Shop Local, Support Women: Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses in Omaha!

Photo courtesy of Sweet Magnolias

March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women who are making a difference in our communities.

Here in Omaha, we’re fortunate to have so many incredible women-owned businesses that inspire, uplift, and contribute to our local economy. From innovative startups to beloved neighborhood shops, these women entrepreneurs are shaping our city in meaningful ways.

By supporting these businesses, we’re not just shopping locally—we’re investing in dreams, fostering economic growth, and empowering the next generation of women leaders.  Here are a handful of incredible women-owned businesses in Omaha that you can support this month and beyond:


Artemis Tea & Botanical
Downtown
Handcrafted herbal teas and wellness blends to nourish the mind and body. 🍵🌿Founded in 2016 by Andrea Lawse, Artemis Tea is rooted in a deep love for the plant world and herbal medicine. Andrea, a clinical herbalist with training in Traditional Western Herbalism, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Ayurveda, created Artemis as a way to reconnect people with the healing power of plants. The business focuses on hand-blended teas made from high-quality, organic ingredients, emphasizing sustainability and wellness.

Bad Seed Coffee & Supply
Downtown
Owned by Brenna McCrary, this coffee shop sources direct-trade coffee and roasts its beans in-house, providing a unique coffee experience.

The Bánh Mì Shop
Bellevue
Chloe Tran brings authentic Vietnamese sandwiches to the area, inspired by her childhood in Saigon.

Big Mama's Kitchen
North Omaha
Gladys Harrison continues her mother's legacy by serving comforting dishes like fried catfish and sweet potato pie ice cream.

Carter & Rye
Hanscom Park
Founded in 2019 by best friends Kate “Carter” Anderson and Sarah “Rye” Ryan, Carter & Rye was born out of their shared love for pastries and specialty coffee. The business specializes in sweet and savory hand pies, made from scratch with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their mission extends beyond delicious food—they aim to create meaningful, sustainable careers in the food industry while promoting price transparency and ethical sourcing.

Esther’s Consignment
Near Aksarben
Esther’s Consignment has been a go-to boutique for luxury and designer resale fashion for nearly 40 years. Founded by Trish Lonergan, the store has built a reputation for offering high-end, curated secondhand clothing and accessories. Over the decades, Esther’s has become a trusted name in Omaha’s fashion scene, providing stylish, sustainable shopping options for those looking for quality pre-owned pieces.

Fariner Bakery
Ashland
Ashley Welch's bakery is known for its cozy atmosphere and a variety of pastries, including turnovers and cinnamon rolls.

Hardy Coffee Co.
Downtown, Benson & Millard
Founded by Autumn Pruitt, Hardy Coffee Co. has become a staple in Omaha’s coffee culture. With multiple locations across the city, this locally owned business is known for its handcrafted coffee, fresh pastries, and welcoming atmosphere.

Julia M Illustrates
Online Store (Available at the Zoo Gift Shop & Made in Omaha)
Julia McGuigan, the artist behind Julia M Illustrates, creates unique, locally inspired illustrations that celebrate Omaha’s culture, landmarks, and neighborhoods. Her artwork is printed by a local family-owned print shop and includes a wide range of prints, greeting cards, and home goods. Julia's work highlights the city’s historic architecture and community spaces through vibrant and nostalgic designs.

Made in Omaha
Downtown & Countryside Village
Owned by Rachel Benson, Made in Omaha is a retail store that highlights locally crafted products, supporting other small businesses and artisans in the area.

Next Chapter Books & Gifts
Near Midtown
Founded in 2019 by Shelly Mutum, Next Chapter Books & Gifts continues a nearly 50-year family legacy in bookselling. More than just a bookstore, Shelly envisioned it as a community hub where book lovers can gather, share ideas, and connect. The store offers books, unique gifts, and even a cozy space where customers can enjoy wine or coffee while browsing.

Nodest Home Plants
Downtown
Nodest Home Plants, owned by Shannon Beck, offers a variety of houseplants and hosts workshops and events. The shop shares a building with Bad Seed Coffee & Supply, owned by Beck's best friend, Brenna McCrary, creating a unique combination of coffee and plants for visitors.

Okra African Grill
Near Aksarben/Elmwood
Nina Sodji introduces African flavors to Omaha through customizable rice bowls featuring ingredients like roasted lamb and fried plantains.

Square Donut
West Omaha
Elizabeth Pooley offers uniquely shaped donuts with creative toppings, building a loyal following in Omaha.

Sweet Magnolias Bake Shop
Downtown & Midtown (Bemis Park)
Founded in 2016 by Katina Talley, Sweet Magnolias Bake Shop specializes in handcrafted pastries and confections. Katina's passion for baking began in her childhood, growing up in a food-loving household in rural Nebraska. After earning a degree in Food Science & Technology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, she worked as a Food Scientist for Conagra Brands before pursuing her dream of owning a bakery.

Zen Coffee Company
Downtown & West Omaha
Founded by Abby McLeay, this coffee shop offers a wide range of specialty beverages and baked goods, creating an inclusive and positive environment.


Why Supporting Women-Owned Businesses Matters

When we support women entrepreneurs, we help build a stronger and more inclusive local economy. Women reinvest in their communities, create jobs, and bring diverse, innovative ideas to the business world. Shopping at women-owned businesses is more than just a purchase—it’s a vote for equality, empowerment, and economic growth.


How You Can Show Support

-Shop Local – Choose women-owned businesses for your everyday needs and special occasions.

-Spread the Word – Share your favorite women-led businesses on social media and leave positive reviews.

-Engage on Social Media – Follow, like, and interact with their content to help increase their visibility.

-Attend Events – Look out for pop-up shops, networking events, and workshops hosted by women entrepreneurs.

Women-owned businesses are an essential part of Omaha’s economy and culture. By supporting them, you’re not only celebrating their success but also helping to create a more prosperous community. This March, let’s make a conscious effort to uplift and empower the women entrepreneurs who continue to make Omaha a better place to live and work.

Do you have a favorite women-owned business in Omaha?
Share your recommendations and let’s spread the love this Women’s History Month!