2025 DMV Business Magazine Q2 : simplebooklet.com

EDITOR'SLetterAbout DMVEmpoweredBusiness MagazineFormerly known as DMV Business Magazine, our publication has evolved—just like the community we serve. We are proud to introduce DMV Empowered Business Magazine, the official magazine of My Natural Me, where business meets purpose and legacy takes center stage.This shift reflects our deepened commitment to not only highlight businesssuccess, but to celebrate impact-driven entrepreneurs, community leaders,and visionaries who are building with intention, breaking barriers, andempowering others along the way.Each issue will spotlight the people, stories, and strategies shaping the futureof business in the DMV—and beyond—with a focus on equity, leadership,wellness, and empowerment.We don’t just share success—we share stories that move you.Liletta HarlemPresident, My Natural Mewww.mynaturalme.org4 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TECH NEEDS herHOW BLACK WOMEN ARE REDEFINING THE CYBER &ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LANDSCAPE IN THE DMVTechnology is transforming the DMV economy. From cybersecurity to artificialintelligence (AI), innovation is driving new jobs, industries, and opportunitiesacross the region. Yet despite this growth, Black women remain significantlyunderrepresented in these high-growth fields.In a region like Washington, DC, a national tech hub anchored by federalagencies, leading contractors, and world-renowned institutions, diversifyingthe tech workforce is essential. Beyond race and gender, a truly resilienteconomy is built on a wide variety of fields and occupations. As federalcutbacks persist, investing in tech sectors like cybersecurity and AI is morethan smart—it's necessary.For Black women, entering these fields in 2025 offers a chance to reshapecareer trajectories, increase economic mobility, and fuel broader diversityefforts. With intention and support, we can open doors to a future where Blackwomen not only participate but lead.5 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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6 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINECAREER OPPORTUNITIESADDRESSING BARRIERSThe cybersecurity and AI sectors are booming, and the need for skilledprofessionals has never been greater. Black women entering these fields canaccess a wide range of opportunities:Security awareness training, help desk positions with securityresponsibilities, and data labeling for AI projects.Risk management, security auditing, incident response, and AI-focusedbusiness analysis.Security architecture, machine learning engineering, and AI strategyconsulting.Local resources such as community colleges, universities, and specializedtraining programs provide pathways to gain certifications and build expertise.While opportunities exist, Black women often face unique barriers incybersecurity and AI. Addressing these challenges is critical to creating a moreinclusive industry:Importantly, these opportunities aren't just for recent graduates. Withbootcamps, degree programs, and online certifications in programming,networking, cloud computing, and analytical skills, Black women at every careerstage can pivot into tech.Access to Quality Education:Expanding robust STEM programsin public schools and localcolleges.Bias and Discrimination: Buildingequitable workplaces and holdingtech companies accountable.Mentorship and Networking:Launching mentorship programsspecifically for Black women.Entry-Level RolesMid-Career RolesAdvanced RolesUpskilling and Training:Offering affordable certificationprograms and accessiblecontinuing education options.Representation matters. SeeingBlack women succeed in techleadership roles inspires thenext generation and breaksdown long-standing barriers.

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7 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINELOCAL INITIATIVES AND GROWTHPrince George's County is emerging as a vital hub for tech innovation. Localinitiatives, training programs, and mentorship opportunities are laying thegroundwork for a more diverse tech ecosystem.Professional organizations like Black Gov Tech (www.blackgovtech.com),VetsGroup.org, and Blacks United in Leading Technology(www.builtinternational.org) offer mentorship, education, and community forBlack women at every level of their tech journey.Cybersecurity and AI represent vital pathways for Black women in theWashington, DC region. By leveraging local resources, addressing systemicbarriers, and amplifying representation, we can build a future where Blackwomen not only enter the tech field—they thrive in it.The future of tech in the DMV is being written now. Will you help make sure itincludes everyone?CHERISSE RIVERADMV TECHIE & CULTURE PLUG

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8 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINESIP, CELEBRATE& SoarHOW ONE BLACK WOMAN IS REDEFINING LUXURY EVENTSIn a world that doesn’t always roll out the red carpet for Black women, Idecided to throw down a velvet one of my own—curated with soul, draped inculture, and rooted in joy.What started as a dream to create joy-centered spaces for our community hasgrown into a DMV-based entertainment company specializing in luxuryexperiences that celebrate Black culture, community, and soul care.Our signature event, Rosé in the Garden, is more than just a picnic party—it’s avibe, a movement, and a living toast to the beauty of Black joy. On July 19th,2025, at Brookside Gardens in Maryland, we’ll gather in elegance to sip, laugh,dance, and simply be.But behind the scenes of the curated tablespaces, live music, and flowing rosélies the real story: a journey marked by bold vision, relentless resilience, andcountless “figure-it-out” moments

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9 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINETHE DREAM WAS NEVER JUST A PARTYGLAMOROUS ON THE ‘GRAM,GRITTY BEHIND THE SCENESRosé in the Garden was born from a longing to create spaces where we couldshow up fully—as our authentic, joyful, luxurious selves. Too often, mainstreamevent spaces and festivals don't reflect our narratives or value our presence. Iwanted to flip that script. I wanted our stories, style, and spirits to not only beseen but celebrated.That vision took form in outdoor experiences wrapped in cultural expression—where wellness, style, and Blackness intertwine. But turning that dream into abusiness? That’s a whole other story.Let’s talk about the real: entrepreneurship is beautiful—but it’s also hard,especially when you’re Black, female, and funding yourself in an industry builton connections you weren’t born into.Funding has been one of the biggest hurdles. Investors often seek fast-scalingtech startups, not experience-centered ventures rooted in culture andcommunity. Traditional funding pathways are often locked behind red tape.In the DMV, while there’s a growing ecosystem for Black entrepreneurs,experience-based businesses like mine often have to self-fund, crowdsource,and build strategic local partnerships just to get off the ground.Sponsorships are another battlefield. While brands love to champion "diversityand inclusion" publicly, getting real dollars to back Black-owned events stilltakes relentless pitching, positioning, and patience. I've learned to pitch thevalue of culture in a language they understand, while still staying true to ourvoice. It’s been a masterclass in rejection, reinvention, and resilience.And networking? Let’s just say it’sa jungle out there. You need theright people in your corner, butaccess isn’t always equal. I’velearned to build bridges, not waitfor invites. From cold emails tolocal mixers, I show up as me: awoman with a vision and a plan.Slowly but surely, I’ve been ableto find my tribe—fellow Blackcreatives, entrepreneurs, andsupporters who see the visionand pour into it.

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10 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEWHY IT’S ALL WORTH ITFor every challenge, there’s a moment thatreminds me exactly why I do this.It’s seeing beautiful Black women in wide-brimmed hats and colorful summer-chiclooks—and Black men in slacks, button-ups,and statement shades—clinking glassesunder the summer sun. It’s witnessing newfriendships, business connections, andsoul-level healing through joy.It’s curating spaces that say: your joy, yourluxury, your culture are not only welcomed—they are the whole point.Rosé in the Garden is a soft place to land. Asoul care rooted in curated aesthetics,Black music, and good food. We bring ourfull selves, and we bring the vibe. It’s luxury,on our terms.“Whenthe worlddidn’troll outthe redcarpet, Ilaid downa velvetone of myown.”

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Rosè in the Garden is blooming bigger every year. July 19th, 2025, we return toBrookside Gardens, and this years’ experience will be our most magical yet—think luxury picnics, curated DJ sets, soulful activations, and stunning visualsdesigned for community and culture.But beyond that, I’m focused on growing our event series year-round,mentoring other Black women entrepreneurs, and continuing to carve outspace where our joy isn’t just welcomed—it’s the whole point. Our goal is toscale Rosè in the Garden to become a well-known festival in the DMV and toadd a second large-scale event to our portfolio, taking place in the fall/winter. WHAT I’VE LEARNED ALONG THE WAYWHAT’S NEXT?FINAL SIPAuthenticity wins: When something is created with real love and intention,people feel it. Leaning into my culture, community, and values is what madethis brand resonate and continue to help grow this company.You can’t do it alone: from volunteers to collaborators, partners and sponsors -- every person matters. Community isn’t just who you serve—it’s who you buildwith.Rest is part of the work: as Black women, we’re often taught to grind. But soulcare means knowing when to pause, reflect, and protect your peace.Celebrate every win: that first sold-out event to that one sponsor who believed,and that thank-you email from a guest—those moments fuel you.Being a Black woman entrepreneur is not a linearjourney. It’s a dance between pressure and purpose.It’s not always glamorous—but it is powerful.To every aspiring entrepreneur out there dreamingof creating something beautiful: keep going. Yourvision is valid. Your community is waiting. And yourstory is needed.Whether a guest at Rosè in the Garden, a partner, avendor or a sponsor – we’d love to connect with you! Visit www.blackopulencexperience.com or find us onInstagram at @blackopulencexperience.Email: contact@blackopulencexperience.comIG: @blackopulencexperience | FB: BlackOpulenceX |TikTok: BlackOpulenceXperienceLaToyaDavisFounder & CEO, Black OpulenceXperience11 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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NOTCHASINGCLOUT—BuildingLegacyTHE STORY BEHINDCARMICHAELCOMMUNITYCONNECTIONS AND AMOVEMENT ROOTEDIN CULTURE,COMMERCE, ANDCOMMUNITY In the heart of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region—where history, innovation, and community collide—I’m building a business rooted in purpose.Through my firm, Carmichael Community Connections (CCC), I help transform Black-owned businesses and Black-led nonprofit organizations by connecting commerce, culture, and community.As a seasoned attorney and community advocate, I’ve made it my mission tocreate opportunities for others to thrive—especially those historically left outof critical conversations around funding, visibility, and leadership.Since founding CCC in 2019, I’ve been proud to serve as a strategic guide forentrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders across the DMV.Together, we’re not just creating businesses—we’re building legacies.Toya CarmichaelFounder/CEO, Carmichael CommunityConnections12 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TURNING PASSION INTO IMPACTTHE NEWSLETTER THAT MOVES THE CULTURE BUILDING BRIDGES THROUGHPURPOSE-DRIVEN EVENTSWhen I launched Carmichael Community Connections, I knew I wanted to domore than offer consulting services.I wanted to create a bridge—between vision and resources, betweenunderrepresented leaders and the communities they serve.Since that time, CCC has helped clients secure over $2.3 million in grants andcontracts, supporting organizations like the Go-Go Museum and DC StringsWorkshop that are rooted deeply in Black culture and the arts.Beyond funding, I’ve had the joy of highlighting more than 250 Black-ownedbusinesses and performing artists across the globe, through curatedshowcases, pop-up events, and storytelling platforms centered in joy,excellence, and authenticityOne of the ways I stay connected to my community is through the CarmichaelCommunity Connections Weekly Newsletter. This free resource isn’t just a list ofopportunities—it’s an ecosystem of support.Every week, I curate grant alerts, vendor calls, local initiatives, businessspotlights, and civic engagement opportunities—always centering Blackexcellence. I like to think of each issue as a love letter to our community:unapologetic, uplifting, and rooted in action.Although my work is deeply anchored in the DMV, my perspective is global.I make it a point to highlight Black-owned businesses and cultural gems fromacross the 50 states—and around the world, from Utah to Rio de Janeiro.For many small businesses and nonprofits, this newsletter has become morethan just helpful—it’s a lifeline.Community doesn’t grow in silos—it grows through connection.That’s why I produce events like the DC Black Business Crawl and the DCBlack Business Pop-Up Shop. These aren’t just networking events—theyare cultural experiences designed to foster authentic relationshipsbetween residents, entrepreneurs, and institutions.At every gathering, my goal is simple: When we show up for each other,we all rise.13 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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BEYOND BUSINESS:A DEEPCOMMITMENT TOSERVICETHE JUNETEENTH PARADE:A NEW LEGACY FOR D.C.My commitment to communitygoes far beyond business. Iserve on the Social ActionCommittee of the Federal CityAlumnae Chapter of Delta SigmaTheta Sorority, Incorporated,driving civic engagement effortsacross the District. I alsoproudly serve on the Board ofTrustees for the Bishop WalkerSchool for Boys, where I work toempower young Black boysthrough mentorship andeducation.For me, service isn’t a sideproject—it’s a way of life.But perhaps the most exciting and ambitious project I’m honored to bringto life is D.C.’s first official Juneteenth Parade, happening June 19th inWard 7. This parade isn’t just a celebration—it’s a community movement.It’s a reclamation of space, honoring history, and celebrating Black joy forour communities east of the river.I envision it as a gathering of generations, where elders, youth,entrepreneurs, artists, activists, and families come together to mark theholiday with purpose and pride. With floats, performances, and localvendors, the event will highlight the richness of Black culture while alsoshining a light on Ward 7—an area often overlooked in city-wide.This parade isn’t just about a holiday. It’s about highlighting the power ofour people when we come together to celebrate who we are and wherewe come from.”14 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Everything I do—through CCC, through my newsletter, through my events andcivic work—is about one thing: investing in community with love, strategy, andintention.I’m not chasing clout.I’m building legacy.And I’m committed to helping others do the same—one business, one nonprofit,one connection at a time.In the DMV and beyond, I believe that when we build together, we thrivetogether.To stay connected with me: Email: carmichaelcommunityconnections@gmail.comSocial Media: @carmichaelcommunityconnections15 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEWhen weshow upfor eachother, weall rise.THE BIGGER PICTURE

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16 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINETHE POWER OFREINVENTIONFounder, Connoisseurs ClubDr. Faizah Carr, PhD Knowing when to pivot can light a path toward a new direction, give birth to anew business, and even save your life. Pivotal moments in our lives are thosethat test our resilience, challenge our resolve, and eventually redefine thetrajectory of the rest of our lives.I’ve made seven pivots since starting my wine business venture, ConnoisseursClub, in 2011. After 7 years of operating a social meet-up club for wineexploration, in 2018, I began to monetize access. In 2019, I was faced thedecision to discontinue the wine club due to an increased workload in mydoctoral program. In 2020, the COVID-19 tragedy and precautions called for astrategic shift in the business model. In 2021, I developed a new strategic planfor sustainability: filing the entity as a small business, acquiring winecertification, and offering wine consulting services. In 2022, I developed anannual membership subscription for access to curated wine events. The lastpivot point, in 2024, extended to a wine tourism branch, Connoisseurs CountryClub, where members can explore wine on its native terroir.How do you know when it’s time to pivot? It’s the itch that something significantneeds to change, an inkling that you have a bigger purpose, or that voice inyour head that nags you to follow through on that idea from five years ago.Have you made a pivot in your business? In any other facet of life? I definitelyhave. And each pivot, forced or voluntary, has guided me to a step in a betterdirection. Even those decisions that felt uncomfortable at the moment. Let’sget into it.

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17 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEAfter two decades of public service, many driving forces led me to seek newopportunities in the private sector. I wanted to better align my daily duties inmy career with my academic studies. I routinely questioned opportunity coststhat could have resulted in lost wages. I had a nagging feeling that I may havemissed out on lifestyle opportunities in the pathway I chose years ago. The fearof missing out was real.I leaped. It was a conscious, consulted, and thought-out gamble. But it was agamble, nonetheless. In no less than two months, I realized that I had signedup for the most toxic, inflexible company, and possibly made worst decision inmy life. I maneuvered within that position for another six months. I maneuveredamid the deep grief of losing a parent during those months and anger aboutthe timing of it all. For the first time, I quit a job. This was a monumental pivot in my life because Iquit and ignored every piece of advice we’re supposed to follow. I did not havesix months’ worth of savings. I hadn’t lined up another job, even though I hadbeen furiously applying for two months and leisurely applying for five. Andlittle did I know that, at the same time, the job market and economy weretaking a dive. What I did have intact was my mental health and my dignity.Ultimately that pivot, the decision to quit, saved my life. However, the followingyear was still filled with a series of survival tactics.90 DEGREES: THE CAREER LEAPOn the road to healing from consecutive losses, I focused on entrepreneurshipand delved into my existing wine business. It became much more than a hobbyor side gig. I had the motivation, time, and space to apply, engage, andinnovate within the industry. his sudden opportunity gave me the bandwidth to enroll in Masterclasses onNapa Valley wine regions, wines of Portugal, and attend winemaker pop-upevents at local wineries and wine shops. I was able to take advantage of having a less structured calendar, an atypicalwork week, and fewer time constraints.I prioritized continuing wine education by applying for competitive immersiveprograms through initiatives and organizations such as Oenoverse and TheVeraison Project. I traveled to Charlottesville, VA; Paris, Chateauneuf-du-Pape,Beaune, Burgundy; and Champagne, France to fully immerse in food and winepairing workshops; facility, field, and cave touring; estate and vineyardhistorical seminars; and participate in their overall wine ecosystems.180 DEGREES: A NEW CHAPTER IN WINE

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18 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEEventually, I began to apply for sommelier and other related roles. I accepted aposition in hospitality at an upscale winery and restaurant where I engaged indaily conversations about wine varietals, pairings, and regions of origin. Itrained in the operations and logistics for wine delivery and inventoryorganization for routine consumer collection. The most invaluable skills Iobserved while working in hospitality allowed me to deepen my understandingof how wine is used as a cultural, interpersonal, and celebratory elixir.The philosophical conundrum of employee versus entrepreneur is afundamentally personal decision. I do not fundamentally believe one choice is better than the other, each pathcomes with its own risks and rewards. Nor do I believe that your first ideaneeds to be the final frontier, as your business may take different forms andmorph as you scale and expand. What I do believe is that there are lessons thatcome from both being an employee and becoming an entrepreneur. Thoselessons are ultimately leveraged to design the impact you want to have onindividuals, organizations, and communities of which you are a part. As yourcareer journey continues, you realize that no matter the influences andcircumstance that you are the pilot. Your ability to pivot is paramount.Every decision, every adjustment, every pivot, moves you closer to the legacyyou want to leave in your community and your industry.Today, through Connoisseurs Club, I continue to champion exploration,education, and connection, right here in the DMV and beyond. No matter whereyou are in your journey, remember it’s never too late, or too early, to pivottoward your greater purpose.Let’s stay connected:Email: AConnoisseursClub@gmail.com270 DEGREES: ENTREPRENEUR VS. EMPLOYEEReinvention isn’ tfailure,it’s strategy.

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20 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEFROM WAKE-UP CALL TO 7 FIGURES:THE RELENTLESS RISE OF JOSEESCOBARBy Liletta HarlemA MOMENT OF TRUTHIt was December 2021 when everything changed. Jose was pouring time,energy, and money into books, courses, and mentors—but nothing wastranslating into tangible results. Then came a conversation that wouldchange the trajectory of his life.“My wife sat me down,” Jose recalls. “She was loving and encouraging,and she acknowledged all my hard work. But she said, ‘At some point,you have to start making money in your business. Otherwise, just focuson being great at your job.’ That hit me hard. It was my wake-up call.”After that conversation, Jose went for a walk and had a difficult, honesttalk with himself. “I asked, ‘Why am I not getting to the next level?’ And Irealized—I was afraid of the unknown. That fear was holding me back.”But it wouldn’t for long. “The moment I committed, everything changed.”

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21 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEMINDSET SHIFTS &SACRIFICESTHE DISCIPLINEBEHIND THE SUCCESSThe pivot point in Jose’s story wasn’texternal—it was deeply internal. “I had toshift my mindset. That meant changingmy habits, doing more than everyoneelse, and committing to the things mostpeople don’t want to do,” he says.This commitment took shape in his dailyroutines. “Morning and evening routinesbecame sacred. I had to say no to a lot ofthings others enjoyed. I missed parties,events—because I was investing inmyself.”That investment wasn’t always easy orstraightforward. “There were times Ididn’t have the means to hire a coach.But being resourceful meant finding waysto grow anyway. Sometimes you have tocreate your own path.”Success didn’t just show up one morning—it was cultivated through discipline,focus, and a set of non-negotiables thatJose holds firm to this day.“I live by what John Maxwell calls TheRule of 5,” Jose explains. “Every day, nomatter what, I pray, I journal, I managemy finances, I read for mentalstimulation, and I maintain a filing systemfor everything I’m learning. That systemkeeps me sharp and organized.”Amid a noisy world of distractions, Joseis unwavering in protecting these habits.“Discipline isn’t sexy, but it’s the key. Ifyou don’t make time for self-love andself-care, you’ll burn out. Burnouthappens when you forget your non-negotiables.”JOSE ESCOBAR WITHLILETTA HARLEM AT THE4TH ANNUAL BCNCONFERENCEI’m not anetworker—I’ m arelationship builder,

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22 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINESPEED, STRATEGY, AND FAILING FORWARDTHE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPSTHE TRUTH ABOUT SUCCESSOne of Jose’s greatest strengths is the ability to move fast. “My strategicadvantage is I don’t overthink. Not making a decision is still a decision. I actquickly—because progress beats perfection every time.”Of course, not every decision turns out perfectly. And that’s part of the plan.“You have to be willing to fail forward. Cleaning up a mess makes you better.There’s no success without failure. It’s character-building.”He adds, “Courage and faith are what push you through the fear. When youstart embracing the discomfort, your capacity grows.”As the founder of the Connected Leaders Academy, Jose has built a movementaround meaningful connection. But don’t call him a “networker.”“I’m not a networker—I’m a relationship builder,” he clarifies. “It’s not aboutcollecting business cards. It’s about pouring into others, treating people well,and keeping those connections nourished through regular check-ins.”Through his academy, Jose helps high-achievers get into the right rooms, formreal bonds, and grow together. “The right network changes everything. Thepeople you know can open doors you didn’t even know existed.”There’s no secret formula behind Jose Escobar’s rise. No tricks, no hacks—justtireless dedication and a work ethic forged in fire.“I put in 10 to 15 years of hard work—sleepless nights, sacrifices, missed timewith loved ones. But it laid the foundation for everything I have now,” he says.“The truth is, hard work beats talent when talent refuses to show up.”His final word of advice? “Be committed to success every single day. Consistentdiscipline and hard work will take you further than anything else. There’s nosecret sauce. Just show up and do the work.”From a difficult conversation with his wife to building a global community ofleaders, Jose Escobar’s story is a testament to what’s possible when mindset,habits, relationships, and faith collide.And it’s only the beginning.Follow Jose Escobarlinkedin.com/in/jaesco25WebsitesConnectedLeadersAcademy.com

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23 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEBEYOND THE CAP & GOWN:BUILDING YOUR FUTURE WITHCONFIDENCEMEET THE SPEAKERSSATURDAY, JUNE 28TH 4PM--6PMMANASSAS MALL COMMUNITY ROOMREGISTER NOW ATBEYONDTHECAP.EVENTBRITE.COMBROUGHT TO YOU BY BUSINESS CROSSING NETWORK-A MY NATURAL ME PROGRAMKristine BrownFounder/ManagingMember GuidingFuture Success, LLCBrown Legal Services Simply AbundantFinancial CoachingMinetta Minor Anyeli MeriePlanning BeyondCollegeFinancial ReadinessEmotional Intelligence& Self Leadership

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25 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEOF THE QUARTERGRANDPA FOODS, LLCThis quarter, we’re thrilled to spotlight Rose Mary Bellamy, founder and CEOof Grandpa Foods, LLC—a woman-led, veteran-connected, and family-ownedbusiness bringing flavor, wellness, and legacy to tables across the country.A Brand Rooted in Family, Flavor, and LegacyFounded in 2021, Grandpa Foods was born from a personal mission to create a delicious, all-naturalBBQ sauce that Rose Mary Bellamy’s mother could enjoy—one without tomatoes or artificialingredients. Co-founded with Marine veteran William Bellamy (the “Grandpa” behind the name), thebrand quickly grew into something much bigger: a celebration of tradition, togetherness, andstorytelling through food.Their signature line of Apple Butter-based BBQ sauces (Original, Molasses, and Honey) and seasoningblends (including a no-salt option) are more than condiments—they’re conversation starters, craftedwith care and rooted in inclusivity for those with dietary sensitivities.Innovation That Honors WellnessWhat makes Grandpa Foods stand out? It’s what they leave out. Their sauces are tomato-free, gluten-free, and made without artificial ingredients, offering a gut-friendly alternative for individuals with acidreflux or other sensitivities. Their dedication to clean ingredients has earned them a Virginia’s Finestcertification—reinforcing their commitment to quality and community.This unique approach has alsoearned them national attention with two 2025 Scovie Awards:2nd Place: Molasses Apple Butter BBQ (Unique Category)3rd Place: Original Apple Butter BBQ (Diet Friendly Category)A Commitment to CommunityWhether appearing at events like Blacksburg Fork & Cork or donating products to organizations likeJohns Hopkins University, Lead Virginia, and Grace Christian School, Grandpa Foods doesn’t just sellproducts—they show up. Their philanthropic approach to marketing reflects the heart of their brand:serving people, not just customers.A Future Full of FlavorRose Mary’s motivation is deeply personal: honoring her family’s legacy while building somethingsustainable for future generations. The journey ahead includes expanding retail presence, developingnew flavor profiles, and exploring bold ideas like a Grandpa Foods food truck.

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26 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEWhy Grandpa Foods?Grandpa Foods embodies everything theBusiness of the Quarter initiative stands for—purpose, innovation, and impact. With everybottle sold, they’re sharing a story of love,heritage, and health.Congratulations to Rose Mary Bellamy andGrandpa Foods, LLC—we celebrate yoursuccess and look forward to the flavorfulfuture you’re creating.www.grandpafoods.comConnect with Grandpa Foods, LLC@GrandpaFoods@EatGrandpaFoodsNominate the Next Business of the Quarter!Starting next quarter, the Business of the Quarter initiative will be open for nominations!Know a business making an impact in the DMV area? Businesses can self-nominate or benominated by fellow BCN members. Keep an eye out for details on how to submitnominations for the next issue!

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Twisted Intimacy is a transformative wellness brand that helps high-achieving women reconnect withtheir bodies through womb health, sensual mindfulness, and cycle-syncing practices. Founded bycertified coach and educator Monika Monk, also known as "Monika with a K", her brand blends science-backed tools with sacred feminine wisdom to guide women toward hormonal balance, deeperintimacy, and empowered self-awareness.Whether you’re navigating burnout, craving more connection with your body, or simply curious aboutaligning your life with your natural rhythms, Twisted Intimacy offers a unique approach to holistichealing through group coaching, digital programs, and supportive tools. It’s not just about wombwellness — it’s about reclaiming your power from the inside out.27 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINETwistedIntimacywww.twistedintimacy.cominfo@twistedintimacy.com @twisted_intimacyhttps://www.youtube.com/@twistedintimacyNorthern Virginia, DMV, and Virtual Contact Information:

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My journey began with a simple mission: to build a business that allowed me to prioritize my faith, family, and fun. Over ten years ago,I started my business as a virtual assistant while working full-time. As I gained greater knowledge, I continued to refine my skills and build my confidence in what I was achieving. Itwas then that I saw a gap that needed to be filled. Women entrepreneurs deserve more than just help managingtasks. They deserve businesses that work for them instead of against them. Businesses that are rooted in theirvalues and are designed to support their lives.What began as a side hustle has grown into TSB Management Solutions, a boutique consulting firm dedicated tohelping purpose-driven women entrepreneurs build clarity, confidence, and capacity in their businesses. I believetrue wealth isn’t just about money. It’s about the richness that results when your how your business supports yourlife, aligns with your values, and creates a legacy you’re proud of and can enjoy, not just leave behind. At TSB Management Solutions we show you that possibility can become your reality. My membership, the MY-T Society Systems & Sanity Suite, offers multiple tiers to meet women wherever they areon their business journey. It’s a resource hub for creating and streamlining systems, refining workflows, and scalingsustainably without the overwhelm.28 DMV BUSINESS MAGAZINEFounder & CEO ofTSB ManagementSolutionsHelping purpose-driven women buildbusinesses thatsupport their livesand honor theirvalues.Shannon Baker,For those who want to dive even deeper, TSB Management Solutions offers the Legacy In Motion Session, afocused 1:1 experience that provides a custom action plan designed to align your business with your values andmove it forward in a way that’s both strategic and sustainable.Here’s how TSB Management Solutions can support you:• Create back-end systems that free up your time and mental bandwidth• Develop workflows that reduce chaos and boost consistency• Build a business that honors your values and supports your legacyOur clients love how we blend strategy and systems with a wholistic touch so they can stop feeling stuck and startleading with intention.Let’s build your legacy in motion!www.theshannonbaker.cominfo@theshannonbaker.com240-245-0291Contact Information: https://www.instagram.com/the_shannonbaker/www.linkedin.com/in/shannonbaker

2025 DMV Business Magazine Q2

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