C2 Women in Business Special Section

Kelly Greene
Anderson Insurance Associates

Describe a typical day in your life.
During the week, I am out and about, meeting with clients and Realtors or talking on the phone to all the wonderful people buying property (and insurance) in the Lowcountry. Weekends, I just want to be outside—fresh air and vitamin D are good for the soul!

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Coffee. Preferably two cups, and a quiet hour on the porch watching the birds wake up.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
I can’t say there is a single mentor, but many people have given me great guidance and advice over the years.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Just be 100 percent authentic and have fun. Fail, learn, try again.

Mountains or ocean?
Why pick just one? My dream house sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Somewhere.

Guilty pleasure?
Chocolate? Yes! Pizza? Yes! Long naps on a rainy day? Yes! Life? You bet … I like it all. Gimmee!

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a rock star. And I am a rock star in my car. You’ve probably seen me rockin’ down the road—next time HONK!

10 Bow Circle, #5892
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 725-4915
aiasc.com/main/agents-details/Kelly-Greene

 

Georgia Holaus
Egg ’n’ Tricities

Describe a typical day in your life.
Coffee, work, wine, relax, repeat.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Loving my job! I could never have imagined how exciting and fulfilling owning Eggs would be. I love the shopping, the women I work with, our amazing customers, and did I mention the shopping?!

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Trust yourself; do not let others make you question what you already know.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean all day every day!

Guilty pleasure?
Ding Dongs. At this point in my life, I may be part Ding Dong; I am a little squishy in the middle!

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Teacher. Both my parents were teachers.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Confidence, flexibility, and humor.

5 Lawton St.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-3446

Lucy Rosen
SmartMarketing Communications, LLC

Describe a typical day in your life.
Up at 4 a.m. to read all the news I can online, read all the alerts on clients, check all email accounts, quickly scan our clients’ social accounts for anything that may have happened overnight—specifically looking for a Maggie/Jevon video drop I may have missed. Coffee, and then water all my container plants, which seem to be multiplying. I love them all, and so do the deer…. Look at my ongoing/ever-changing list of things to do/take care of/check on—and then start emailing (because it’s only 5:30 a.m. and there are only two other people I know who are up at this time, so I can’t really call anyone). If I need to write something—a letter, article, or proposal—now’s the time to do it, before 8 a.m. I try really hard to not book appointments before 8:30 a.m. or after 3 p.m. so that I can be available if there is an immediate client need or a team member need.

Because of the diversity of our client base, no day is typical. We have clients all over the world with different needs and expectations. So, as much as we all try as a team to have a “typical” or coordinated day of some sort, it rarely happens.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
The possibility that I will make a difference in someone’s life—whether it’s a client, friend, or someone I meet that day.

Did you have a mentor?
I’ve had many mentors, some that happened organically and some that I “stalked” and asked to be my mentor when the time felt right. Without the support, encouragement, knowledge, wisdom, and kicks in the ass when I needed them from the people who have been mentors over the years, I am 110 percent convinced I wouldn’t be where I am, both professionally and personally.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you. Hire people smarter than you. Hire people who are different from you, whether that means a different skill set or a different way of working; coming at a project or a task in more ways than one is a really good thing. I could also say what I say almost every single day to clients or would-be clients or young women we are mentoring: You absolutely can’t do it all alone. You can’t handle your sales, accounting, legal, marketing, social media—and have a life. Get help or acknowledge that something is going to “give.” Usually it’s us; we get sick, burned out, feel guilty if we are a mom because we work too much, feel guilty if we have to do everything in general. There are a lot of emotional and pragmatic issues for women in business—much different from being a man in business. Understanding that is key. Doing something about it is even better.

Mountains or ocean?
Luckily, I get both because of our clients in other parts of the country! But, if I have to choose which one I like best, it would be mountains.

Guilty pleasure?
I have absolutely no guilt over anything that brings me pleasure!

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A professional photographer.

What three qualities does a leader need to have?
Ability to listen, ability to make tough decisions, and ability to keep teams of people motivated and engaged.

What is one thing you are looking forward to doing when you retire?
Why only one? I don’t EVER see myself “retiring,” but I do see us expanding more deliberately than we have in the past into the much-needed services here in the Lowcountry that start-up businesses or people thinking of starting businesses need.

SmartMarketing Communications, LLC
20 Towne Center Drive, Suite 203
Bluffton, SC 29910
(888) 587-4593 or (516) 410 0423
smartmarketingcommunications.com

Angela Mandigo
Circle of Life & Gardenias Floral Designs

Describe a typical day in your life.
PRAYER AND COFFEE! Feed Jack (our black older cat) and then the other feral cats waiting outside. Kiss my husband and off to the studio! Meet with my A Team and clients. Onto designing for our upcoming events through proposals, floral ordering, and especially getting my hands into flowers and plants—the best part! Work until 7:00 or 8:00 or later. Dave, my husband of 30 years, has dinner made. Thank goodness or we both would starve! Grilled salmon, or are the sweet and sour pork chops the best?

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
New challenges of the day. Without challenges, life would be boring! My team keeps me excited with their energy and eagerness to do great things for our clients and help build a strong foundation for the business.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Time management, a good action plan, and go with your gut feeling. Stay the course as there are many things that can take away precious time and your plan. Talk over business ideas with people in similar businesses as they can give you pros and cons on what they are doing that will help you in the long run. Major decisions: take time and don’t jump!

Mountains or ocean?
Love both! The mountains have ever-changing life from plants and flowers in nature. The ocean is endless, dreamy and ongoing.

Guilty pleasure?
Dark chocolate with sea salt and almonds from Sam’s Club!

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A veterinarian, but chemistry got in my way! Go figure that my daughter would graduate with a degree in biochemistry. So, changed my major and graduated in business and hospitality from the University of Tennessee.

14 Vine Street
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 837-6602
gardeniashhi.com

Cassandra Schultz
Cassandra’s Kitchen

Describe a typical day in your life.
Much of my day revolves around my kids, getting them to school and after-school activities. In the morning, I squeeze in a workout and head to work. At work, I’m ordering new products, helping customers, and keeping up with the day-to-day tasks to run the website and store smoothly.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
New challenges excite me. Having just opened a store for the first time has been thrilling. Now, seeing customers face to face and seeing their reactions to our products continues to drive me to grow the business.

Do you have a mentor?
I’ve paid close attention to many women business owners along the way, learning from their successes and failures. I’ve paid particularly close attention to Ina Garten, who took a risk to follow her passion. She opened one little fine food store and has grown into the author of 12 best-selling cookbooks.
Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Delegate tasks to others. You can’t do it all!

Guilty Pleasure?
York Peppermint Patties.

Mountains or ocean?
I grew up at the ocean and loved it, but there is something peaceful about the mountains. I could easily be converted.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Police officer. I went as far as getting my degree in criminal justice.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Great leaders are present, resilient, and empathetic.

258 Red Cedar Street, Unit 17
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 815-3500
cassandraskitchen.com

Heather Nix
Realtor with The Melton Group & Co-owner of Nix Flooring & Design, LLC

Describe a typical day in your life.
There are definitely no typical days in my line of work. But I can tell you that my favorite kinds of days are started with a good cup of coffee with my husband at a local coffee shop.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
I’ve always been pretty self-motivated. I find a lot of joy in little things throughout the day. And I genuinely love working and productivity. Every day is a new opportunity for me to learn, grow and develop. That’s what drives me. I’m also driven by money. Life is expensive. Just being honest.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Definitely my husband, Kenny Nix. For years I handled all the administrative aspects of our business, but he was the one with all the skills and talent. I’ve never seen someone so passionate about their work. He’ll talk your ear off about grout lines, shower pans and waterproofing systems because he really enjoys educating anyone who will listen. It’s inspiring.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Eighty percent of business partnerships fail. Don’t do it. Instead, look into joint venture.

Mountains or ocean?
The mountains with my family—especially in the fall.

Guilty pleasure?
Probably going out to eat too much.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A professional ballerina in the New York City Ballet.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Wisdom, passion, and common sense

The Melton Group, Charter One Realty
1024 Berkeley Hall Blvd
Bluffton, SC 29909
(843) 384-4769
heathernixhhi.com

Tisha Chafer
Lowcountry Skin Revision

Describe a typical day in your life.
Coffee first, then it’s non-stop. I am a one-woman show so I am answering emails, booking appointments, social media posting, cleaning, and performing all the best skin treatments, including my newest modality, Procell Therapy Microchanneling.

What drives/makes you excited to start the day?
Every person has different skin goals. My passion is formulating unique treatment plans utilizing combination therapies to achieve the maximum results, within my client’s budget. Battling acne also is a passion. Seeing the skin heal and transform is rewarding. Yes, I love pimple popping!

Did you have a mentor?
My dad planted the seed to be my own boss. He had his own law practice so I was exposed to business ownership early. I liked the freedom it gave him; that has always been a draw for me. I am the only person who can fire me!

Tell us something you wish you had known when your started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
I started this business at 51 years old. I decided at 49, after a long career as a local Realtor, to go back to school and get my esthetician license. I was the oldest in the class, but I didn’t care. I just held onto the belief that it is never too late to reinvent yourself and do something that you are truly passionate about.

Mountains or ocean?
Mountains. We have two huskies; they appreciate the cooler temps.

Guilty pleasure?
Reality TV. Give me a good Real Housewives of New Jersey reunion show with a bowl of popcorn.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A television newscaster. I thought I was going to be the next Barbara Walters. Obviously, life took me in a different direction.

39 Pearce Road
Bluffton, SC
(843) 384-1645

Silja Burns
Dancing Hammock Pilates & Movement

Describe a typical day in your life.
After my morning wake-up routine (five minutes on the mini trampoline, a shower and a smoothie), I get to studio and teach from 8 a.m. until 2 or 3 p.m., and often return for evening classes/sessions. When I’m not teaching, I spend time with my kids, either with a bike ride, errands, or preparing dinner. Squeeze in there some light household and studio chores (clean, cook, shop, etc.), a short workout (with Pilates equipment, and an inversion on the hammock), study time/reading/computer/studio work, and then chill time watching a show or listening to music. Oh, and I try to remember to eat too!

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Knowing I’m working with some of the best people in Bluffton as my clients, creating challenging workouts to stimulate their bodies and minds. I get excited when I feel that I am making a positive impact on their lives, because it is so much better to give than to receive! I am
grateful that I can make a living doing what I love.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
I have had many mentors and inspiring people in my life, but I would have to say my mother,
Signe Gardo, has been my greatest influence. She is a model of grace, longevity, and strength. She has kept her business running my entire life, so it’s such a part of me, too. She’s like the Energizer bunny!

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Know your own value and never underestimate it or sell yourself short! Have a safety net of people who support you and your dreams, and just because you are good at doing what you sell, does not mean you are good at selling it! Read Anything You Want, by Derek Sivers; it’s a game changer!

Guilty pleasure?
Dark chocolate, red wine, and a hot bath while binge-watching a good series on Netflix. I am not sure how guilty I feel about it though!

162 Bluffton Road, Suite 102-103
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-5757
dancinghammock.com

Amanda Russ Cifaldi
Pomodori Italian Eatery/Driftwood Caterting

When I think of women in business, I’m immediately transported back to the Valhalla conference room at The Holiday Inn in Niles, Michigan, where on any Monday night you could walk in and see a room full of enthusiastic, empowered women in red jackets dancing and clapping to Mariah Carey’s “Gonna Make it Happen.” They would walk down the aisle of folding chairs to be recognized for hitting milestones and earning gifts, jewelry, trips to Bermuda and cars for their hard work. They would cheer and applaud and encourage each other. They would recognize the efforts and support through the struggles.

My mother was a senior sales director with Mary Kay Cosmetics for all of my formative years, and I was raised in that room of unbelievable women, every Monday night, my dad deejaying the Mariah Carey and Gloria Estefan while running the lights and sound of my mother’s career after putting in a full day of his own.
For me, women and business have always been synonymous, conjoined, inseparable. I am so grateful to my mother for raising me in that room and for instilling the importance of solidarity and strength in other women. We are all standing on each other’s shoulders to reach the stars. Just keeping looking up, ladies. It’s ours for the taking. And thank you, Mom.

1 New Orleans Rd., #1G
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 686-3100
gopomodori.com

Kaci Hollingsworth
Weichert Realtors® – Coastal Properties

Describe a typical day in your life.
Imagine trying to herd cats, while also trying to extinguish a grease fire, while maintaining control of your facial expressions. That pretty much sums it up. The hardest part is maintaining control of my facial expressions. All jokes aside, this career is so fulfilling once the fires are out and the cats have been corralled, resulting in someone realizing their dreams of homeownership.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Coffee. I mean, helping people is pretty cool too, but definitely coffee.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Yes. Karen Ryan has been the most incredible mentor and role model I could have ever asked for on this journey. She has taught me everything I know and has modeled what it is to be a successful entrepreneur.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
A bit of advice is to connect with a mentor as early in your journey as you can. The support and guidance you can glean from a mentor is invaluable. No matter what field you are in, go all-in and get as involved as you can in your community.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean. I tried moving away from the beach during college; it didn’t stick.

Guilty pleasure?
Reading comment threads on NextDoor. They are mortifying, but oh-so entertaining.

1250 May River Rd.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 422-3552
KaciHollingsworth.com

Latia Nelson
BB Boutique + Co.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
The fact that God blessed me to start my day motivates me to seize every opportunity the moment I open my eyes. My goals and desires make me excited to start my day.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path – a bit of advice for other women in business.
I wish that I had known how complex things become as your business grows. I now realize that I can’t do everything by myself, and I need a team of support as my brand matures.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I really wanted to be a singer, but I was so shy.

What podcast do you listen to for inspiration?
I am an avid Clubhouse listener these days. I enjoy motivation from the “Hustler Club” room.

What is one thing you look forward to doing when you retire?
I have a heavy desire to be a philanthropist when I’m a retired billionaire. The wiser I become, the more I understand the importance of humanity through my own looking glass. I really want to give back to women and young girls.

Pooler, GA 31322
bbboutiqueandcompany.com

Lava 24 Fitness

MYRANDA MCAFEE
What is your favorite part about working at LAVA?
My favorite part about working at LAVA is being surrounded by such inspiring people. I get to learn from the other staff and also the members, who are like role models to me.

Why did you choose this field?
My passion is wellness, and at LAVA, I have been given the opportunity to lead multiple different types of programs that incorporate topics related to fitness such as massage therapy, nutrition coaching, accountability in all aspects, stress management, and more!

SAMMI BURNS
What is your favorite part about working at LAVA?
We are always laughing with a close group of friends who are like family.

What is your favorite nutrition tip?
“If you can’t pronounce it, don’t put it in your body.”

ARLEIGH THORP
What is your favorite part about working at LAVA?
My favorite part about being a LAVA staff member is that my day is never the same. I get to work with different people, do different workouts and even switch up the environments that we train in. My co-workers work as a team, and we help each other out! And probably my most favorite part is the doggies that are there 🙂

What is your favorite snack?
An apple with peanut butter.

JULIE JILLY
What is your favorite part about working at LAVA?
I love the family culture at Lava. It’s a dynamic group, and we celebrate each other’s successes and enjoy our time together. That culture is one of our core values.

What is your favorite quote to share with clients?
To the world, you may be one person. But to one person, you may be the world. Be a positive impact on others

Olga Dolgova
What is your favorite part about working at LAVA?
My favorite thing is the team spirit that all staff members have. I feel like I have another family away from home 🙂

Do you think nutrition is as important as exercise when it comes to losing weight?
I think nutrition is more important. No matter what your goals are, you won’t change anything without tailoring your nutrition as well..

Lluvia Arcos
What is your favorite part about working at LAVA?
My favorite thing about being a LAVA staff member is that I get to meet so many different people that eventually become friends. Also, getting to hear about everyone’s unique fitness journey and what keeps them motivated!

Why do you choose a whole-food, plant-based diet?
A few years back, I realized I was not happy with the way I was treating my body. I started weight training and getting serious about my health, and I realized how everything I was putting into my body was affecting me. After meeting Nate and learning more about how a whole-food, plant-based diet can have a positive impact on not only my body, but the environment and our animal friends, I was very curious to give it a try. After four years of no meat and finding a balance with my lifestyle and training, I decided to put my hard work to a test and compete in my first bodybuilding show on a strict whole-food, plant-based diet. Coming in second place in both of my classes not only motivates me to keep working hard but also goes to show that you can be a successful athlete on plants!

811 William Hilton Parkway
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-3225
lava24.com

Trish Beck
Trish Beck Events

Describe a typical day in your life.
That’s part of why I love what I do. Every day is a little different. Though I’m in my home office the most, my work can take me to some truly beautiful places. As a wedding planner and designer, my days are spent creating personality-driven event designs and managing a ton of incredibly detailed logistics.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
I absolutely love designing experiences for my clients. Weddings are a chance to truly show a couple’s personality.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
I have had so many wonderful influences in my life—people who have helped me reach where I am. My support structure consisted of my husband and kids, previous bosses, family, and my local Lowcountry Wedding Pros community.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
I was always told that owning your own business can be draining, but I never fully understood the emotional roller coaster until I experienced it myself. A tiny bit of advice: try to keep yourself grounded. Strong roots and a great support system will get you through the hardest times (even a pandemic)!

Guilty pleasure?
A great story, be it via Netflix or a great book. I love getting wrapped up in a good story.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A judge—very oddly specific. It was a judge or a superhero, but I figured the first one was more financially stable. I was on the path all the way through high school and my freshman year in college when I first found hospitality and events. I course corrected and couldn’t be happier as a wedding planner and business owner.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Passion; willingness to both learn and teach; and decision-making skills.

trishbeckevents.com

Afton Ryan
Egan + Ella Boutique

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Food, money, and love—not necessarily in that order. In all seriousness, though, just being able to wake up and achieve my goals is something I never take for granted.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Community over competition is everything. Find a support system of like-minded individuals who have your back. Creating positive relationships amongst your peers is the best resource you can have.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A chef. Luckily, cooking is still a passion I am able to explore outside of work.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Charisma, drive, and anxiety.

If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
Piano. People who can play are so effortlessly cool, and I’ve been chasing that kind of lifestyle my whole life.

135 Towne Dr.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 707-9820
eganandella.com

Jennifer Bromley, MD & Judith Peros, MD
Georgia Eye Institute

Jennifer Bromley, MD
Describe a typical day in your life.
With three kids and a husband who teaches and coaches, my daily life is hectic. Typically wake up and exercise around 5:30 a.m. after walking the dog. I get the kids up, fed and off to school then go to work. After work, it’s pickup from various sports and after-school activities, dinner, reading, or unwinding watching TV, and bed.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
I love my job and the people I work with.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
My mother. She taught me so much about being a working mother.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
It’s okay to say no; know your limits. It’s okay that you can’t (and won’t) make everyone happy all the time.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A math teacher or doctor.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Discipline, empathy, and preparation.

Judith Peros, MD
Describe a typical day in your life.
I start with a strong cup of coffee, then spend about 20 minutes training my show dogs, then off to the office.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Knowing that I will probably make at least one patient’s life better.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
My dad. He was a CPA who specialized in physician groups.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
You need to stand your ground, make your decisions based on past experiences and the best evidence you can gather, and go forward from there.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean. My happy place is on my boat.

Guilty pleasure?
Aged truffle-infused pecorino cheese.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A modern-day Ansel Adams.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Confidence, compassion, and the ability to listen to others.

109 Persimmon St.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-4400
gaeyeinstitute.com

Lisa Sulka & Bonnie Bogart
Sulka Bogart Team

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
LS: Knowing a client may call ready to move to the best place on earth: Bluffton!
BB: Meeting people from all walks of life.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
LS: Understand that confidence in yourself is important and know how to handle yourself when you may be the youngest or only female in the room.
BB: Real estate is a 24-hour a day business. Your time is valuable, and you have to learn how to manage it. Life is short; take time to smell the roses and keep your priorities right.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
LS: Ability to listen to all sides; always available; service to all.
BB: Integrity, a heart for service, and a strong belief system.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
LS: There are several, but the main one is my mom. She recently passed away, but she was a broker until the day she passed; she ran for mayor, and she owned her own business and taught her daughters how to be independent.
BB: I worked as a sales assistant for two of the top Realtors when Belfair opened in 1995. I learned the business from the best: Johnny Ussery and Reggie Bray.

Carson Realty
2 Hampton Hall Blvd.
Bluffton, SC 29910
Bonnie: (843) 338-7710
Lisa: (843) 384-8462
sulkabogart.com

Tracy Moss
The Haven Boutique

Describe a typical day in your life.
I get up, make coffee with a bunch of creamer, check Instagram, get in the shower, go to the store; the day goes by in a flash, then it starts over again.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
It’s always different: different customers, different clothes, different situations.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
I did. She was my manager at The Gap when I moved here 20+ years ago. She taught me everything I needed to know about business, but I’m still learning every day.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
There’s a lot of work in owning your own boutique, but it’s definitely worth it!

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean.

Guilty pleasure?
Ben & Jerry’s ice cream

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to own a Gap franchise, but then I found out it was owned by corporate, so I managed it instead.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Accountability, integrity, empathy.

6 State of Mind Street
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 707-9198
havensc.com

Heidi Daly & Shay Moree-Dew
Advanced Aesthetics Academy

Who better to inspire you to follow your passion than other successful entrepreneurs who are doing just that? At Advanced Aesthetics Academy, Heidi Daly and Shay Moree-Dew live and teach that mantra. Their team is dedicated to empowering people with education and the tools they need to further their careers and become successful individuals.

She recently shared the following updates:
• We will be expanding and moving into a new location in January 2022 and are excited to be announcing it soon.
• We will begin our massage program in the early part of 2022, which is only an eight-month program.
• In addition to our current six-month aesthetics program, we also provide continuing education classes for esthetics and cosmetology. We look forward to offering advanced aesthetics classes in the near future.
• Our spa menu (services performed by our students under direct supervision of an instructor) consists of signature facials, hydro-dermabrasion, micro-dermabrasion, nano needling, chemical peels, full body waxing, ultrasonic dermaplaning, lash lift and tint, lash and brow tint, massages, and body treatments.

Heidi Daly is the CEO and lead instructor, with Shay Moree-Dew serving as COO. With 100 percent pass rate for state board testing and licensure, they invite YOU to follow your passion.

(843) 784-3376
176 Dermis Ave.
Hardeeville, SC 29927
theadvancedaestheticsacademy.com

 

Ashley Gasiorowski
Independent Benefit Advisors, Inc

Describe a typical day in your life.
I love to start my day by taking an exercise class before work; this kickstarts my day on a positive note, and I am ready to take on whatever comes my way. Most of my day is spent in the office. Thankfully I have a great staff, and that includes my dog Tique. Selling new health insurance policies, resolving customer service issues, educating clients and new prospects on anything and everything related to health insurance is the bulk of my workday. I love being outside, so I usually end my day doing something outside with friends or my pup.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
I am blessed to wake up on this beautiful island every single morning and am excited to make the next day better than the last.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
My dad is my mentor. He has a great business mind and a strong work ethic. I have been fortunate enough to work side-by-side with him and really learn how to run a business from the ground up.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path – a bit of advice for other women in business.
I wish someone had told me to grow a compassionate thick skin. The person sitting in front of me or on the phone is not always going to meet me at the same high and kind energy level I have. I know it’s okay to be me. People are going to have all types of personalities and even be mean and rude. I have learned not to take those things personally; it has absolutely nothing to do with me.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean.

Guilty pleasure?
Scary movies and ice cream.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Anesthesiologist.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Humility, integrity, and perseverance.

61 Arrow Rd., Suite F
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 681-7400
schealthbenefits.com

Cynthia Groff, CCMA
Sativa Health Products

Describe a typical day in your life.
Getting orders out from the night before; packing up products and driving to one of our locations; unloading the car; setting up the tent as I’m outside. Once the tent and displays are up and ready, I’m looking forward to helping customers choose the right CBD or Delta 8 products for them. After the business of the day is done, I tear it all down and pack it all up to do it again the next day.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Helping people. I love giving people an alternative choice for dealing with sleep, pain, and anxiety issues.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Yes, my husband. He’s given me suggestions and pointed me in the directions many times over the years.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Starting out, I wish I had had a better understanding of insurance, banking and taxes. Know what’s required to run your business properly. If you don’t know these things, find someone who does. It will make your new venture run smoothly.

Mountains or ocean?
Both. I love the Lowcountry and our coastline. But I recently took a trip to Maine and the mountains were spectacular. I look forward to visiting the mountains of North Carolina soon.

Guilty pleasure?
Traveling/RVing and birding. I go every chance I get with my husband, our Lab and my kitty.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A veterinarian I love animals.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Willingness to jump in and get it done; accountability; good communication skills.

What is your favorite tech toy—for work or play—that you can’t live without?
Photoshop.

5 Lawton St. (in the courtyard of Eggs ’n’ Tricities)
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 683-3692
sativahealthproducts@gmail.com

Lisa Cornelius
Simply Southern Homebuilders, LLC

Describe a typical day in your life.
I’m an early riser, so I can get a jump on things. Yet I never know what the day will unfold. It can be extremely hectic, therefore, I have to be very organized, which I definitely am. I pretty much work non-stop until I crash every day, just to get up and start all over again!
What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Definitely the goal of completing a home so I can deliver it to my client! The excitement they have is very rewarding.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Not really, yet my parents raised all of us with a “never quit” attitude. I’ve owned my own business since I was 21. I’m very self-motivated. I guess I like to boss myself around.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
I had such a burning desire to succeed that the amount of work that goes into owning your own business is just a part of it to me. I’ve never really known anything different. I love the sense of achievement. I would say you really need to be goal-oriented.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean, for sure!

Guilty pleasure?
I’m not sure I really have one. Homemade pasta!

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I have to laugh. I love animals and I was bound and determined I was going to be a veterinarian. Then I realized there’s also sadness with that; it’s not just cuddling puppies!

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Dedication, perseverance, and a whole lot of patience—especially in this industry during these times.

8 State of Mind St., Suite B-2
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 368-4164
simplysouthernhomebuilder.com

Meredith Bannon
The Bannon Law Group, LLC

Describe a typical day in your life.
I spend most of my day working with clients and our business partners to make certain our clients are taken care of. The actual practice of law is typically done once the phone stops ringing and my daughter is supposed to be asleep.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Each day is a new adventure, so I never get bored.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Everyone needs a hype man. I married mine! Seriously, finding people that you can root for professionally that you know cheer your successes makes life much sweeter.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Chin up, buttercup! The good times will outweigh the bad, and the problems that keep you up at night are never the problems that will bring you down.

Mountains or ocean?
We live in the greatest part of the country—ocean for life!

Guilty pleasure?
Reality TV and true crime podcasts.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I’m living the dream, baby!

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Empathy, practicality, and a sense of humor.

10 Westbury Park Way,Suite A
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 815-4505
bannonlawgroup.com

From left to right : Madyson Mardon, Emily White, Brittany Bentz, Aimee Batka, Cassie Palmer, Kim Seaglund, Samantha Oliveira, Madison Conner, Amy Ramirez, Erica Horton

Kim Seaglund
Salon Karma

Describe a typical day in your life.
A typical day starts with coffee, social media posts, and going over goals for the day.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
My talented salon team and our clients. I love talking with all of our clients throughout the day.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
My parents. They always believed in me and told me there was nothing I couldn’t do if I set my mind to it.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
I think how to balance my work and personal life. I tend to never stop working, so I’ve had to really learn how to give myself that personal time. It’s really important to have that time to regroup and recharge.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean.

Guilty pleasure?
Cake! I don’t eat it a lot, but I do love it.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A rock star! I sang in a band for many years.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Good communication skills, the ability to motivate and to create a positive work environment.

12 State of Mind Street
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-5762
salonkarmasc.com

Chef Lynn Michelle
Describe a typical day in your life.
Busy all day long … I’m always doing something, whether it’s shopping/prepping and cooking for one of our special clients or creating recipes for next season (always changing and adding recipes to our offerings.) I also spend a lot of time talking to clients who have events coming up to make sure everything is exactly the way they want it—coordinating staff schedules, ironing chef coats and more!

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Life in general excites me. New ideas excite me, so does meeting new people, which is an opportunity I am fortunate to have almost daily! There are always new adventures to have and new culinary delights to explore, and that’s what excites me most: the adventures of culinary exploration.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
I’ve had so many mentors in my lifetime; they always seem to find me exactly when I need one! My mom was and continues to be the most influential mentor in my life. She works with me and is a constant presence in my business (wouldn’t have it any other way). I’ve been more than blessed with an abundance of very smart women and men in my life who have offered support, encouragement, words of wisdom and their experience. Without my mentors, I would have been adrift without guidance and that would have made my road to success a lot bumpier than it has been!

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Some areas of your career may need to be on hold while you raise your family. Different ages and stages require different attention. While you may try to do it all, it may be impossible, and that’s not your fault.

Mountains or ocean?
That’s a tough one. I choose both!

Guilty pleasure?
Hopping in my car, turning on some great tunes (loud) and heading on a long road trip (not necessarily planned).

What did you want to be when you grew up?
An airline stewardess

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Passion for people (life in general), tenacity, and dependability.

21 Mathews Drive, Suite 8,Sutlers Square
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 422-5480
letseat@cheflynnmichelle.com
cheflynnmichelle.com

Cindy Creamer
Dunes Real Estate

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
That email or two that lands in my inbox from a new buyer or seller eager to partner together on their next real estate adventure. Keeping a keen eye on the market is the key to success in real estate; it’s about knowing there’s a listing before there’s a listing.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Yes, I have had several during my career. First, I’d like to give Mark Creamer a nod for talking me into getting into real estate. Without this suggestion and his continued belief in me, I’m not sure I would have taken the chance. Early in my career, I met Frank Nero, who became a friend, client and mentor. Sadly, Frank is no longer with us, but I will always be grateful for the time and conversations we had discussing real estate and the economic markets. As for my leadership involvement and leadership roles, I would give a big thank-you to David Kent from Charleston. Not only is he a great Realtor and friend, but also a great role model and leader for our industry. I believe in working hard in my business but also believe in giving back to my profession.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
The best advice I can give is to believe in yourself, or no one else will! Never stop learning because knowledge is key. Be committed, surround yourself with like-minded, positive people. Empower others, and if you want to make a difference, get involved!

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean for sure! Don’t get me wrong; I love visiting the mountains but being by the ocean is my happy place. After all, I have called Hilton Head Island home for more than 40 years!

6 Queens Folly Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 298-2356
cindycreamerrealestate.com

Tess Luechtefeld
Carolina Collective Dance

Describe a typical day in your life.
Starting my day with a workout sets me up for a productive and positive day. From there I get to work on business tasks from my office. At the studio, I either teach, continue working pending items, or pop in class to encourage our dancers. I close up around 9 p.m., when the last students are picked up, and head home.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
There is a quote I have written on the back door of the studio that says, “Be captivated by your purpose.” I live by that motto. I am here to make an impact in the lives of young dancers. I work every day to make this studio the best possible place for them to grow, be challenged, and feel loved. That is my purpose. If I can touch one little heart, I have accomplished that mission. Walking into that studio, being greeted with hugs and hearing, “Mama Tess” (that’s what they call me) fills my heart. I am so grateful to have something this special to work toward each day.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Mentorship has been a big part of my life since college. I continue to seek out those connections. One that comes to mind is a studio owner in Oklahoma. She has helped me navigate many unique challenges that come along with owning a business like this. She and I have a similar perspective on work ethic, goal setting, detailed training, and faith. I hope to be that same kind of mentor to others around me—especially my students.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Be picky about your tribe. Surround yourself with good people who inspire you to be the best version of yourself. It has taken me a while, but I have found my people. They inspire me, lift me up, and regularly challenge me to be the best person I can be.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Integrity, determination, and perseverance.

What podcast do you listen to for inspiration or to learn from?
We Can Do Hard Things, by Glennon Doyle; The Happiness Lab and Super Soul, by Oprah.

70 Pennington Drive, Suite 14
(843) 290-3955
carolinacollectivedance.com

Penny Vaigneur
Copper Penny

Native Charlestonian Penny Vaigneur, former model, breast cancer survivor, mother of three boys and philanthropist, opened her first store in Charleston in 1987. Penny was a stay-at-home mom who loved fashion. Her husband Fred was a commercial fisherman who shrimped and fished out of the local waters of Shem Creek as well as the coast of North Carolina and Florida until the industry was hit hard by new regulations. As the fishing industry changed directions, so did Penny and Fred. Together they rented a location in Mt. Pleasant and started a small ladies clothing business. The husband and wife duo worked long hours between caring for their three boys and building a new business to help support the family. This was the start of what now is known as Copper Penny.

Penny Vaigneur’s desire was to offer stylish on-trend fashions along with personalized service. She did this by creating a unique ladies’ boutique, offering a stylish yet eclectic mix of clothing, accessories and shoes. Personalized customer service has always been her priority and business model for Copper Penny.

Copper Penny Hilton Head at Shelter Cove Towne Centre began as a franchise location in 2015. In August of 2019, the Copper Penny Hilton Head location was taken back into the corporate structure and is now part of the seven family-owned-and-operated locations. It is locally run by Vanessa Hoffman, who started with Copper Penny Savannah in 2008 and maintained a relationship over the years with the Copper Penny family and clientele. Stop in and let them help you, and shop designer lines like Trina Turk, Citizens of Humanity, Farm Rio, Lilla P, Cosabella, Sheila Fajl and Whitley V (a family-owned-and-operated jewelry design business founded by Vaigneur’s son Bryan and his wife Liz, named after Penny’s granddaughter).

38 Shelter Cove Lane, Suite 123
Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
www.shopcopperpenny.com

Sheri Nixon and Shannon Sheehan
The Sheri Nixon Team/ Keller Williams Realty

Best decision you have made for your business?
Hiring Shannon Sheehan, 11 years ago, to be my buyer’s agent was the greatest decision for my business and for my quality of life. She has been a true blessing, with her strong work ethic and dedication to serving our clients. She is a great listener and is detail-oriented. Most important, her joyful personality makes all who meet her know that they matter, and they are heard. This is what all buyers need.

Describe a typical business day.
Shannon and I share the same core values yet have complementary strengths. Shannon starts her day at 4 a.m., by enthusiastically answering our clients’ questions via email and then she methodically goes through the new and delayed listings in search of the perfect home for our buyers. I, on the other hand, will work into the early morning hours looking at comparable sales for our buyers and for pricing our listings. Shannon enjoys every moment of driving our clients around and introducing them to all the different neighborhoods in Bluffton and on the island. This frees me up to write and negotiate contracts. It also allows me time to track all of the details from “contract to close” to ensure a smooth final transaction.

Has your business been growing?
Yes, it has been doubling over the last few years: $15 million sold in 2019; $30 million in 2020; and then in the first half of 2021, our closed business is already over $25 million.

What is a favorite aspect of your job?
I always get the biggest thrill out of a past client calling to use us again or asking us to help a friend buy or sell. It makes me know that Shannon and I must be doing things right!

Who has been your business mentor?
Gary Keller created Keller Williams, the largest real estate company in the world, on the philosophy of giving back. So many KW agents across this country have shared their knowledge and best business practices with me. I am constantly awed by the KW culture.

(843) 301-2688
SheriNixonTeam.com

Ashley Adams Brown, Mackenzie O’Leary, Jamie Jeschke, Jen Blackmon, Kathy O’Leary
Butler & College, LLC

Butler & College, LLC is a firm that focuses our practice on helping businesses, individuals, and families with their real estate and estate planning needs in a manner that is honest, affordable, and customer-oriented. We are committed to establishing long-term relationships with all of our clients. Our firm has deep community ties, with six convenient locations along the coast of the Carolinas, stretching from Calabash, N.C to Bluffton, S.C.

Meet our local team:
Our Bluffton location is proudly an all-female enterprise. Ashley Adams Brown is the managing attorney for the Bluffton office, where she focuses her practice on residential real estate and estate planning matters. Ashley is married to Zachary Brown, a designer for KRA Architects and Design. They have a daughter, Hayden Grace, and two dogs, Bisbee and Reese.

Mackenzie O’Leary is a new mother to son, Lennox. Mackenzie is the administrative assistant who greets our clients and coordinates general office functions. After years in the food & beverage industry, her nature is to be of service to our clients and start their transaction with the care they deserve.

Jamie Jeschke is a U.S. Navy veteran and newlywed. She is the title paralegal. Her attention to detail makes our office run efficiently. She is also a wealth of knowledge for our clients with questions about the closing process.
Jen Blackmon is our closing paralegal. Jen is a happily married mother of three, who is equally dedicated to providing an excellent client experience and producing accurate closing documents.

Kathy O’Leary is our post-closing paralegal who helps distribute post-closing information to our clients including deeds and title insurance policies. Kathy is a mother of three and married to Pat O’Leary of Movement Mortgage. If you have met Kathy, you know that engaging her warm personality is the perfect ending for our clients’ experience.

How did we get here?
Ryan Butler & Andrew College, LLC took a leap of faith and allowed Ashley to open the Bluffton office to service the greater Bluffton, Hilton Head and Savannah areas. When it comes to real estate, it is important to understand the role of an attorney in buying, selling, or refinancing a home. Ashley and her team are with you from contract to closing. Though many clients never see them except for the day they sign their closings documents, it is important to understand how much your real estate closing attorney and support team are working for you behind the scenes. From researching the history of your title to making sure the right documents have been executed correctly, Ashley and her team have their clients’ best interests at heart to make sure things go smoothly on closing day.

Ashley is also passionate about estate planning based on her personal life experiences. She and her team provide estate planning products because they know that no matter where you are on your life’s journey, you have undoubtedly worked hard to build your personal and financial legacies. They are also aware that you would want to protect those legacies and that you worry about what would happen to your family if you were to become disabled or pass away. When you create an estate plan with Ashley, you can worry less. Butler & College offers free estate planning consultations so that the customer will know their options and the cost before they commit.

Ashley’s advice for other women in business
How you treat people will propel or hinder your career. Work product can speak for itself, but kindness makes all the difference in a transaction and creates clients for life. This includes being kind to yourself. As women in business, we tend to be hyper-focused on perfection at work and in our personal lives. Remember that personal relationships are our why, and work is our how. Setting realistic expectations for clients during the workday allows you to honor your own time and invest in yourself.

10 State Rd.
S-7-50 #401
Bluffton, SC 29909
(843) 284-8676

Wendy Harvey, Amy Sullivan and Amy Kinasch
Windermere Insurance Group, LLC

Describe a typical day in your life.
We all commit eight-plus hours to our job, get a workout in, and take care of and spend time with our families/dogs.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Pride in growing our office and clientele base and providing a good life for our families, while providing excellent customer service to our clients.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Amy K. has amazing and successful role models in both her parents. Wendy’s grandfather owned an insurance agency where she worked while in high school and college and learned the value of customer service and integrity. Amy S.’s parents owned insurance agencies, which showed her the value of customer service and a strong work ethic.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Women rule the world. We need to know our worth and that we are the doers. Women get the job done and always find a way without overthinking situations. We are stronger mentally, physically, and emotionally than the world has portrayed us to be in the past, and we are capable of great accomplishments. Know your worth, and do not settle for second best.

Mountains or ocean?
Amy K: Mountains
Wendy: Mountains
Amy S. Ocean

Guilty pleasure?
Sweets.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Amy K.: Veterinarian or Sea World whale rider.
Wendy: Police officer, K9 handler, or married to Bon Jovi.
Amy S.: Pharmacist of teacher.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Communication, integrity, ability to delegate.

2 Palmetto Bay Rd., Suite 200
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-0080
windinsgroup.com

Renee Woodall
Silhouette hair Studio

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Interacting and building relationships with so many different people in my chair is something that makes my job so fun. Making people feel and look their best is the ultimate reward. There’s no better feeling than making a difference in someone else’s day just by simply doing my job.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
My aunt has been a huge mentor to me. She has been in the hair industry for over 30 years and taught me so much about hair and running a salon. My dad is also an entrepreneur and taught me the ins and outs of business—no matter what type: Show up, work hard and never give up.

What is the one thing you are looking forward to doing when you retire?
Traveling! My husband and I try to do as much as we can now but look forward to the day when we can pack up and leave with no responsibilities.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
I wish I had known earlier that change brings opportunity and is not something to be afraid of. Some of my greatest accomplishments have come from being forced out of my comfort zone. Also, learn from your bad days, appreciate the good days, and always keep your eyes open for opportunity.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean! I grew up in Upstate New York where it is gloomy, cold and snowy. Living in the Lowcountry has opened up a whole new way of life, and it’s something I enjoy every day.

53 Persimmon St. #102
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 815-2130
silhouette843.com

Kelly Caron
Kelly Caron Designs, ASID

Describe a typical day in your life.
Very early alarm, 5:30 a.m.! Get to work after 7-7:30 a.m. Emails, meetings, check in with design team. Follow ups and design work until about 5:30 p.m. Home, walk, love to cook dinner and family time. NO TV IN OUR HOUSE!

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
My happy employees and team of designers. We all need each other to make the dream work! I love to see accomplishments—personal and business.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Yes, very bad bosses! I had a clear vision of who I wanted to be as a boss, leader and designer. I hope to be a current mentor to our designers and design staff.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Take some business classes in college. Interview multiple CPAs. Learn more about taxes!

Mountains or ocean?
I grew up in Boone North Carolina. I am a mountaineer who loves the Lowcountry sunshine.

Guilty pleasure?
Fashion and fabulous lighting.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Fashion designer or architect.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Empowerment, accountability, and emotional intelligence.

5778 Guilford Place
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 815-4737
kellycarondesigns.com

Amie Baima
Skillets Cafe & Grill
If there’s anyone who has experience as a woman in business, it’s Amie Baima. She has been at the helm of one of the oldest, most popular breakfast spots on the island for almost 30 years.

Skillets Café & Grill started in a small space in Coligny Plaza in 1993 and has flourished ever since. Even a fire that started in an adjacent restaurant and reduced the entire shared building to ash couldn’t keep her down. The restaurant was rebuilt bigger and better than ever two and a half years later. Baima decided to add dinner at that time, expanding Skillets’ offerings beyond their popular breakfast and lunch.

As anyone knows, when you are the chief cook and bottle washer of a business, you have to know how to do everything. In the restaurant business, that means one day you could be playing hostess, and the next you are behind the line cooking because one of your team members called out sick. When there is a plumbing issue, sometimes you have to “think like a girl,” roll up your sleeves, and get sewer water all over you. (Note: this happened last week.)

When asked what advice she would give other women wanting to own and run their own business, “Marry rich,” Baima joked. “But in all seriousness, make sure you have a good support system, whether that be family, friends, or employees you can rely on to wear different hats and help run your business smoothly when needed. Be prepared to work long hours, but know that you can’t keep up an insane pace forever. All women need a time out.”

Coligny Shopping Center
1 N. Forest Beach Dr., J
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 785-3131
skilletscafe.com

Martha Stichweh and Kathleen Moran
Pilates Hilton Head

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
MS: Knowing I am going to spend the day doing something I absolutely love—teaching Pilates!
KM: I love everything about teaching Pilates. I love working with people, the workout, the apparatus, and the beautiful studio where I work.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
MS: It is never too late to begin a new adventure!
KM: There is no one right way. Focus on your goals and be open to the various paths that may come about.

Guilty pleasure?
MS: Chocolate ice cream sundae.
KM: Ice cream!

What did you want to be when you grew up?
MS: I had no idea! I had taken a position as an assistant to a regional director of sales and, six months later due to a merger, ended up as an assistant to the regional director of human resources and training and found I loved it.
KM: A school teacher. I ended up getting a business degree and had a career in business first, but I am teaching now!

What podcast do you listen to for inspiration or to learn from?
MS: There are so many out there. I do not have just one. I love them all.
KM: TED Talks Daily, The Core Conversations, and Pilates Elephants.

What is one thing you are looking forward to doing when you retire?
MS: I have already retired twice, but I always end up going back to work. Working is a pleasure for me.
KM: Traveling, hopefully with friends and family.

1000 William Hilton Parkway,Unit E-2
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 715-4545
pilateshiltonhead.com

Amanda Ellis, Sarah Rhoads-Howlett and Jessica Lowther
The Boutique
This trio of cosmetically minded, scientifically driven moms (yes, we said moms) has one goal in mind, and that is your self-care. More than a decade in the making, The Beautique (home of Permanent Cosmetics HHI, May River Made Up, and Derm and Design Studio) goes beyond the skin to leave you looking your best in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy everything from microblading, and HydraFacials to Botox® and fillers. The ladies at this micro-medical spa focus on safe, up-to-date and results-driven treatments. The unparalleled customer service and personalized visits are the cherry on top.

Sarah, Jessica and Amanda are lovers of all things beauty, and they believe that your skin is your first line of health defense and deserves to be taken care of. Whether it is a peel, customized medical grade skincare regimen, permanent cosmetics, or anti-aging injectables, The Beautique offers treatments to pamper you and your skin.

Sarah Rhodes-Howlett, a former cosmetology instructor from Ohio, combines her 10+ years of permanent makeup experience and over 5,000 procedures in the Lowcountry alone. She has both technical skills and the artist’s eye to make every procedure a truly one-of-a-kind experience for her client. She offers permanent brows, eyeliner, or lip color. Her services also encompass scar camouflage, corrective services, and post-breast reconstruction tattooing.

Jessica Lowther is a board-certified nurse practitioner and the Lowcountry’s best-kept beauty secret. She received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of South Carolina. Her medical career has encompassed intensive care, family medicine, and experience in the specialty areas of dermatology and plastic surgery. Aesthetic medicine has allowed her to combine her medical knowledge with her artistic and creative side. She believes in subtly enhancing your natural beauty and has an eye for detail. An injection or laser appointment with her leaves you refreshed, not stressed.

Amanda Ellis, a licensed esthetician for 12 years, rounds out the trio of incredible women. Makeup- and skincare-obsessed, she offers a whole array of facial services, on-location makeup with May River Made Up, and so much more. Believing skincare is part of a person’s lifestyle, listening to her clients and their needs is her passion.

The Beautique is a medically supervised micro-spa in the Sheridan Park area. We look forward to welcoming you in soon!

The Beautique Micro Med Spa
55-A Sheridan Park Circle
thebeautiquebluffton.com
(843) 608- 5475

Permanent Cosmetics HHI
permanentcosmeticshhi.com
(843) 422-4141

May River Made Up
mayrivermadeup.com
(843) 227-5501

Derm and Design Studio
dermanddesignstudio.com
(843) 227-5501

Linda Prosser
Alfred’s Restaurant

Describe a typical day in your life.
Wake up, coffee, walk dogs in the woods; work on financials, postings, reconciling, bill paying, payroll, etc.; social media, answer reviews, website updating. Then, on to the restaurant: call and confirm reservations, answer phone messages, order/receive wine/liquor, dinner prep & service, clean up, then come home, drink a glass of wine, kiss my hubby and crash.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
We are living our dream—been married 31 years and talking about owning our own restaurant just as long. Finally doing it!

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
F&B mentors: Roger and Jennifer Lienhard, Grand Hyatt Melbourne. Entrepreneurship: Josh and Julie Lynch of Crush Entertainment and Jamie and Liz Bodie of JLK Events.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Take the plunge to work for yourself. In all my years of “working for the man” as they say, I’ve never been as fulfilled or financially stable. Just knowing that my situation is a direct reflection of my own decisions has given me indescribable peace of mind. Oh, and check out the book Profit First. It works!

Mountains or ocean?
Love them both! And the woods and the wide-open plains—anything outdoors and natural.

Guilty pleasure?
I’d like to say reading a book, but more often it’s binge-watching TV. I like to do both every now and then on a rainy day off.

807 William Hilton Pkwy., Suite 1200
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-3117
alfredshhi.com

Michelle Pearson
Interior Motives, Inc.

Describe a typical day in your life.
Coffee! Create, design, have fun, and do the right thing. Pray often and be grateful. Been in business for 21 years and still going strong …we always have a stocked showroom!

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Through design, I am able to make a family’s home a home.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
Joni at JBanks Design. I will be forever grateful to her for hiring me when I moved here 29 years ago.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Have patience and learn as much as you can.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean. Duh! LOL

48 Pennington Dr.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 815-6747
interiormotiveshhi.com

Jane Misra
Dog People
There is no denying that there is a special connection between humans and dogs. Everybody can give you reasons, but at the core of all of these is unconditional positive regard and loyalty. We have all heard many remarkable stories of dogs and their owners that illustrate this. It is this bond that is the driving force behind the vision that drives dog people.

Jane Misra is the lead female force behind dog people, the premier mobile grooming business of the Lowcountry. Dog people has taken the dog grooming shop model, deconstructed it, and reconstructed it into a lean mobile business that delivers an exclusive luxury grooming experience unlike anything else in the Lowcountry!

But there is more to the vision Jane has than just a successful mobile business. It is her intent to make a much bigger mark on the industry, and she has just the plan to do it with her congruent endeavor, mobile up.

The grooming industry is a predominately female industry filled with extremely talented women who may or may not have fit the traditional four-year college model, and it is an unregulated industry that is piecemealed at best, producing a lot of underpaid, overworked, groomers facing burnout and exhaustion.

Jane is taking mobile dog grooming to the next level in a way that has never been done before. “We are creating a pathway to success for dog groomers that is unprecedented,” she said, telling us of the project she is launching called mobile up. Jane, with an endorsement from Hanvey, nationally recognized groomers, business leaders and industry disruptors, is creating a platform of tools resources and support to eliminate a lot of the problems groomers, business owners and solopreneurs face with a three-prong approach: (1) Create a baseline standard of excellence in collaboration with an expert team of advisors to ensure higher standards are produced out of mobile grooming units, especially Hanvey. (2) Provide a platform of tools resources and support for groomers nationwide to enable them to automate the back end of the business more effectively. (3) Create a financial resource that enables young groomers a clear pathway to van ownership without the financial barriers that currently exists in securing six-figure financing. Mobile up is also bringing a line of proprietary mobile grooming tools to the market in early 2022.

It’s all for the love of dogs—and dog people.

807 William Hilton Parkway, Suite 100
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-3322

Christina Horton, Rebecca Hall, Kay Hallman, and Danyelle Barrow
Assured Partners

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Kay Hallman: Working with our great team!
Rebecca Hall: My Family. I have a chance everyday to set a good example for my kids. It is another chance to do great things.

Guilty pleasure?
KH: Reality TV
RH: watching Hallmark Christmas Movies and snacking.

If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
Christina Horton: I would love to learn to speak another language; Spanish and French would be my choices.
Danyelle Barrow: Skateboarding
KH: A foreign language.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
CH: A teacher
DB: Lawyer
RH: A veterinarian

What is your favorite tech toy—for work or play—that you can’t live without?
CH: iPhone
DB: AirPods—use them every day!
KH: iPhone—can’t live without it.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
DB: Great communication, patience, and honesty.

What is one thing you are looking forward to when you retire?
DB: Travel.
KH: Not setting my alarm.
RH: Spending time with my husband in a cabin or lake house and traveling.

1323 May River Rd., Suite 101
Bluffton, SC, 29910
(843) 706-2438

Ali Heavener
Lennar

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
My family. I have always strived to make them proud of who I am and what I have accomplished. It is important to me to show all three of my children that learning from life’s lessons and a good moral compass will take you far in your career. It is especially important to me that my daughters know that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
It is entirely possible to have a successful, and I would add, demanding career while raising a family. All it takes is the right environment/culture. Find a company that encourages your professional and personal development, aligns with your professional goals, and provides a good work/life balance.

Mountains or ocean?
Depends on the season. I love both. By the way, Lennar builds homes across the nation, so whether you are looking for mountains or ocean, you will find a home you love.

Guilty pleasure?
Shoes, without a doubt!

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Gratitude, integrity, and learning agility.

(843) 505-7275
lennar.com

Ginny Whitehead, Brittany Scheriff, Stacey Whitehead, and Melissa Whitehead
The Art Cafe

“The Earth without art is just ‘eh.’” This Demetri Martin quote sums up why owner Ginny Whitehead is so passionate about her woman-owned, not to mention family-run business, The Art Café. Ginny has always had a passion and calling for the creative world. Her love for art runs deep like the rivers of our Lowcountry, and her love for family runs even deeper.

Ginny has been operating the Art Café on Hilton Head Island for 14 years, in three different locations. Ginny and her husband, Rocky Whitehead, who own Rockfish Seafood and Steaks at Bomboras (located right below the Art Café), moved here 16 years ago from Cincinnati, Ohio. Ginny has always had a strong desire to own a pottery painting studio. Fortunately for Ginny, with the help of her family, that desire and dream came true.

Ginny and her two daughters, Brittany Scheriff and Stacey Whitehead, handle the daily operations of the Art Café, while their newest addition Melissa Whitehead, Ginny’s daughter in law, handles marketing affairs.

The Art Café is a fun place for all ages to come and paint pottery. You don’t have to be a Van Gogh to enjoy this wonderful place and experience! The Art Café is popular among locals and tourists alike (some tourists visit annually and have pieces collected to remember their special vacation on Hilton Head together). So, next time you are looking for a fun experience for yourself and others, come in to the Art Café, and the women behind it will make certain you have a memorable pottery painting experience!

5 Lagoon Rd.
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 757-5525
artcafehhi.com

Heather A. Baker (SugarBaker)
ERA Evergreen Real Estate Company
I’m often asked who the big influences in my life were/are. As I reflected, I recognized that women were at the top of my list.
My mama is my No. 1. She is a true example of love. Her compassion is something to be admired—a true southern lady with the biggest heart. She made many sacrifices for her children to succeed in life!

My first job after graduating from Winthrop University was at WSOC FM 103 radio station in Charlotte, N.C. That is when a mentor by the name of Valerie Gladden entered my life. Valerie taught me the value of teamwork and multitasking. She could really be in two places at one time (well, in spirit)! Valerie was the definition of a “go-getter.” She even assisted me in planning my wedding in South Carolina while managing a very demanding job and her sweet family.

What a blessing to have the honor to be taught by Vickie Austin while working at Wilson World Hotel in Spartanburg, S.C. Vickie exemplified the meaning of work ethic while balancing her family life. She could make magic happen while selling out our hotel, even when our computer system said otherwise. The love of her family showed through her every action.

Then, Becky (Smith) Colburn entered my world in 2004. I was in real estate school and interested in a design consultant job with Centex Homes in Bluffton. After interviewing with Becky and expressing my interest in being a Realtor, she encouraged me to step right into sales. So I did. and that was the best advice ever! Becky taught me leadership. She could lead and still does. She thrives on the success of her sales people. Becky mentors people without even knowing it.

These women always believed in me. They always encouraged me. They always pushed me. And most importantly, they always loved me. I love each of these women and am truly grateful for their contribution, making me the woman I am today. This issue is about women in business, and these women paved the way for me!

ERA Evergreen Real Estate Company
(843) 441-2787

Ashley Douglas
Paws on Learning

Ashley Douglas, a certified professional dog trainer, is the owner of Paws On Learning on Hilton Head Island. Ashley has always had a passion for working with animals and was a dog owner long before she became a trainer. Her years of volunteering at animal shelters and her work at veterinary hospitals and a law enforcement dog training facility inspired her to change careers.

Ashley spent 18 years as an upper elementary school teacher. In 2017, she attended National K9 Dog Trainer School in Columbus, Ohio, where she became a Certified Professional Dog Trainer. In 2018, she started Paws On Learning’s daytime board and train facility.
As Paws On Learning grew in popularity, the business quickly outgrew its space, and in April of 2021, relocated to a larger facility.

Ashley’s love for working with people and their dogs motivates her to continue to engage in new and different ways to approach animal behavior and how dogs learn. Over the last few years, Ashley has attended the International Association of Canine Professionals conference in Florida, Puppy Potential Workshop in North Carolina, Hope Service Dogs Service Dog Training in Florida, and is currently participating in the Training Between the Ears online course.

She loves being an entrepreneur and is grateful for the support friends and family have contributed along the way. While she started the business entirely on her own from a financial standpoint, she attributes a great deal of her success to the love and support of family, friends, and returning clients.

Ashley utilizes her years as a professional teacher and her formal education and experience training dogs to help people in the Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort, and Savannah area reach their dogs’ potential.

4 Hunter Road, Suite 4C
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(603) 540-2614
pawsonlearning.com

Optical Solutions
1st Row: Lizet Gutierrez, Susan Fernandez, Marlyn Rivera, Karimen Ambrocio, Angela Fears
2nd Row: Alessandra Vega, Dr. Tara Baideme, Maria Loera, Toni Fernandez, Alex Cheyne, Tara Petracco, Mariel Ortiz
3rd Row: Haley Rainboth, Katherine Holt, Briana Hernandez, Mikaleen Lawrence, Brenda Jimenez

If you are a current customer or a new patient at Optical Solutions, you will meet a few of the amazing women who work as a cohesive team (the operational “glue”) alongside Dr. Michael Campbell. All these women play essential roles and perform their individual jobs with the utmost skill and professionalism to ensure your best eyecare experience. Whether it is for a routine exam, glasses, contact lenses, or for ocular disease, the professionals at Optical Solutions will treat you with the attention and personalized care you deserve.

Office Manager, Alessandra Vega, has been employed with Optical Solutions for over six years and loves working for this local, family-owned business. According to Vega, many of the employees have spouses and family members working together at Optical Solutions, and it is a healthy environment for everyone.

Tara Petracco will soon reach her one-year anniversary with Optical Solutions and couldn’t be happier. “The Campbells have created a wonderful work environment, and I’m looking forward to long-term employment,” she said.

What sets Optical Solutions/Dr. Michael Campbell and Associates apart from other eyecare practices is their teamwork, respect for their fellow co-workers, and the friendly environment that contributes to positive patient relationships and successful outcomes.

The positive work environment empowers women so that they can rise to the challenges.“This environment allows us to deliver more personalized care to you, the patient, and allows us to know you and your visual needs better,” Vega said.

Optical Solutions has been established in the Lowcountry for 33 years. Starting with one location in 1987, the business has expanded to include three state-of-the-art facilities. They are the only full-service lab in the area providing same-day service on emergency eyewear.

“Like our employees, our patients become our friends,” Vega said. “We work professionally and efficiently to make your visit the best!”

10 Hospital Center Commons, Suite 100
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 681-6682

50 Shelter Cove Ln., Suite G
The Plaza at Shelter Cove
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 785-8008

27 Mellichamp Dr., Suite 100
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 706-0607

drmichaelcampbell.com

Michelle Meissen
Palmetto Ocean Conservancy “We are the Guardians of the Sea”

Describe a typical day in your life.
I spend my morning with my loved ones. I head out for salty air and morning coffee at The French Bakery. My days are busy; I do my best to take some time out to enjoy the view.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
That I’m able to make a difference, working in a teamwork atmosphere, learning daily.

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
My parents. If I wanted something, I had to work for it.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Be myself; always trust my instincts; I’m stronger than I think; never settle; chin up.

Guilty pleasure?
Rocky Road ice cream.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Oceanographer.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
Vision, focus, and keep going, no matter what.

What podcast do you listen to for inspiration or to learn from?
TEDX, People Who Built America (History Channel).

What is one thing you are looking forward to doing when you retire?
Retire? I’m not sure if I want to retire.

If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
Process and memorize (long-term and short-term).

What is your favorite tech toy—for work or play—that you can’t live without?
My phone.

(816) 352-2781
Follow Us on Facebook and Instagram @palmettooceanconservancy

Kelsey Allison
Kelsey Allison Designs

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
Knowing that I get to get up and do my dream job every day. It sounds cliché, I know, but it’s so true. I get to design + create the best day of my clients’ lives, and it’s so much fun dreaming up new ideas that are going to be unique to them for their day. I’m so passionate about what I do, and I know I’m exactly where I am supposed to be. It’s exhilarating!

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
My dad, Joe Zokan, has been my biggest mentor along my path to entrepreneurship. He is a successful entrepreneur and has been in business 30+ years. So, I guess you could say it’s in my blood. My dad’s wisdom and guidance have been a huge support and inspiration to me. I’m grateful to have him to look up to. I am also fortunate to have a huge support system to lean on, especially my very patient husband, Aaron, who has been alongside me, encouraging me every step of the way.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Set goals, and slow down. You don’t have to get it all done in a day. You don’t have to be the best at everything right away, so when you’re not, don’t let that deter you. Good things take time, but amazing things can take even more time. Remember to enjoy the journey and celebrate each milestone, big or small, along the way. I still have to remind myself of this!

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A news anchor! I went to college majoring in telecommunications but switched gears to hospitality by my second year. I knew right away that I had made the right decision.

If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
Calligraphy! I’m a lefty, so it would be a big challenge for me, because it’s very difficult to not drag my hand through my work when I’m writing.

(803) 608-8847
kelseyallisondesigns.com

Sarah O’Leary Takacs
The Heritage Library

If you want to know where Hilton Head Island is headed, you have to start with where it’s been.

In the constantly shifting landscape of Hilton Head Island real estate, the most powerful tool a real estate professional can bring to the table is knowledge. Context is key, and knowing what forces have shaped the market is vital to knowing how best to capitalize.
“I’ve been a licensed Realtor for 40 years, and when I first started, the appeal of the island was strictly the beach, golf and tennis,” Takacs said. “Lately, people want to investigate other areas of Hilton Head. They’re very interested in exploring the island’s history and how Hilton Head came to be what it is today.”

That rise in cultural tourism dovetails with Takacs’ own passion for history, a passion which led her to serve as vice president of the Heritage Library as one of its most energetic volunteers. Through her efforts, the island’s history has become a vital part of its appeal for visitors, with her work on the advancement committee helping restore Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery’s famed Baynard Mausoleum to its former glory.

Takacs is one of many volunteers who have helped The Heritage Library emerge as one of the most vital genealogy and historical research organizations in the state. Through their work, not only are islanders discovering their own history, but they’re also forging connections with the island’s past that tell Hilton Head’s story.

“I have long had an interest in the history of the island, and people like native islander Henry Driessen and our former mayor Martha Baumberger really helped me explore those possibilities and share them with my clients,” Takacs said.

Laura H. Wuller
Coastal Long-Term Rental Company, LLC
It’s quite possible you haven’t met many people who are from a ranch in Montana. Shady Lane Ranch, outside Bozeman, Mont., is where Laura Wuller grew up. Daily chores included feeding the cows, sheep and horses, stacking wood or hay bales, and helping her family with whatever work was needed. Although she’s the first to admit she didn’t love the chores, Laura knows that this is how she gained the valuable asset of a strong work ethic. Laura has applied that work ethic throughout her career and now to her long-term property management business, Coastal Long Term-Rental Company, LLC.

Coastal Long-Term Rental Company is a full-service, professional property management firm. Specializing in long-term rentals (12-month leases), they provide experienced, knowledgeable support to homeowners and tenants. Laura took ownership of the company in 2013 and acquired a Bluffton firm in 2018. With this expansion, she has added valuable employees, with combined experience of 45+ years in property management.

The current market is like nothing Laura has seen before. With so many people moving to our area, Coastal is seeing high demand year-round. This higher-than-normal demand is coupled with very low supply, which has forced rental rates higher. When a new property is joining her program, Laura has been able to line up tenants before buyers even close on the home.
Laura attributes much of her success to the support of her husband, two children, and her relationships with local realtors, some of whom she has worked with throughout her career on the island since 2003. They know they can count on Coastal to take great care of their clients who either have a property they want to lease or need a rental themselves. Visit Coastal’s website today to find out more about their program!

18 Executive Park Rd, Ste 2,
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 842-4546

7 Simmonsville Rd., Suite 100A, Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 706-7368
laura@coastalltr.com
CoastalLTR.com

Steph Cauller, Janice Ross and Katie Oliva
Hilton Head Home Team of RE/MAX Island Realty

We do things a little differently at Hilton Head Home Group of RE/MAX Island Realty. We rely heavily on technology and intuition. As women in business, we know what a balancing act it can be, thus we have a team. We support each other in business as well as in life.

With backgrounds in education, marketing and food & beverage, plus the seven children combined, we are experts at typing emails, prepping dinner, making sure everything is covered, showing property and not missing a beat. We learned a lot through years of working in food and beverage, public education and product representation to Costco and QVC. The patience of an elementary teacher plus a server who rarely gets in the weeds has trained us for anything thrown at us. Add in a mix of passion and expertise, and that is a recipe for success. If you are just getting your “Women in Business” shoes wet, find your recipe for success. Passion will take you places you could only dream about. Expertise is priceless, and you can never add too much patience.

Janice Ross, our California girl, has been an island resident for nine years; Steph Cauller formerly of Malvern, Pa., moved to the island in 2010; and Katie Oliva had the privilege of a Lowcountry childhood. A Beaufort local, Katie is a wealth of knowledge of all things Lowcountry.

(843) 415-7738
HiltonHeadHomeGroup.com

Heather Rath
Heather Rath Consulting
In the Lowcountry, there are movers and shakers. And helping to move and shake them all, you’ll find Heather Rath.

All around the Region, there’s a sense of renewed energy, a forward dynamic that is pushing us as a community toward something better — while ensuring that “us,” in fact, means “all of us.”

You’ll see it in the creation of dazzling public spaces like the Lowcountry Celebration Park and Squire Pope Community Park and the planning of the highly anticipated “Mid-Island Tract. You’ll see it in the rekindled zeal for the island’s history, and in the push for a new airport terminal. You’ll see it in the greater role the Gullah community has taken in conversations about people and place.
To be clear, Heather Rath was not behind all these positive changes, nor would she ever claim credit for them. But it’s no coincidence that her name comes up in conversations about all of them.

“True advocacy for me is stepping in, when asked, to partner with those needing to effect change. But it is also realizing that authentic change requires true ownership and accountability.” she said. “I guide, I direct, and I help lay the groundwork for that change. But ultimately my goal is for the people involved to have ownership and their voice heard.”

It’s a philosophy of principled direction and advocacy that has made her a regular force at town council meetings, community events, and at the Statehouse. There are wonderful things happening in the Lowcountry. Heather Rath isn’t responsible for all of them, but a lot of them would not have happened without her.

hrath@heatherrathconsulting.com
(843) 415-5978

Lauren Dills
Pure Salt Studios

Describe a typical day in your life.
Every day looks a little different as a small business owner! Most days I am in the studio facilitating halotherapy and infrared sauna sessions, coordinating massages and yoga classes with instructors and therapists, sourcing products from other small businesses, styling and directing shoots, managing social media and emails … the list goes on. It even includes raking salt!

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
The thought of welcoming clients into the studio! We are providing a space for people to breathe, to let go of stress, relax, heal, and enjoy time for themselves or those they are with. It’s amazing to be able to witness the before and after transformations every day.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
Be open to opportunities that present themselves. Coming from a supply chain + design management background, I never in a million years thought that I would be the owner of a salt studio. You never know what the universe has in store. Lean in and trust in the bigger plan.

Mountains or ocean?
Ocean for every day and mountains to get away. I grew up on Long Island, N.Y. After moving around a bit for my career after college, it quickly became clear that living near the ocean was a must for me!

What podcast do you listen to for inspiration or to learn from?
How I Built This. This podcast provides amazing raw insight across an array of industries of how they got their start and ended up where they are today. I am constantly dreaming up new ideas and directions for myself. This one always motivates and inspires me!

9 Harbourside Lane, Unit B
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 715-2825
puresaltstudios.com

Lyndi Leary
Lyndi Leary Photography; Fine Art and Portraiture

Lyndi Leary is a Bluffton based photographer with a passion for capturing light and creating beauty in a timeless way.

“I’m an artist at heart, always have been. In 2006, I graduated from Furman University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and have enjoyed photography as my main concentration for the past 11 years. Few things are as rewarding for me as capturing the beauty of this life, whether it is the innocence of childhood, the love of a family, or the stunning awe of the natural world. The camera is simply the medium I use to create imagery and capture precious moments. I believe that in order to succeed as an artist, you must constantly challenge yourself, continuously push yourself out of your comfort zone, all the while maintaining and developing your own aesthetic. My goal is to use light to create something beautifully unique but in a tangible way that is easily relatable and that others will appreciate.

My husband and I were married in August of 2014, and shortly thereafter, we relocated to Bluffton from the upstate of South Carolina. Fast forward several years, and currently, my two young daughters are my biggest inspiration. Not only are they the best reason to get up at the crack of dawn every day and do my best, but loving them allows me to identify with other parents in a way that was not possible before.

The personal experience of motherhood, and the utterly indescribable range of emotions that accompanies it, has inevitably and undeniably enhanced my work on all fronts. I know how important the fleeting moments are and how much beautiful images of them mean to a family. So, while becoming a mother has enhanced my work in a very literal sense, the desire to be an example for my girls is the strongest driving force for my success. My hope is that one day my accomplishments will give them the confidence to pursue their dreams, the initiative to develop their own skills, and the knowledge that they can and should use their God-given talents to create a life they love.”

Bluffton, SC
(770) 845-3800
lyndileary.com

Kaila Jeffcoat, Kim Crouch, Hunter Kostylo, Morgan O’Banion, Kandace Wightman and Maggie Washo
CH2/CB2 Magazine

What are you looking forward to in retirement?
MW: I am never going to retire. They are going to have to drag me by my ankles out of this office.
HK: Traveling all over the world! If it’s by a beach, I’m going there.
KC: I would love to travel with my kids and family. Being able to spend quality time with my family and experience new places together, I would be in heaven!
MO: Traveling. I’d love to get a camper van and travel and explore!

If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
MW: I would love to just learn how to relax and just dial it in like 70 percent of the world’s population.
HK: To play the piano. There is something about a piano that I just love.
KC: I have always wanted to learn how to play the violin.
KJ: I would love to be fluent in four or five languages! But that would take a lot of patience, determination, and wine!

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
MW: Emotional intelligence, work ethic, and flexibility.
KC: Good communication, being respectful, and patience.
KJ: I think a good leader has excellent communication skills, is open-minded, and has the ability to empower others.
MO: A leader must lead by example with a strong work ethic, have patience, and show appreciation to their team when success has been achieved.
KW: Communication, confidence, and creativity.

Mountains or ocean?
MW: Mountains
HK: Costa Rica, lol. It has mountains and beaches. Best of both worlds!
KC: Both! Love the ocean; it’s good for the soul. But I also love to ski out west. California might be my place one day.
KJ: Mountains
MO: Mountains, Mountains, and more Mountains…
KW: Beach. Being born and raised up north, I definitely appreciate a warm ocean breeze.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started off on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
MW: Everyone is making it up as they go along. In life, in business, in relationships. There is no map, no guidebook. If someone acts calm, cool, and collected and says they have everything under control, they are liars. Run!
KJ: It’s okay to make a change. Just because it was what you studied in college or specialized in doesn’t lock you into that career forever. If you have something that interests you, pursue it! I remember this lady in her 70s who went back to school to be a nurse because it was something she always wanted to do after spending her life being a teacher. It’s never too late!
MO: In your “work world,” disasters can happen. These things can probably be fixed; if they can’t, then start over with a positive outlook. Don’t let the bumps in the road consume you to the point where it changes you or affects your relationships with the people you love.

Last program you binged-watched?
HK: Ted Lasso! So funny
MW: Loki. Marvel all the way, baby.

What is your guilty pleasure?
KW: Cheesecake. A good ol’ slice of New York style cheesecake.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
KW: Something in the forensic field. I love watching Dateline and murder mystery shows.

(843) 689- 2658
m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com
www.celebratehiltonhead.com

Jennifer Green, APRN-BC
AHC MedSpa, Affordable Health Care

After years working in institutional and private medicine, Jennifer Green identified a need for a different kind of care: care that combined both compassion and affordability. In 2008, she turned that vision into reality when she started Affordable Health Care. For the past 13 years, Jenny has continued to expand the original practice mission by adding components of total wellness, with the intention of assisting patients in their efforts to be fit from the inside out.

As the era of self-care began spreading to medical provider practices in the form of medical spas, Jenny recognized an exciting opportunity to expand her business again. To that end, she added injectables to her repertoire of in-office procedures and began offering a full menu of spa services administered by certified aestheticians. This unique approach to primary medicine, one that offers patients the option to have access to total self-care in one location, is innovative and progressive.

Post COVID-19, Jennifer has taken the aesthetics portion of her practice to the next level with the recent purchase of a broad band light laser for skin rejuvenation, redness reduction, hair removal and more! This new technology reduces the amount of time needed for both treatment and recovery. In addition, it is a less painful alternative to many skin renewal procedures offered today. With this exciting technology, Jenny and the AHC MedSpa staff are moving into the future with renewed purpose: to expand the options we offer for patients to experience total self-care in one location.

150 State St.
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-5559
affordablehealthcare.com

Keller Williams Realty
The Top 10 women at KW closed more than $430 million in combined sales volume over the past 12 months.
Left to right: Sheri Nixon, Amy Aurelio, Daryn Vucelik (Team Leader), Beth Drake, Allison Greco and Beth DeAngelis. Women in the Top 10 not pictured: Joan Kelly, Colleen Sullivan, Leah Melvin, Shae Chambers Helms and Lisa Sisko.

Keller Williams is not only the number one real estate franchise in the Lowcountry; it is also the premiere home for women in real estate. Named one of America’s Best Employers for Women by Forbes for three consecutive years, it’s no surprise that the women leading our local real estate market have found their ideal home at KW. In fact, Keller Williams has more women in the Hilton Head MLS Top 50 Agent rankings than any other real estate company.
“The community of successful, supportive women I have found at KW has made all the difference in my business,” said agent Sheri Nixon, whose team closed more than $47 million in sales in the past 12 months. “The international referral network at Keller Williams, along with our local support system, has been a game-changer.”
That supportive culture, alongside industry-leading technology and training, has allowed Keller Williams Lowcountry agents to serve more than 1,700 families in the past 12 months.
“As women, it can be challenging to grow a big business while balancing our personal and family lives. That’s why at KW, we focus on providing our agents the training, technology and support to reach their goals,” said Keller Williams Team Leader and CEO, Daryn Vucelik. “I am so fortunate to work alongside this group of incredible businesswomen who challenge one another to dream big. The opportunities for business and personal growth are truly endless here at KW.”

KW Women closing more than $5 million in sales volume over the past 12 months:
Aimee Brasington
Allison Greco
Amy Aurelio
Angela Huser
Angelina Singleton
Annie Powell
Annie Tracy
Amber Morgan
Arline Fasano
Beth DeAngelis
Beth Drake
Calynn Altizer
Carey Ann Kelley
Carol Keller
Carol O’Brien
Carol Rutgers
Chris Spirer
Christy Diller White
Colleen Sullivan
Courtney Marine
Dana Advocaat
Deanna Coyne
Gerrie Pravetz
Glenda Satterly
Happi Beisser
Jamie Peart
Jennifer Wells
Jessica Teague
Joan Kelly
Karen Hair
KKay Sonberg
Leah Melvin
Lisa Sisko
Nadine O’Quinn
Shae Chambers Helms
Shannon Sheehan
Sheri Nixon
Stacy Applegate
Stephanie Harris
Sue Remble
Tanya Sjodin
Taylor Lomprez
Valerie Keating
Wendy Goller

8 Lafayette Place, Suite 203
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 682-8100
kwlowcountry.com

Erika Waronsky
The Sandbar Beach Eats & Carolina Coffee and Crumbs

Describe a typical day in your life.
My day starts with reassessing the prior day. How did it go? What was good, bad and ugly, and how can we make today better? Then comes kids, drop offs, cleaning restaurants, banking, any employee issues, orders, customers and the remaining goes to putting out as many fires as possible.

What drives you/makes you excited to start the day?
My kids! We work really hard schedules, and my kids do such a good job of keeping me grounded and reminding me why I do this every day. I love seeing them in the mornings, no matter how tired I am from the late night before! I also love checking items off my never-ending “to do “ list. Maybe someday I won’t have one!

Did you have a mentor—someone who really helped you along the path to entrepreneurship?
I have had several mentors in my life. Most important were my parents. My dad quit his teaching job and went to medical school at the age of 34 in order to give us a better life. My mother taught school for 40 years and was really good at it. I have always admired them and their work ethic. From a professional standpoint, the only other job I have ever had was working for Dale Augenstein at Steamer Seafood in Coligny Plaza. I worked for Dale for almost 17 years, and I give him the credit for teaching me basically everything that I know about the restaurant business. He was and still is a true entrepreneur. He was always problem-solving, assessing current situations while always looking ahead for what was next.

Tell us something you wish you had known when you started on your career path—a bit of advice for other women in business.
This business is really hard…. I wish that my skin was thicker and I didn’t take everything so personally, but that is so hard to do. You put everything that you have into something, take the biggest risks of your life and pray that you survive. There will always be someone out there who doesn’t want you to [succeed]. Don’t pay too much attention to them, and at the end of the day, just be a good person! It will all work out if you make the right choices for you!

Mountains or ocean?
Oceans, always. I grew up in the beautiful mountains of W.V., but as soon as my feet hit the sand on Hilton Head Island, I knew this would be home!

Guilty pleasure?
Prosecco

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to live in New York City and be a lawyer. I have no idea why because I did the opposite and moved to the beach and love the restaurant business.

Give us three qualities a leader must have.
(1) Patience. You can’t lose your mind over everything or everyone or you will literally lose your mind! (2) Keeping your cool. Stressful situations will hide around every corner. Keep calm and your employees and customers will too—most of the time. (3) Compassion & empathy. Always remember that this is your forever, but it might not be your staff’s forever. Always understand what is happening in their lives just like what is happening in yours. Life is crazy and throws us curveballs all the time; understanding all situations and being non-judgmental is key. We are all human!

What podcasts do you listen to for inspiration or to learn from?
I really don’t listen to any podcasts. This is just something I never really got into but maybe should. I try to keep up with world and local news, food trends, costs, etc., but no favorite podcasts.

What is one thing you are looking forward to doing when you retire?
Waking up to no alarm and traveling as much as possible!

If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
I would love to learn to play the piano. I played the flute for years, and wish that I still did, but I have always wanted to master the piano.

What is your favorite tech toy—for work or for play—that you can’t live without?
I cannot live without my laptop. It has everything in my life on it and I could not function for long without it.

101 Pope Ave HHI 29928
(843) 342-SAND
(843) 342-4800
sandbarhhi.com
carolinacoffeehhi.com