Shop, Sip, Celebrate: Women-Owned Businesses in Winston-Salem
March is Women’s History Month — a time to recognize the impact women have had on culture, community, and commerce.
Winston-Salem’s entrepreneurial landscape is shaped by women who bring creativity, leadership, and distinct vision to their businesses. From local boutiques and specialty shops to beloved cafés and eateries, these female-owned establishments contribute to the city’s unique character.
Below are just a few standout spots to shop, eat, and explore this month (and year-round).
Shops & Boutiques
Wood & Thread Boutique – A thoughtfully curated women’s clothing and accessories boutique with a focus on quality fabrics and versatile styles. The owner’s eye for mix-and-match pieces creates a wardrobe that feels both timeless and current. Regular new arrivals keep the inventory fresh and exciting.
Kin & Cottage – A home fragrance and gift shop centered on scents inspired by the soul of the South. Kin & Cottage offers everything from candles and wax melts to soap and bath bombs in scents that rotate seasonally. The owner’s commitment to community and hand-made goods gives shoppers a uniquely Winston-Salem experience!
Southern Home & Kitchen – A destination for quality tabletop items, kitchen tools, and Southern-inspired giftables! The owner brings a hospitality mindset to the shop’s mix of functional and decorative pieces, perfect for everyday life or entertaining. Customers appreciate the thoughtful, curated selection and often come back for their immersive cooking classes!
119 on North – This Kernersville boutique offers an eclectic mix of women’s fashion, gifts, and home accents. The owner sources distinctive goods that feel fresh yet wearable. Its downtown location makes it a great stop during a local shopping stroll through Kernersville Main & Mountain Street district.
Bella + James Children’s Boutique – Offering an upscale children’s boutique experience in the historic West End neighborhood, this charming shop specializes in unique and timeless children’s clothing, play, and accessories. From special occasions to playground, Bella + James has you covered!
BoHo Depot – A bohemian-inspired boutique for fashion, jewelry, and statement accessories in the heart of Winston-Salem’s Historic West End Neighborhood, on the edge of the Reynolda Road Shopping District. The owner brings a free-spirited aesthetic to her curated collection that feels both playful and refined.
The Snob Shop – This secondhand store showcases an eclectic blend of home décor and clothing with an elegant, elevated aesthetic. The owner’s knack for refined, decorative wares makes this a go-to for locals and visitors alike!
Fiddle & Fig – A favorite of locals and visitors alike, this home décor store recently expanded their space and inventory after years of success in their small shop in West End. You can now find everything you need for entertaining, home decorating, and gift giving at their location on Stratford Road!
Design Archives – One step into this treasure trove of vintage flair and you’ll understand why people travel far and wide for a chance to peruse through the aisles of this local favorite. Around every turn is a different display of local vintage wares, from clothes and jewelry to home décor and art. No two shopping trips will feel the same, so this is a must-visit for vintage fanatics in downtown Winston-Salem!
Vestique – A trendy and affordable women's clothing and accessories boutique, you can find this trendy spot tucked into the popular Thruway Shopping Center on Stratford Road. When shopping here, you can expect chic finds that appeal to fashion-forward divas and budget conscious babes alike.
Food & Drink
Little Pep – This charming wine bar tucked in the heart of Winston-Salem’s downtown arts district features a wide selection of natural wines from around the world. They also boast a small retail shop in the front and a rotating selection of snacks and small plates.
Dream Kreams – An ice cream shop that offers handcrafted, artisanal flavors in downtown Winston-Salem, this woman and Black-owned shop is a must visit for any frozen dessert connoisseur. Conveniently located near Kaleideum Children’s Museum, bring the whole family for a sweet treat!
Hel’s – Known for their eclectic bar, karaoke nights, and hand-crafted cocktails, Hel’s offers a welcoming presence for bargoers in downtown Winston-Salem. Their expansive patio and rotating slate of events keeps everyone coming back again and again!
East of Texas – A local favorite restaurant with bold flavors and a creative menu rooted in Texas comfort classics. The owner is a long-time member of the Winston-Salem restaurant landscape and has crafted a spot known for hearty meals and house-made favorites. Their expansive outdoor patio and dining area offers a seasonal hot spot for everyone from couples and families to large groups!
Brass Town Chocolate – A handcrafted chocolate company rooted in artisan technique and innovative flavor combinations. The founder’s fine-chocolate approach has made Brass Town a destination for sweet gifts and indulgent treats. Seasonal and signature confections showcase craftsmanship in every bite.
Camino Bakery – A community-centered bakery known for its breads, pastries, and thoughtfully prepared goods. The owner duo emphasizes technique, seasonality, and quality ingredients in their baked goods and coffee. Guests love the welcoming atmosphere, inviting covered patio, and seasonally rotating menu!
Ava’s Cupcakes – Located in the nearby town of Clemmons, this bakery is run by a seasoned industry veteran and winner of Food Network’s Cupcake Wars Season 4! Offering a full bakery case of cupcakes, pies, cakes, and other treats, you can satisfy your sweet tooth while supporting a woman-owned business!
Mozelle’s – A classic Winston-Salem dining institution with a menu that blends Southern tradition and refined comfort. Led by a female restaurateur who also owns Betty on Burke located just around the corner, the space celebrates local ingredients and warm hospitality. Its timeless appeal keeps locals and visitors returning.
Forsyth Seafood Co. – Half restaurant, half seafood market, this long-standing Winston-Salem classic offers fresh, responsibly sourced fish alongside prepared dishes. The mother-daughter duo behind this business brings a commitment to quality and sustainability, elevating seafood offerings in the region. It’s a versatile stop for market goods or a casual meal. Add this stop to your list of must visit woman and Black-owned businesses in Winston-Salem!
NataBelle’s – This female and Black-owned bakery started with inspiration from the owners grandmother. Over time, she has built a cult-like local following for her viral Sweet Potato Brownies and decadent cake bites. This is a must stop for anyone in the area with a sweet tooth!
Local Roots Coffee – A female-founded coffee shop in Kernersville that centers craft coffee and community. Its carefully pulled espresso and curated drink selection pair with a laid-back environment.
Busy as a Bee Café – Kernersville’s newest chef-curated fresh food boutique, offering a thoughtfully selected variety of specialty ingredients, fresh and frozen foods to-go, and unique kitchen accoutrements. Conveniently located in Downtown Kernersville at the Shoppes on Main, this charming shop is known for its exceptional service, carefully curated offerings, and delightful atmosphere.
Simply Sonyas – A Black-owned southern soul food style café with homestyle cooking and good vibes! With dishes that reflect regional comfort food traditions, it’s a popular stop for anyone in the area who needs a touch of soul!
Art & More
Dabble Art Bar – Blending the traditional art bar experience and gift shop with the warmth of a community gathering space, Dabble Art Bar is designed for the creatively curious. No experience is necessary to engage in their classes, and you can even book the entire studio for your next party or girls night!
Village Fabric Shop – Calling all master crafters and quilting enthusiasts! This quaint fabric and craft shop is tucked into the charming shops of Reynolda Village and offers everything you need for your next project. Looking to learn a new skill? Head to their website to meet the team and sign up for a class!
Visual Index – This gallery is where art and accessibility meet. Its selection highlights individuality and creativity through emerging and established designers, offering a wide variety of art mediums and price points. Their core belief is that art is for everyone, and they work diligently to make their store approachable and inspiring.
The Bookhouse – This independent bookstore celebrates stories of all kinds alongside a strong commitment to community engagement. Owner-led events, book clubs, live music, and local author showcases make this more than a retail space — it’s a cultural hub. Browse selections from indie authors and mainstream bestsellers alike before grabbing a coffee and settling into a cozy reading nook!
Body & Soul – A lifestyle boutique offering apparel, accessories, and body care with a focus on comfort and style. The owner’s approach combines fashion with well-being, making it easy for customers to look good and feel good. Personalized service and a focus on African culture make this store equal parts boutique, cultural hub, and art gallery!