off. I don't think of myself as a woman in business just as a person in business.”

Tracy Rittle from Lil Birdy's Antiques & Decor

“I found myself at a point in my life where I had worked hard for so many others and contributed to their success that it was time to take a risk on myself and happiness.”

Lil Birdy’s Antiques & Decor in Butler specializes in antiques, vintage Americana, Farmhouse, and home decor. Whether you are looking to redecorate or add a “one of a kind” piece, stop in and browse two floors of treasures in this quaint house.

Pictured Tracy Rittle, Lil Birdy's Antiques & Decor

“Owning your own business is rewarding and empowering, but not easy.” says Rittle “I've been there… but at the end of the day, you turn to your ‘support system.’ My hubby has been my biggest supporter/cheerleader, but I am thankful that I can also reach out to so many other women who are running similar businesses/stores that I can turn to for advice or just a little ‘pat on the back.’”

Nadine from Butler Coffee Lab

Coffee Lab was created with the intention to create great drinks and provide accessible employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. BCL collaborates with other local coffee shops to create custom drink-pods featuring their unique blends.

Maddy Miller from Grows on Main

“I've surprised myself with what I've been capable of.” Miller owns Grows on Main, a shop on Main Street in Butler where you’ll find plants, parties, and puppies! Miller’s dogs can often be seen in the window or greeting guests as they enter.

In addition to their retail space, Grows On Main also has an event/party room, “The Root Cellar”

Miller decided to open her own business after getting laid off during the pandemic. Miller said she is most proud of “Being a critical part in downtown revitalization”.

Pictured Maddy Miller, Grows On Main
Maddy Miller, Grows on Main

“I've surprised myself with what I've been capable of.”

Lori Steinheiser from Peter’s Chocolate Shoppe, LLC

“[I love] Being able to create new things for our customers to try and then seeing the smiles on their faces!”

Peter’s Chocolate Shoppe, LLC is located in Butler and has been providing high-quality, exceptional chocolates, including their specialty chocolate-covered fruits to Butler County since 1938. Known as a family-run business that loves to make candy together for the community – make sure you stop by and try fan favorites like chocolate meltaways and homemade salted caramels and turtles.

“If you can dream it, you can do it!” Lori encourages “My mom and I used to make our own candy for family and friends at home when I was growing up, now that I am grown up — my mom is working in my candy shop and so are my daughters.”

Dorothy Calvert & Meredith Glendening from The Shops on West Diamond

“All of us truly love what we do. We want to create a safe space for people to learn, feel welcome, and not be afraid to ask questions!”

The Shops on West Diamond, located in Butler, is home to three women-owned businesses: Appalachian Rock Shop, Dorothy's Herb Shop and Herbal Apothecary, and Florence Selene Tarot cards. Selling everything from organic herbal teas, candles, and soaps, house plants, crystals, tarot cards, books, art work and so much more!

Dorothy encourages, “Quit your day job and do it. You won’t regret it!”

Christy Culp, Christy Culp Ceramics

Culp loves seeing how her handmade pottery pieces bring joy to customers.

"The interactions I have with clients is what I love about making and selling pottery." Culp said "They share how it brings joy to their day to have coffee in one of my mugs or that they bought one of my bright fruit-covered salad bowls for a friend's birthday because they knew it would be 'the perfect gift.'"

In addition to being a business owner, Culp is also a full-time art teacher. Her passion for art is reflected in each pottery piece. Culp previously only sold her work at fairs and festivals, then took a leap of faith and opened her studio.

Pictured Christy Culp, Christy Culp Ceramics

"By creating a beautiful place to make ceramic pieces, my husband and I were also creating a larger space for a gallery and sale events," said Culp.

The studio was a passion project of Culp and her husband. They converted an 170-year-old barn into a beautiful workspace.

While Culp's studio is primarily used for pottery production, the space can be changed to accommodate gallery displays and small group workshops. Additionally, Culp hosts summer and holiday sales with other artists.

Culp's advice for future entrepreneurs is simple but important. "Surround yourself with a team of supportive people." In addition to her studio sale events, Culp's work can be purchased at Batch in Saxonburg.

HARMONY & ZELIENOPLE

MJ McCurdy from Bottlebrush Gallery & Center For The Arts

“For years, I taught art for other organizations.” said McCurdy “When the opportunity came for my spouse and I to own an art gallery and teach classes, I didn't think twice.”

Bottlebrush Gallery & Center for the Arts located in Historic Harmony showcases the work of 85 artists and is home to a vintage vinyl shop, “Lost Dog Records”. They regularly host group and private art classes for children and adults, a women’s creative circle, and more.

Pictured MJ McCurdy, Bottlebrush Gallery & Center For The Arts

MJ says those interested in opening their own business should remember that “The freedom of owning a small business comes hand in hand with the constant responsibility. Contrary to what most people think, owning a business doesn't mean you can leave whenever you feel like, take a day off, etc. “ said McCurdy “If something goes wrong, it's on you to address, no handing it off to someone else.”

McCurdy said running a business is “embarking on work of the heart, completely different from working the 9-5 grind, and you will be making a big difference in the world.”

Linda Hodak from Harmony Decor & More

“There has never been a better time for a woman to be in business.”

After running a business with her husband for many years, Linda Hodak decided she wanted to branch out on her own in June of 2022. Her shop, Harmony Decor & More, offers beautifully curated vintage and new home decor items. Hodak also offers different DIY classes.

Running her own business has brought many unique and challenging experiences, including having a goat wander into her shop!

"I've been beyond blessed to have strangers enter and leave as friends, sharing laughs, tears, and prayers... incredible moments that I would have never experienced had I not opened this shop!”

Linda Hodak, Harmony Decor & More

“There has never been a better time for a woman to be in business.”

Kelly Scott from Harmonie Laden

“There are so many challenges to owning your own business.” says Scott “You are the manager, marketing, buyer, social media manager, and so much more.”

Harmonie Laden is a gift and candy shop located in Harmony. Here you’ll find a wide variety of home decor, locally handmade items, and your favorite candy and chocolates.

Kelly’s advice to other blossoming entrepreneurs is, “Owning your own business is a learning experience. I am always learning and connecting. I am so thankful for all the other business owners in the community.”

Pictured Kelly Scott, Harmonie Laden

She hopes to see the area continue to grow. "This area is rich with women owned businesses and they all offer something unique. Lets keep the community growing."

Cathi Erb from My Dog’s Care Center

“You are smarter than you think and can do more than you realize to make a positive difference in the world around you.”

Cathi began her business as a home grooming service in 2003. After building a supportive local client base, she was able to expand and offer more services such as dog daycare and boarding.

Cathi says what keeps her motivated is “The ability to reach people to make a positive impact, through the care of their family dog.” She encourages any other women interested in business owning to reach out, saying “Reach out sister! God created us to need and support each other - you're not in this alone!”

Renee Ayers and Elizabeth (Liz) Fortunato, Spring Street Studio

Located in Zelienople, this glass art shop is started by, owned by and completely staffed by women. Spring Street Studio was created by Renee Ayers and Elizabeth (Liz) Fortunato.

“I am so lucky to have a mentor in my business partner Renee Ayers.” said Liz “ We had a vision of a cute little shop that was a fun, eclectic and engaging space. She encouraged me to jump in and continues to push me out of my comfort zone and shape our business into the successful space it has become.”

Liz also spoke on how the glass art industry has grown in gender-diversity.

“I came up in the glass scene in the mid 2010's in predominantly male spaces. Since that time the glass art world is rapidly changing to become more inclusive.” said Liz “At our shop we strive to represent glass from diverse artists and prove that glass making is available to everyone, every age and every gender.”

Melissa Turner from Studio Z Yoga

Learn how to stress less by enrolling in a beginner yoga class at Studio Z Yoga in Zelienople.

After experiencing a personal loss, Melissa Turner found that practicing yoga helped her to process her grief. She wanted to bring that service to others with an emphasis on making the classes accessible for everyone.Studio Z opened in 2017.

Turner’s favorite part of running her own business is “being creative and in charge of ideas, meeting such wonderful people, and supporting the community.”

Lauren Shorr from CURIO

“CURIO started with operating hours only in the evenings and on Saturday's because my husband and I were both art teachers. Once we started to grow and needed retail hours during the day, I couldn't bear the thought of teaching in a traditional setting and having someone else run the business…we took a leap of faith for me to leave my teaching position to take on CURIO full time.” said Shorr on her & her husband’s business-owning journey “ It has been the coolest decision of a lifetime and I am so blessed to be able to run our business and be flexible for our children at the same time!”

Pictured Lauren Shorr, CURIO

CURIO is a unique art space and gift shop that offers fine art, handmade items, art classes, and collectables. Their store features a rotating gallery with works from local artists, and their basement is the “Clay Cave” where pottery wheel lessons and ceramic and canvas painting classes are held.

“Stick with your instincts…sometimes ideas will be great and everyone will know about them and respond positively, and other times things will go unnoticed.” says Shorr “Know that every decision you make and every hour you put in helps better you, your business, and someone in the community.”

Cindy Slayback from Haute Designs

Haute Designs is the place to call if you’re looking to renovate your bathroom or kitchen. Cindy and her team bring over 50 years of combined experience to every project that they design and build. Their design and showroom in Zelienople is the perfect place to get some inspiration and meet the team.

Michelle Moletz from Della Terra Italian Bistro

“Meeting and showing people how hard my staff and myself work to make people happy everyday is extremely rewarding. We could not have picked a better community to be a part of.”

Michelle says that owning a restaurant was a lifelong dream of hers, and watching it become a reality has been extremely rewarding. Della Terra, which translates to “of the earth” focuses on utilizing locally sourced ingredients to make innovative and unique dishes.

For others who share a similar dream of owning a business, Moletz says “You will surprise yourself on how far you can go. Trust your instincts.”

Pictured Michelle Moletz, Della Terra Italian Bistro

Melinda Sanders & Robin Abel from The Perfect Piece

The Perfect Piece offers design inspiration through resale and upcycled furniture, beautifully displayed in their Zelienople showroom. Friends Sanders and Abel, say their favorite part about owning a business is “Being creative and working with the community”.

Their best advice for future business owners is to “Create a community around you for support and ideas”.

Pictured Melinda Sanders & Robin Abel, The Perfect Piece

Erika at ShuBrew: Brewery and Food

“[I love] being [my] own boss, and coming up with fun, innovative ideas for events.”

ShuBrew: Brewery and Food in Zelienople highlights great craft beer and a delicious seasonal menu made in a from-scratch kitchen utilizing cuisines from around the world and locally-sourced food from suppliers and farmers daily.

Erika shares that, “[My] love of food, beer, cooking and talking to people [made me decide to take the leap to owning two businesses].”

EVANS CITY & RENFREW

Joyce Yasko from Antiques Preferred of Evans City

Antiques Preferred is a truly unique antique store located in the carriage house and summer kitchen of a Queen Anne Victorian home.

Joyce Yasko says her favorite part of owning her own business is meeting interesting people, but the most difficult thing is the hours of commitment it takes to be your own boss.

Stephanie Oliver from Coffee Brake

“I'd been working very hard to make other people's dreams come alive. It was time to make my OWN dreams come true!”

Coffee Brake is the perfect stop along main street in Evans City serving up a variety of lattes, tea, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and more. You can also stop by their second location in Cranberry.

“The most challenging part of owning a business is managing the needs of staff to ensure their continual happiness in their work life.” said Oliver “There will never be a "perfect" time to start your business, and there will be a hundred reasons not to, but you are worth it, so you just have to take the leap!”

Pictured Stephanie Oliver, Coffee Brake

Sue Freund & Becky Grey from Every Season Blooms

“It takes time to grow your business; be patient and forgiving of yourself. Mistakes will happen, grow through them.”

Between the two friends, Sue says Becky is the one who convinced her to take the leap into business owning. “We both have the love of growing, learning and sharing information about perennials. Playing in the dirt is rewarding.“

Every Season Blooms specializes in over 100 perennials and flowering shrubs.

Freund and Becky’s favorite part of running their business is being available to give personalized assistance to customers so they can create beautiful and long lasting perennial gardens.

“We love having them return to show us pictures of their creations.”

Sue & Becky, Every Season Blooms

“It takes time to grow your business; be patient and forgiving of yourself. Mistakes will happen, grow through them.”

MARS, SAXONBURG, AND VALENCIA

Heather Sprague from Novel Breads

“At Novel Breads Co., I combined two of my great loves, bread and books.”

Heather Sprague owns and operates her own “micro-bakery”, where the goods are inspired by a variety of books that she enjoys. Sprague creates classic and 'novel' flavor combinations through the use of exceptional, unique and local ingredients. She says that over the years the community has been welcoming and supporting.

“In nearly seven years of business, I’ve discovered a unique and interesting community of like-minded customers who’ve wrapped their arms around my cozy business and have helped it grow.”

Pictured Heather Sprague, Novel Breads

SherryLynn Rankin from Saxonburg Tearoom On Main

The Tearoom on Main in Saxonburg is an enchanting and elegant tearoom, where you can enjoy delightful tea sandwiches, scones, and desserts with a pot of delicious tea. Treat yourself to a traditional high tea by reserving a table or a party.

Sylvia McCoy from Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tour

“My schedule is flexible and allows me to participate in my kids' school activities whenever possible.” said McCoy on the benefits of running her own business “I'm never ‘off,’ although I have a FANTASTIC team. In the end, I'm responsible for all final decisions and happenings.”

Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tour is a food tasting adventure and historic walking tour of both Saxonburg and Harmony, along with their multiple tours of Pittsburgh communities.

Sylvia’s words of encouragement are, “Do it. You'll find there is a support network available for women entrepreneurs.”

Pictured Sylvia McCoy, Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tour

Valerie Cannon from Speckled Hen Chocolate Company

“[I love] being able to specifically address a customer’s needs and strive to outperform their expectations....”

Speckled Hen Chocolate Company is a gourmet chocolate company located in Saxonburg. They specialize in creating unique chocolates, hand-dip all of their chocolates, and make their fudge in-house. Fan favorites include the fresh raspberry/blackberry tower and peanut butter fudge.

Valerie’s words of wisdom are, “Just do it. It's not easy...but If you have passion, drive, and the ability to swerve in and out of obstacles, you'll be just fine!” she said “Just ask yourself one simple question – ‘Am I happy?’, in my past jobs I would have answered: ‘well, sure...kinda.’”

Jackie Hooper from Sound Advice Entertainment, LLC

“[I love] Meeting so many wonderful people and forming relationships.”

Sound Advice Entertainment, LLC helps customers find the perfect entertainment for their event from DJs and bands to magicians and balloon artists. They also offer live, remote live, and personalized recorded entertainment to meet any need.

Regarding what she has learned from running her business Jackie says, “I have learned to expect the right people to come into my life exactly when I need them. In contrast, I also let people go out of my life when necessary without distress.”

Pictured Jackie Hooper, Sound Advice Entertainment, LLC

Mindi D'Antoni from The Kollection Company

“I enjoy having the freedom to run my business in a way that fits into my family life.” said D’Amtoni about being the owner of The Kollection Company.

Located on the Main Street of Saxonburg, this boutique is the perfect place to find a gift for someone special- or to treat yourself! The shop is home to over 30 different artisans products featuring unique items such as Jeep-inspired accessories and restored vintage lamps.

D’Antoni prides her shop and its merchants on being eco-friendly and says that many of the artisans repurpose and/or refinish furniture and décor that they sell.

“The ups and downs of retail can be challenging. One day sales are great and other days you won't sell a thing.” said D’Antoni “Even if there are road blocks, (you’ll) figure out a way around them and go.”

Mindi D'Antoni, The Kollection Company

“I enjoy having the freedom to run my business in a way that fits into my family life.”

Amanda Becker from Appleseed Events, LLC

Appleseed Events, LLC connects people through meaningful charity and business events, fundraisers, community festivals, and grand openings. Examples of events Appleseed has assisted include the Moraine State Park Regatta and Mars New Year.

Amanda’s words of encouragement are, “Go for it! And don’t underestimate the power of relationships with other people— not only for networking sake, but just for the simple fact that different people have different gifts. Find people that are good at what you’re not good at, and don’t waste energy trying to do it all, all of the time.”

Pictured Amanda Becker, Appleseed Events, LLC

PETROLIA

Jennifer McConnell from The Sweet Gremlin, LLC

“I really enjoy baking and being creative. My husband and I talked about becoming business owners for several years.” McConnell said “There was a need for a local bakery in our rural community. “

The Sweet Gremlin, LLC is a small town, family owned and operated bakery located in Petrolia. They offer a wide variety of sweet treats along with gluten friendly and sugar free options. Satisfy your sweet tooth with one of their signature jumbo cinnamon rolls.

Pictured Jennifer McConnell, The Sweet Gremlin, LLC

Jennifer explains that she loves, “Being part of a small community and giving back to the school district, organizations, and local nonprofits.

PORTERSVILLE & SLIPPERY ROCK

Stephanie Moody from Hillview Coffee

Serving more than just hot brews and teas, Hillview Coffee also offers bubble tea and “croffles” (croissant batter waffles). Stephanie Moody describes her business as “rustic, cozy, and inviting”.

She worked as a barista for eight years until taking a break to be a parent and recently decided to get back into the coffee business.

Moody acknowledges that running your own business can be challenging, but believes the benefits outweigh the risks. “It can be very overwhelming.” she says “But keep going! You can do it!”.

Stephanie Moody, Hillview Coffee

“It can be very overwhelming but keep going! You can do it!”

Jenni Hulburt from Forest & Flowers Retreat

“Sometimes ideas are like seeds that need time to germinate, or even the pressure of harsh conditions to cultivate the beauty we see later.”

Forest & Flowers Retreat is nestled on 50 acres less than a 1 hour drive from downtown Pittsburgh and within 5 miles of McConnell's Mill and Moraine State Parks. The space hosts overnight stays, small weddings and events, retreats, and workshops, while cultivating flowers, herbs, and other medicinal and native plants.

Before Forest & Flowers Retreat came to be, the space was the home of Jenni’s maternal grandparents. She ended up later purchasing the property from the family.

Pictured Jenni Hulburt, Forest & Flowers Retreat

As Jenni shared, “With death came a rebirth, and Forest and Flowers Retreat continues to be a space where cycles of change are felt and honored. My vision is to steward the land in reciprocity with the Earth, honoring those who came before me, and offering a space for others to connect with nature.”

Christine Scheer from WestPark Alpacas

“It is wonderful to see both the reactions of the people AND the alpacas when meeting one another. Special too are the groups of seniors and folks, young and old, with special needs that brighten up when visiting the alpacas!”

Meet furry friends at WestPark Alpacas located in Slippery Rock. Over 33 acres and over 30 alpacas to view and visit, you can also purchase alpaca products like blankets, gloves, hats, and crafts.

Christine’s words or wisdom are, “If you don't follow a passion, you're missing out on a piece of your soul.”

Casey Hoolahan

Author

Casey Hoolahan

Public Relations & Communications

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