I recently found out a startling bit of information that had my blood boiling. In America, women could not receive a business loan without a male cosigner until 1989. Until 1989. Sally Ride could go make history by being the first US woman in space, come back, walk into a bank, and be denied a loan without a husband or male relative helping her out. 

Since the Women’s Business Ownership Act passed, female-owned businesses account for almost 40% of all businesses, and 36% of all small businesses. That number reflects millions of women who are making a name for themselves, often while juggling family responsibilities. And yet, women-owned businesses tend to face struggles when getting funding, borrowing at higher interest rates that their male counterparts. They tend to be more part-time entrepreneurs, using options like Etsy to get their business off the ground. In fact, 83% of Etsy sellers identified as female in a 2019 poll.

As Mother’s Day approaches, I find myself thinking of all the women I see hustling to provide for their families, those girlbosses who are focusing on their big dreams, and those managing to do both. At the Pearl, we support other women-owned businesses through our retail selections, partnering with both local and international companies to provide the best in spa and skincare products. If you’re looking for a unique gift this year for Mother’s Day, check out some of these offerings we carry from women-owned businesses:

While there are still many battles to be fought for equality, the small steps we take to support women-owned businesses and endeavors can empower other and help to lift us all together. The social impacts that these small businesses support, whether environmental efforts, fair trade agreements, or even clean simple living, send ripples throughout the communities and provide so much more than just a unique gift for mom this Mother’s Day.

Don’t forget, Mother’s Day is May 9th! We have some really incredible package offerings available to celebrate mom, so be sure to check out our limited-time Mother’s Day Packages.

We want to hear how much your mom means to you— share a photo or story about how incredible/hilarious/embarassing your mom is on social media with the hashtag #PearlMotherMoments and tag the Pearl Day Spa. You’ll be entered to win a free Mother’s Day Package, valued at $170-$200. One lucky winner will be announce on May 7th, so be sure to post soon!