March is Women’s History Month and Albuquerque’s bright and resilient community of motivated and intelligent women have worked hard to provide the perfect playground for you to engage with this empowering holiday. While this list of women-owned businesses just begins to scrape the surface, it's clear that Albuquerque is an ideal destination for celebrating the accomplishments of strong, driven and passionate women. Take a look at this list of women-owned businesses in Albuquerque and start building out your vacation or staycation itinerary today.

National Institute of Flamenco - Eva Encinias

Eva Encinias is a name known all across New Mexico for her important role in the flamenco influence that sets Albuquerque apart from other destinations across the United States. Eva is an American flamenco dancer, choreographer, teacher and business woman. She founded the Festival Flamenco Internacional de Alburquerque in 1987, the National Institute of Flamenco in 1982, and created the flamenco emphasis at the UNM Department of Theatre and Dance. Her dedication and passion for the art of flamenco has shaped Albuquerque’s performing arts culture, allowing the city to become the flamenco capital of the United States. 

Tablao Flamenco

Opera on the Menu

Singer entrepreneurs Jennifer Kuchar and Bailey Barnes launched Opera on the Menu in 2023. This operatic dinner theater brings opera and food together. Guests enjoy intimate live performances by talented artists while eating farm-to-table cuisine. Opera on the Menu partners with chefs in the city to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience you won't soon forget.

Bow & Arrow Brewing - Shyla Sheppard and Missy Begay

Bow & Arrow BrewingThe two owners of this swanky brewery are both Native American women. From the Fort Berthold Reservation in North Dakota, Shyla Sheppard joins forces with Missy Begay from the Dine Reservation in New Mexico to create suds that awaken the soul in an atmosphere that calms the nerves in a thoughtfully Native American-inspired brewery in Albuquerque. Try one of their unique beers for a taste of what these inspiring women bring to the table. 

 

Betty's Bath & Day Spa - Lisa McCulloch

Taking on her second business endeavor as she assumed the role of CEO of Betty's Bath & Day Spa in 2014 and owner in 2015, McCulloch rounded out her 7-year private practice with a step in the leadership direction. Betty's patrons can enjoy an array of luxurious services including soaks, facials, massages, self-care products and much more! 

The Grove Cafe & Market - Lauren Greene

This Albuquerque native's love of food and travel inspired her and co-owner Jason Greene to open a breakfast and lunch eatery in East Downtown that checks all the boxes for modern and inviting with a cravable menu. Her entrepreneurial endeavors don't stop there. Lauren also helped to develop the concept for one of Albuquerque's food halls, the Sawmill Market, located in the Sawmill District. Take one step into either of these properties and you'll experience the dynamic nature of Lauren's sense of creativity and design.

Bedrock Kitchen

An image of Rhoby Schempp, owner of Bedrock Kitchen, wearing eclipse glassesRhoby Schempp is bringing seasonal, organic, on-the-go food to Albuquerque at Bedrock Kitchen. She grew up eating seasonally out of a garden, and it's been a constant in her life since then. Bedrock's menu is a mix of recipes from her childhood, from cookbooks her mother used and from social media. Each dish is made with local and organic ingredients, with vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and dairy free options.

Creativity Warehouse

Tommie Kuykendall dreamed of opening Creativity Warehouse for almost 15 years before finally opening its doors in 2019. She's spent more than three decades being an avid crafter, and has almost 20 years of experience working with clay. Creativity Warehouse is a great place to get your creativity flowing, with art classes and open studio hours to let you create at your own speed.

Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals - Heather Arnold

Heather Arnold Routes BicycleRiding tandem with her business partner and husband, Joshua, Heather Arnold gave life to a bicycle tour and rental company which takes visitors through Albuquerque's unique neighborhoods in a fun and different way that gets their blood pumping and their senses coasting. Since opening her rental and tour company, she has dived head-first into the tourism industry, serving on the Board of Directors of Visit Albuquerque and has been nominated for a number of awards related to the industry. Her business and marketing efforts have truly shaped the visitor experience and given locals a chance to rediscover a love for their hometown. 

Hotel Zazz

Dr. Sharmin Dharas grew up at the University Lodge motel that her parents owned. She recently reimagined the property into Hotel Zazz, a colorful and quirky boutique motel in Nob Hill. You'll spot work from local artists in the lobby and in the rooms. If you tap a golden banana, get whisked away to the Z Lounge speakeasy.

Zendo Art & Coffee - Pilar Westell

Pilar Westell - Zendo Art & CoffeeThis downtown coffee shop brings together style, art, fantastic service and incredible coffee. Owner Pilar Westell opened the coffee shop in 2013 and has worked hard to balance the number of challenging aspects of owning her own business including managing a full staff, dealing with expenses and finances, and dictating products, service, and the reputation of her shop! 

Nikki Zabicki's

For fun, colorful Albuquerque souvenirs, head to Nikki Zabicki's in Old Town. You'll find beautiful art from Nikki herself, along with 20 other local artists. NIkki's art style is influenced by urban and traditional New Mexican art.

From breweries and bed & breakfasts to dance institutions and tours, you’re going to need a good chunk of time to experience all these businesses. As you explore each of these establishments, it's hard not to feel empowered by osmosis! Who are some of the women business owners you know in ABQ? Let us know on Instagram!