March is International Women's History Month, and as a woman-owned small business, we can't think of a better way to honor it than by shining a spotlight on the other incredible women-owned businesses that make our Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood so special. Here in Charleston's historic Lowcountry, the entrepreneurial spirit runs deep, and nowhere is that more evident than in the passionate, creative women who've built thriving shops and studios right in our backyard.
From handcrafted jewelry to curated home goods, these businesses represent more than just storefronts—they're destinations where thoughtful design meets genuine Southern hospitality. Each one tells a story of vision, determination, and the kind of artistry that transforms a simple shopping trip into an experience you'll remember long after you've walked out the door.
Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your neighborhood or a visitor seeking authentic Charleston charm, these women-owned gems deserve your attention. Let's celebrate the entrepreneurs who are shaping our community, one beautiful creation at a time.
The Heart of Cannonborough-Elliotborough
Our neighborhood has always been a place where creativity flourishes. Tucked between King Street's bustling energy and the quiet elegance of residential Charleston, Cannonborough-Elliotborough offers the perfect blend of accessibility and authenticity. The women who've chosen to set up shop here understand what makes this area so magnetic: it's close-knit without being insular, sophisticated without being pretentious.
What strikes us most about the women-owned businesses nearby is how each one brings something distinctive to the table. You won't find cookie-cutter retail here. Instead, you'll discover carefully curated collections, handmade treasures, and services delivered with the kind of personal touch that's become increasingly rare.
Meet the Women-Owned Businesses We Love
The Tiny Tassel
46 Spring St Unit B, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.thetinytassel.com
The Tiny Tassel, a Charleston-based brand owned by Mimi Striplin, offers a joyful collection of handmade jewelry, clothing, and accessories inspired by the city's vibrant colors. Mimi collaborates with her mother and lead designer, Keiko Striplin, to create a fresh collection each season. Every colorful tassel is handmade by their creative, women-led team.
Hermosa Jewelry
189 St Philip St UNIT C, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.hermosajewelry.com
Hermosa is a Southern jewelry and lifestyle brand founded by Haley Holzworth, dedicated to creating expressive, versatile pieces that enhance beauty and confidence. True to its name, meaning “beautiful” in Spanish, Hermosa designs high-quality jewelry using natural elements and unique findings. The brand invites you to explore and discover your next standout piece.
The Paper Canopy
93 Spring St C, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.thepapercanopy.com
For lovers of beautiful paper goods, The Paper Canopy is a stationery and craft shop in Charleston's Cannonborough-Elliottborough neighborhood. Founded by Casey Berry, it serves as a "creative oasis" to inspire connection through writing, crafting, and workshops.
Rooted in Charleston
232 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.plantbuscharleston.com
Rooted in Charleston is a woman-owned neighborhood plant shop located in downtown Charleston that specializes in indoor greenery, rare exotics, and tropicals. Known as our "local plant dealer," they operates both a physical boutique and a signature mobile Plant Bus.
Mess Hall Truck Shop
62 Spring Street, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.messhalltruckshop.com
Mess Hall Charleston is a build-your-own trucker hat bar where customers can personalize hats with a selection of patches, pins, and other accessories. The staff then presses the chosen items onto the hat, creating a unique souvenir that tells the customer's "Charleston story."
MOLA Piercing Studio
47 Spring Street, Ste A, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.charlestonpiercing.com
MOLA Body Piercing & Fine Jewelry is a highly-rated, professional piercing studio with multiple locations in the Charleston, South Carolina area. It is widely recognized for its high standards of safety, cleanliness, and quality, having been voted "Best Piercing Studio in Charleston" by City Paper annually from 2014 through 2023.
Philosopher and Fools
50 Bogard St, Suite A, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.philosopherandfools.com
Philosophers & Fools is a charming bookstore bar in Charleston, SC, created by two book and beverage enthusiasts who wanted to share their love of reading with a glass of wine or craft beer. Every detail, from the books to the drinks, snacks, and decor, has been thoughtfully curated by the team, each item with its own story. Visitors are invited to explore a new book, rediscover an old favorite, enjoy a drink or snack, and connect with others in this cozy, welcoming space.
The Happy Southerner
44 Spring Street, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.thehappysoutherner.com
Founded by Jackie Rice Abston, The Happy Southerner is a boutique designed to spread happiness. Driven by her passion for cute, affordable Southern fashion and products that reflect her sassy sense of humor, Jackie curated a collection of whimsical trinkets and cheerful gifts. The store's positive atmosphere, from its pink walls to its handpicked items, aims to bring a smile to every customer's face.
Havens
579 King Street, Suite A, Charleston, SC 29403 | www.havens-chs.com
Located on Upper King Street, Havens is a boutique that specializes in unconventional, independent designer clothing. The shop offers an edgy, chic, and sophisticated style with a rock and roll yet feminine touch. Owner Havens Blanton curates clothing for independent, free-thinking women, showcasing unique designers and exclusive labels she finds during her travels to places like Paris and New York.
Why Shopping Local Matters
Supporting women-owned businesses does more than put money back into our local economy—though that's certainly important. When you shop at these boutiques and studios, you're investing in dreams, celebrating creativity, and helping ensure that our neighborhood maintains its distinctive character.
These entrepreneurs have taken risks, poured their hearts into their businesses, and created spaces that enrich our community. They source thoughtfully, design carefully, and serve graciously. Every purchase you make helps them continue doing what they love while contributing to the vibrant, diverse business landscape that makes Charleston so special.
Shopping In-Person vs. Online
While nothing quite compares to the experience of browsing these beautiful shops in person—feeling fabrics, trying on jewelry, chatting with knowledgeable owners—we understand that isn't always possible. The good news? Many of these businesses offer robust online shopping options, bringing their curated collections directly to your door no matter where you are.
Whether you're strolling King Street on a sunny Saturday afternoon or shopping from your couch after the kids are in bed, these women-owned businesses make it easy to support local entrepreneurship on your own terms.
Make March Matter
This International Women's History Month, we invite you to explore the remarkable women-owned businesses that call our neighborhood home. Pop into a shop you've been meaning to visit. Purchase a gift for someone special—or treat yourself. Follow these businesses on social media and spread the word about what they're creating.
Every visit, every purchase, every recommendation helps these visionary women continue building businesses that make Charleston a more beautiful, interesting, and welcoming place to live and visit. Let's celebrate them not just this month, but all year long.
Stop by and see what makes our corner of Charleston so special. We think you'll fall in love with these businesses just like we have.