March is Women’s History Month and Northwest Bank, B103 and the Rock River Current are saluting women owned and operated businesses right here in the Stateline. You can hear these women’s stories on air and get to know them — and their businesses — through videos, pictures and more on our social media pages and websites. It is brought to you by Northwest Bank: The power of yes, 50 years in the making.
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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Business: Sugar Britches
Owner: Jodi May
Location: 115 W. Main St., Rockton
Tell us about yourself and your business:
I own an old-fashioned candy store and confectionery in downtown Rockton. I opened the physical location in December 2015 but did markets and shows for two years prior. We sell gourmet, handmade caramels, toffee, truffles as well as all the candies you remember from your childhood.
What inspired you to start your business?
When I moved to Rockton in 2008, I fell in love with the village. Our downtown is small, quaint and “Norman Rockwell.” Christmas Walk weekend is my favorite weekend of the year and the epitome of small town life. When I lost my job in 2014, I decided to open a small business in Rockton and a friend suggested an old fashioned candy store, which seemed perfect. It would fit right in with the downtown. So with the help of some friends, I learned how to make candy and went from there.
What’s it like being a female business owner here in the Stateline?
I love it. Whenever I walk into my store, I feel an overwhelming sense of love, pride and accomplishment. It’s allowed me to fully commit to my community and offered the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people.
Related: Saluting Women Owned Businesses in the Stateline: Secondhand Curves
What advice would you give to a woman wanting to start her own business?
Get a business advisor. Network. Embed yourself in the community and make sure you have a good support system. Start small and build.
Who or what has been your biggest support system as a female business owner in the community?
I have been so lucky to have so many organizations and people supporting me. Rockton leadership and its residents, my fellow female business owners, my bankers and my employees, who are amazing and help the store run smoothly.
What are the biggest challenges/advantages to being a female business owner?
COVID has been a big challenge for us. Navigating our direction of growth has also been a challenge. For me personally, because I also work at a full time job, it’s balancing time.