Women in Business: 10 Inspiring Entrepreneurs Redefining Success in the F&B Industry

TLDR

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and innovation of women who are shaping industries, building communities, and inspiring change. From breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces to redefining what it means to be a business leader, women entrepreneurs continue to pave the way for future generations.

Women have been pioneers in the food and beverage industry for decades, breaking barriers, building brands, and redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur. Today, technology has given women even more tools to scale their businesses, engage customers, and create unforgettable experiences. From independent coffee houses to boutique bakeries, women are leading the charge in transforming how we experience food and drink.

At Per Diem, we are proud to support and celebrate women entrepreneurs who are utilizing modern technology to build thriving businesses and strong communities. This Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting ten incredible women who have built something truly special. Their stories deserve to be shared, not just because of their success, but because of the passion, heart, and determination behind every cup and every bite.

Let’s meet these inspiring women and explore how they are making a difference.

Evolve Coffee + Matcha 

In a city as rich in culture as New Orleans, Evolve Coffee + Matcha has created a space where change and tradition blend beautifully. Yvonne Pichoff, the visionary behind the brand, has created a brand that reflects adaptability and innovation. Located in New Orleans, Evolve specializes in high-quality coffee and matcha, serving a customer base that values both wellness and convenience.

Her brand is all about embracing change—just like its name suggests. She leveraged Per Diem to offer referral rewards for customers who order through the app. This strategy not only increases customer retention but also encourages word-of-mouth marketing. By making mobile ordering effortless and rewarding, she has ensured that her customers return for both their caffeine fix and the seamless experience.

Sheri’s Coffee House 

Sheri’s Coffee House has become a beloved part of its Ohio community, known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully curated seasonal drinks. Their ability to stay on top of trends while maintaining consistency in customer service is what sets them apart.

A significant part of Sheri’s success comes from their smart use of mobile ordering. They have seamlessly integrated their app into their operations, allowing customers to customize their drinks with an array of modifiers, order ahead, and skip the wait. Whether it’s their current seasonal offerings like Banana Bread Chai or Nutty Irishman, Sheri’s ensures that customers can always get their favorites, just the way they like them.

Coffee Dose 

With its pink branding, witty marketing, and bold personality, Coffee Dose is a whole movement. Jeni Castro and her husband have created a coffee brand that is as unapologetic as it is beloved, attracting a community that appreciates both great coffee and strong branding.

But beyond the aesthetics, Coffee Dose is a masterclass in customer engagement through technology. They use the Per Diem app not just for ordering but for real-time communication with customers, responding to reviews, and sending personalized push notifications. Their rewards system also ensures that every visit feels valuable, keeping customers engaged both online and in-store. 

Romero’s on Main 

Brittany and Anthony Romero founded Romero’s on Main with a vision to create more than just a coffee shop—it’s a gathering place where quality coffee and fresh mini donuts bring people together. Their café has become a local favorite inEnnis, Texas , known for its warm atmosphere and handcrafted offerings.

Embracing technology without losing the personal touch, Brittany uses the Per Diem app to enhance customer experience with a fun loyalty program, mobile ordering, curbside pick-up, and Apple Pay integration. Customers can stay connected through app updates on seasonal flavors and exclusive promotions, ensuring every visit feels rewarding. By blending tradition with innovation, Romero’s on Main has built a community-driven brand that keeps customers coming back.

Whisk & Arrow

For Nea Hahn and her husband, Pat, baking is an art, and Whisk & Arrow Sugar Studio is their canvas. Since 2017, their boutique bakery has been offering scratch-made, high-quality baked goods, making Appleton, Wisconsin, a little sweeter. Their dedication to using only the finest ingredients has earned them a reputation for excellence, drawing in both locals and visitors who appreciate handcrafted treats made with care.

Understanding that customer engagement goes beyond just great products, Whisk & Arrow uses the app to offer store credit, exclusive app-only deals, and a “Spin the Wheel” feature for rewards. These perks keep their customers excited and engaged, ensuring that every purchase comes with an added touch of fun. With mobile ordering and loyalty rewards, they’ve made it easier than ever for customers to indulge in their favorite pastries while feeling like a valued part of the Whisk & Arrow community.

Boba Bliss 

Founded by two sisters and their significant others, Boba Bliss is a family-owned business built on a love for boba and exceptional customer service. Their mission is simple—deliver delicious, high-quality beverages while making every visit a memorable experience. Their signature drinks, made from premium ingredients, have helped them build a strong following, but it’s their commitment to customer experience that truly sets them apart.

To create a seamless ordering process, they use mobile ordering, allowing customers to skip the line, pay effortlessly with Apple Pay, and take advantage of seasonal promotions. The sisters also engage their community with exciting giveaways, like their Valentine’s Day contest, which strengthens customer loyalty and keeps their audience excited for what’s next. Through innovation and connection, Boba Bliss has built a loyal base that returns not just for the drinks but for the experience of being part of a brand that values them.

Café Blue

For Olivia Orlando, Café Blue is a home away from home for her customers. Located in Syracuse, NY, Café Blue was built on the idea that a coffee shop should be a place where people can connect, unwind, and feel a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a cozy morning coffee or a sweet treat from her dessert food truck, Blueberries & Lace, Olivia has made it her mission to bring people together over handcrafted flavors and heartfelt hospitality.

What makes Café Blue stand out is how Olivia seamlessly blends community-building with modern convenience. Customers can order ahead, pay effortlessly, and skip the wait through their Per Diem app, making it easy to grab their favorite drinks on the go. She also keeps customers engaged with personalized app updates, seasonal specials, and exclusive promotions—ensuring that everyone stays in the loop. Café Blue isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a place where people feel welcome, valued, and eager to come back.

My Half of The Sky 

At My Half of The Sky, every cup of coffee tells a story of resilience, empowerment, and hope. Founded by Renee Pollino, this Wheaton, IL-based coffee shop is a mission-driven space dedicated to providing opportunities for people overcoming poverty, trafficking, and injustice. Through job creation and fair wages, My Half of The Sky is changing lives one cup at a time.

But supporting a cause doesn’t mean sacrificing convenience. Through the Per Diem app, customers can easily order ahead, pay with a tap, and stay updated on events and fundraisers. Whether they stop in for a coffee, buy handmade goods from marginalized artisans, or attend an awareness event, every visit has a greater purpose. Customers don’t just come here for the coffee—they come because they believe in what it stands for.

Luliet Bakery 

For Nelia Shehaj, Luliet Bakery is the fulfillment of a lifelong passion for baking and creativity. Located in The Woodlands, TX, Luliet specializes in one-of-a-kind baked goods and handcrafted ice cream, offering a menu filled with bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. From macarons to indulgent ice cream sandwiches, everything at Luliet is made with love, artistry, and a commitment to excellence.

Nelia has also embraced technology to enhance the customer experience. Through the app, customers get access to exclusive discounts, loyalty rewards, and app-only promotions. Unlike third-party delivery platforms that inflate prices, Luliet ensures customers get the best value by offering the same in-store pricing on direct app orders. This smart approach not only keeps customers happy but also strengthens their relationship with the bakery—proving that delicious treats and great customer experience go hand in hand.

Prickly Boba

Ashley’s journey with Prickly Boba started in 2021 with a small camper, traveling to events and serving up delicious, handcrafted boba drinks. But what started as a mobile passion project quickly grew into two successful storefronts, proving that great branding, customer connection, and creativity can turn a small idea into a thriving business. With its fun pink aesthetic, signature seasonal drinks like Prickly Pear Lemonade and Malibu Barbie Prickly Boost, and a commitment to quality, the brand has captured the hearts of boba lovers everywhere.

To keep customers engaged, Ashley has also utilized modern tech to offer mobile ordering, loyalty rewards, and exclusive discounts. Customers can stay updated on seasonal menus, earn points for every purchase, and enjoy personalized perks that make every visit feel special. By combining eye-catching branding, innovative flavors, and seamless tech integration, Prickly Boba has created a community of devoted fans who love to share their experiences—both in-store and online.

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Final Thoughts

These ten remarkable women have shown that success is not just about great products—it’s about passion, innovation, and the ability to connect with customers in meaningful ways. Through their creativity, dedication, and willingness to embrace modern tools, they have built brands that stand out and continue to thrive.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s take a moment to support and share the stories of these inspiring entrepreneurs. Their journeys remind us that when women lead, industries evolve, and communities grow stronger. Whether you’re a loyal customer, a fellow business owner, or someone with a dream, their stories prove that with the right vision and the right tools, success is within reach.

If you're a woman entrepreneur in coffee or baking, now is the time to leverage technology and build something amazing. Sign up today and the future is yours to create.

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