International Women’s Day (March 8) and Women’s History Month is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. In Portland, the influence of women can be seen all over the City. In fact, Portland was named the eighth best city in the country for women business owners. We encourage you to recognize the accomplishments of the women in your life and to support the women-led businesses and organizations below.
- Alberta: Get your bike ready to hit the streets at Gladys Bikes, a full-service bicycle repair and sales shop. Gladys (pronounced glad-iss) is the name of a bicycle that was owned and ridden by Frances E. Willard, a turn of the century women’s suffragist and feminist who taught herself how to ride a bike at the age of 53.
- Beaumont: Self-care is the name of the game in this NE Portland business district. Nourish your body with a massage at Colleen Shea Massage or treat yourself to your next glow up at the Retreat Beauty Lounge, offering nail, skin and makeup services.
- Belmont: With primo herb, accessories and souvenirs, Mongoose Cannabis stays current on all of the latest industry news and trends to keep their customers informed about Cannabis in Oregon.
- Central Eastside: Good Hand Studio offers sewing classes for children that help develop skills that build confidence, encourage problem solving and teach patience.
- Cully: Get your caffeine fix at Bison Coffee House, Portland’s only Native-owned coffeehouse. Bison serves a carefully curated roster of Native and local roasters, locally sourced beverages, and a selection of delicious baked goods lovingly created on premises. To experience a truly impressive array of mix of fabrics, notions, books, patterns and supplies that will bring your imagination to life, check out the Bolt Fabric Boutique.
- Downtown: If you have a special occasion that needs to be impressive, check out the stunning floral artwork created at Lubliner Florist. Famous for breaking gender norms in fashion and society, Wildfang carries stylish casualwear and jewelry for women.
- Foster: For screen printed handbags made in-house, plus textiles, paper goods and more check out Heidi West Designs. Go for the trifecta and support three woman-owned businesses at the same time, all under one roof: Bar Carlo serves up tasty brunch and cocktails; Manifest Mercantile sells curated crafts, décor and art and Glasshaus Gardens has a huge selection of house plants.
- Kenton: Kenton Animal Hospital loves pets as much as you do. Focusing on continual client education, open communication, and transparency of services, they work to maintain a long-lasting and mutually respectful relationship with you and your pet.
- Lents: Enjoy a full selection of baked breads, pastries, made-to-order sandwiches, and even cheeses, pastas and other dry goods at Bella’s Italian Bakery.
- Lloyd: Founded 127 years ago, Nielsen’s Jewelers remains a family-run operation led by Jan Nielsen and her daughter Sara Winter who help every client with their extensive industry knowledge and welcoming service.
- Montavilla: Beanstalk Childrens Resale consigns, buys, trades and sells hand-
selected, modern, hip kids clothing, gear and accessories. - NE Broadway: Women-owned and run, The Nightwood is a magical space centered on immersive food experiences. Checkout their upcoming programming which ranges from makers markets to a rotating series of classes. Need a reprieve from the stress of the last year? Visit Float North for a variety of wellness services that will renew and refresh you.
- Northwest District: Stock your home bar at Freeland Spirits, a women-owned and run distillery specializing in gin.
- Old Town: The Women’s Foundation of Oregon seeks to dismantle sexism, racism, and structural oppression through the movement of resources and ideas in our region to create real and lasting gender justice.
- St. Johns: As we all look forward to traveling again, book your next amazing vacation experience with Carol’s Escapes Travel. Run by a mother-daughter team, Etcetera features gifts and goods for everyone in your life, many made by local artisans. Stop by Salty Teacup, an eclectic boutique featuring clothing, jewelry, gifts, candles, plants, cards and local art.
- Williams District: Making flavorful, healthy salads and other dishes, Crisp Salads sources from local partners and farmers while working to minimize their carbon footprint. Now Yoga takes a community approach to supporting clients with their health and wellness goals.
This list is non-exhaustive so be sure to support the women-owned businesses in your neighborhood and beyond. Show us how you’re celebrating International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month on Instagram and Facebook.