Celebrating Women's History Month: Exploring Burlington's Soda Plant
Did you know that 65 percent of the businesses in the Soda Plant are woman-owned? As Women's History Month comes to a close, it's the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the vibrant community of women-owned businesses nestled within the historic Soda Plant in Burlington, Vermont. From artisanal jewelry to gourmet pickles, this creative hub is brimming with entrepreneurial spirit and female empowerment. Come with us as we take a tour of five remarkable businesses making moves in the South End.
Soapbox Arts
Our adventure begins at Soapbox Arts, a gallery of creativity curated by owner and director, Patricia Trafton. This community space showcases a kaleidoscope of contemporary art from local, regional, and international artists. From mixed media mosaics to thought-provoking sculptures, each piece tells a unique story. Step inside and prepare to have your perspective flipped upside down—in the best possible way!
Rackk & Ruin Jewelry
For jewelry lovers seeking one-of-a-kind treasures, Rackk & Ruin Jewelry is a hidden gem worth discovering. Founded by the talented designer Molly Conant, this boutique studio specializes in handcrafted jewelry with an emphasis on perpetuity and durability. Each piece is hand crafted using ethically sourced materials, resulting in timeless creations that reflect the wearer's individuality and spirit. From delicate necklaces to statement earrings, Rackk & Ruin Jewelry is a testament to the enduring allure of artisanal craftsmanship.
Pitchfork Pickle
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure at Pitchfork Pickle, where founder and pickle enthusiast Julia Irish is on a mission to redefine the art of pickling using locally sourced Vermont produce and traditional fermentation techniques. Whether you crave classic dill pickles or daring kimchi, Pitchfork Pickle offers a tantalizing array of artisanal preserves guaranteed to tickle your palate!
Explore Designs
Step into the world of Explore Designs, where founder and designer Emelia Prince Ruyle draws inspiration from travel, nature, and color to create exquisite hand dyed silks. Each piece expresses Ruyle's passion for craftsmanship and her appreciation for the earth, featuring sustainable materials and small dye baths. With Explore you're getting more than a piece of clothing. You're curating a unique sustainable wardrobe, supporting a one-woman business, and wearing a piece of art that is unlike any other.
Brio Coffeeworks
No tour of the Soda Plant would be complete without a visit to Brio Coffeeworks, where founder and coffee connoisseur Magda Van Dusen is dedicated to crafting coffees that ignite the senses and inspire creativity. With a focus on sustainability and quality, Brio Coffeeworks sources beans from small-scale farmers around the globe, roasting them to perfection to unlock their full potential. Whether you prefer a bold espresso or a smooth pour-over, each cup of Brio coffee is a reflection of Van Dusen's commitment to excellence and her passion for sharing the joy of coffee with the world.
The Soda Plant isn't just a hub of creativity...
It stands as a powerful force of the unstoppable spirit of women entrepreneurs! So, as we bid adieu to Women's History Month, let's raise a glass for these fierce females who are leaving their mark on Burlington and beyond. Here's to women supporting women and making strides in every sip and pickle! Cheers!
Check out all the other amazing women-owned businesses in the Soda Plant by clicking the button below!