In honor of our May Women’s issue, we’re celebrating the women who keep Cullman thriving — from boutique owners to business leaders, creatives to CEOs. We sat down with local women in business to ask one simple but powerful question: What’s your proudest moment as a business owner? Their answers reflect courage, faith, resilience and the deep-rooted pride that comes from building something meaningful. One special nomination even came from a daughter-in-law who wanted to shine a light on the strength and heart of her mother-in-law. This feature is a love letter to the women shaping our community — one bold step at a time.
Connie Millican - Millican RV America
Nominated by her daughter-in-law Courtney Herron, Connie Millican is a true example of strength and leadership. After the passing of her husband in 2023, she stepped up to lead Millican RV America with purpose and vision. From launching new marketing efforts — including an ABC 33/40 commercial — to expanding on social media, Millican has brought fresh energy and growth to Cullman. Choosing faith over fear, she kept the business in the family, and with a brand-new shop and office opening soon, the future looks bright for Millican RV America.
Megan Barbee - Premier Plumbing
"My proudest moment was the day we realized we had built something real; something that could support not just our family, but other families, too. When we hired our first full-time employee, it hit me that this dream had grown into a business with a future. That moment meant everything to me."
Kathy Sims - Alfa Insurance
"The joy of helping first time homebuyers walk through the insurance process from protection of their home to protecting their family.
Rachel Eidson - Elevate Cullman
"Most proud - that's hard! There are so many good things! Building a fantastic team and clients meeting goals to lose weight are fun, but what makes me most proud is watching women gain confidence. So much of the fitness industry is oriented around shame, but Elevate is different and I am grateful to host a space that builds up women in our community."
Dr. Rebekah Lloyd - Lloyd Consulting Firm
"My proudest moment as a business owner was hearing my son say, 'My mom helps leaders take care of their people.' As a solo parent and entrepreneur, I often wonder if I’m balancing it all well. That moment reminded me that my work isn’t just transforming organizations — it’s shaping how my children see compassion, resilience and purpose in action. That’s the legacy I’m most proud to build — both at home and in business."
Tami Rawls - Revive Massage Therapy, LLC
"I would have to say I have so many proud moments as a business owner…from opening my business (super exciting) to growing and serving the community with the right team members, to finally getting ready to celebrate our one-year anniversary. Choosing the perfect team has been the best part…it’s difficult to find the perfect fit when choosing who you want to work with, but my team goes above and beyond to make this dream work and I couldn’t be more proud to have Kaziar and Alicia on my team serving our community. I am totally blessed to have the opportunity to serve my community with an amazing team beside me."
Missy Gurley - Cullman City Lifestyle
"My proudest moment as a business owner has been watching Cullman City Lifestyle grow into something that truly connects people. Whether it’s a local business seeing new faces walk through their doors after a feature, or a story that sparks pride in our community, I’m most proud when the magazine becomes more than just pages — it becomes a platform for others to shine. Building relationships, supporting women in business and celebrating Cullman have been so rewarding!"
This feature is a love letter to the women shaping our community—one bold step at a time.