Women’s History Month offers a chance to recognize the people whose ideas, risks, and hard work help shape the places we live and visit. Across our community, women entrepreneurs play a major role in creating the experiences that draw people here, from relaxing afternoons at a vineyard to browsing downtown shops, sharing a great meal, or feeling the rush of world-class motorsports. The businesses below highlight just a few of the women whose work continues to strengthen our local tourism and hospitality scene.
Raise a Glass to the Makers
Whether you prefer a crisp white wine, a smooth bourbon, or a cold craft brew, the women behind several of our local beverage destinations are pouring their passion into every glass. Across the region, historic farms and downtown spaces have been transformed into places where people gather, relax, and enjoy the local flavor. These businesses not only create great drinks but also help make our community a welcoming stop for visitors exploring the area. Cheers to these women-owned spots:
Shirley Archer – Bright Meadows Farm Vineyard
Lisa Francisco – Factory Street Brewing Company
Kelly Gordon – Springfield Distillery
Sandy McPherson – Hunting Creek Vineyards
Shop Small, Dream Big
Our local retail scene is shaped by women who have an eye for style and a passion for creating inviting spaces. These boutiques and gift shops offer more than items for sale—they offer carefully chosen products and a shopping experience that reflects the personality of the community. Whether you’re looking for something unique, a thoughtful gift, or just browsing downtown, these businesses add character and creativity to the local landscape.
Mary Bagwell – Toasted
Kim Coleman – The Mercantile & Vintage Market
Sabrina Jones – MC Home & Co
Amy Herrera – Difficult Creek Antiques
A Taste of Local Flavor
These women aren’t just serving meals—they’re creating places where people gather, celebrate, and slow down long enough to enjoy good food together. Local restaurants and bakeries play a big role in the visitor experience, and these entrepreneurs help ensure that anyone spending time in our community leaves with something memorable on their plate.
Trixie Flaherty – Main Street Bar & Grill
Ginger Hamlet – The Packhouse
Kisha Jackson – KJ’s Cupcakes
Leah Long – Southern Plenty Cafe
Breaking Barriers at 180mph
Tourism in our region ranges from quiet country vineyards to the high-octane excitement of the track. One of the driving forces behind that excitement is a leader who has helped elevate our area onto the global motorsports stage. Through vision and determination, she has helped transform a historic racing facility into a world-class destination that attracts competitors and fans from around the world.
Connie Nyholm – Owner at Virginia International Raceway (VIR). Connie has transformed VIR into a world-class operation and a top-tier destination for motorsports enthusiasts worldwide.
This Women’s History Month, we hope you’ll visit and support the businesses of these women who are helping drive the future of local tourism – literally.
