Women-Owned Businesses in Chicago
Good evening and happy Women’s History Month, AGAIN! Bringing you another WHM special today, this time highlighting some women in my very favorite city. Here’s six women-owned businesses I think you should check out this month!
Cuddle Bunny
If you don’t already know about Cuddle Bunny, I’m so glad I get to introduce you. Cuddle Bunny is exactly what it sounds like, an opportunity to cuddle with some bunnies. I used to beg my parents to buy me a bunny and unfortunately, that never happened, but I still consider myself a bunny lover. Whether you’re looking for education on how to care for a bunny or just want to relax and do some yoga accompanied by nature’s cutest lagomorph, Cuddly Bunny has got you covered. Cuddle Bunny’s owner, Barbara Burdick, has always believed in the power of volunteer work and it reflects in her business, where she often hosts food drives. If you’re looking for something fun and different to do with your girls, definitely check out Cuddle Bunny.
Batter & Berries
My B&B twin! Batter & Berries is a fantastic Lincoln Park/Lakeview breakfast spot. Dare I say, the best? I used to be french toast's biggest hater until I had their french toast flight, literally life-changing. Their founder and owner Dr. Tanya Richardson manages this restaurant alongside her husband Craig Richardson. The couple has put so much love and care into the space and the food and it is tangible. They even collaborated with local artisans to ensure you are getting a uniquely Chicago experience when you enter their doors.
Bittersweet
My assistant wedding planner is about to show and I won’t apologize for it. When I find out a couple ordered from Bittersweet, I’m giving them their snaps. Owner Esther Griego knows just how to blend this classic, charming French patisserie with modern touches. With two locations, her Pilsen location offering exclusively Mexican delicacies, there is always something new to try. My personal favorite is the spinach dip croissant, two of my favorite things made into one.
Chilam Balam
This family-style, shared-plates Mexican restaurant has such a cool story accompanying its fantastically farm-fresh food. Its owner, Soraya Rendon, immigrated to the U.S., leaving behind her family in Mexico City, at just 18 in hopes of accomplishing her American Dream. Chilam Balam is one of those dreams accomplished. On top of that, the restaurant's executive chef is also a fantastic female, Natalie Oswald. Both women value showcasing local ingredients, keeping things fresh in ideas and on our plates.
Women & Children First
Owned by Lynn Mooney and Sarah Hollenbeck, this Andersonville bookstore is committed to amplifying BIPOC and LGBTQ+ voices. As intersectional trans-inclusionary feminists, they know the power books hold in educating the masses. On top of that, they are also one of the largest feminist bookstores in the country. Opening in 1979, I think this bookstore is a beautiful piece of modern Chicago history, one that will be valued for years and years to come.
Bon Femmes
Created by Omotola Akinbiyi, Bon Femmes was originally an online storefront. Luckily for us Chicagoans, in 2021 Bon Femmes opened a brick and mortar in Ravenswood. Bon Femmes is dedicated to showcasing female artists, housing prints, clothing, home decor, beauty products, and more, all created by women. On top of that, a portion of all her sales go to women-led charities right here in our community. Everyone say thank you Omotola!
As always, thank you so much for reading. Please don’t forget to fill out my Women’s History Month Form so we can all celebrate together next week <3
Write you soon!
Beth
