Women Who Mean Business: Hilton Village’s Female Entrepreneurs

This is more than a business … it’s a family legacy. Owned by Karen Gray and her three daughters, this beloved Hilton Village shop has been part of their lives for decades. Karen once managed the store for 22 years before officially taking ownership to keep its doors open. Now, with her daughters at the helm, ACT II continues to offer stylish, high-quality consignment finds while welcoming every customer like family.

The owner of Indulge Bakery and Bistro is bringing something new to Historic Hilton Village! Known for her European-inspired café (Indulge Bakery and Bistro), Michele Smith is preparing to open Bisou Bar & Bistro – an American eatery with a French twist – in 2025. While construction has presented some unexpected hurdles, progress continues toward creating a stylish and inviting space. Once structural updates are complete, interior work will begin, bringing Michele’s vision to life.

Indulge Bakery and Bistro, a charming European-style café in Hilton Village, is the first dream realized by Michele Smith. Inspired by her French mother’s cooking, Michele brings made-from-scratch pastries, custom cakes, and savory dishes like croissant sandwiches and French onion soup to life. The cozy space, with its welcoming wall of windows and outdoor seating, is a community hub where locals gather for breakfast, lunch, and special events.

This shop is a shining example of women-led business success in Hilton Village. Owned by interior decorator Karan Mulkey and her daughter, Allison Hund, this female-run consignment shop has been a favorite for home décor, furniture, and local artwork since 2002. With ever-changing inventory, carefully styled displays, and a welcoming atmosphere, this mother-daughter team has built a business that keeps customers coming back.

For Megan Ariano, baking is a lifelong passion. After perfecting recipes with her husband, she introduced Spuntini at the Hilton Village Farmers Market in 2023. Encouraged by the community, she soon expanded into a storefront nearby, where she now shares Mediterranean-inspired baked goods and gourmet treats. With her retired-Navy husband by her side, Megan has turned her love of baking into a growing business.

For Beth DuBois, design has always been second nature. Rearranging furniture as a child sparked a lifelong passion that eventually led her to open The Designery Company in Historic Hilton Village. What started as an interior design service grew into a shop filled with home décor and artisan pieces. Beth’s approach is all about creating spaces that feel inviting and personal, whether it’s through design projects or small touches.

The Georgia Peach brings Southern charm to Hilton Village, thanks to owner Claire Ethridge’s passion for bows, ruffles, and fashion that flatters all ages. Opened in December 2022, this boutique is a dream turned reality, offering clothing, shoes, home décor, gifts, and more. With themed rooms, including a lemon-filled favorite, Claire has created a shopping experience that reflects her personal style and love for boutiques.

What started as a fun weekend hobby for four friends – two of them women – became Hilton Village’s go-to spot for handcrafted ice cream. The Hilton Creamery offers more than two dozen flavors, from Cappuccino Crunch to Midnight Caramel River. Whether you stop by for a scoop, build an ice cream sandwich, or book their cart for a special event, this locally owned shop brings sweet traditions to the community.

Marnie Dashwood turned a simple mint-colored sweater into a brand – and now it’s a boutique in Hilton Village! The Mint Sweater is all about comfort, offering trendy yet cozy clothing in sizes small to 3X. From sweaters and dresses to jewelry and accessories, each piece reflects Marnie’s vision of warmth and easy style. Step inside, and you’ll find more than fashion – you’ll find a place that makes shoppers feel at home!