First authored by Alyssa Morlacci, this blog has been refreshed by Melissa Puppo with updated insights and recommendations.
 

Looking to experience the heart and soul of Greater Fort Lauderdale? Start with the incredible women who help make this slice of paradise unforgettable. From cozy beachside cafés to trendy boutiques and confidence-boosting dance studios, female entrepreneurs are the driving force behind some of our most beloved local spots.

Ann's Florist, Coffee & Wine Bar

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ann's floristIt’s hard to visit Las Olas Boulevard and not be captivated by Ann's Florist, Coffee & Wine Bar. Kim Fuentes is the floral designer and gift buyer of this celebrated outpost that’s drawn a steady flow of patrons for decades. Come for the artisan coffee and delectable pastries, and stay to pick out a bespoke floral arrangement for that someone special. 

Aunt Jenn's Tea & Spice Shop

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Jennifer Malone Fidel's path to becoming Greater Fort Lauderdale's favorite teaologist started with memories of her granny brewing sun tea on an Alabama back porch. Drawing from her New Orleans-area roots and passion for Cajun flavors, this aunt of 15 nieces and nephews opened her charming shop in 2011. Now a certified herbalist, she crafts custom spice blends and curates an impressive selection of teas available for purchase.

Voted Best Tea Shop in the 2024 Miami New Times Reader’s Choice Awards, her business began as a weekend favorite at Yellow Green Farmers Market and has since expanded to a dedicated shop in Wilton Manors.

From the Top FTL

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Woman-owned From The Top Dance Studio brings a vibrant spark to downtown Fort Lauderdale. Its fierce trio of leaders has created a confidence-boosting sanctuary. Offerings include classes from heels to chair dance, welcoming both beginners and seasoned dancers to explore movement in an empowering, judgment-free environment.

 

JB&C Juice Bar

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Potted plants are scattered throughout this light-drenched cafe, where you can pop in and order everything from smoothies and acai bowls to sandwiches and salads. Amanda Lynn opened JB&C Juice Bar in the MASS District in 2018 with the mission to bring healthy, convenient, and delicious fare to downtown Fort Lauderdale. 

Jolly Ice Parlor

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If you’re visiting Hollywood, make a beeline to visit Crystal Diaz’s Jolly Ice Parlor for some seriously delicious ice cream and dessert concoctions. This isn't your typical ice cream shop—it's an interactive dessert wonderland where visitors can indulge in everything from candy-topped frozen ice to decadent milkshakes and fresh funnel cakes. The woman-owned parlor is a feast for all senses, complete with retro video games and Instagram-worthy surprises around every corner. 

Las Olas Gondola

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Las Olas GondolaThe city of Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America,” so it’s only appropriate for gondolas to cruise down the canals. Martha Lenoir-Beachem, owner of Las Olas Gondola, oversees a fleet of boats and a team of gondoliers who don black pinstripe shirts as they steer along the Intracoastal Waterway with passengers on board who are enjoying romantic picnics at sunset.

LoveLee Bake Shop

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LoveLee Bake Shop

Love Lee had always imagined opening a bakery of her own in Fort Lauderdale and did just that in 2017. Her namesake bakery churns out made-fresh cakes, cupcakes and signature treats in various designs. It’s the perfect spot to visit when you’re craving a moment of pure indulgence or looking to surprise someone with a taste of Fort Lauderdale's finest. 

Montce Swim

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Montce Swim

You may have spotted her bikini designs on A-listers like Kendall Jenner, Sydney Sweeney, Jennifer Lopez, and Emily Ratajkowski. Alexandra Grief created Montce Swim after a trip to Costa Rica over a decade ago. Taking inspiration from the effortless, mix-and-match swimwear she saw the female surfers sporting, she started making custom bikinis for her friends. Now, you can shop her separates, one-pieces, accessories, athleisure, and even kid’s swimmies online or at the Montce Swim storefront in Fort Lauderdale.     

My Mama's Books Records & Cafe

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My Mama’s Books Records & CafeJulia Harrison curated My Mama’s Books Records & Cafe in Dania Beach to honor her mother, Susan, and to build a space where books, music, and community come together. This one-of-a-kind shop boasts new and pre-loved books, collectible records, and a café serving fresh, comforting bites. Stop by to browse signed editions, uncover a new favorite vinyl, or soak in the sounds of live music, all while celebrating the joy of storytelling in all its forms.

New River Fine Art

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A Las Olas Boulevard mainstay, New River Fine Art has housed artworks by famous visual artists such as Banksy, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol. For over two decades, owner Lisa Burgess has been on a mission to fill the space with museum-quality art. During your next stroll down the iconic street, pop into the gallery to admire everything from original Impressionist works to contemporary sculptures, paintings, and glass art. 

Regina’s Farm

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1000 Mermaids Regina's FarmIf you’re searching for authentic eats in an intimate setting, we know just the place. Regina Rodrigues cooks up Brazilian farm-to-table feasts right in the backyard of her Sailboat Bend home most Saturdays and Sundays. One of the most coveted reservations in town, Regina’s Farm has an average waitlist of two years—so plan ahead if you want to experience it.

More than just a meal, Regina’s Farm is a family-friendly gathering spot where kids can meet chickens and rabbits, roast s’mores, and enjoy the welcoming backyard atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to BYOB, making it the perfect setting for a laid-back and memorable evening.

Sarah Glass Ceramics

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Sarah Glass CeramicsSince founding her studio in Fort Lauderdale in 2016, Sarah Glass has created an inviting space where beginners and seasoned artists can get their hands dirty and explore the art of pottery making. The studio offers classes, workshops, courses, and memberships, as well as additional creative experiences like candle-making.

Small Wine Shop

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Small Wine ShopCo-owner Tracy Pell is behind Flagler Village’s quaint wine shop, home to wines that are natural, organic, biodynamic, or of low-intervention methods. Since 2020, it’s become a welcoming hub for enophiles and curious newcomers alike. Whether you're looking to expand your wine knowledge through one of their intimate tasting experiences or seeking the perfect bottle to celebrate a special occasion, Small Wine Shop offers a refreshingly unpretentious approach to fine wine.

The Soulful Steep

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The Soulful SteepSelf-dubbed “a home for your inner hippie,” The Soulful Steep in Pompano Beach is equal parts serene salt cave, charming tea/coffee shop, and enchanting emporium filled with locally sourced goods. Owner Christina Abresch is behind this trifecta of tranquility in the heart of what locals know as "Old Town."

The Wander Shop

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Marisa Folz, The Wander ShopIt all began in 2016 when Marisa Folz started selling her funky finds out of a 1963 Airstream trailer she bought and parked at Eucalyptus Gardens in Wilton Manors. Aptly named for its wanderability, The Wander Shop now has a permanent storefront in Oakland Park where you can browse women’s and men’s apparel, accessories, and gifts, which Folz has carefully curated from small and local brands.