Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate

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Hazy Sunshine is a vibrant, creative business founded by Julianna "Jules" in 2023, after years of experimenting with different ideas and refining her focus. Originally called Sew Mod Studios, Jules transitioned to Hazy Sunshine after a summer of searching for the perfect patio umbrella and realizing that she could create something better. Inspired by the nostalgic, perfectly coordinated patio sets of the past, Hazy Sunshine began by offering unique, funky floral umbrellas paired with matching furniture. The name "Hazy Sunshine" came from a weather forecast, pitched by Jules’ marketing guru, Alex, which both immediately loved. Hazy Sunshine is known for its standout outdoor collection, especially the “Season of Sets” and the innovative “Retro Revolve” line, where cushions and pillows are reversible to offer two coordinating designs in one. In addition to cushions and pillows, the brand also offers matching placemats and coasters. For customers seeking something entirely unique, Hazy Sunshine also creates fully custom pieces, often going above and beyond to craft designs that are personal and one-of-a-kind. For Jules, owning a business is about more than just profit; it’s about reviving the art of crafting high-quality, thoughtful products. She embraces the "slow fashion" or "slow decorating" ethos, focusing on making each item with care and precision while ensuring accessibility. Her mission is to nurture this passion for craft, inspiring others to appreciate the artistry in the products they bring into their homes. #SmallBizSalute

Beth McGeough, the owner of Edge of the Woods Raspberry Farm, LLC, established her pick-your-own fruit farm in 2012, located just five miles north of Indianola, offering a convenient drive from Des Moines and surrounding areas. Starting with red raspberries, she quickly expanded her offerings to include blackberries, blueberries, black raspberries, currants, gooseberries, rhubarb, and fruit trees such as cherries and plums. Alongside her husband, Rick, who manages the farm's 65 acres of mature timber and nut trees, Beth also nurtures native prairie land for pollination. Over the years, Beth has grown the farm through word-of-mouth, focusing on sustainable farming practices and providing visitors with an opportunity to pick fully ripened fruit while enjoying the health benefits and outdoor experience. The farm is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, berry-growing advice, and annual blueberry planting class. Customers frequently describe the farm as a magical place, appreciating the well-maintained plants and peaceful ambiance. With a background in business management and experience as a loan officer, Beth finds deep meaning in owning a business. Her mission was solidified after a child, refusing to pick berries, declared, "everyone knows food comes from the grocery store." Beth aims to teach others about the origins of food and the joys of farming. #SmallBizSalute

Marlene Boernsen, the proud owner of Boernsen Bees Honey in Ocheyedan, Iowa, established her business with a mission to offer a healthier, all-natural sweetener for her five children. Combining her family name with the hardworking bees that produce the honey, Boernsen Bees is dedicated to providing premium raw honey products, including their popular liquid and creamed honey. Marlene’s passion for offering a pure, additive-free alternative to sugar drives her commitment to sharing the sweet benefits of natural honey with others. #SmallBizSalute

Meet Natalie Kracht, Founder of the Natural Grind Coffeeshop, a cozy coffee shop and boutique in Iowa. After 20 years in corporate America, mostly in healthcare, she pursued her dream of creating a space for people to eat, connect, and shop. Founded in 2018, The Natural Grind focuses on offering healthier food and beverages, with a commitment to whole ingredients. Known for signature drinks like the "Emy" caramel cold brew and the plant-based "Shortcake" energy drink, the business blends wellness with style. Natalie’s mission is to create a welcoming space where food, fashion, and self-expression inspire visitors. Her motto, "Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire," reflects her passion for both community and creativity. #SmallBizSalute

Erika Willms, owner and founder of Pearls & Lace Boutique in Guthrie Center, Iowa, started her business with a passion for fashion and a drive to build her own dreams. Inspired by the quote, "Build your own dreams or someone else will hire you to build theirs," Erika created a boutique known for its unique handmade jewelry, stylish jeans, and outstanding customer service. Her Boutique Bus Tour, which she started during Covid, has been a huge success, taking ladies on a shopping adventure around Iowa’s small businesses. Erika’s mission is to help women feel confident, as she believes confidence is the most beautiful thing a woman can wear. Watching women light up with compliments on their outfits is her greatest reward. #SmallBizSalute

Kelli Gosch, owner of Bath House Market in Cresco, Iowa, turned her passion for creating handmade bath and body products into a business. What began as a way to soothe her twin's eczema with help from her grandmother grew into her own business. After moving to Iowa, Kelli set up a dedicated space and started customizing products for friends. A suggestion from a friend led her to launch Bath House Market, focusing on fun, soothing products that heal. Kelli's best-selling product is the “Classic Sugar Scrub,” with her whipped soaps and bubble bath bombs becoming customer favorites. She loves balancing her creations with time for her family, especially as her teenager now plays a key role in testing, marketing, and customer service at Bath House Market. Kelli’s mission includes a strong focus on mental health. She believes self-care is not selfish and creates for her entire family, always with the goal of helping others feel better inside and out. #SmallBizSalute

Debbie Blay, a lifelong resident of Red Oak, opened Bee Quilty in November 2023, offering quilting fabrics, patterns, notions, longarm quilting services, and classes. Located just off the downtown square, the store also hosts a monthly *Sip and Share* event for quilters to showcase their projects and exchange ideas. Inspired by her own quilting journey, which began with a beginners’ class with her daughter, Debbie’s goal with Bee Quilty is to provide a local resource for quilters in southwest Iowa. With a growing online fabric business that led to the brick-and-mortar store, Debbie is proud to offer a beautiful selection of fabrics and exceptional customer service. For Debbie, running Bee Quilty is more than a business—it’s a passion. She loves teaching quilting to people of all ages and enjoys building relationships with her customers, helping them find the materials and inspiration they need for their projects. #SmallBizSalute

Mara, Inc., owned by Tiffany Rottinghaus, offers a fresh, friendly, and fashion-forward retail experience that has become a destination for brides and shoppers alike. Located in Charles City, IA, Mara features a curated collection of high-quality bridal gowns, formalwear, and timeless wardrobe staples, with an emphasis on exceptional customer service. Tiffany’s mission is to blend big-city sophistication with small-town charm, creating a unique and memorable shopping experience for every client. In addition to the bridal boutique, Mara also operates Cardigan, a casual clothing store, and Mara Prom, a pop-up shop for special occasion wear. Through her stores and team, Tiffany fosters a welcoming environment where customers feel confident, comfortable, and inspired. For Tiffany, owning Mara is about building community, celebrating beautiful products, and providing an unforgettable retail experience. #SmallBizSalute

Farmer's Daughters Quilts, owned by Sarah Ottesen in Oelwein, IA, is a quilt shop that’s become a gathering place for quilters across the Midwest! Offering a wide selection of high-quality fabrics, patterns, and notions, it’s a one-stop shop for all things quilting. Sarah also runs a popular retreat center where quilters and crafters gather to sew, create, and enjoy quality time with friends and family. Founded in 2019, Farmer’s Daughters Quilts took over a beloved 40-year-old shop, continuing the legacy of its former owner, Lou Ann, while bringing new energy and inspiration to the quilting community. The shop is named in honor of Sarah and her twin sister, the daughters of farmers, who share a deep love for preserving the traditional craft of quilting. At the heart of Farmer's Daughters Quilts is a mission to inspire quilters of all levels, create a welcoming space for learning and growth, and foster connections between fellow crafters. Through their retreat center, they not only support quilters but also boost the local economy by bringing visitors who shop, dine, and explore the area. For Sarah, owning the shop is all about sharing her passion for quilting, building community, and preserving the craft for future generations. #SmallBizSalute

Fine Arts on Fifth Gallery & Studio in Malvern, Iowa, is owned and operated by Emily McQueen, a passionate artist dedicated to fostering creativity in her community. The gallery, which showcases the work of 15 local artists from Iowa and Nebraska, was originally founded in 2016 by Marge Boska. Emily took over the business in 2021, continuing Marge’s vision of providing a cozy and inviting space to connect with art. Known for its unique Open Paint Studio program, Fine Arts on 5th offers a weekly opportunity for people of all ages to create their own artwork for just $5. Participants enjoy step-by-step guidance, access to supplies, and a relaxed, "go at your own pace" atmosphere, making it easy for groups and families to bond over creativity. With a background in elementary art education, Emily is passionate about improving the creative culture by providing affordable, hands-on art experiences for all ages. The gallery’s mission is to offer an engaging, accessible environment where visitors can 1) view local art, 2) tour the studio of a working artist, and 3) create their own piece to take home. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, Fine Arts on 5th is a welcoming space to explore and express your creativity. #SmallBIzSalute