Northwest Indiana Women-Owned Businesses Spotlight: Women Who Move the Region

One of the things that I’ve learned in my years in business is that your business is only as strong as your network. Over the years, as we’ve grown and expanded, our business network has grown. Business acquaintances have become friends, and networks have grown. As a woman-owned business, I am passionate about supporting other women-owned businesses. Today, I want to highlight the power of the network and highlight just a few of the women-owned businesses across Northwest Indiana working every day to make our community a better place to live, work, and play. This blog post will be the first in a series where I highlight fellow women-owned businesses across Northwest Indiana.
Chesterton:
The Red Cup Café and Deli: This beloved Chesterton staple is a true friend of Waxi Taxi. I first met owner Laura when our daughters attended preschool together, more than 23 years ago. Together, our businesses have grown and supported each other. The Red Cup Café and Deli is an anchor in downtown Chesterton. I cannot tell you how many business meetings I’ve been to at Red Cup. Laura’s café is a warm and welcoming spot, offering a variety of coffees, sandwiches, and baked goods. If you haven’t had the opportunity to stop by, do it! You won’t be disappointed.
Learn More about Red Cup Café & Deli: https://www.facebook.com/p/Red-Cup-Cafe-100063648787870/
Chelle’s Boutique & Garage: Owner Machelle Wagner has created the most unique shop in Chesterton! This adorable shop has become my go-to place for unique clothing pieces. They know my style and fit every time! I love this store, and I think you will too. This Chesterton treasure offers clothing and gifts that are truly one of a kind. This gem in Chesterton has been in business since 2012. Machelle has put so much time and effort into bringing the best to Chesterton, and it shines through each time you walk in the door of her shop.
Visit Chelle’s Boutique & Garage Website: https://chellesonline.com/
Michigan City:
South Shore Public Relations: I met the owner of South Shore Public Relations, Jackie Thomas, through the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce. South Shore Public Relations leads with heart, and Jackie consistently gives back to the community through volunteer work, sponsorships, and pro bono efforts. Her firm specializes in providing comprehensive communications solutions under one roof for businesses and nonprofits. This integrated marketing and PR firm is a unique gem in our community. I promise you, you’ve seen their work in the community. ;)
Learn More About South Shore Public Relations: https://southshorepr.com/
JOYRide: It’s hard not to love this woman-owned business, whose entire goal is to spread joy and support the community! Owner Rose Tejeda opened JOYRide last year in Michigan City, and it has lived up to its name. This adorable pedicab service has been an instant hit with locals and tourists alike, and it's easy to see why. Rose is as innovative and outgoing as she is kind and generous. Earlier this year, Rose launched the Insider’s Guide to Michigan City Events Calendar, full of fun things to do in Michigan City. If that isn’t giving back to the community, I don’t know what is. We love seeing her pedicabs zip up and down Franklin! They open for the 2025 season this Saturday, and we are so excited to welcome them back.
Learn More About JOYRide: https://joyridemc.com/
Crown Point:
Core Pilates
is located in the historic Crown Point Courthouse. Kelly and her team have created an incredible space for Pilates, yoga, massage, and more! We credit the owner, Kelly, with enabling us to secure our ideal spot, enabling Waxi Taxi to launch in our dream location on the square in Crown Point. Core Pilates is a reformer-based Pilates studio that opened in 2018. We love our Pilates neighbors!
Learn More About Core Pilates Crown Point: https://corecrownpoint.com/about
Northwest Indiana has an incredible independent business community, but within that community is a collection of women-owned businesses changing our communities for the better. From serving hot food that nourishes the soul, clothing that makes you feel like yourself, telling your story, spreading joy, or making you feel great about yourself, these businesses I’ve highlighted today are incredible assets to our community. Waxi Taxi is so honored to call them all friends. We believe that women support women, and I hope I’ve been able to introduce you to some new women-owned businesses you may not have known about before today. Stay tuned for our next installment in this series, which will highlight more women-owned businesses.



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