Q: Who runs Boston?
A: These women-owned businesses!
From candles, honey, personalized gifts, mouthwatering food, and everything in between, women in Boston are running things. Show these female-owned and operated businesses some love during Women's History Month and beyond!
photo credit: triple decker candle co.
2258 Dorchester Ave
Inspired by the classic three-story houses of Dorchester, this woman-owned shop hand pours every candle using 100% soy wax in small batches. Owner Johanna Keough prioritizes community and gives back through quarterly fundraisers and collaborations with local artists. The shop is lovingly curated and stocked with locally made wares perfect for gifting or treating yourself.
1463 Dorchester Ave
This community-driven bookshop is a welcome addition to Fields Corner. It focuses on works by writers who challenge social norms. It's a cozy space for events, programming, and networking, and it frequently partners with local artists and organizations to support its mission.
12 R Ericsson St
Founded by craft beverage pioneer Rhonda Kallman, Boston Harbor Distillery is shaking up the spirit industry. Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century mill building, they're crafting everything from whole-grain whiskey to small-batch gin and rum, all while paying homage to Boston's rich history.
516 Gallivan Blvd
For creative, delicious cookies that are crafted with care in the heart of Boston’s biggest neighborhood, look no further than Top Shelf. Support a small, local, woman-owned business while satisfying your sugar fix — talk about a win-win!
Multiple Locations
Mamaleh's is the modern Jewish deli Boston didn't know it needed. Feast on hand-rolled bagels, massive Rachels and Reubens, hearty matzah ball soup and more of your favorite comfort food. With locations all over Boston and Camberville, you're never far from your deli fix.
One Kendall Square, Lower Level
Gourmet food meets dive bar vibes at this Cambridge institution. Whether you're sipping craft cocktails, crushing beers or perusing the jukebox for the perfect song, you're bound to have a good time.
28 State St, Ste 2304
Looking for a job? Consider working with The Hollister Group, a women-owned staffing consultancy led by founder and CEO Kip Hollister. With over 35 years of experience, Hollister is dedicated to community service and fostering a culture of open communication, passion, integrity and community.
3204 Washington St
This women-owned brewery and taproom focuses on small-batch, creative beers. It’s a friendly space for everyone, including people who might not typically feel comfortable at breweries. The TVs prominently feature women’s sports, college games, soccer and LGBTQ+ programming. On select match days, they have a variance from the city to open early and show European soccer games.
Online
Discover original and custom art by Becca, the treat-loving business nerd behind Maker / Scholar. From funny greeting cards to quirky art prints and cute dog bandanas, each piece is designed to bring joy to your day. This small, women-owned biz is all about art and fun — plus, a love for dogs.
681 Tremont St
Here you'll find custom-made jewelry, including engagement rings and wedding bands if you’re looking for something for that special person in your life. They also sell delicate bar pendants and oxidized gold cuffs, crafted by local artist Sophie Hughes. And they’re all one-of-a-kind so you can’t go wrong!
175 Newbury St
This funky consignment shop features a curated selection of designer goods up for resale. It’s one of the only spots on this legendary street where you can purchase designer clothes without the expensive designer price tag. Spoil yourself guilt-free.
44 Main St, Concord
Since 2002, Jessika Goranson has been running Holiday, which moved from charming Beacon Hill to historic Concord in 2020. The store has its own collection of handmade party dresses crafted in Massachusetts called “Pretty Little Thing,” and it also sells goods from small, specialty fashion houses and designers.
846 Dorchester Ave
Annissa Essaibi George, Boston City Councilor-at-Large, channeled her lifelong love of sewing by making her own local marketplace, Stitch House, where you can purchase handmade goods and attend fun crafting workshops. Book a class to learn how to make your own sewn gem or purchase your own handmade piece for yourself or your favorite do-it-yourselfer.
2265 Mass Ave, Cambridge
Whether you need something for a special new recipe or just a restock on a standard spice for your shelf, Curio Spice Co.’s got what you’re looking for. Claire Cheney’s got your inner Food Network star covered with her large variety of ethnically sourced spices and herbs from all around the world.
56 JFK St, Cambridge
Spoil that special lady in your life (or yourself!) with a little something from this boutique. They stock creative undergarments sourced from designers worldwide with items for all body types. The shop sells lingerie as well as loungewear, with a well-trained staff that focuses on making the customer comfortable throughout the interaction.
1132 Mass Ave #5226, Cambridge
Have a taste of sustainably-sourced honey and adjacent products at Follow the Honey. Browse beeswax, honeyed chocolates, beauty products and books so you can read up on the subject. Everything is carefully sourced from all over the world - grab a gift box or sign a friend up for a subscription that gives them access to try various styles and flavors.
100 Huntington Ave
Owned by Ophelia Bakon and her sisters, this gem has been in business for over 40 years. Their business idea developed into Nouveau Fashion Gallery, located in Copley Place. With a unique boutique of European and European-inspired clothing, best believe you will be styled to perfection.
What are your favorite women-owned businesses? Let us know: [email protected]
Want to see your business featured? Hit us up: [email protected]
updated march 2025
