Celebrating Women-owned Small Businesses

Celebrating

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES ALONG THE I&M CANAL

The canal towns that line the I&M are packed with exciting boutiques, independent retailers and artisan shops, many of which are owned by enterprising women that have carved bold new niches and become pillars of their local communities. The shops they own are some of the most iconic in the region, ranging from classic establishments that have been drawing shoppers for decades, to new fan favorites specializing in the latest trends. Join us as we highlight some of the many small businesses that are owned, or co-owned, by the I&M Canal’s female entrepreneurs.

 ITISAMAZING 76 N Chicago St, Joliet ItisAmazingThrift.com Head to downtown Joliet’s own ItisAmazing, a boutique appeal and furnishing store with an added personal touch. Employees at ItisAmazing act as knowledgeable personal shoppers, ensuring each customer has an enjoyable and personalized experience. In the store you’ll find something for everyone on your shopping list, browse the shop’s sprawling selection of curated women’s and men’s apparel. The shop never orders more than one of each item, ensuring that each experience in the store is entirely unique and tailor-made.

 BETTY’S 114 W. Washington St., Morris Facebook.com/Bettys104/

This beautiful boutique, nested into a historic storefront in downtown Morris, is packed with vintage charm. Specializing in both women’s vintage and new clothing options, boutique in Downtown Morris, Illinois. Betty’s features clothing from the 1950s to the 1970s, as well as new todays’ hottest trends to complete your wardrobe. Already have the perfect but looking to accessorize? Betty’s includes many accessories including hats and shoes to compliment your outfit.

 TRUE NORTH 539 Bedford Rd, Morris ShopTrueNorth.com

True North knows that shopping can, and should, be an adventure. This 10,000+ square-foot facility, housing more than 70 vendors, has been voted the best antique shop in Grundy Country for six consecutive years. With an accolade like that, you would expect a well curated selection of antiques, but the vendors at True North continue to outdo themselves. Inside you’ll find eclectic affordable items, handpicked vintage clothing, salvaged furniture and supplies for your next restoration project.

 OLEANDERS 304 Liberty St, Morris OleandersBoutique.com

Oleander’s is your destination in downtown Morris for the latest in everyday fashion. Pairing trending items with timeless staples, this boutique is hand-crafting a line of looks that are perfect for any occasion. You’ll find women’s tops, jeans, shoes, dresses and all sorts of accessories in store. From fun and fashionable graphic tees to dresses that are perfect for a night on the town, Oleanders is a must-stop if you’re looking to expand your wardrobe.

•57,000sq.ft. available •Sports Tournaments •CraftFairs Book your2022 Rental Space at the Romeoville Athletic &Event Center 55Phelps Ave.|(815)552-3283

•LargePresentations •Expos •Concessions Available

OV *TV

 LADY DI’S 717 La Salle St, Ottawa LadyDisNow.com

Since 1982, Lady Di’s has been scouring the fashion market to find the latest top-of-line brands to stock in this chic downtown Ottawa storefront. You’ll be treated to a keenly curated selection of apparel, denim, shoes, and accessories, from over 30 brands across the globe. Let Lady Di’s staff of experienced stylists help find you an outfit that exudes quality, uniqueness and high fashion.

 PRAIRIE FOX BOOKS 719 La Salle St, Ottawa PrairieFoxBooks.com

Prairie Fox Books is home to a thoughtfully assembled selection of reading material, spawning nearly any genre you can think of. Thrillers, mysteries, general fiction, historical fiction and graphic novels, for varying age levels, all have sizable sections in-store. You’ll also find the latest bestsellers and shelves of must-read classics and fan-favorites. The store sports a great selection of children’s, middle grade and young adult literature, along with gift items sure to appeal to the avid readers in your life.

 ROCK PAPER SCISSORS 712 La Salle St, Ottawa rockpaperscissors.toys

If you’re shopping with kids in mind, be sure to visit Rock Paper Scissors, the area’s premier family-friendly shopping destination. This fun downtown Ottawa shop specializes in toys, early reader books, games and puzzles from some of the best brand names in the industry. Housed in a former one-screen movie theater, the shop features aisles of items that prove learning and fun don’t have to be mutually exclusive.