Ohio Women's Coalition

Ohio Women's Coalition Ohio Women’s Coalition (OWC)
Statewide, non-partisan advocacy for women-owned businesses & women+ leaders
📍 Ohio | 💬 Policy • Equity • Growth

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Hannah Way (she/her) is the owner of Hannah Elise Co. which specializes in embroidered fashion ...
07/22/2026

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Hannah Way (she/her) is the owner of Hannah Elise Co. which specializes in embroidered fashion and everything bookworm-ish.

Way didn't necessarily have a dream career growing up. Her dream career found her while she was studying at Ohio State University during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Way originally started her business by selling clothes out of her closet on social media. She expanded into “thrift flipping” pieces, taking used clothes and adding new life with hand-sewn patches, original designs, and other personal flairs.

Three years ago, Way adopted an embroidery machine to customize and design clothes more effectively. She received overwhelming positive attention on social media for her work and received a surplus of orders within the first year of designing. Way was so overcome by the demand that she had to quickly expand her business to take on all the orders.
Way says the most important aspect of her work is motivation. Although she loves being her own boss, she has discovered how disciplined a businessowner must be. She faces new challenges everyday, but her motivation keeps her organized, focused, and committed to her goals.
Running a business has taught Way that supporting women entrepreneurs is important for strengthening communities, creating opportunities, and inspiring future generations of women.

“Women-owned businesses are important to me because they represent creativity, determination, and independence,” Way said.

Way enjoys shopping local and supporting her community through donations. She is proud to have a positive impact beyond her art and to connect with people in Columbus!

“Growing up, I never thought having a small business was an option, and I want to encourage everyone to follow their dreams.”

Angel Sipp (she/her) is the proud owner of Fern and Fable Bookstore in Columbus, Ohio! Sipp has worked as a mental healt...
07/15/2026

Angel Sipp (she/her) is the proud owner of Fern and Fable Bookstore in Columbus, Ohio!

Sipp has worked as a mental health therapist for the past 5 years, but she has often joked about flipping her career upside down to work full time in a bookstore. When Sipp gave birth to her first child last year, she decided life was too precious to waste, and she began building her magical future.

With Fern and Fable, Sipp prioritizes supporting local authors, artists, businesses and even nature. This is part of her ultimate goal of building a supportive community spot where people can come together to share their love for books.

Sipp especially enjoys reading mystery and fantasy books. Some of her recent favorites are “House on the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune, “Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, and “A Court of Silver Flames” by Sarah J. Maas.

Sipp is honored by the support and guidance she has received as a female business owner. Despite the challenge of building a business on top of being a full-time mom, Sipp remains inspired by her friends and the community of women-owned businesses who uplift her.

Once she is able to secure a permanent storefront, Sipp plans to host community events such as book clubs and craft activities, making the space more than just another bookstore. She is working hard to make that space a reality for herself, her friends, her family and her community.

“I am so excited for this adventure and I am so glad I took a chance on something I have been dreaming about for years,” Sipp said.

Fern and Fable has been appearing as a pop-up at events and locations in the Columbus area. Sipp hopes to find more opportunities to pop-up in Hilliard, as that is where the bookstore will eventually settle down. All of the pop-up events are listed on the website Fernandfablebookstore.com and on the Instagram page. There are upcoming events on July 18 and July 25 that you can find on these pages!

This Wednesday, we are celebrating Krista Brewer and her business, Happy Snacking Athens!In 2022, Krista Brewer (she/her...
07/08/2026

This Wednesday, we are celebrating Krista Brewer and her business, Happy Snacking Athens!

In 2022, Krista Brewer (she/her) began Happy Snacking Athens in Athens, Ohio to share her love for good food and a great community. At the time, Krista was tired of ignoring the fact that she wanted to work in the food business. She had originally wanted to go to culinary school, but ended up going to college and leaving with a different career. So, she started her own company on top of her full-time job.

Krista is empowered by her community and drives Happy Snacking with her knack of bringing people together with food. Happy Snacking Athens keeps it local by collaborating with businesses in Athens, supporting other small businesses, and creating safe spaces for the community.

As an LGBTQ+ woman, Krista has always placed her values at the forefront of her business. When she has the chance to support a good cause, Happy Snacking is there without a second thought. The inclusive community she has created supports her right back.

“I think we're in an era of supporting businesses that align with your own morals and stances. I have clients that have started following me and supporting me *just* because I take a stance on what's important to me,” Krista said.

Krista's growing success is a constant reminder of how much her business means to the Athens community. Earlier this year, she was proud to cater events for Amy Acton and the Athens Chamber’s “Celebrate Athens” event. Last year, Happy Snacking was also named the 2026 “Best Hidden Gem” by the Athens Messenger. Krista is thrilled to continue being a supportive voice in Athens and hopes to soon be immersed full time in Happy Snacking.

“It's all worth it. I truly love what I do, and I love that I get to do it here in Athens.”

Let's wrap up this holiday weekend by celebrating some more wonderful women! ❤️💙❤️💙
07/06/2026

Let's wrap up this holiday weekend by celebrating some more wonderful women! ❤️💙❤️💙

❤️🤍💙 If you're having trouble feeling patriotic this Fourth of July, we get it. So, we’re here to help by sharing some i...
07/04/2026

❤️🤍💙 If you're having trouble feeling patriotic this Fourth of July, we get it. So, we’re here to help by sharing some inspiring women from U.S. history!

Many admirable women have dedicated their lives to serving this country, even while that same country has refused to serve them. This weekend, as we honor those who have built the country around us, remember to thank the women who fought for freedoms they weren't even able to experience.

These women were just a few of the thousands of heroes in American wartimes. Leave a comment if you have heard of any of these women, or if you would like to learn more about them! Plus, come back tomorrow for a part two with even more amazing histories.

If fireworks are anything like shooting stars, tonight we will be sending out millions of wishes for a better, more loving future for all our country's people. Happy Fourth! ❤️🤍💙

Do you know what year the U.S. saw its first female CEO? If you guessed 1825, you would be correct!Rebecca Lukens, born ...
06/26/2026

Do you know what year the U.S. saw its first female CEO? If you guessed 1825, you would be correct!

Rebecca Lukens, born in 1794, was the daughter of two quakers. Her father owned Brandywine Iron Works in Coatesville Pennsylvania, and Rebecca often shadowed him at work. As a teenager, she was also able to attend school and received a formal education.

When her father died in 1824, he promised the mill to Rebecca. Still, her husband Charles was running the business while she worked at home.

In 1825, Charles suddenly passed away, and Rebecca promised she would take over the mill. At only 31 years old, this mother of six became the first female industrialist in America. However, Brandywine was nearly bankrupted by unpaid loans when it got to Rebecca's hands.

She worked long hours at the mill to pay off the company's mountain of debt, even while raising her six children as a single mother. Despite the lack of support she received, both emotionally and financially, Lukens was determined to save her business from financial ruin.

Within 20 years, she had not only paid off the mill's debts, but was also making an impressive profit. Lukens even guided the company through a national recession in 1837 without firing a single member of her staff.

Lukens died in 1854, but the iron mill remained in business and in the family for another 144 years.

The iron and steel industry was dominated by men in the 1800s. However, Rebecca Lukens made her mark in the industry and was just as influential as the men in her field, if not more so!

Read more about Rebecca Lukens in “Rebecca Lukens: A woman of iron” by the National Museum of American History. https://americanhistory.si.edu/explore/stories/rebecca-lukens-woman-iron

This mother and daughter team, Lauren Genter and Miriam Reynolds, started Glāzed Bakery in 2025 looking to bring high qu...
06/25/2026

This mother and daughter team, Lauren Genter and Miriam Reynolds, started Glāzed Bakery in 2025 looking to bring high quality desserts and coffee to Athens, Ohio. What was initially a small pop-up business has become a morning staple of the weekly Athens Farmers Market.

Between improving their productivity, welcoming more staff, meeting new customers and expanding their menu, Lauren and Miriam have been thrilled to bring their vision to life.

“It’s so rewarding to look up from the espresso machine and realize we dreamed our little dream into existence,” Lauren said.

The duo is determined to make their own space in the café market by making their treats worth remembering.

“I have always had what you might call a discerning palate when it comes to pastries. I like a little treat to be truly amazing, memorable. The kind you think about the next day like, wow that was gooood,” Lauren said.

Lauren and Miriam feel honored to create a welcoming community for their customers and employees, and they are excited to see where Glāzed will take them!

Sweet P Designs What started as a creative outlet during early motherhood has grown into a thriving handmade jewelry bus...
04/01/2026

Sweet P Designs

What started as a creative outlet during early motherhood has grown into a thriving handmade jewelry business right here in Ohio. Since 2022, Allison has been handcrafting polymer clay earrings that bring uniqueness, confidence, and personality to every outfit.

As a full-time mom of two and a solo business owner, Allison is proof that women truly can do it all. From setting up at local markets to shipping orders across the country, she’s built Sweet P Designs from the ground up while raising her babies right alongside it.

Success for Allison isn’t just numbers. it’s every happy customer, every fulfilled order, and every moment of purpose her business brings her.

Next up? Expanding her online presence and reaching all 50 states.

Support woman-owned. Support local. Support Sweet P Designs

Today, we had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Amy Acton, a physician, lifelong public servant, and candidate for Govern...
03/20/2026

Today, we had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Amy Acton, a physician, lifelong public servant, and candidate for Governor of Ohio who leads with compassion, resilience, and a true commitment to people over politics.

From her work in public health to organizations like The Columbus Foundation and Rapid 5, her focus has always been on improving the lives of Ohioans. Her plans prioritize ending medical debt, supporting small businesses, making childcare and healthcare more affordable, strengthening public education, and bringing people together across political divides.

What stood out most to us is her willingness to listen, collaborate, and ensure that voices, especially those of women and small business owners, are heard.

We encourage everyone to do their own research, but from our conversation, we believe Dr. Acton is a strong advocate for working families, small businesses, and a more unified Ohio.

Thank you, Dr. Acton, for your time and leadership.

Happy International Women’s DayTake a moment today to be thankful for the line of women before us who fought for our rig...
03/08/2026

Happy International Women’s Day

Take a moment today to be thankful for the line of women before us who fought for our rights, equality, and liberation. Because of their strength and sacrifice, we have the opportunities we hold today.

Let’s reflect on the achievements of women throughout time and continue pushing forward together.

Tag a woman who inspires you!

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Sandusky, OH
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