In today’s business world, women are making their mark in industries that have long been considered “male territory.” From manufacturing to construction, technology to finance, female entrepreneurs are stepping up, building successful businesses, and shattering outdated stereotypes. But the path to success is often riddled with unique challenges, especially for women who balance business ownership with the traditional role of primary caregiver at home.
As a woman who built a business from the ground up in an industry dominated by men, I’ve walked that path myself. Over 30 years ago, I founded CozyPure, an organic mattress and bedding company, with the vision of creating sustainable, nontoxic products for a better, healthier home. While the journey has been rewarding, it hasn’t been without its hurdles.
Juggling Two Full-Time Jobs: Business and Home
For me, those qualities have shaped CozyPure’s mission. Our solar-powered workshop, commitment to natural materials, and emphasis on durability reflect the same care and determination I’ve brought to every aspect of my life. Building this business wasn’t just about chasing a dream—it was about creating a better life for my family and providing stability for the incredible team of people who have supported CozyPure’s journey.
Balancing the roles of entrepreneur, mother, and employer wasn’t always easy, but it taught me the value of perseverance and resourcefulness. Every decision I made—whether in the business or at home—was driven by a commitment to take care of the people who mattered most. That same dedication flows into how we treat our customers. At CozyPure, we don’t just create products; we create comfort, health, and trust. Our customers know they’re cared for because it’s the same care I poured into building my family and my business from the ground up.
When my children were young, I wanted to ensure they grew up in a clean, toxin-free environment. That passion translated into my business. Yet, like so many women, I juggled the demands of parenthood with the pressures of entrepreneurship. I’d find myself working late into the night after the kids went to bed, fielding customer calls between school drop-offs, and brainstorming marketing ideas while cooking dinner. Meanwhile, many of my male competitors could devote their full attention to growing their businesses without those same interruptions.
Male-Dominated Industries: A Steeper Climb
The challenges don’t stop at home. In industries like manufacturing, where men often dominate leadership roles, women frequently face bias. Early on, I attended trade shows where I was often mistaken for someone’s assistant rather than the owner of the company. Suppliers, partners, and even customers sometimes hesitated to take me seriously—until they realized I was the owner of the company.
Beyond the stereotypes, women often face structural hurdles like limited access to funding. Studies show that women entrepreneurs receive significantly less venture capital and business loans compared to their male counterparts, making it harder to scale operations.
Why Women Excel—Despite the Odds
Despite these challenges, women entrepreneurs bring unique strengths to the table. Women tend to be natural problem-solvers and multitaskers, skills honed from balancing so many roles at once. We’re often driven by values that resonate with today’s consumers: sustainability, community impact, and long-term relationships.
For me, those qualities have shaped CozyPure’s mission. Our solar-powered workshop, commitment to natural materials, and emphasis on durability reflect the care and thoughtfulness I poured into both my business and my home life. Just as I’ve always cared for my children—nurturing them with love, protecting their well-being, and ensuring they thrive—I’ve carried that same motherly approach into the way we care for our customers. At CozyPure, we’re not just selling products; we’re creating comfort and promoting health, treating every customer as if they’re part of our family. Customers appreciate that. They want products that are made with integrity—and they can tell when a company truly cares.
Supporting Women-Owned Businesses
The good news is that the landscape is changing. Women-owned businesses are on the rise, and there’s a growing movement to support them. From government awareness to mentorship programs, resources are becoming more accessible. Organizations like Women’s Business Centers and certifications like Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) are empowering female entrepreneurs to level the playing field.
But it’s not just about policies and programs. Consumers play a crucial role in driving change. By supporting women-owned businesses, you’re not just buying a product or service; you’re championing resilience, innovation, and equality.
My Advice to Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs
To all the women out there dreaming of starting their own business: know that it’s possible. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, whether it’s family, friends, or mentors. Learn everything you can about your industry. And don’t be afraid to ask for help—whether it’s delegating household tasks or finding a business advisor.
Success isn’t about being perfect; it’s about persistence. The road may be harder for women, but the rewards are worth it. Because when women succeed, we’re not just building businesses—we’re creating a better, more inclusive world.
So here’s to breaking barriers, balancing it all, and proving that women truly can do it all.