Barrie, Ontario, has become a vibrant hub for female entrepreneurship, with women leading innovative ventures across various sectors. From healthcare to design, these trailblazers are shaping the city’s economic landscape and inspiring future generations. This article celebrates the achievements of notable female entrepreneurs in Barrie, highlighting their contributions and the support systems that empower them.
Celebrating Excellence: Women in Business Awards
The Barrie Chamber of Commerce annually hosts the Women in Business Awards, recognizing outstanding female entrepreneurs who demonstrate innovation, leadership, and community impact. The 2025 awards ceremony, held at Liberty North, honored several remarkable women:
- Laura Fess – Owner of VOX Mental Health, awarded the ‘Healthcare Hero’ for her exemplary service in local healthcare. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Candice Thomas – CEO of Evergreen Massage Therapy & Wellness Studio, received the ‘Entrepreneur’ award for her outstanding entrepreneurial mindset and community outreach. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Maguire Boucher – Managing Director of The Hound Lounge, won the ‘Young Entrepreneur’ award for her dedication to exceptional canine care. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Stephanie Gourlie Murray – Co-founder of Intent Stone Design, received the ‘Woman in Trade’ award for her contributions to the home décor industry. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Spotlight on Notable Female Entrepreneurs
1. Laura Fess – VOX Mental Health
Laura Fess, an attachment and trauma-informed therapist, operates VOX Mental Health on Owen Street. With over a decade of experience, she provides holistic therapy services to individuals, families, and couples, focusing on evidence-based interventions to promote well-being. Her dedication to mental health care earned her the ‘Healthcare Hero’ award in 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
2. Candice Thomas – Evergreen Massage Therapy & Wellness Studio
Candice Thomas is the CEO of Evergreen Massage Therapy & Wellness Studio on Collier Street. Her studio bridges the gap between physical and psychological health, offering collaborative, innovative care. As the founder of The Liv Mohr Project, she has raised over $50,000 for Perinatal Mental Health services in Barrie, ensuring timely access to care for mothers. Her efforts were recognized with the ‘Entrepreneur’ award in 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}
3. Maguire Boucher – The Hound Lounge
Maguire Boucher, Managing Director of The Hound Lounge, exemplifies dedication to exceptional canine care. With a passion for animals and a degree in advertising and marketing communication from Georgian College, she leads an all-women team, ensuring her business remains a beacon of success. Her achievements earned her the ‘Young Entrepreneur’ award in 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:35]{index=35}
4. Stephanie Gourlie Murray – Intent Stone Design
Stephanie Gourlie Murray is the co-founder of Intent Stone Design, a Barrie-based home décor business. Her leadership and innovation in the industry led to her receiving the ‘Woman in Trade’ award at the 2025 Women in Business Awards. :contentReference[oaicite:40]{index=40}
Support Systems Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Business and Professional Women (BPW) Barrie
BPW Barrie is dedicated to developing the business, professional, and leadership potential of women through advocacy, education, and mentoring. The organization hosts monthly meetings and events, providing a platform for women to network and grow. :contentReference[oaicite:45]{index=45}
Georgian College’s Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre
Georgian College offers resources for aspiring entrepreneurs through its Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre. The center provides training, mentorship, and funding opportunities, supporting women in launching and growing their businesses. :contentReference[oaicite:50]{index=50}
Conclusion
Barrie’s female entrepreneurs are making significant strides across various industries, contributing to the city’s economic growth and community well-being. With robust support systems and a thriving business environment, Barrie continues to be a nurturing ground for women in business.
