News
Women-Owned Businesses Thrive Across Grand Valley
<p>Local entrepreneurs are making their mark in Grand Junction, bringing creativity, innovation, and community-focused business models to the forefront. As part of International Women’s Day celebrations, several women business owners shared their experiences, challenges, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.</p>
<h2>Creativity and Passion at Candle Kitchen</h2>
<p>Downtown Grand Junction is home to Candle Kitchen, a custom candle-making shop owned by Savannah Ashmore. Known for its hands-on experience, the store allows customers to craft their own scented candles. But Ashmore’s business isn’t limited to candles—her private tattoo studio, Savannah Ashmore Art, operates under the same roof.</p>
<p>&#8220;All of the creativity that comes with being a business owner is really inspiring and fun,&#8221; she said, emphasizing how entrepreneurship has fueled her artistic passions.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-10764" src="https://budgyapp.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/women-entrepreneurs-Grand-Junction.jpg" alt="women entrepreneurs Grand Junction" width="595" height="384" /></p>
<h2>A Different Approach to Fitness</h2>
<p>Nikki Farber is reshaping how locals approach fitness with BungeeONE, a studio offering high-energy, low-impact workouts. As the first BungeeONE franchise owner, she hopes to provide an alternative to traditional gyms.</p>
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<li>&#8220;I love teaching. I love the people. I love how people get so excited about it and love it.&#8221;</li>
<li>The studio fosters an inclusive environment, catering to those intimidated by traditional gym settings.</li>
<li>Bungee workouts blend fun with fitness, encouraging participants to enjoy their exercise routines.</li>
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<h2>Navigating Business Challenges</h2>
<p>Owning a business isn’t easy, and these women have faced hurdles along the way. Ashmore spoke about overcoming self-doubt, while Farber emphasized the importance of strategic planning.</p>
<p>&#8220;Just do it,&#8221; Ashmore advised. &#8220;For a long time, I waited and was nervous about trying things. Once I finally jumped in, it was well worth the risk.&#8221;</p>
<p>Farber highlighted the role of preparation: &#8220;A lot of research. Just making sure that you know your market and how to get advertising out there. Social media is a big portion of it too.&#8221;</p>
<h2>Supporting Women in Business</h2>
<p>Emily Rose Chadwick, founder of the Mama Wilder Foundation, a nonprofit supporting women navigating family court, shared advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: &#8220;Surround yourself with women in the positions where you’d like to see yourself. You are the company you keep.&#8221;</p>
<p>Women-owned businesses continue to shape the Grand Valley, bringing new ideas and opportunities to the community. From fitness studios to candle shops and nonprofits, their impact is undeniable.</p>