LAS CRUCES, N.M. –– Women’s History Month may be coming to a close, but support for local women-owned businesses can continue year-round. From catering a dinner party to winding down with a glass of wine, women-owned businesses in Las Cruces offer something for every occasion. Here are five to check out:
Mija Coffee
533 N. Main St.
Instagram: @mijacoffeenm
Founded by Jovanna Payan, Mija Coffee began as a traveling truck in early 2024 before securing a shop on Main Street. Through coffee, Payan says she has been able to connect with her community. Customers love the shop’s reasonable prices and creative drinks, with Payan recommending the iced Aztec mocha. In addition to coffee, they offer breakfast sandwiches and pastries. Mija Coffee provides a local option for those in search of a morning caffeine boost or a drink to sip while strolling through the farmer’s market.
Payan’s advice to women aspiring to be business owners:
“Don’t listen to negativity. People will doubt you. You have to be strong and believe in yourself. Do it anyways and keep going.”
A Thrift Store
820 W. Picacho Ave.
Instagram: @a_thrift_store
Yvonne Hernandez opened A Thrift Store in October 2020. With no prior experience, she said the pandemic allowed her to ease into business ownership. The store sells vintage clothing, antiques and collectibles. Hernandez often works at the shop, and customers note her friendliness and great service. Patrons have scored Coogi sweaters, Harley-Davidson t-shirts and rare collectibles like baseball cards for low prices. For those on a budget, Hernandez always offers sales and has a $1 clothing rack outside.
Hernandez’ advice to women aspiring to be business owners:
“Definitely just do it. Sometimes we complicate our dreams more than we have to, and it’s not that complicated … at the end of the day you just have to get started.”
Petal & Pink Co.
300 N. Main St. Suite 5 | 120 S. Water St.
Instagram: @petalandpinkco
Alexa Gallegos opened the first Petal & Pink Co. shop downtown in April 2023 with the goal of “making people smile through the art of flowers.” Run by family, the shop aims to make each customer feel special with a warm and welcoming environment. Petal & Pink Co. offers custom bouquets for weddings and events, everyday arrangements and a flower bar for customers to create their own bouquets. Due to the success of her first store, Gallegos was able to open up a second location, which celebrated its grand opening last week. Whether for a personal treat or a gift to a loved one, Petal & Pink Co. can provide a floral arrangement.
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El Vagon Tacos
1602 S. Solano Drive
Instagram: @elvagontacos
Cindy Burcham started selling tacos out of her home in 2020 before opening El Vagon Tacos in 2022. She brought the space to life by painting her own murals and hanging plants around the shop. Customers praise the flavorful food, fair prices and friendly staff, most of whom are women and mothers. While the menu’s staple items are a variety of tacos, it also features options such as birria ramen, flaxseed tortilla quesadillas and aguas frescas. Often catering for New Mexico State University’s football team, El Vagon Tacos was named Best Catering in Mesilla Valley for 2024 by The Official Community’s Choice Awards. For those who celebrate Taco Tuesday, give El Vagon Tacos a call at (575) 621-5897.
Burcham’s advice to women aspiring to be business owners:
“Starting a business is not just about creating something for yourself; it’s about inspiring others, creating opportunities and shaping the future … The journey may not always be easy, but every step you take moves you closer to making your dreams a reality. You’ve got this. The world needs your voice and your vision.”
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NM Vintage Wines
2310 Avenida de Mesilla
Instagram: @nmvintagewines
Morgan Switzer purchased NM Vintage Wines from Brian and Nicki O’Dell in 2016. Having visited wine country frequently growing up, her love for the drink led her to leave a publishing career and start a business of her own — the first of many. Switzer recommends the shop’s Cowbelle sauvignon blanc and says Jell-O shots have been fun for customers to order. For non-wine drinkers, they offer craft beer, cigars and spirits. NM Vintage hosts open mic nights every Monday and other events throughout the year such as art classes, yoga with mimosas and booze-inspired high teas.
Switzer’s advice to women aspiring to be business owners:
“It’s not me that makes all this stuff possible. It’s the powerhouse of other humans that make us what we are. Surround yourself with strong people who support you, have your back and want you to succeed.”
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