Did you know that it wasn't until 1988 that women could own businesses?
Nineteen Eighty Eight!
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​The surge of business applications in the United States since 2029.  From 2021–2023, entrepreneurs filed 5.2 million "likely employer" applications.  From 2019 to 2023, women-owned businesses’ growth rate outpaced the rate of mens. (https://newsroom.wf.com).  Tahoe is riding the same wave of change. Women are opening businesses that align with their passions and love for their mountain home.

There is no shortage of things to do, places to visit and views to take in at Lake Tahoe.  While you’re doing so, consider supporting the local “women-owned” economy.  Eat, drink, shop and experience Tahoe at our favorite spots that are owned, run and curated by Tahoe local females.

If your day begins with coffee we recommend visiting Cuppa Tahoe.  Sandra has curated a quaint bookstore with coffee, tea, small bites and many surprises.  Warm up with coffee, tea and tasty baked goods while you read a book or enjoy a conversation with current friends or meet new people.

Diane Guth seamlessly blends cuisines of traditional American dishes with Mexican and Italian breakfast and lunch options, offering an extensive variety of delicious plates, making Getaway Cafe’ an alpine-comfort food destination and the perfect spot to fulfill all your brunching goals.

For a warming Autumn lunch head over to Nikki’s Chaat Cafe. This woman owned business is rooted in history.  Palak Shah’s grandparents operated a restaurant in India. It was one-of-a-kind because of its distinct flavor and formula.  Enjoy healthy foods and a welcoming environment as you refuel for the day’s activities.

Grab a mid-day sip and a snack at The Cork and More. This well curated shop and deli boasts a wide variety of local and international wines, delicious cheeses, lovingly built sandwiches and delicious salads. Karla has the difficult task of running the shop and taste testing the wines and cheeses. We trust every selection she makes.

 For your final meal of the day hit up South Lake Brewery’s Libation Lodge or Maria’s Mexican Restaurant. Both have delicious foods, but you’ll have to make the decision between beer and burgers or authentic, fresh Mexican plates. The women who own these restaurants are passionate about Tahoe and offering high quality food experiences.

​Tahoe women are active, adventurous and resilient.  If you choose to join an adventure or experience with one of our women-owned companies you’ll feel welcomed, supported and challenged to try new things.

Awaken with a wander and mindful movement.  Forest Bathing and Flower Wanders are opportunities to engage with nature mindfully. While your guide leads and educates you about the plants, trees and environment that makes Tahoe unique, you’ll get to be up close and personal as you touch, smell and even taste the things that grow in our beautiful basin.  Bliss Experiences is a women-owned wellness company that collaborates with local providers who are passionate about sharing and educating everyone about our unique forests.

There is no bad time to be outside in Lake Tahoe. As the conditions shift we adjust our gear and choose different activities to continue to play outdoors. For experienced explorers, activities on the water never end.  Clearly Tahoe, owned by Kelsey Weist, is an adventure company that allows you a unique view of the water as you paddle clear kayaks.  If you’re more into being on solid ground, ride a bike to the beach or around town to explore other women-owned businesses.

Get cozy on a yoga mat with a few blankets, pillows and the gentle vibrations of crystal singing bowls. There are a variety of offerings of sound healing in the basin. Independent providers can be found offering their services at the yoga studios and wellness centers. We recommend booking a private session with Lake Tahoe Yoga that includes a guided relaxation session followed by a sound bath. They call it “Divine Rest.”

Cruise Lake Tahoe with women owned companies including Lake Tahoe Boat Rides, Tahoe Tastings and Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave cruises.  Sip and soak in the views, cruise the shoreline and snap photos while on a yacht with Lyndsay, Diondra and Laura’s boating companies. These women know how to create memories on the water.

Of course, you’ll have to bring home something to remember your adventures and maybe pick up some gifts for your friends and family. Our female founders have curated collections that match everyone’s taste and spotlight the natural magic of the basin.

At Gaialicious and Wildwood ask Kelly and Lisa about their favorite artisans and crafters. They carry locally sourced items that are made with care and intention by area creators.  You can bring home a new outfit from Savvy, Sidestreet Boutique, Sealed with a Kiss (SWAK) or Malena Boutique.  Each of these shops carries clothing and goods that are selected by Tahoe women who are passionate about helping you find your unique style.

Jana Spano owns On Tahoe Time, a shop that carries Tahoe-focused goods including candles, pictures and unique pieces you can bring home to add a little of the lake to your home decor.  Allow yourself time to wander and peruse, there’s so much to check out in this little shop.

If you’re not into goods, you may want to capture a few Tahoe moments in photos. While selfies are great, a professional photographer will make sure the time, place and light is right for the most perfect snapshots.  There are many options to choose from and everyone has their own perspective and style. Our favorite women photographers are Lauren Lindley, Starscape Studios and Indigo Photography. These women know and love Tahoe which means they can show you secret spots and recommend the best time of day to capture your perfect pose.

​As you plan your Autumn and Winter adventures to Lake Tahoe be sure to consider which women owned businesses you’ll be supporting. Contact them early and book your experiences ahead of time. They’ll be ready and excited to share their passion for Tahoe and love of their business with you.

Go solo. My husband loves a dawn ski trip and I enjoy a morning paddle. As much as we like to do these things together, it’s also nice to spend time alone. My natural rhythm is to wake with the sun and birds, so I'm often up and out for a run, bike ride or paddle during the Summer months. In the Winter months, an alarm reminds us to wake and play. The best thing about being in Lake Tahoe is you can have a multi-sport day, any day of the year. Book the first tee time of the day, then go for a mountain bike ride and finish your day with a swim in the lake.  You can also ski in the morning, road cycle in the afternoon and end your day with a boat cruise and wine tasting.
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Rising early sets you up for a full day at Lake Tahoe. Access adventure, peacefulness, nature and food. For those of you that are like me and wake with the sun and birds, go outside and play! For visitors, at least once during your stay, set your alarm for before dawn and experience a Tahoe morning.