On International Women’s Day today (Tuesday, 8 March) I thought I’d look at seven businesses who are owned by women in York.
This selection of businesses are some of my personal favourites plus some on my bucket list for the near future.
International Women’s Day strives to celebrate the cultural, political and socioeconomic achievements of women.
It campaigns against gender inequality around the world, with this year’s theme being #breakthebias.
The Little Yorkshire Candle Company
Kicking off this run down is The Little Yorkshire Candle Company on Goodramgate, which features not only candles but small bespoke gifts ranging from diffusers, homeware and bath items.
The owner Alex Hall opened the store back in 2019 after having online success and selling from a few retailers. Her business thrives from the fact that her candles are 100% made out of natural ingredients which include: coconut, soy and beeswax.
Meow
Opening nearly a year ago Meow serves oriental street food which includes famous bubble waffles, bubble tea and bao buns from their Goodramgate location.
Owner Phoebe Lai was previously known for her food truck ‘Little Bubble Box’ before opening the more permeant shop in York and further opening a sister café in Shambles called Bao.
Studio and I
Originating at Spark, Studio and I is a female owned tattoo, piercing and clothing store relocated on Goodramgate back in October last year.
Opening originally during the pandemic the co-owners Lisa Harding and Janine Mottley have partnered with other female businesses such as Melk and Leah Pendleton for their sign.
Just Smile Designs
Located on Bootham, Just Smile Designs is the place to go for cards, gifts, prints and accessories.
Owner Kerry Esltob creates her unique designs from the comfort of her own home and sells them via her online and physical stores.
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The Cat’s Whiskers
The Cat’s Whiskers Café located on Goodramgate offers cats and cappuccinos. Owner Lily Cole opened the café in 2019 after searching for the perfect location since 2017.
Not only does it offer a range of baked treats with the presence of four legged friends, but the café also has a partnership with the Cat Rescue and Welfare Trust in which they help adopt some of the cats out to loving homes.
Doe Bakehouse
Another female owned business with two locations in York is Doe Bakehouse. Owner Evie Jackson has a smaller location on Church Street and a bigger café on Layerthorpe.
As well as offering national orders via their website they also have click and collect services.
These range from the viral sensation ‘Vulva nut’ to cakes for any occasion.