Marshall's Mighty Women

We're celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of these phenomenal Marshall business owners during Women's History Month.

March is Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of women throughout history. And right here in Marshall, Michigan, we have a vibrant community of women who are making history every day by owning and operating thriving businesses ranging from 2-38 years old. I had the privilege of learning about several remarkable women whose passion for their work and community shone brightly.

One thing was clear from the start: Marshall is a special place for female entrepreneurs. When asked what they loved most about owning a business here, the answer was unanimous: "The Community."

To better understand the unique landscape of Marshall's women-owned business community, I sent a questionnaire to several inspiring women entrepreneurs. I sought their insights on the challenges and triumphs of owning and operating a business in our town. Their responses painted a vivid picture of resilience and community spirit. Many highlighted the importance of local support, emphasizing the strong network of fellow business owners who readily offer advice and encouragement. They wrote about acknowledging the need for adaptability and creative solutions, but what resonated most was their shared passion for contributing to Marshall's growth and their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional products and services. Each conversation underscored the power of female entrepreneurship and the unwavering spirit that drives success in our beloved town.

It's just incredible," one business owner shared, "The way everyone rallies around each other, wanting to see each business succeed. It's truly unique.

This sentiment was echoed by all the women. They emphasized the unwavering support they've received from their fellow Marshall business owners.

So, how exactly has this amazing community shown up? The answers were heartwarming:

Word-of-Mouth Magic: "This is very much a destination business," Karen Larson explained. "Those who are interested in quilting and fabric have been very supportive by spreading the word about us." - Quilts at the Marshall House
Keeping it Local: "By using our services and not taking their business elsewhere." Said Julie Plassman. "Our customers support makes all the difference." - Heritage Cleaners
Taking a Chance: "The community has been willing to take a chance, try some new things, and think about medicine a little differently." Dr. Lori Zettell shared, "And we are still here and growing because you have supported us - Thank you!" - Outside the Box Functional Medicine; OBX Med Spa; Brain Treatment Center - Marshall
Words of Encouragement: "The positive feedback and encouragement we receive from the community is so motivating," Michelle Dobrzenski expressed. "It keeps us going, especially during challenging times." - Vixens Ink and Beauty

It's clear that the bond between Marshall's women entrepreneurs and their community is strong and mutually beneficial.

But what unique strengths do these women bring to the business world? The answers were insightful and inspiring:

Multitasking Mastery: "There will always be challenges." Angela Whitesell noted. "Problem-solving and creative resolutions are essential to surviving and thriving. You can put money on women to figure it out every time." - West Prospect Pictures

Creative Vision: "Women bring an incredible combination of empathy, intuition, and collaborative leadership to the business world. The ability to listen deeply, foster meaningful relationships, and approach challenges with both strength and compassion sets women apart." Marissa Silvers shared. "Women often create businesses that are not only profitable but also purpose-driven, building communities and prioritizing the well-being of those they serve." - The Hub @ 128

Compassionate Leadership: "I have a daughter and my goal in raising her was to show her that being a woman is powerful." Jenn Beach explained. "She has been exposed to women who are strong, confident, funny ambitious, daring, caring, successful, and smart. I wanted to show her that she is perfect the way she is and her aspirations are endless." - BeachFit Fuel, BeachFit Personal Training

Of course, the path of entrepreneurship isn't without its hurdles. I asked these women about some of the biggest challenges they faced, and how they overcame them:

Navigating Financial Uncertainty: Many mentioned the initial financial risks and challenges of starting a business. They overcame this by careful planning, seeking financial guidance, and working with their local Chamber of Commerce and financial institutions.
Balancing Work and Family: Several women highlighted the difficulty of balancing work and family life. They emphasized the importance of setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and having a strong support system.
Overcoming Self-Doubt: Some women spoke about the internal challenges of self-doubt. They overcame this by building confidence through continuous learning, networking with other entrepreneurs, and by taking a chance.
Adapting to Change: Especially in recent years, businesses have had to adapt to rapidly changing market conditions. These Marshall business owners showed their resilience by being flexible, innovative, and willing to learn new skills.

These women are not just business owners, they are pillars of the Marshall community. They are creating jobs, providing valuable services, and enriching the lives of those around them.

This Women's History Month, let's celebrate the incredible women entrepreneurs of Marshall. Let's continue to support their businesses, share their stories, and recognize the vital role they play in our community. Let's keep that strong community bond going, and help each business continue to thrive.