International Women’s Day is celebrated throughout the month of March. The movement recognizes the achievements of women and advocates for an end to bias and inequality.
As entrepreneurs and business owners, women face a constant set of challenges. They often need to overcome social expectations while working harder than their male counterparts to secure funding and build networks of support and mentorship.
Throughout the pandemic, many of these challenges have intensified. Work / life balance has been difficult for many parents, but especially for female business owners.
At Meridian, we’re proud to honour the work and success of our female Business Members. This year, we’re shining a light on four local business owners / operators, who have managed to thrive, even while navigating the pandemic.
With the Grain
Located in downtown Guelph, With the Grain is an artisan bakery that features fresh daily bread, bagels, muffins, and scones, along with dazzling cakes and cupcakes for special occasions.
Business owner, Erin Wright, acquired the bakery in April 2020, in the early days of the pandemic. While Erin kept most of the bakery’s original footprint, she has added new recipes and adjusted to pandemic restrictions. She has added curbside pickup and online ordering to keep business thriving.
In 2021, With the Grain was recognized by Three Best Rated® as one of the Top 3 bakeries in Guelph.
Learn more about With the Grain.
Troy Animal Hospital
Based in Sheffield, Ontario, Troy Animal Hospital provides routine and emergency veterinary care. Founded in 2006, the clinic provides care for companion animals, offering medical and preventative services, as well as alternative and complementary therapies.
From the original veterinary practice, owner Paula Dupuy, DVM, has grown her business to include Troy Equine Services and Troy Animal Hospital, serving the Sheffield area and beyond. Dr. Paula believes that providing personalized, compassionate care has been key to her business success.
Learn more about Troy Animal Hospital.
Wyndham House
Wyndham House has been part of the Guelph community for almost 50 years. The non-profit organization works to prevent, reduce, and end youth homelessness in the Guelph area. The volunteer-based organization provides young people (16 to 25) with the services and support they need to overcome housing insecurity.
Debbie Bentley-Lauzon has been the Executive Director of Wyndham House for almost 17 years. Under her guidance, the organization has offered a welcoming environment and inclusive support, without judgement. Debbie and her team have helped to provide countless youth with a safe place to live, meeting both their short- and long-term needs.
Learn more about Wyndham House.
Synergy Sport Therapy
Owned and operated by a dynamic female team, Synergy Sport Therapy provides expert injury assessment, prevention, and rehabilitation for patients in the Guelph area. Serving athletes of all levels, Synergy Sport Therapy offers athletic therapy, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Kristina Milligan, a Certified Athletic Therapist, Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) and Registered Kinesiologist launched Synergy Sport Therapy to help active people get back to the activities they love. In 2021, Lori Stevenson, a Certified Athletic Therapist and RMT, came on board as a co-owner. Together, the women are growing the business to serve the needs of their community.
Learn more about Synergy Sport Therapy.
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