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The Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce & Women-Owned Business

We asked local entrepreneurs and managers what makes our community so supportive. Here’s what they had to say.

Article by Stephanie Green

Photography by Provided

Originally published in Potomac Lifestyle

Carla Young
Director of Membership & Community Relations, The Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce

“My business is providing resources for members, lifting voices at our county and state, while building valuable relationships. In the past, I worked industries that put me in-a-box. It wasn't until I relocated to Bethesda where my talents were valued and celebrated. I thrive working in the economic engine of Maryland alongside leaders from various businesses.”

Verelyn Gibbs Watson
Owner, Nothing Bundt Cakes Bethesda

“Fellow business owners helped spread the word and our residential neighbors would post about us on community social media forums. So many expressed their genuine excitement and encouragement in learning our location was woman-owned. One of the biggest delights for me was the support and engagement from the Greater Bethesda Chamber."

Juliana Stein
Owner, barre3 Bethesda

“I’ve been blessed to partner with incredible women entrepreneurs in the Potomac area over the last 5 years. We lifted each other up during difficult times, and I feel blessed to have gotten through the pandemic. My studio feels like it’s vibrant self again, and clients are so grateful our childcare is back.”

Erin M. Pickrell
Director, Griswold Home Care

“I love being a part of our community in Montgomery County. We have a strong network of senior serving professionals, non-profits, individuals, and more who work together to improve our community in Potomac and beyond. I think our community is unique in the way it welcomes women-owned businesses, encourages creativity and working together, and supports one another-even competitors!”

Colleen Snyder
Founder and Owner, Bethesda Conservatory of Dance

“The Potomac area prioritizes community. As a woman-owned, mother-owned business, this community has embraced Bethesda Conservatory of Dance. Our dedication to kindness within the studio resonates with the inclusive nature of the area. We all want a nurturing environment for our children. Potomac being a highly educated neighborhood of passionate parents has been very supportive"

Melinda Butterfield
Real Estate Agent, The Butterfield Group with ReMax Realty

"This intelligent and diverse community is extraordinarily welcoming! I feel highly regarded for the wisdom and skill I bring...Also, the community at large encourages businesses to add value and contribute to creating an excellent quality of life for its members. My experience serving the residents of Potomac is one of great fulfillment and satisfaction!"

Tatiana Gillespie

President and Realtor, Sol & Maison Realty

“As a woman entrepreneur, being surrounded by people who uplift you and believe in you gives you the confidence that you need to...build the business of your dreams. The Potomac area provides a host of groups that strive to also support other entrepreneurs who are moms and understand the struggles.”
 

Sharvari Chwastyk
Events, PR, and Marketing Consultant

"I enjoy working with business owners to develop their business strategy, market to the right audience, and gain exposure to the local community.  Being a business owner with clients in the Potomac area has helped me see firsthand how much people are willing to support each other and truly encourage local businesses."

  • Collen Snyder
  • Melinda Butterfield
  • Carla Young
  • Erin Pickrell
  • Verelyn Gibbs-Watson
  • Juliana Stein
  • Tatiana M. Gillespie
  • Sharvari Chwastyk