Here are six women-owned businesses in the Bradenton Area we think you’ll love. 

Cheesecake Cutie

Even though Cheesecake Cutie opened up less than four years ago, the recipe has been around for four decades. Jennifer Geils started by selling cheesecakes out of her home in Orlando and quickly became so busy that she needed to look for a space to grow. Her husband found what would be their future shop on Anna Maria Island, and before she knew it, she and her husband sold their home, everything they owned, and packed up their very small children to relocate to the island to chase her dream. “From the moment we opened our doors we have been welcomed with open arms,” shares Jennifer. She also notes, “As a woman-owned business, we connect with other businesses around our store that have strong women running them. It is nice to support each other, but for me supporting all small businesses is important.” 

Graze Street

Chef and co-owner Heather Hernandez opened Graze Street with her husband Jason in 2018. They focused on chef-inspired artisan sandwiches, salads, sweet treats and charcuterie. And for those looking to jazz up their pantry, they also offer speciality spices, small batch olive oils, jam and honey. As a woman-owned business, they strive to support other women-owned businesses and producers.

Salty Buddha Paddle & Yoga Co.

This paddle and yoga company was designed with intention by founder Rachael Croll. After years of working in corporate finance, she decided to leave cubicle life behind and design the life she always wanted. Salty Buddha Paddle & Yoga Co. is just that. “As a Manatee County native and small business owner on Anna Maria Island, I feel deeply supported not only by the community of people living here, but by other business owners both large and small. Our neighbors, community and business leaders are nothing but supportive and kind.” She also cites that Bradenton is called “The Friendly City” for a reason, and that the sentiment of togetherness is apparent as a resident and as a business owner. “There’s a feeling of camaraderie within the business community here. Most of us hold a shared belief that there’s enough business for all of us to thrive, and that we don’t need to compete with others in our industry but rather work together.” 

Silver Resorts

As a second-generation female-business owner, running a company is natural for Angela Rodocker – her mother opened Silver Resorts 52 years ago. “I grew up in this business from the age of five years old,” Angela says. However, she left for the Northeast to explore other opportunities before being called back to the area. For 20 years she ran Silver Resorts alongside her mother before she passed away. “I can still hear her voice of encouragement,” Angela remembers. However, Angela notes that being a female business owner isn’t something that she thinks of in the forefront. “I feel very supported and respected by our community and I know my mother did as well.” Tucked along the coast of Anna Maria Island, Silver Resorts is special, not just because of its location, but because it is a business for the generations, whether they’re running it or enjoying it. “We actually have some people that stay with us that started coming to our properties when they were children.  Now they bring their children.” 

Shiny Fish Emporium

When owner Rebecca Preston opened Shiny Fish Emporium, she was sure to add special touches that make her gift shop unique. It’s more than a shop, it’s a shopping experience. With their original “sugared” sand dollars that Rebecca herself paints, or their original line of home-grown gem T-shirts for kids and adults, you are sure to find a special, one-of-a-kind treasure to take home.

Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki

Amanda Escobio is a native Floridian who relocated to Napa Valley for a few years. A massage therapist since 1996, she felt called back to Anna Maria Island to open up her spa. Her unique perspective is that the cure for anything is saltwater, tears, or touch, and at Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki, you can get a little bit of everything. They offer spa and beach massages, skincare and other services. Browse around the shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and clothing. 

The next time you’re in the area, be sure to shop these locally owned, female-run businesses!