Women entrepreneurs are shaping the heart and future of our community through innovation, resilience, and creativity. This roundup highlights a group of women-owned businesses making a meaningful impact.
Name: Paige Meyer
Business: Refresh Medical Spa
Website: www.refreshhealthspa.com
What inspired you to start your business, and what has been most rewarding?
I began working at Refresh as a nurse in 2014 and purchased the business in late 2019 when the previous owner chose a different path. While I did not have a formal business background, I knew I had the passion and work ethic to grow something meaningful. The most rewarding part has been building a space where both clients and employees feel supported and valued.
What advice would you give to other women?
Passion does not mean loving every part of what you do. It means believing in something enough to push through the hardest days.
What does success look like today?
Success is seeing happy clients and employees and creating a positive, family-like environment. I am especially motivated by being able to provide opportunities for women to support themselves and their families.
What sets your business apart?
We have created a welcoming, non-judgmental space where everyone feels comfortable, safe, and like part of the family.
Favorite KC hidden gem?
Knub’s Pub, a family-owned spot with kind people and delicious comfort food.
What would you tell your younger self?
Obstacles are not in your way. They are the way.
Name: Brittyn Conway
Business: Hygge House
Website: www.hyggehousekc.com
What inspired you to start your business, and what has been most rewarding?
After nearly 15 years as a wedding photographer, I developed a deep love for creating meaningful, beautiful spaces. I noticed a gap in venues that felt both elevated and intimate, which inspired Hygge House. My husband has been an incredible partner throughout this journey, supporting every vision along the way. The most rewarding part has been watching people bring their celebrations to life in the space. It is an honor to be part of those moments.
What advice would you give to other women?
Start the business. There will never be a perfect time, and you do not need everything figured out. Trust the pull, start small, and evolve as you go.
What does success look like today?
Success means having freedom over my time, creativity, and presence with my family. It is about building a life that feels intentional and fulfilling.
What sets your business apart?
Hygge House blends thoughtful, elevated design with warmth and authenticity. Every detail is curated to create a space that feels both beautiful and welcoming.
Favorite KC hidden gem?
The Gilded Lily in Martin City.
What would you tell your younger self?
Trust the journey, dream big, and know the life you are imagining is already on its way.
Name: Swetha Newcomb
Business: Of Course Kitchen
Website: www.ofcoursekc.com
What inspired you to start your business, and what has been most rewarding?
I wanted to create something deeply personal where Indian flavors could be reimagined through a modern Midwestern lens without losing their essence. That space did not exist in Kansas City yet. The most rewarding part has been watching guests experience it for the first time and building something meaningful that sets an example for my son.
What advice would you give to other women?
Be honest about how hard it is. Passion alone will not carry you. Discipline will. Also, protect your energy. Not everyone needs access to what you are building.
What does success look like today?
Success is balance. It means running a respected and profitable business while being present at home. Taking care of my team, continuing to grow creatively, and making time for family all matter.
What sets your business apart?
We do not fit into a single category. It is Indian-inspired, but also small plates, service-driven, and intentional in every detail.
Favorite KC hidden gem?
McGregor’s breakfast sandwiches on 135th and Nieman.
What would you tell your younger self?
Stop rushing. Some things get better with time, and you are allowed to evolve.
Name: Melita Holmes
Business: Fit Form Pilates
Website: www.fitformpilates.com
What inspired you to start your business, and what has been most rewarding?
I did not originally plan to own a business. I fell in love with Pilates and its ability to help people feel stronger and more confident. When the opportunity came to take over the studio, it felt like a chance to build something meaningful. The most rewarding part has been seeing clients transform physically and mentally, gaining confidence that carries into their everyday lives.
What advice would you give to other women?
Start before you feel ready. Confidence comes from doing. Also, surround yourself with people who support and challenge you. It makes all the difference.
What does success look like today?
Success is creating a welcoming and supportive space where clients and instructors grow together. It is about impact and sustainability, not just growth.
What sets your business apart?
We focus on quality and consistency in every class while maintaining a warm and personal environment for all experience levels.
Favorite KC hidden gem?
Tarahumara in Kansas City, Kansas, a family-owned Mexican restaurant we love.
What would you tell your younger self?
Do not overthink. Just start. Trust the process and learn from every challenge.
Name: Katie Montgomery
Business: Emerald Counseling Services, LLC
Website: https://www.emeraldcounselingkc.com
What inspired you to start your business?
I’ve always been fascinated by human behavior and drawn to people’s stories. The most rewarding part is my clients. Even in hard seasons, they show how resilient and dynamic people can be. It’s a privilege to hold that space. This work has also led me to teaching at Park University, which I love.
What advice would you give women starting a business?
Go for it. Start before you feel ready because you may never feel fully ready. It’s never too late either. This is my second career. I started my practice in my mid 40s after raising my son and going back to school. You can always change your path.
What does success look like today?
A business that supports my life, not one that takes it over. It means working with clients I respect, having time with my son, and feeling proud of how I show up.
What sets your practice apart?
I work with men and high achievers who want deeper emotional connection. Many are successful professionally but want stronger relationships. I help bridge that gap. I’m trained in trauma-informed care and EMDR, and I bring a direct but compassionate approach. There’s also humor in the room. Growth does not have to feel heavy all the time.
Favorite Kansas City spots?
Rainy Day Books has always been special to me, and now I take my son there. And Rudy's Tenampa Taqueria in Westport is a must. The atmosphere is vibrant and the food is incredible.
What would you tell your younger self?
You don’t have to have it all figured out. Trust your intuition, try things, and adjust along the way.