Women in Business: The Heart of Prince Edward County

When I think about what makes Prince Edward County such a remarkable place to live, work, and raise a family, I immediately think of the people who pour their hearts into this community. Behind every storefront, vineyard, restaurant, and hidden gem, there is someone taking a leap of faith on their dream. And more often than not, those entrepreneurs are women.

In a small, tourism-driven community like ours, women-led businesses aren’t just part of the landscape — they are the backbone. These women bring with them creativity and vision, while also balancing the weight of family responsibilities, mortgages, and households to run. They wear many hats, and when we support their ventures, we’re not only shopping local — we’re helping families thrive and ensuring our community grows in a sustainable, meaningful way.

Before becoming a real estate agent, I had the privilege of running my own brick-and-mortar retail shop. Later, I worked at Shopify, where I helped entrepreneurs grow their businesses on a global scale. Those experiences deeply shaped my perspective and ignited my passion for championing local business owners.

That’s why I feel such a strong calling to support and celebrate them here in The County.

Everywhere you look, there are inspiring examples of women making their mark. Walk into Stella’s Eatery in Waupoos and you’ll find food that is as soulful as it is delicious, a testament to women-led leadership in hospitality. Visit Paper Kite Farm and you’ll see how Judy Ning is redefining what experiential farming can look like, connecting people to the land through food and storytelling.

Creative entrepreneurs are also shaping PEC in other ways. Michelle Kosoy’s pottery design and professional work show the power of artistry paired with vision. In Picton, Rachel Bies has built Carte, a catering business that reflects resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to community — and she now has her own brick-and-mortar shop in town, giving locals and visitors alike a taste of her culinary creativity. And Sarah Boyd, the force behind Loch Mór Cider, is building her cidery from the ground up while earning countless awards — a true example of innovation and determination rooted right here in The County.

It’s not only about food, farming, and retail. Designer and television personality Sarah Keenleyside is shining a spotlight on Prince Edward County in her newest show, The County. Through it, she’ll be sharing the stories of local entrepreneurs with audiences far beyond our borders, further amplifying the voices of this community.

These are just a handful of names on a much longer list. The truth is, there are countless women in The County building businesses that shape the identity of this place. Whether in hospitality, retail, food, farming, or the arts, they are making Prince Edward County stronger, more dynamic, and more beautiful every day.

For me, advocating for and supporting women in business isn’t just a personal passion — it’s a professional responsibility. A healthy community is one where opportunity is shared, diverse voices are elevated, and local entrepreneurs are given the space and support they need to succeed. By choosing to dine at a women-owned restaurant, shop at a women-run store, or hire a woman-led service, we’re making a direct investment in our neighbours.

Real estate may be my business, but community is my purpose. I want clients — whether new to PEC or lifelong locals — to see what I see: that behind the beauty of our towns and countryside lies an incredible network of women entrepreneurs who deserve recognition, support, and celebration.

Prince Edward County is unique, not just because of the geography, the wine, or the food, but because of the people who dare to dream here. Many of them are women. And as a community, it’s up to all of us to ensure their dreams continue to thrive.