6 Exceptional Women-Owned Businesses in Charleston, South Carolina You Should Know and the Remarkable Forces Behind Them
By Mark A Leon
Charleston, SC, is home to a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs excelling in diverse industries. Here are five exceptional women-owned businesses known for their outstanding products and customer service.
Life Raft Treats
• Owner: Cynthia Wong
• Location: 4257 Domino Avenue, North Charleston, SC 29405
• Hours: Varies; check website for details
• Website: liferafttreats.com
Cynthia Wong, a six-time James Beard Foundation semifinalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef, founded Life Raft Treats in 2018. Specializing in artisan ice cream novelties, the business celebrates nostalgia with a twist. Using locally sourced ingredients, Wong crafts unique treats that spark joy and surprise. Life Raft Treats has grown significantly, now employing 16 people and distributing products nationwide. The company also supports refugee women through employment partnerships with Global Refugee Services. You can now see Cynthia on Shark Tank.
Beau & Ro
• Owner: Sara Rossi
• Location: 171 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM; Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Founded in 2013 by Sara Rossi, Beau & Ro began as a leather bag company and has since expanded into a full apparel brand. Rossi produces her clothing at a fair-trade factory she established in India, ensuring ethical manufacturing practices. Located on King Street, the store offers stylish and sustainable fashion that reflects Charleston’s charm and sophistication.
ACE: The Anneclaire Experience
• Owner: Anneclaire Nelson
• Location: 695 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC
• Hours: Monday-Friday: Morning & Evening Classes; Saturday: Morning Classes
Anneclaire Nelson opened ACE fitness studio in March 2024 to offer dance-based workouts that strengthen both body and mind. Her high-energy classes have quickly gained popularity among locals looking for fun and effective fitness experiences. As a Greenville native turned Charleston entrepreneur, Nelson’s passion shines through her innovative approach to wellness.
These businesses exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of Charleston’s women leaders while making significant contributions to their community through creativity, quality service, and social impact.
Official Anneclaire Experience Website
The Works
• Owner: Sarah Frick
• Location: 465 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours: Varies by class schedule
Sarah Frick opened The Works in 2018 as a high-energy fitness studio offering yoga-inspired workouts. Known for its inclusive community and transformative classes, The Works has become a go-to destination for fitness enthusiasts seeking mental and physical wellness.
Official Website of The Works Charleston
Pink Cactus
• Owner: Brooke Warden
• Location: 100 Spring Street, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 4 PM – Close
Brooke Warden combines her love for Mexican cuisine with her Charleston roots at Pink Cactus. This vibrant restaurant offers flavorful dishes inspired by her travels and culinary expertise. With its welcoming atmosphere and creative menu, Pink Cactus is a standout in the city’s dining scene.
Official Website of Pink Cactus
Hampden Clothing
• Owner: Stacy Smallwood
• Location: 314 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM; Sunday: Closed
Stacy Smallwood founded Hampden Clothing to offer curated high-fashion pieces that break traditional molds. Known for its impeccable customer service and unique selections from global designers, Hampden has become a staple for fashion-forward shoppers in Charleston.
Official Hampden Clothing Website
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Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston. As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is. Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.