Featured in Trophy Club Neighbors: Women Who Inspire

This year’s International Women’s Day was particularly special, as I had the honor of being featured in Trophy Club Neighbors magazine’s community article, “A Local Celebration of Female Entrepreneurship on International Women’s Day.” Alongside three other inspiring women, we were recognized for our journeys in building businesses rooted in passion, creativity, and perseverance.

I want to extend a huge thank you to Kelly DeRoche, Publisher of Trophy Club Neighbors, for her leadership and dedication to uplifting local entrepreneurs. Her commitment to highlighting small businesses and female leaders in our community makes a meaningful impact, and I’m truly grateful to be part of this feature!

Trophy Club Neighbors Publication March 2025 Cover

Trophy Club Neighbors Publication International Women’s Day Article

Highlighting Fellow Female Entrepreneurs

I was honored to share this spotlight with three incredible women, each leading businesses that bring beauty, creativity, and craftsmanship to our community:

Lisa Russo Chrissy Holland Kelli Kelsey

• Lisa Russo Fine Art – Lisa is a talented artist whose work captures stunning fine art photography and prints that add timeless elegance to any space. Her passion for storytelling through visual art is inspiring! Check out her work at lisarussofineart.com.

• Lilyfield Candles – With a mission to create handcrafted, natural candles, Lilyfield Candles offers beautifully scented products that bring warmth and comfort to any home. Even better? Each candle comes with its own QR link to an inspirational video! Explore their collections at lilyfieldcandles.com or for free shipping purchase at their Amazon storefront.

• Trophy Boards – A business that specializes in custom culinary boards and boxes, perfect for elevating gatherings, events, and special occasions. With high-quality ingredients and stunning presentation, their gourmet creations bring people together through exceptional flavors and artistry. Whether you're hosting, gifting, or indulging, Trophy Boards delivers a memorable dining experience. Learn more at trophy-boards.com.

Supporting Local Women-Owned Businesses

One of the most rewarding parts of being a small business owner is the opportunity to support and uplift other women entrepreneurs in our community. I’ve always believed that when we support each other, we all rise together.

Whether it’s collaborating on projects, cross-promoting, or simply sharing resources, I make it a priority to highlight and recommend other women-led businesses whenever possible. In past blog posts or donation features, I’ve had the pleasure of featuring incredible businesses like 13:2 Events, a locally-owned event planning company; Ninnie and Nanny, a wonderful local boutique focused on handmade baby items and gifts; Flora Glass Art, where the beauty of stained glass creates stunning art; and Rock Solid Performance Horses, a top-tier training facility in Keller Texas dedicated to equine development and performance.

There is something truly special about shopping small and supporting women-led businesses. Every purchase, every referral, and every mention helps these businesses grow, thrive, and continue their amazing work.

Women in Business: The Bigger Picture

Our individual successes are part of something much larger. Women-owned businesses are growing at an incredible rate—and the numbers prove it. As of 2022, women-owned businesses in the U.S. generated an estimated $2.1 trillion in receipts, employed 11.4 million people, and contributed $508.5 billion in annual payroll (census.gov).

Yet, despite this growth, female entrepreneurs still face unique challenges, from securing funding to balancing family responsibilities. That’s why community support matters—when we amplify each other’s voices, we help pave the way for even more women to succeed.

More Than a Business, A Purpose

For me, Wise Market isn’t just a business; it’s a space where art meets storytelling. Every hand-painted banner, bible, custom graduation photo board, and personalized sports ball isn’t just a product—it’s a moment captured, a memory made tangible. This journey started from a deep love of creativity, but it has grown into something much bigger: a way to connect with people, celebrate milestones, and spread joy through art.

Like many small business owners, the road hasn’t always been smooth. Entrepreneurship comes with long nights, self-doubt, and the challenge of balancing passion with practicality. But what keeps me going is knowing that every creation leaving Wise Market carries with it a little bit of heart and a whole lot of love.

The Power of Community & Female-Led Businesses

Being featured in Trophy Club Neighbors reminded me that women in business are a force to be reckoned with. We are creators, problem-solvers, and dream-chasers, navigating challenges with resilience and supporting one another along the way. I am incredibly proud to be part of a local network of female entrepreneurs who uplift, collaborate, and celebrate each other’s successes.

This feature comes on the heels of another exciting milestone—I was also interviewed by Canvas Rebel in January, where I shared more about my journey in business, my creative process, and what drives me as an entrepreneur. You can check out the full interview here: Canvas Rebel Feature.

I hope that through Wise Market, I can inspire others—especially young girls—to pursue their creativity, believe in their ideas, and chase after what sets their hearts on fire.

A Huge Thank You

To everyone who has supported Wise Market—from my customers to my friends and family—thank you for being part of this journey. And to all the fellow female entrepreneurs out there, keep pushing forward. Your vision, your voice, and your work matter.

Here’s to more milestones, more creativity, and more celebrating women in business—today and every day!