March is Women’s History Month, and here at the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, we’re celebrating the incredible women who drive the heart of our community. This month, we had the privilege of visiting ten inspiring women-owned businesses in the neighborhood. These dynamic entrepreneurs sat down for brief interviews to help us learn about their journeys, challenges, and triumphs.
These women are not only shaping the local economy but also creating spaces of empowerment, creativity, and innovation. Join us as we share their stories and honor their contributions to making Ravenswood a vibrant, diverse, and thriving community.
Lauren Venell of Maydel
Lauren Venell wanted to make it easier for crafters to craft.
The idea for Maydel came when Lauren tried to get the materials for an embroidery pattern for her own crafting project and found it wasn’t easy or cost effective to source what she needed. Now, her business offers by-the-piece pricing and customizable project bundles both in store and online (meaning, if you already have a thread color, you’re not buying a pre-built kit and getting more of that color). This ensures you get exactly what you need at the lowest possible cost from a fully vetted list of sustainable and ethical manufacturers as well as metal-allergy-conscious manufacturers.
Being in Ravenswood has been, in her words, “fantastic.” She was able to find space for her inventory and to fulfill orders (an impossibility in other areas). But more than that, she also chose to be here because it’s an “art-centered, creative neighborhood. It just felt like the right place to be. And we’ve collaborated with so many other people and businesses in the neighborhood, such as Lillstreet Art Center and Green Machine Cycles.”
Maydel has classes running at every level nearly every week through the Spring. Lauren is particularly excited for the workshop on Tatreez, a traditional Palestinian embroidery technique (all skill levels welcome, a portion of each class fee will be donated to Heal Palestine). There are also great introductory classes coming up.
Learn more at maydel.com.
Yasmeen Musa of EmpowerFit Chicago
EmpowerFit is dedicated to “empowering” people through strength training in an inclusive, welcoming environment.
Founded by a lifelong fitness enthusiast (and mental health professional), the studio offers a unique approach-offering a space that’s like one you would find for Pilates or yoga, but is actually focused on weightlifting. The goal? To help people gain the knowledge and confidence to lift weights and train on their own, without relying on a personal trainer forever.
Fun fact: Yasmeen wasn’t actually considering Ravenswood when looking for a studio. “I just got a good vibe when I first saw this space,” she says. “From there, I went off of feeling plus knowing that this is an inclusive community. It feels very homey-like a small town but in a big city”. We’re glad you picked Ravenswood, Yasmeen!
As part of her “thank you” to the community, EmpowerFit is offering a special deal: buy 8 sessions and get 3 free-a $166 value! Plus, you can always check out the studio and receive a free consultation. Go see if EmpoweFit is the right “fit” for your goals. No pushy sales pitch included.
Learn more at empowerfitchicago.com.
Jackie Taylor of Black Ensemble Theater
Next up: the legendary Jackie Taylor, founder of Black Ensemble Theater, whose mission-to eradicate racism through the arts-is as bold as her storytelling.
Founded in 1976, Black Ensemble Theater has grown from a small community arts group into an internationally renowned institution, known for producing powerful and diverse musical theater. For Jackie, leadership has always come naturally-first as an educator, then as a visionary in the arts. “I wanted to be effective in a way that was more than just teaching a curriculum,” she says. “And it all fell into place.”
At a time when the world feels uncertain, Jackie believes in the power of community as the most precious tool we have. “Either we have control, or we give it to someone else. We have to strengthen our commitment, interact even more, and help our neighbors. The kind of society we want—we have to work for it.” That commitment to storytelling, truth and community is at the heart of the theater’s latest production, “Elvis Presley Was A Black Man Named Joe”—a powerful and thought-provoking musical running March 9 – April 20.
For more information and tickets visit blackensemble.org.
Melissa Salvatore of A Little Photo Studio
Inspired by her Pulitzer Prize-winning aunt, Melissa Salvatore has been immersed in the photography world since childhood. She built A Little Photo Studio to be a creative hub where a talented team of photographers could grow together, offering diverse expertise to their clients. Currently, their photography specialties include everything from actor headshots to product photography to family portraits.
So why Ravenswood? For Melissa, community is everything. She loves the connections she’s built with fellow business owners, the support system that comes with it and events like the Ravenswood Art Walk, which brought incredible engagement to her studio.
One of Melissa’s most meaningful endeavors, The Memento Project, transforms cherished family objects-like love letters, jerseys, and childhood toys-into stunning, museum-quality prints. Clients send in or drop off their treasured items and share the stories behind them. Melissa’s team photographs the object in multiple ways before creating a final, customized art piece. Each framed print includes an envelope on the back containing the object’s story, preserving its sentimental value for generations.
Melissa is here to remind us that women CAN do it all. Growing up, she believed she had to choose between being a photographer and being a mom. Now, as a business owner with a family, she proves that women can carve their own paths, overcome challenges (albeit some really tough challenges) and build something truly special.
Learn more at alittlephotostudio.com.
Lauren Finlon-Warm of Carol’s Pub
Discover how Lauren Finlon-Warm has been keeping the legacy alive at Carol’s Pub!
Some places are more than just a bar-they’re an institution. Carol’s Pub has been a Chicago staple since 1972 and is known for its honky-tonk spirit, live music and welcoming atmosphere.
When Lauren Finlon-Warm and her husband had the opportunity to purchase the pub from Carol, they knew it was more than just a business—it was about honoring Carol’s legacy while breathing new life into a beloved neighborhood spot.
Lauren and her team have continued to make Carol’s Pub an inclusive and diverse space, welcoming performers and music lovers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a longtime regular or visiting from across the country, Carol’s remains a destination-a place where the music never stops and everyone can saddle up to the bar for a beer.
Lauren’s advice for women in this business? She doesn’t sugarcoat it. The bar and music world is very male-driven. There have been numerous times where a vendor looks right past her to talk to the male employee standing near her (to which she points out that she’s the one paying the bill). It can be hard. But, she asserts herself and her position and gets to a point where everyone can work together and get more done.
Learn more at carolspub.com.
Carly Moeller of Unpatterned
What started as a personal home renovation project became a thriving design studio for Carly Moeller, founder of Unpatterned. With a background in architecture and a passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces, Carly turned her love for design into a full-time business.
Why Ravenswood? Carly was drawn to the strong sense of community, especially along Damen Avenue, where she found support from fellow business owners and the chance to participate in neighborhood events.
Her advice for women entrepreneurs? “Just start.” Carly believes in taking a chance and investing in yourself. You can build as you go. “There’s always going to be an excuse—but the key is to put yourself out there, and the rest will follow.”
Coming up, Carly and her team are participating in the Lake Forest Showhouse by designing the Library Lounge for this showcase home. Running from April 26 – May 25, it’s an amazing event featuring 30+ designers demonstrating their talent while supporting a great cause as proceeds will benefit IWS Family Health.
Learn more at unpatterned.com.
Jessyca Dudley of Bold Ventures
At Bold Ventures, Jessyca Dudley and her team are on a mission to shift the landscape of philanthropy. As philanthropy advisors, they work with families, individuals, corporations and institutions to move resources and support communities through values of relationships and repair. But Jessyca isn’t just focused on business—she’s also building something that deeply matters to her: a space that fosters connection and collaboration.
Jessyca’s journey as a business owner wasn’t without its challenges. When she felt it was time to buy a space for Bold Ventures, some people weren’t supportive, which she interprets as them thinking she was being overly ambitious for a female business owner. But, she took the leap and found those who could support her vision, citing our Chamber as an organization she met as she was getting oriented in the community.
“As a female business owner, having people and organizations who will go with you on the journey and who can see the vision and see why it’s important is invaluable,” she says. “Find the people who will support you, and build a community around your aspirations.”
Beyond being philanthropy advisors, Bold Ventures is also looking to connect with the neighborhood. They curate and display art for sale by local Black and Brown artists as well as have a conference room and co-working space available. Reach out to the company for details.
Learn more at alltogetherbold.com.
Annie Reynoso of Pistachio Yoga
In 2021, Annie Reynoso turned a personal loss into an inspiring new chapter. After the passing of her mother, Annie found the courage to open Pistachio Yoga, a space for healing, connection and growth. With a background in business and a love for yoga, she knew it was time to take the leap and create a physical space where people could come together to heal—physically and mentally.
For Annie, bringing people together is everything. She’s dedicated to offering in-person classes to help her community find connection and wellness again. Whether it’s professionals fitting in a quick yoga session before or after work or young families finding balance, Pistachio Yoga has become a welcoming space for all.
A huge milestone for Pistachio Yoga: they are an accredited registered yoga school with the Yoga Alliance, which enables them to certify yoga instructors. Interested? They will be running a program this fall! Annie is also excited to offer more parent-and-child yoga classes and a summer camp for kids grades 6–9.
Pistachio Yoga has become an important part of the community, and the support has been overwhelmingly warm. As Annie says, “No guts, no glory.” It took courage, but it’s paid off in the best way.
Learn more at pistachioyoga.com.
Caroline Tye of Dandelion Therapeutic Art Center
From artist to art therapist to entrepreneur, Caroline Tye has always believed in the power of creativity. She started Dandelion as a one-woman side hustle and has since grown it into a thriving 13-person team dedicated to art therapy and community healing. Caroline and her husband chose to plant roots here—literally. As owners, they’re deeply invested in Ravenswood’s rich artistic and therapeutic community.
The philosophy is simple: everything and everyone is connected to art. The center helps people reconnect with their creativity, harness art as a healing tool, and curate their own lives through self-expression.
Her biggest advice? Stay curious, be self-aware and seek wisdom from those who’ve paved the way before you. “I don’t know everything,” she says, “but I’m always willing to listen, grow, and take in new knowledge.”
Curious about art therapy and how it differs from traditional art classes? Dandelion is hosting two open houses this spring to welcome the community into their space (Saturday, April 12 and Saturday, May 3, both from 2pm to 4 pm). This is your chance to experience art therapy firsthand and learn how creativity can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing.
Learn more at dandelionarttherapy.com.
Lucy Minturn and Liz Kloster of FosterWorks
In an industry often seen as rigid and unyielding, Lucy Minturn (Founder + CEO, left) and Liz Kloster (Founder + CFO) are proving that manufacturing can be flexible, community-driven, and women-led.
As single moms and co-founders of FosterWorks, they understand the power of support and adaptability—not just for themselves, but for their employees as well. They challenge the misconception that manufacturing jobs can’t offer work-life balance, showing that real craftsmanship and real people are at the heart of their business.
With 50 years of industry history, they’re revitalizing a long-standing business and reinforcing the importance of people making things—even as AI and automation raise concerns about the future of hands-on work. Lucy and Liz are committed to supporting local jobs and helping businesses diversify their supply chains through domestic manufacturing.
With that mentality, FosterWorks is primed to answer the needs of manufacturers across the country or right here in Ravenswood. For example, last January, Lucy along with Ann Schuessler of Assembly Built (who works out of FosterWorks) connected with Robert Thomann of BrightBot at the GRCC’s 2025 Winter Social. They’ve since fabricated metal components for his UVC Germicidal Towers, which medical facilities and other operations use to sterilize spaces. Neighbors helping neighbors at its finest!
Learn more at fosterworks.org.
Other Posts You May Enjoy:
- Women Leaders in Business: Creative Coffee on March 27th at 9am
- Save The Date – Women Leaders in Business: Spring Networking on May 22nd at 4pm!
- “Love is Learned Over Time” A Special Piece by Lydia Cash
