Across Anderson, a powerful story is unfolding — one of creativity, resilience, and leadership. It’s the story of women who have stepped forward to build businesses that not only support their families, but also strengthen the local economy, serve the community, and inspire others to pursue their own dreams.
Female entrepreneurs are shaping Anderson’s identity in meaningful ways. They are creating welcoming spaces, providing essential services, mentoring others, and proving that leadership can look both compassionate and courageous. Their businesses reflect heart, vision, and a deep commitment to community.
Here are just a few of the many women making an impact in Anderson through their locally run businesses.
Ashlee Perkins — Gather by GLAM Fitness & Day Spa – www.gatherbyglam.com
Ashlee Perkins’ journey into business ownership began with a dream she’s held for 25 years. What started in massage therapy evolved alongside life itself — marriage, children, career shifts, and the realization that motherhood changes how you define success.
“I always dreamed of owning my own space for a salon and spa,” she shares. “But once you become a mom, you realize you need a career that is flexible with your children’s schedules.”
Her analogy for entrepreneurship is one many parents understand:
“Starting and owning a business is very much like becoming a parent. You can read the books and listen to the experts, but the moment you hold that new child — the business — you realize you actually know nothing. All you know is love and this has to survive.”
That love became Gather by GLAM Fitness & Day Spa — a blend of wellness, movement, and self-care. For Ashlee, success is built through patience, flexibility, and the support of family and friends who become the backbone of the business.
Caroline Bell — Preparing for Care – www.preparingforcare.com
Caroline Bell’s business was born from personal experience. After walking through the aging journey with her own parents, she recognized how overwhelming it can be for families navigating senior care without guidance.
“That experience revealed how important compassion, preparation, and steady leadership are during life’s most difficult transitions,” she explains.
Guided by faith and real-world understanding, she founded Preparing for Care to help families plan ahead, advocate wisely, and move through aging transitions with clarity and dignity. Her work provides peace of mind when families need it most.
Sarah Dowler — The Local Uptown – www.thelocaluptown.com
Sarah Dowler knows firsthand that running a business requires adaptability, resilience, and teamwork.
“Women don’t just run businesses — we hold everything together while building them,” she says.
Her role goes far beyond daily operations. It involves problem-solving, protecting what they’ve built, and making decisions that ensure long-term success. She credits mentors who encouraged her voice and growth, and she values the full-circle moments — like watching her son follow in their footsteps in the wine industry.
For Sarah, success is shared:
“Without Shane, my daughter Mackenzie, and our incredible staff, none of this would be possible. Teamwork is what makes it all happen.”
Brittany Surratt — Surratt Canines – www.facebook.com/SurrattCaninesSC
Brittany Surratt brings heart and purpose to her work at Surratt Canines Dog Training and Boarding.
“As a female business owner, I’m proud to be a part of Surratt Canines Dog Training and Boarding. I run this company alongside my husband, Brandon, and together we strive to build a business rooted in God’s purpose, with passion, integrity and hands-on expertise.”
Her mission is grounded in respect for the human–canine bond:
“Surratt Canines is more than a business; it’s a commitment to helping dogs and their owners thrive together. Our goal is to create a safe, structured, and positive environment where every dog is treated like family, while empowering owners through clear communication, education, and proven training methods.”
Donna Burton — Botox Boutique – www.mybotoxboutique.com
Donna Burton blends medical expertise with empowerment at Botox Boutique.
“As the owner and nurse practitioner behind Botox Boutique, I’ve built a practice grounded in personalized care, clinical excellence, and trust,” she says.
Her philosophy centers on high standards and meaningful client experiences.
“Leading a boutique MedSpa means setting high standards, staying deeply invested in every client experience, and creating an environment where confidence and empowerment are part of the result. I’m proud to lead a business that reflects thoughtful growth, intentional care, and the strength of women in entrepreneurship.”
Her favorite reminder is simple but powerful:
“If it makes you feel beautiful, then do it.”
Jennifer Drummond — It’s A Dog’s Life – www.facebook.com/Itsadogslifeandersonsc/
Jennifer Drummond built her business from necessity and love for both animals and family.
“Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to be a mother and one that was involved daily with my children. Owning my own business has given me the opportunity to do just that.”
She launched her business at 23 after realizing there were limited boarding options.
“With the help of my husband and family, I set out to create a welcoming and safe place for people to leave their ‘babies’ with confidence.”
Now a mother of three, she credits her support system for helping her balance it all.
“Thanks to Scott, my office manager, I am able to create a schedule that allows me to be the mother and business owner that I’ve always wanted.”
Sharley Patterson – Lather & Co. – www.latherandcoaspacollective.com
For Sharley Patterson, Lather & Co. is more than a spa — it’s a space rooted in empowerment, care, and community.
“Being a woman-owned business comes with its challenges, but it is incredibly rewarding,” she shares. “Alongside running my business, I’m also a wife and a mom, and balancing both worlds isn’t always easy — but it’s something I’m deeply proud of.”
Her passion extends beyond services and treatments. It’s about how women feel when they walk through the door and the culture she creates for both clients and staff.
“One of the most meaningful parts of owning my spa is the opportunity to empower other women every single day. I get to create a space where women feel confident, cared for, and beautiful, and that brings me so much joy.”
She also takes pride in mentoring and supporting her team.
“Watching my employees grow, succeed, and truly thrive makes all the hard work worthwhile. Lather & Co. is more than a business to me — it’s a community built by women, for women.”
Anderson’s landscape is rich with women-led businesses making a difference every day:
Beauty and wellness professionals helping others feel confident
Pet-care providers supporting furry family members
Boutique owners creating spaces for style and connection
Gift shop owners fostering gathering and hospitality
Photographers preserving life’s milestones
Media voices telling the stories of the community
These women balance multiple roles — owner, caregiver, mentor, volunteer, and leader. Their influence extends far beyond their storefronts.
When you support a female-owned business, you are:
Supporting families and livelihoods
Strengthening the local economy
Investing in leadership and mentorship
Encouraging entrepreneurship
Inspiring the next generation of women
Every purchase, booking, and recommendation contributes to their ability to grow and give back.
Of course, these women represent only a small sample of the many female entrepreneurs in Anderson. Every day, women across our area are launching ideas, managing established companies, and finding creative ways to serve their neighbors.
Their stories remind us that local businesses are built on passion, persistence, and people who care deeply about their community.
Because when women succeed in business, the entire community benefits. Anderson is stronger because of the women who lead within it.
And with that spirit of support in mind, we would be remiss not to recognize another female-led local publication. While some may consider publications “competitors,” the truth is that female-run businesses often feel more like sister businesses — cheering one another on and celebrating shared success.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Electric City News, led by sister duo Ginny Bailes Fretwell and Julie Bailes Johnson, who continue to tell local stories and serve the community in their own meaningful way.
Because when women support women, the entire community rises.