MARTINA CAMAJ
Creative Director, Events & Brand Experience Tallulah Wine Bar & Bistro | ZANA — Birmingham
Describe what you do. My focus is shaping the creative vision behind our restaurant brands — developing experiences that go beyond the culinary, from events and collaborations to storytelling, media relations and the overall guest experience. Together with our team, including my husband, Mario, we aim to create spaces that feel warm, inspiring and memorable. More than restaurants, we’re building a lifestyle brand.
As a woman entrepreneur, do you feel you have to adopt a different leadership style than your male counterparts? I don’t believe it’s about leading differently than men — it’s about leading authentically as a woman. For me, that means intuition, attention to detail, warmth and thoughtfulness. In a historically male-dominated industry, I’m fortunate to have helped build a company rooted in creativity and diversity. My strength lies in design, storytelling and creating experiences that feel intentional and memorable.
What is the “why” behind your business? It’s more than feeding people or serving great food. What truly drives me is knowing that the spaces we create become part of people’s lives — their celebrations, their conversations, their memories. There’s something incredibly meaningful about being part of those moments.
What does your work-life harmony look like? It comes down to organization and intention. I’ve structured my role to offer more flexibility than in my earlier years in the business, when I worked incredibly long hours while my children were young. Being able to pick them up from school and attend their activities now is something I truly value. Travel, design, reading and exploring new restaurants keep my creativity alive — and those experiences often find their way back into our work.
What advice would you give to your 25-year-old self? I vividly remember being 25 — a first-time mom, having just given birth to my son, while we simultaneously purchased our first restaurant, Tallulah, and I was still working full-time in HR. My twenties were busy, exhausting and relentless. But I wouldn’t change a thing. If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be: keep going — you’re building something so much bigger than you can see right now.
What inspired you to start off on your own? I left HR in 2020 and joined the business full-time just one month before COVID. It was one of the most intense and uncertain times to step in — especially with the industry’s survival in question. But it was a blessing in disguise. I immediately applied my HR background in ways that mattered: new processes, guiding our team through unemployment, fundraising for staff and pivoting overnight from fine dining to carryout and outdoor service. What felt chaotic became the foundation for how we grew and adapted.
What was your childhood dream job? I never had one specific dream job. What I always had was a vision for my life — rooted in style, travel, food and family. I was drawn to creating experiences, to beauty, to how things feel as much as how they look. I didn’t follow a traditional path — I curated my dream instead.
What do you love about living and working in the Birmingham area? While I don’t live directly in Birmingham, I joke that it’s truly our home. What I love most is the people. The way this community showed up during the pandemic — when our future was uncertain — is something I’ll never forget. So many of our guests have become lifelong friends.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? When people hear I’m in hospitality, they assume I’m in the dining room every evening. My role is actually more behind the scenes — focused on creative direction, partnerships, events and brand storytelling. It’s a different side of hospitality, but one that lets me shape the vision.
What is your superpower? I can walk into a space and immediately start envisioning how it should feel and how people will experience it. It’s the attention to detail — the small touches people may not always notice but always remember — that transforms something from ordinary to truly special.
What is the last photo you took on your phone? A mirror selfie at work, in the newly redecorated bathrooms at Tallulah.
DR. MONA HARDAS
Cosmetic and Functional Gynecology Mona Hardas MD PC — offices in Birmingham, Flint Township and Troy
Describe your business. I’m a board-certified gynecologist specializing in both medical and cosmetic women’s health. I offer surgical and non-surgical treatments, hormone therapy and sexual wellness care — helping women feel like themselves again in a personalized, supportive environment.
As a woman entrepreneur, what is the biggest barrier you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it? One of the biggest barriers has been being taken seriously in a space that is often misunderstood. Women’s intimate health, sexual wellness and aesthetic care are still stigmatized — minimized as ‘optional’ rather than recognized for their real impact on quality of life. I overcame that by staying grounded in evidence-based care and consistently educating patients, peers and critics. My outcomes and patient trust define my work. As for leadership, my ability to combine precision with empathy is an advantage — in women’s health, patients don’t just need expertise, they need to feel seen. That’s not a weakness. It’s a differentiator.
What is the “why” behind your business? I’ve seen how deeply these issues affect women — not just physically, but emotionally and in their relationships. My ‘why’ is creating a space where women don’t feel embarrassed or dismissed, and where they actually have solutions. When a woman tells me she feels like herself again — that’s what keeps me going.
What does your work-life harmony look like? It’s always a work in progress. I don’t believe in doing everything perfectly, but I do believe in being intentional. My work is demanding but deeply meaningful, so I protect time with family, maintain small daily rituals and prioritize workouts and quiet time. That’s what keeps me grounded.
What advice would you give to your 25-year-old self? Be a little kinder to yourself and a lot more patient. Growth takes time, and not everything has to happen at once. Trust your gut — there were moments I knew the right direction but hesitated. Learning to trust that inner voice has been the most important part of my journey. I’d also step into confidence sooner and take bold, calculated risks earlier.
What inspired you to start off on your own? Early in my career within a hospital-based model, I felt limited by administrative structures and the constraints of insurance-based care, which doesn’t recognize cosmetic and functional gynecology. I wanted to practice more holistically — combining medical, functional and aesthetic care without those limitations. Starting my own practice gave me the freedom to focus on personalized care and address concerns that are too often overlooked.
What was your childhood dream job? Interior decorator. I wanted to design beautiful homes.
What do you love about working in the Birmingham area? The energy — a unique blend of sophistication and community. People here genuinely value wellness, high-quality care and aesthetics, which aligns beautifully with what I do. I love 220 Merrill, Hazel’s and Bell Bistro, and I enjoy exploring the local boutiques and spending time downtown.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I’m very creative outside of medicine. I love painting — especially acrylics — which allows me to slow down and truly disconnect.
What is your superpower? Listening beyond what’s being said. Many women come to me with concerns they’ve never fully expressed before, or don’t even have words for. I’ve developed the ability to understand both the physical and emotional aspects of what they’re experiencing and translate that into a treatment plan that feels right for them.
What’ the last photo you took on your phone? The expression on my friend’s face when we surprised her with a milestone birthday party.
How do you give back to your community? Giving back is central to who I am. I’ve served on the boards of the Flint Institute of Arts, the Flint Community Foundation (particularly its women and girls fund) and Whaley Children’s Center, which supports abused children. I’ve also participated in various volunteer activities across Genesee County. For me, it’s about using my time and experience to create opportunities and make a meaningful impact where I live and work.
ERINN MOSS
Owner and Operator Drybar Birmingham | Drybar Ann Arbor | Pure Glow Birmingham — South Lyon
Describe your businesses. I’ve owned Drybar franchises for nearly eight years, specializing in making women feel happy and confident, one blowout at a time. This year I opened Pure Glow in Downtown Birmingham — delivering premium airbrush tans in a beautiful, spa-like setting. Both businesses offer luxury service at an accessible price.
As a woman entrepreneur, what is the biggest barrier you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it? Franchising is big business, and operating multiple locations while growing into something larger comes with real challenges — I’ve had to work hard to earn my seat at many tables. I didn’t go to college; every part of my business education came from experience, grit and determination. Early on I felt insecure about that. Today, I’m fiercely proud of it.
What is the ‘why’ behind your business? At its core: I love helping women feel confident and happy. It’s remarkable how a great blowout or a beautiful tan can shift the way someone carries herself into a job interview, a first date or a major life moment. I’m equally passionate about building real careers for our teams — places where young women can earn steady income, grow professionally and see a future in an industry that hasn’t always offered that path.
What does your work-life harmony look like? Less about perfect balance, more about being present wherever I am. Outside of work, most of my time goes to supporting my four boys through whatever season they’re in — my husband coaches, which makes me head cheerleader, Uber driver and snack captain. We’ve met incredible families through kids’ sports, so it never feels like a grind.
What advice would you give to your 25-year-old self? At 27, I decided to say yes to any opportunity that came my way — which led to me packing my bags for Brazil to film CBS’s Survivor. I arrived nervous and unsure of myself. I left the jungle finishing third and carrying a confidence that has shaped everything since. I wish my younger self had known that confidence was always there — I didn’t need to travel to a remote corner of the world to find it.
What inspired you to start off on your own? My husband had just retired from the NHL and started a job he hated. We were too young to retire, but working for someone else wasn’t the answer. We knew people who’d found success in franchising — we just needed to find the right fit.
What was your childhood dream job? When I was a kid, I knew I’d be famous. Apparently dreams do come true — Survivor is currently airing its 50th season, and my kids are finally starting to think I’m as cool as their dad.
What do you love about working in the Birmingham area? Too many things to list. We have the best neighbors, Beyond Juice and Brooklyn Pizza are staples, and The Good Day is just the greatest. The Paper Source has saved me more than once with a last-minute card or gift.
What is something people would be surprised to learn about you? I am a master procrastinator. I do my best work right up against a deadline.
What is your superpower? I don’t panic, overreact or raise my voice. My team will confirm this. My kids — I’m still working on it.
What is the last photo you took on your phone? Lunch at RH.
How do you give back to your community? My husband, Dave, and I serve on the board of Hockey Has Heart, a nonprofit supporting Michigan hockey families facing life-altering challenges — providing emergency financial assistance for medical expenses and lost wages.
PATTI ZAKOOR
Owner o44 Movement (Pilates Studio) — Bloomfield Hills | Windsor, Ontario
Describe your business. I own o44 Movement, a Pilates studio in Bloomfield Hills offering dynamic programming focused on strength, mobility and functional movement. I discovered the o44 approach as a client years ago and immediately fell in love. The workouts are effective, empowering and accessible across fitness levels.
As a woman entrepreneur, what is the biggest barrier you’ve faced? Much of my career has been in traditionally male-dominated industries, but I’ve always felt supported. I don’t think it’s about leading differently than men — it’s about leading in a way that’s true to who you are. I spent 25 years at a startup that grew into a global organization of 900-plus employees, and that experience taught me resilience and the importance of strong teams. Those lessons carry directly into how I run o44.
What is the ‘why’ behind your business? The impact movement can have on people’s lives. The o44 programming completely changed how I felt in my own body — stronger, more balanced, more energized. I wanted to create a warm, welcoming space where others could experience that same transformation. Watching clients grow stronger and more confident, and seeing our teachers build genuine community, is what makes this work so rewarding.
What does your work-life harmony look like? I live in Windsor and the studio is in Bloomfield Hills, so I regularly cross the border to manage the business. Having a strong team of teachers allows me to step away when needed, knowing the studio is in great hands. I try to be fully present wherever I am — when I’m at work, I’m focused there; when I’m home, I make a conscious effort to soak in that time with my family.
What advice would you give to your 25-year-old self? Trust the journey and don’t be afraid of uncertainty. When I started my career, we were a small startup and none of us knew where the road would lead. With perseverance, teamwork and the right mindset, we built something to be truly proud of. Sometimes the underdog really does come out on top. As for doing anything differently — my journey made me who I am. I wouldn’t change it.
What inspired you to start off on your own? It was a passion project. After many years in the corporate world, I wanted to pursue something that combined business with something I genuinely loved. When I discovered o44, it clicked. I often tell my boys, ‘Wherever you go, go with all your heart.’ Opening the studio was my way of living that philosophy.
What was your childhood dream job? I was always drawn to numbers and people. I remember going to the bank with my mom as a young girl, fascinated by the tellers — I wanted to work with money and help people. As a CFO and studio owner, I feel like I’ve come full circle.
What do you love about working in the Birmingham area? The Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills area has such a vibrant, supportive community — a real appreciation for wellness and local businesses. I love grabbing coffee from Hudson’s Place and visiting Toast for breakfast.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? Most people are surprised to learn I live in Canada and commute across the border to run the studio. It’s only about 40 minutes, but it makes for a pretty unique entrepreneurial story.
What is your superpower? Perseverance — and loyalty. Having helped grow a startup into a global company over 25 years, I’ve learned that success rarely happens overnight. Consistency, resilience and strong relationships make all the difference.
What is the last photo you took on your phone? My two dogs — they’re the light of our family and make up a good portion of my camera roll.
How do you give back to your community? Giving back is deeply important to me. One meaningful example: We partnered with Care House of Oakland County to support a family during the holidays. I truly believe that kindness put into the world always returns in significant ways.
LAURA GONZALES
Founder Synergy EMS — Birmingham
Describe your business. Synergy EMS is a concierge-style personal training practice using Electrical Muscle Stimulation. Clients wear a specialized suit that activates multiple muscle groups simultaneously during guided exercises, making workouts more efficient and effective. Twenty minutes of EMS equals approximately 90 minutes of traditional exercise.
As a woman entrepreneur, what is the biggest barrier you’ve faced? Balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood while working full-time as an engineer for a major automotive manufacturer — and showing up as a credible leader in both the fitness and tech spaces. Like my male counterparts, I approach business like an engineer: leaning into structure and data. Where I differ is leading with empathy alongside results.
What is the ‘why’ behind your business? Helping people feel strong and capable in their own bodies — especially during seasons of life when that can feel out of reach, like postpartum recovery. Seeing someone regain their confidence, strength and quality of life is what keeps me going, even when building a business gets hard.
What does your work-life harmony look like? Intentional structure over perfect balance. I protect small daily rituals — reading, a chapter of the Bible, a workout (even just 20 minutes) — and prioritize quality time with my family. Those habits help me show up as a better entrepreneur, mom and person.
What advice would you give to your 25-year-old self? You don’t need to have everything figured out to start — just trust yourself and take action sooner. I spent too much time trying to feel ‘ready,’ when the real growth came from doing, adjusting and staying consistent. I’d also have leaned into the intersection of my strengths earlier: engineering, strength training and building something of my own is what truly sets me apart. And I would have protected my peace more — sustainability, not burnout, is what builds long-term success.
What inspired you to start off on your own? I saw a gap in the fitness space, especially for women navigating strength, postpartum recovery and real life. I didn’t want to replicate what was already out there — I wanted to build something more intentional, more evidence-based and more sustainable. Synergy EMS gave me the opportunity to combine everything I’ve learned and create something that reflects how I truly believe health and strength should be approached.
What was your childhood dream job? Ever since I was a young girl, I dreamed of being a mother. I’m currently living that dream.
What do you love about living and working in the Birmingham area? There’s a strong culture around healthy living here — you see it everywhere, from people biking and running to the abundance of parks and courts. It’s walkable, with great shops and restaurants nearby. A few personal favorites: Jaus for feminine wear and Casa Pernoi for a great meal.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I’m fully bilingual — I speak, read and write in both Spanish and English.
What is your superpower? Believing that I already have it all. Life is about perspective. We get so caught up chasing the next milestone, thinking happiness is waiting on the other side. But you can experience joy throughout the process — and that’s what makes the journey meaningful.
What is the last photo you took on your phone? My baby, of course.
How do you give back to your community? My family and I are actively involved in Community Christian Church, whose outreach extends well beyond Michigan. Through Synergy EMS, we partner with local charitable organizations by offering classes and experiences as part of fundraising efforts — supporting meaningful causes while staying connected to the community.
MARYGRACE DICKSON
President & Owner Mariella Custom Drapery (MCD & Associates) — Birmingham
Describe your business. Mariella Custom Drapery is an award-winning, family-owned atelier with more than 44 years of experience in custom window treatments and soft furnishings. We specialize in bespoke drapery, pillows and modern blind systems, offering full service from measure to installation for both residential and commercial applications. At our core, we are a true workroom — where craftsmanship, detail and artistry come together to create pieces meant to last for generations.
As a woman entrepreneur, what is the biggest barrier you’ve faced? Stepping into the role of second-generation owner came with big shoes to fill. My mother built this business with incredible strength, discipline and talent, and I felt a deep responsibility to carry that forward while growing it in my own way. Balancing family and business was another challenge — I made the conscious decision early on that family would always come first. I’ve never tried to lead like anyone else. I lead the way I was taught: through hard work, focus, attention to detail and respect for the craft. Consistency builds trust, and over time I earned my place by staying committed and grounded in what we do best.
What is the ‘why’ behind your business? Legacy. I grew up in my mother’s workroom, spending afternoons after school surrounded by fabrics, trims and sewing machines — making Barbie clothes and scrunchies while she worked. What felt like play became the foundation of everything I do today. With a degree in interior architecture and art history from Wayne State, I especially love working in historic spaces where history itself becomes part of the design. This work isn’t just about beautiful interiors — it’s about people, memory and creating something that lives on long after the project is complete.
What does your work-life harmony look like? My peace is my home. After full days in beautiful, creative spaces, my favorite place to be is my kitchen — cooking, laughing and being with my husband and children. I plan my schedule a few weeks out to protect family time. Work never fully shuts off, but I’m intentional about being fully present when I’m home. Travel also inspires me deeply, especially visiting my family’s hometown in Sicily, where everything feels grounded and alive in a different way.
What advice would you give to your 25-year-old self? Don’t rush the process. Every stage has purpose, even the slow ones. Stay open and trust that everything is unfolding the way it should. And say ‘no’ more often — early on I tried to do too much at once. A mentor once told me, ‘Do what you love and do it well.’ That advice changed everything. Custom drapery is a true craft, almost a disappearing art, and staying committed to that focus has allowed us to build something meaningful and enduring.
What inspired you to start off on your own? My mother. She started this business with courage, creativity and an incredible work ethic. She taught me to believe in myself, respect the craft and never be afraid of hard work. She’s still very much involved today — and yes, I’m still a little scared of her when it comes to quality control. That’s exactly why our standards are so high.
What was your childhood dream job? In many ways, I was already living it. I was always creating — painting, making anything I could from fabric scraps in the workroom. I’ve always loved textiles, and I never really left that world.
What do you love about living and working in the Birmingham area? Everything — the walkability, the community, the charm. In summer, we walk downtown, listen to music in the park and see familiar faces everywhere. In fall, the tree-lined streets and architecture make every walk feel inspiring. Every home here feels like it has a story. Cranbrook House & Grounds is incredible, and I love the cultural life of Detroit too — especially the DIA, where we were married, along with the Whitney and the DSO.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I speak fluent Italian — mostly with my mother. And there is always jazz playing in my home. My son already knows to say, ‘Alexa, play smooth jazz.’ I grew up going to the jazz festival with my father nearly every year, so playing it keeps him close to me.
What is your superpower? I have a natural ability to feel and combine fabrics, patterns and textures instinctively. But more importantly, I listen. I can sense what someone is trying to express and translate that into a space that feels personal and true to them.
What is the last photo you took on your phone? A recent project, or my children. Rarely myself.
How do you give back to your community? We support several charities each year. I’m part of many women’s entrepreneur groups in the area — I love hearing how people started and grew, and sharing their work whenever I can. Community has always been at the heart of what we do, and I am endlessly humbled by the design firms and families we get to work with.
What is the most important thing people should know about you? Everything I do comes from passion. This business is about more than fabric — it’s about the story it tells over time. The lives we’ve touched, the homes we’ve been part of and the legacy we continue to build. The cloth we have woven together carries the stories of every home, every family and every person we’ve had the privilege to work with. For that, I am endlessly grateful.