March is Women’s History Month, and in Chicago, there are plenty of ways to celebrate women and support women-owned businesses. Here are a few that stand out.
Let’s Talk Womxn
The nationwide celebration comes to Chicago on Friday, March 1 at Moe’s Cantina in River North. In its fourth year, the Black & Bling Bash this year is titled “More Than March.” More than 30 Chicagoland women are hosting the event from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. with tickets starting at $95. At the celebration, open to all women and male allies, guests can enjoy tasting stations and diva cocktails, a talk on parity and power by Let’s Talk Womxn founder Rohini Dey, dancing, a drag show, and other guest speakers.
Wicker Park Farmers Market
The indoor Wicker Park Farmers Market hosts several small, woman-owned businesses like Greens Gals, Dulce Caramel, and Midwest Mycelium. These vendors will be at Robey Hall from March 2 to 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Stop by to support independent female business owners.
Wicker Park Inn
Owner and Wicker Park resident Laura Yepez created the perfect spot for a relaxing staycation at the Wicker Park Inn. Enjoy this elegant bed and breakfast in Women’s History Month, uniquely designed as a tribute to the vibrant nature of the Wicker Park neighborhood.
Body Bar
Get your body moving this Women’s History Month and support this woman-owned business, BODYBAR, in Wicker Park. Combining Pilates with modern athletic moves, this workout class empowers people of all skill levels to physically and mentally be their best selves.
BFF BIKES
Support women this month at this full-service bike shop located on Damen & Dickens. Make a trip to BFF Bikes to purchase bikes and apparel, sign up for one of many group rides, try a winter cycling training plan, or engage in helpful clinics for riding.
MOJO SPA
Treat yourself this month at Mojo Spa. Give your body the gift of amazing care, or purchase one of their amazing handmade spa items, beauty products, and more. Owner Amanda Kezios designs products that make you look and feel beautiful inside and out.
ONE STRANGE BIRD
A location combining gift shop, event space, and art studio, One Strange Bird is a must-visit location to celebrate women’s creativity this month. Owner and operator Emily Gloekler showcases a unique, curated selection of apparel, handmade jewelry, and stationery from local and national designers.
VOLUMES BOOKCAFE
Run by two sisters, this independent bookstore serves books paired with baked goods, coffee beverages, and local beer and wine options. These sisters have curated a cozy space to create a community for all book lovers.
CYPRUS COSMETIC COLLECTIVE
Cyprus Cosmetic aims to help clients feel their best while looking their most natural. Offering permanent brow and lip tattoos, Cyprus helps their customers feel confident and elevated.
The Dearborn
Owners and sisters Amy and Clodagh Lawless started The Dearborn in the Chicago Loop after moving to the U.S. from Ireland with their family. With experience in the business from their family operating several bars, restaurants, and hotels in Ireland, the sisters encourage the support of women in hospitality. The Dearborn is the sisters’ first joint business, and it brings together several strong businesswomen to their leadership team.
Esmé
This Michelin-starred restaurant is owned by husband and wife Chef Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo. Katrina, the Creative Director of Esmé, joined with her husband to bring together the vision for their restaurant dreams. Katrina uses her background in marketing and hospitality and a passion for the creative arts to reimagine the traditional dining experience. Because of Katrina, Esmé has donated over 200k to charities and philanthropic organizations.
Bazaar Meat and Bar Mar by José Andrés
The leading women of this bar and restaurant pairing are Chef de Cuisine Daniela Romero, Bar Manager Lily Crabtree, Pastry Chef Jamie Hornby, Director of Operations Shaina Nestor, Director of Private Dining Lynette Velez. As a team led by powerful women, they create a one-of-a-kind dining experience in each space.