Amplifying the Voices of Black Women-Owned Businesses: Volume 3
Featuring: Nikita Wallace | Theressa Stephans | Gabrielle Bedford
Hey Sugar Mamas!
Week three of our Black Voices series is here!
This week, we’re featuring three more inspiring entrepreneurs in our community who are making waves and defining success on their own terms.
Check out this week’s features below. 👇
Nicole Moore-Geter: Owner of Counseling with a Purpose
Q: What is one specific challenge I’ve had to overcome as a Black woman-owned business?
A: As a black female Therapist, I have been faced with many of the same challenges that my clients do. Barriers associated those hidden ceilings, driven by antiquated assumptions, holding female entrepreneurs backs from their dream. These include but are not
limited to; stereotypes about leadership capabilities, the lack of financial and business support, and the psychological and emotional price of entrepreneurship. I am committed to using these experiences to fuel my passion for empowering others—both through her mental health services and by mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Q: What is one piece of advice you’d like to share?
A: Embrace your unique journey and prioritize building a strong support network of truly like minded individuals Remember that your voice matters, your vision is valid, and you deserve to succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek mentorship—collaboration and learning from others can propel you further than doing it alone. Trust your instincts, stay resilient in the face of challenges, and celebrate every victory, no matter how small.I wanted to share an important reminder: You should never have to diminish yourself for others to feel valued. As we empower ourselves, we naturally empower those around us.
Q: Tell us a little more about your business.
A: Counseling with a Purpose, was founded in 2018 and is a compassionate mental health practice dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. With the tagline “Where we help good people get through hard times,” we specialize in objective based person-centered therapy, empowering clients to overcome anxiety, distress, and other core challenges. Through personalized care and a commitment to strengthening family systems, Counseling with a Purpose fosters self-growth and resilience in the community it serves.
Stephanie Miles: Owner of IV Smiles Hydration
Q: What is one specific challenge I’ve had to overcome as a Black woman-owned business?
A: When I decided to purchase my commercial space I sought lending through a large bank that I’ve been a customer with for over 13 years. In addition to the purchase price I needed $46,000 for renovations. (Mind you I had enough in the bank to pay cash for everything). After the initial zoom meeting that went quite well, the loan officer started giving me the run around and dragged his feet regarding the loan. I never was denied, he just kept prolonging the process. In regards to the renovations he stated “Oh I didn’t know you had a quote from a contractor, I thought you were going to use home depot for renovations.” That was such an insult and I knew then, he was not taking me seriously. I was black, I was a female, and I don’t look my age. While he continued to drag his feet, I went to Mechanic and Farmers, the only black-owned bank in Winston Salem, NC. My loan was approved in a matter of weeks and I closed on my new commercial property! I could have let that first lender discourage me and as a long term customer, they did me wrong. However one thing black women know how to do oh so well, is pivot and make sh*t happen! I am an overcomer, I am blessed and highly favored, and I am a proud black woman, unapologetically.
Q: What is one piece of advice you’d like to share?
A: My advice would be to never give up, don’t let “no’s” stop you, keep going, and don’t try to dim your light to fit in with others. Be your authentic self, own the room, understand that it is okay to be different and/or look different. What’s for you is for you. People can tell when you are being fake, always be you, but keep it professional too. Don’t fall into the “angry black woman” image that some try to paint on you. Be confident, but also show grace.
Q: Tell us a little more about your business.
A: I own two businesses focused on health and wellness. IV SMiles Hydration & Wellness provides IV vitamin drips that help with a variety of conditions, also weight loss injections, and men’s health (testosterone) injections. Smith’s Primary Care and Wellness, co-owned with my sister, provides primary care, functional (root cause) medicine, and mental health services under one roof. We take care of your mind and body, holistically. Both businesses are firsts for the city of Winston Salem. In March 2021, IV SMiles opened as the first black female owned IV hydration clinic, and in March 2022 Smith’s PCW opened as the first direct primary care practice. I love breaking barriers and creating my own lane.
Sonia Douglas: Owner of Infinity Boutique
Q: What is one specific challenge I’ve had to overcome as a Black woman-owned business?
A: One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a Black woman-owned business is gaining visibility and access to the right networks. In an industry where connections often open doors, I’ve had to work twice as hard to prove my expertise, establish credibility, and secure opportunities that may come more easily to others. But through resilience, authenticity, and a commitment to excellence, I’m continuously building a brand that stands out and speaks for itself.
Q: What is one piece of advice you’d like to share?
A: Own your uniqueness and never shrink yourself to fit in. Your perspective, creativity, and voice are your greatest assets – lean into them. Build a strong support system, stay consistent, and never be afraid to advocate for yourself and your worth. The right opportunities will align when you show up boldly and unapologetically as you!
Q: Tell us a little more about your business.
A: At my size-inclusive boutique, fashion is for every body. I combine expert styling services ranging from a 45 minute “ How To Get Back In The Fashion Game” consultation to Personal Shopping to create a personalized experience that helps women look and feel their absolute best. Style isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is my approach!
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