Building Dreams and Breaking Barriers: 30 Female Entrepreneurs Reshaping Fredericksburg

Photo by Karen Presecan

"At the heart of it, my business is all about helping people feel more connected—to their community, their neighbors, and the businesses that serve them," says Dori Stewart, publisher and entrepreneur, whose own journey mirrors the resilience and vision driving female business owners across Fredericksburg. "Being a female entrepreneur means I get to write my own story, take risks, and create opportunities—not just for myself, but for others."

This spirit of connection, possibility, and determination unites women who are transforming Fredericksburg's business landscape—whether breaking into traditionally male-dominated fields or expanding female leadership in established sectors.

Pioneering in Male-Dominated Fields

For attorney Diana D'Alessandro, owning her own law practice is more than a personal achievement—it’s a symbol of progress in a field that hasn’t always welcomed women. “Being a female business owner, particularly in the legal profession, means the torch has been passed, and I have a duty to carry that torch with the strength and determination of my predecessors,” she says.

Attorney Melissa Huntley-Bosco, also a soldier in the National Guard, says she’s shaped by two oaths: one to defend the Constitution and one to uphold the law. “Those principles shape what I do daily—helping people plan for the next generation and understand how the law affects their lives.”

In the construction industry, Nicole McDaniel has established herself as a respected roofing contractor despite being "in the minority in my field." Her approach is straightforward: "Once the initial introduction is made, most of my customers and business contacts have treated me the same as a male contractor. I can share my knowledge professionally, and we can work together towards a mutually desired outcome." Drawing inspiration from her father's legacy, she notes, "His dedication, customer service, hard work, and perseverance has shaped me into the leader I am today."

Dr. Katrina Spies revolutionized her approach to veterinary medicine by founding Comfort Paws Integrative Veterinary Care. "Veterinary medicine is tough. It comes with the emotional weight of life-and-death decisions, long hours, and the constant pressure to do more with less," she shares. By creating her own practice, she prioritizes quality care and compassionate leadership in a demanding field.

Amy Pacheco of Pacheco's Hardwood Floors recognizes both the challenges and advantages of her position: "Female leaders often possess strengths like communication and empathy," she says. "Working with the right teams and vendors has boosted my confidence" in a traditionally male space.

Overcoming Identity Challenges

For some entrepreneurs, gender intersects with other dimensions of identity, creating additional barriers to overcome. Bri Way, a young Latina business owner, shares: "As a young Latina entrepreneur I've faced mostly the challenge of having to prove myself and my knowledge. It's my passion to help my clients to the best of my ability, so by focusing on that, it has helped me focus on getting to where I wanted to be in my own space."

Deb Balestreri, founder of Corgi Clay LLC, navigated skepticism and gender-based assumptions while establishing her business. "I had doubts in myself, and plenty of people doubted I could do what I set out to do... but I stuck to my guns and proved them all wrong." When faced with contractors attempting to take advantage of her, Balestreri's technical knowledge became her shield: "I did encounter men occasionally trying to 'take advantage' of me in terms of contracting, building, etc. Luckily, I have a background in wood-working."

Brenda Dixon, owner of Udugu Journey, also found being a female business-owner challenging at first: “As women, we often juggle many roles– mother, wife, caregiver– on top of running a business,” she explains. “Early on, I felt like I had to work twice as hard just to be seen or taken seriously, especially in spaces traditionally dominated by men. But over time, I’ve learned an important truth: I am enough.”

Adapting Through Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic tested entrepreneurial resilience across industries. Linda Osorio of Bear River Spa and Yoga recalls the overwhelming pressure: "My biggest challenge was being a small business owner during COVID. I had three brick-and-mortars and a special needs son to homeschool. I overcame it by taking it day by day, meditating, praying, and at times, crying hard at night."

Jenny Jones took ownership of D&G Expressions Dance Studio during the pandemic's uncertainty, transforming challenge into opportunity. "As a female business owner, I have the opportunity to show my daughters, granddaughters, and other young girls that if you have a dream, put your faith in that dream, and put in the work needed, you can achieve it."

Aubry Blais of Thistle Medical Aesthetics says the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship build character. “Cultivate resilience to navigate setbacks [like COVID] and learn from failures.”

The Power of Support Systems

Behind many successful entrepreneurs stands a network of supporters. Patricia Grant, an insurance agency owner, credits her husband: "He has supported me through this journey from Day 1. With owning any business, having a supportive spouse or significant other is SO important."

Karen Presecan began her photography business with long-distance encouragement: "When I mentioned to him on a rare phone call from Iraq that I wanted to do this, he was encouraging and supportive." Today, her business thrives on capturing connections between families and their pets.

For others, like Suzy Thompson of Club Pilates – Stafford, professional mentorship made the difference: "I have been inspired by other Pilates studio owners, giving me advice and support. It convinced me I could do it also."

Julie Birt emphasizes the importance of organizational support: "I am not alone in this business. Like realtors, I am sponsored by my main office, Mortgage Network Solutions, and my values align with the company vision to educate and walk the client through what may be the largest purchase of their life."

Creating New Models of Leadership

Many entrepreneurs have transformed their professional expertise into businesses prioritizing balance, connection, and purpose.

Karen Beall, a trained chemist, brings analytical precision to her business approach: "Being trained as a chemist has made me logical and attentive to details, which serve me well." She honors her father's example, noting that "being someone's chosen professional is an honor."

The healthcare sector has seen significant female leadership, with Beata Alghabra of Synergy HomeCare highlighting the supportive network: "There is a sisterhood, a girl code so to speak within this industry. It's a huge plus when your team understands one another on that level."

For Lauren Jordan and Erin Reid of Verdant Wellness, transitioning from medical practice to business ownership presented its own learning curve: "As medical professionals, we are not trained on the business aspect. We are learning each year and growing as entrepreneurs."

Rebecca Chanda of House of Bloom Medical Aesthetics measures success through impact: "There is something powerful about empowering others—helping them navigate challenges, avoid pitfalls, and find the confidence to pursue their dreams."

The Essence of Female Entrepreneurship

Catherine Lawton captures the spirit that drives these diverse business owners: "Female business owners come to the table with so many talents, loves—but most of all grit. That 'can do' thinking is what keeps us successful and crazy."

This combination of determination, vision, and heart distinguishes Fredericksburg's female entrepreneurs. As fitness studio owner Christina Hudson notes, success comes from "leaning into my strengths and building a strong network."

Hyon Pigman of Petman Grooming emphasizes the relational approach that many women bring to business: "Our ability to build a routine and establish trust allows us to provide our services effectively and harmoniously."

For Maria Negron of Hit the Spot Kitchen, entrepreneurship begins with self-understanding: "The strength of your core is the strength for the journey."

Karie Owens of NK Floors builds her business on faith and family legacy: "God has given me the wisdom and strength to face every challenge. Our children are learning the ropes—we desire to leave a legacy."

Writing the Future

These women aren't just running businesses—they're reshaping industries, creating opportunities, and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs. Like many of these incredible women, Jennifer Peyton of Burg Charcuterie, emphasizes: “It’s important for me to show my kids, especially my daughter, that women can do anything and hard work pays off!”

As Dori Stewart reflects, "I love giving local entrepreneurs a platform to grow while also sharing stories that inspire and bring people closer together." Her words capture the transformative impact of female entrepreneurship in Fredericksburg—a story of breaking barriers, building dreams, and creating a more connected community.

"For me," Stewart concludes, "it's about freedom and impact." And, across Fredericksburg, that impact grows stronger every day.