Celebrating Small Businesses! Best Women-Owned Small Business Contest Winners + Entrepreneur Spotlights
OMAN GULF COAST NOVEMBER 2026
Let's celebrate small businesses!
FEATURED ENTREPRENEUR
MITCHELL Catrina
See who won
Top things to do
Women's secret web searches
Host with a twist! FRESH IDEAS FOR HOLIDAY GATHERINGS
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At Frankly My Dear Boutique discover seasonal favorites and timeless gifts, thoughtfully curated for everyone on your list, including you. A little holiday indulgence.
www.gcwmultimedia.com 3 Items based on availability. Must be 21 or older. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort reserves all rights. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. 9380 Central Avenue • D’Iberville, MS 39540 • 888–752–9772 • ScarletPearlCasino.com •
GULF COAST OMAN
Farrah Underwood GRAPHIC DESIGNER
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FOUNDER Dr. Angela Bruni PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dorothy P. Wilson Crystal Scretching MARKETING DIRECTOR Jennifer Gentile ASSOCIATE EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
COVER SUBJECT
Catrina Mitchell
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Mississippi isn’t just where we are. It’s who we are.
We didn’t just come to Mississippi to open branches. We’ve been a part of the coast since our founding in 1899.
Today, Hancock Whitney stands as the oldest bank headquartered in Mississippi. Our commitment to supporting Mississippi businesses and communities is as strong as it was the day we opened our doors. It’s in our DNA. Come see why Crisil Coalition Greenwich awarded us 19 Best Bank awards for mid-sized and small businesses for 2026. Call or visit one of our business bankers today.
228-563-6940 • hancockwhitney.com
Hancock Whitney Bank, Member FDIC.
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barbecue 22
family fun 60
16 ways to fill Your Coast Christmas with
Micks’d Up Kitchen puts a fresh spin on Gulf Coast
health guide 48
Best Women-Owned Small Business Winners of 2026 28
Nutrition: The hostess
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The Glow Guide: Your go-to for this season's tips for style,
skin and makeup
56 A fresh take on
holiday hosting, Gulf Coast style
THIS EDITION
‘Hard does not mean impossible’: Madeline Hebert’s overcomer story 42
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On our game so you can be on yours
From elite athletes to weekend warriors, Ochsner Andrews Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute provides specialized care for every body in motion. Our multidisciplinary team works together to diagnose, treat and guide your recovery—so you can get back to doing what you love. Learn more at ochsner.org/ortho .
Sierra Reid Cooley, PA-C - Orthopedic Surgery 149 Drinkwater Road, 2 nd Floor | Bay St Louis | 228-395-1224 Christopher Palmer, MD - Orthopedic Surgery 4540 Shepherd Square | Diamondhead | 228-220-5200
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HAPPY VETERANS DAY!
FACES OF SUCCESS
Doris Denton is a retired United States Marine and a retired Professional Golfers’ Association/ Ladies Professional Golf Association golf professional. She now resides at the Armed Forces Retirement Home, Gulfport. Doris Denton
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and your background and career. A: I am originally from Connecticut and moved to Georgia when I was 11, then to Florida when I was 12. When I turned 17, we moved to Louisiana, where I graduated high school and joined the United States Marine Corps. After retiring from the Marines, I moved to Florida, where I lived for 35 years until I moved to the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Gulfport in 2015. I have one brother and three sisters still living and one brother and two sisters who have passed. I have numerous nieces and
nephews, a bunch of great nieces and nephews and one great-great niece. I am 84 years young and had a great military career training recruits to be Marines and serving in Vietnam. I am the only military woman living at the Armed Forces Home who had boots on the ground in Vietnam. I enjoyed Europe while stationed in Naples Italy, and I really enjoyed my time spent at 8th and I (Marine Barracks Washington) in Washington, D.C. I also had a tour of duty with the fourth Marine Air Wing in New Orleans and ended my career in Hawaii at the 1st Marine
CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
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Your health deserves some attention too WOMEN WILL... ✓ MEET THE DEADLINE ✓ KEEP EVERYTHING MOVING ✓ CHECK ON OTHERS PUT THEIR HEALTH FIRST X
IT’S TIME TO CHANGE THE LIST. Your health deserves the same care and attention you give so freely to everything—and everyone—else. From preventive screenings and breast health to heart care, maternity, menopause and more, Memorial provides care that listens to you, sees the whole you and supports those wellness moments of your life.. THIS IS WHAT WOMEN’S HEALTH LOOKS LIKE: CARE FOR EVERY CHAPTER OF YOU. To find out more call, (228) 867-5000 or visit WeAreMemorial.com/ womens-health.
HEALTH SYSTEM
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HAPPY VETERANS DAY!
COMMUNITYBANK.NET | MEMBER FDIC |
GIVE THE GIFT OF
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DORIS DENTON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
Brigade filling the billet of sergeant major of MABS-24.
Q: What are you passionate about? A: My passions are to be respectful, have good manners and, above all, be truthful. Although I have received many awards for my military service, the most rewarding thing for me was seeing young civilian women come into recruit training not sure of themselves and leave13 weeks later as young Marines secure in who they were with my help in training them. Q: What are the principles you live by? A: I try to live by always being true to myself and in helping others when I can do so. The most important things I have learned from my military service are discipline, determination and confidence in myself in everything I do. Q: What does Veterans Day, observed on Nov. 11, mean to you? To me, Veterans Day means that everyone who served is recognized by their fellow Americans, even though most women veterans are overlooked. When people say veterans, they mostly think of the men and not our women.
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Who provides the energy that moves America forward?
Our people do
Marissa Badenhorst Director of Pascagoula & Pasadena (TX) Refineries
Marissa Badenhorst Becomes the First Woman to Lead Chevron’s Pascagoula Refinery
While Marissa’s appointment marks a historic first, her journey to this role has always been about something more than breaking barriers. Throughout her career, she has focused on building trust, strengthening teams and creating an environment where people feel empowered to contribute their best ideas. Her connection to Pascagoula began years ago while serving in leadership roles at the refinery, where she developed a deep appreciation for both the workforce and the surrounding community.
History is made one person at at time.
For Chevron Pascagoula, that moment has arrived with the appointment of Marissa Badenhorst as Director of Chevron’s Pascagoula and Pasadena (TX) Refineries, making her the first woman to lead the Pascagoula Refinery in its history. It’s a milestone worth celebrating, not only for Chevron but for the Gulf Coast community and the generations of women who continue to redefine what’s possible in engineering, manufacturing and energy.
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“I’ve always had a soft spot for Pascagoula from my time there—great people, strong contractors and a community that looks out for each other,” Marissa said. “As director of Chevron’s Pascagoula and Pasadena refineries, I’m looking forward to building on the strong foundation already in place.” Now, she returns to lead one of Chevron’s most significant operations after serving as the company’s Chief Health, Safety and Environment Officer and holding leadership positions spanning engineering, operations, maintenance and reliability across the globe. Her experience provides a unique perspective, but it’s her leadership philosophy that sets the tone for what’s ahead.
Rather than arriving with all the answers, Marissa plans to begin by listening.
“My first 90 days will be about listening and learning—in the units, in the shops and with teams across both sites,” she said. “Trust is built by showing up, asking good questions and following through.” She believes great organizations succeed when every employee feels respected, heard and encouraged to contribute. “At our best, we listen to different views and don’t get defensive when our assumptions get challenged,” Marissa said. “That’s how we land better solutions and build a team where people feel safe to contribute.” For young women considering careers in science, engineering, skilled trades or manufacturing, Marissa’s appointment sends an important message. Leadership opportunities continue to grow for those willing to learn, work hard and embrace new challenges. “I hope my journey reminds young women that leadership isn’t about fitting a mold. It’s about showing up, doing the work and having the courage to keep learning.” Her success reflects Chevron’s continued investment in developing talent and creating opportunities where leadership is defined by capability, character and commitment. While Marissa may be the first woman to lead Chevron Pascagoula, she is helping ensure she won’t be the last. As the refinery looks toward the future, Marissa remains focused on the people who make success possible every day. “People need to know their ideas won’t get laughed off or dismissed. We should reward smart experimentation that moves the business forward, with one clear line: we never experiment with safety.” Her appointment represents more than a milestone. It reflects the future of Chevron Pascagoula, where leadership is built on experience, innovation and the belief that great people drive great progress. Because the future isn’t shaped by one person. It’s built by people who lead together. Discover the exciting careers available at one of America’s best employers for women at pascagoula.chevron.com.
Chevron Pascagoula Refinery
HoloLens technology enables Chevron employees to troubleshoot issues remotely in real time.
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Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College equips you with the tools, skills and foundation to thrive. CHASE YOUR PASSION. APPLY TODAY. OWN WHAT’S NEXT MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT MGCCC.EDU/APPLY.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes students and employees without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, or qualified disability in its programs and activities. For further information, contact the Compliance Officer P.O. Box 609, Perkinston, Mississippi, 39573, telephone number 601-528-8735, email address compliance@mgccc.edu.
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GIVING BEYOND THE GIFT TIME, TALENT AND CONNECTIONS CREATE OPPORTUNITY
Stacy J. Clark, MGCCC Alumni Association president, speaks at the Bulldog Tailgate.
David Allen, MGCCC Foundation Board chair, speaks at a Veterans Day event.
Some of the most meaningful gifts to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College never come wrapped in a bow or written on a check. They come through shared expertise, personal experiences and connections that open doors for students.
David Allen, chair of the MGCCC Foundation Board, says service takes many forms. An attorney with more than 48 years of experience, Allen draws on his background in law, business and financial management to support the Foundation's work. He also connects community members with the college, securing silent auction contributions and introducing potential supporters to MGCCC through the Foundation's annual scholarship gala. One of his most meaningful experiences was speaking at the college's 2025 Veterans Day observance, where he shared his military experience and information about educational benefits available through military service. Allen's commitment to service began in childhood, when he learned to prepare meals for his mother, who worked long hours supporting their family. "Simply because one is unable to provide financially does in no way mean that contributions of time and talent carry less weight or are of less value," Allen said. MGCCC Alumni Association President Stacy J. Clark shares that philosophy. A former Gulf Coast soccer player, Clark now uses his professional experience
as a financial adviser to help current student-athletes prepare for life beyond college. Clark has spoken with student-athletes about budgeting, investing, building wealth and planning for financial security. "Someone invested time and energy into helping shape the person I am now," Clark said. "So I am committed to doing the same for MGCCC students.” Dr. Suzi Brown, Vice President of Student Services, Enrollment Strategies, and Advancement, said contributions of every kind strengthen the college's ability to serve students.
"Every person who shares their time, talent or resources becomes part of a student's success story,” Brown said."Whether it's professional guidance, a community connection, equipment for hands-on learning or financial support, these contributions expand opportunities and help students build brighter futures. Their impact reaches far beyond our campuses." From mentoring students to donating vehicles and tools for technical programs, opportunities to support MGCCC are as varied as the people who give. MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN A STUDENT’S LIFE • MGCCC.EDU/MGCCC-FOUNDATION
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Oh, what fun in the Bay! Christmas in the Bay returns with festive parade, tree-lighting ceremony, family-friendly activities and plenty of holiday cheer
BY JENNIFER GENTILE
W hen Bay St. Louis Mayor Mike Favre the holiday season. “The goal was to create a festive event that children and adults could enjoy together, bringing families and friends together and creating lasting memories,” Favre says. “In addition to spreading holiday cheer, we hoped to attract more visitors to Bay St. Louis so they could experience the charm of the city while supporting the community and local businesses.” founded Christmas in the Bay in 2019, he envisioned a merry, joyful celebration that would capture the magic and wonder of
Today, Christmas in the Bay marks the beginning of the festive season in Bay St. Louis and is a beloved tradition locally and beyond. Anticipation is growing for this year’s event, which is set for Nov. 28. “Christmastime in Bay St. Louis is a magical time,” Favre says, encouraging visitors to admire the lights, patronize local shops and restaurants and experience a gathering filled with Christmas cheer and community spirit.
Thousands of lights and decorations will adorn the Depot grounds, creating a warm, cozy setting highlighted by the brightly illuminated 20-foot Christmas tree. “What sets Christmas in the Bay apart is the way it blends a hometown parade with the character of Bay St. Louis itself; Santa arrives on the city’s fire truck, the tree lighting takes place on the grounds of the historic L&N Depot and free hot cocoa, popcorn, and cookies are served alongside a Christmas train ride and South Mississippi ‘snow,’” Stiglet says. “Locals and visitors alike enjoy the evening together, and because the lights and decorations remain up throughout the Christmas season, the festive atmosphere continues long after the event ends.”
Mayor Mike Favre
A PARADE TO REMEMBER Festivities get underway with the Christmas parade, which starts rolling through downtown Bay St. Louis at 5:30 p.m. “The parade features marching bands, dance groups, golf carts, trucks, trailers and decorated floats, with the grand finale featuring Santa Claus riding aboard the Bay St. Louis fire truck,” says Charlene Stiglet, special event coordinator with the City of Bay St. Louis. “Following the parade, the festivities continue on the grounds of the historic L&N Depot with the annual Christmas tree lighting, led by Mayor Favre, officially kicking off the holiday celebration.” HOLIDAY FUN FOR EVERYONE Families can enjoy Christmas music and take a train ride, and kids can get balloon figurines, have their face painted, send letters to Santa and have their picture taken with Mr. Claus himself. “All activities and refreshments are provided free of charge,” Stiglet says, “allowing everyone to enjoy the celebration.”
MERRY AND MEANINGFUL While admission is free to the public, parade participants are asked to bring a donation of food supplies for the Hancock County Animal shelter
or non-perishable food items for the Hancock County Food Pantry. For more information about Christmas in the Bay, visit www.baystlouis-ms.gov.
IF YOU GO Christmas in the Bay Nov. 28, 5:30 p.m. 1928 Depot Way, Bay St. Louis Free admission For more info: www.baystlouis-ms.gov
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Coast Life
CELEBRATE THE SEASON
Taste of Long Beach Nov. 12, 5-8 p.m. Harper McCaughan Town Green, Long Beach Attendees at this annual event can sample signature dishes, desserts and beverages from some of the Coast's most acclaimed restaurants while supporting the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce. Guests also can enjoy live music from Bruce Smelley Band and bid in a silent auction. All funds raised go directly toward small business grants and scholarships.
CALENDAR TOP PICKS ON PAGE 18
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More things to do online November Top picks
WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE COAST
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1. Gulfport Harbor Lights Festival Nov. 27-Jan. 2 Jones Park, Gulfport
Island View Casino & Resort and The City of Gulfport have collaborated since 2015 to bring a festival to the Coast unlike any other holiday show in Mississippi. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, visit with Santa Claus, hop on a train at the Train Station and much more. Get ready for a magical coastal holiday experience filled with memories to last the whole family a lifetime! For more info: gulfportharborlights.com
2. 48th annual Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival Nov. 7-8, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Ocean Springs The Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival is the largest arts festival in Mississippi and the Gulf Coast. Artists, crafters and food vendors from throughout the country will gather in downtown Ocean Springs for this highly anticipated event, which was created to honor master potter Peter Anderson, original potter of Shearwater Pottery, and to celebrate the arts community. For more info: peterandersonfestival.com
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5. 10th annual A Taste of the Future Nov. 6, 6-10 p.m. Bay St. Louis Community Center Come as you are and kick back at this annual fundraiser benefitting Boys and Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast! Guests will enjoy delicious samplings from local restaurants and vendors, a cash bar, a silent auction, entertainment and more. Tickets are $30 and include one free drink ticket. For more info: bgcgulfcoast.org/s/TOTF
3. Ron Meyers Christmas City Gift Show Nov. 13-15 Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center This marks the 43rd year that the Christmas City Gift Show has brought holiday magic and joy to the Coast and become a local tradition. With more than 300 vendor booths to visit, shoppers will find plenty of warm experiences and unique items while making priceless memories with their loved ones. For tickets and more info: christmascitygiftshow.com
4. Arabian Nights Charity Ball Nov. 14, 7:30-11 p.m. Slavonian Lodge, Biloxi The Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport invites guests to step beyond the ordinary and into a whole new world inspired by the magic of Arabian Nights — a night of wonder, generosity and community. Proceeds help write brighter futures for the children and families of our beautiful coastal home. For more info: jagulfport.org/charity-ball
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Where Fun Meets Elegance
Magnificent inland, seaward and coastal views. Open to Non-Members
Custom Menus and Packages www.greatsouthernclub.com 2510 14th Street ~ 15th Floor ~ Gulfport, MS ~ 228-865-0200
JOIN THE JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF BILOXI-OCEAN SPRINGS FOR THE GOBBLE ’TIL YOU WOBBLE 5K, FUN RUN & FAMILY FALL FESTIVAL! “This race is so special to me because it’s about so much more than crossing a finish line. As Fit4Life Chair, I wanted to create something that brings our community together while giving people an opportunity to get active, have fun and make memories together. Through Fit4Life, we have the opportunity to work with local children and families, as well as our Dream Program participants, throughout the year. Whether we’re getting active together, introducing someone to a new activity, or simply creating a place where everyone can participate and feel included, those are the moments that make this project so special to me. My hope is that this 5K becomes another one of those moments, a morning where our entire community can come together, get moving, make memories and have fun, all while helping us continue creating these opportunities throughout the year.”
MORE THAN A 5K. A MORNING OF MOVEMENT, MEMORIES & GIVING BACK.
— Ashley McDonald, Fit4Life Chair Junior Auxiliary of Biloxi-Ocean Springs
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FACES & PLACES CELEBRATING OUR PEOPLE. OUR PLACES. OUR COMMUNITY.
WE CARE... KEEP YOUR LOVED ONE AT HOME
228-990-9749 • HOOPCARESLLC.COM
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STORY AND PHOTOS BY ALEXA CUTRER A t the Gather Gulf Coast Fall Market, we ordered The Kitchen Sink platter from six smoked meats, three craft sausages, four sides, bread and pickled vegetables. Choosing just one thing would have been a much harder assignment. What surprised me most was how fresh and light this protein-forward meal felt. The meats weren’t drenched in sauce, and with so much flavor from the smoke, rubs and seasonings, I hardly needed any. Vegetables and pickled accompaniments balanced the richer bites, and the variety let us try a little bit of everything. This was unlike any other barbecue I’ve had around here: fancy barbecue, perhaps, but really, barbecue how it should be. Micks’d Up Kitchen. The name promised a little of everything, and the spread delivered: Micks’d Up Kitchen puts a fresh spin on Gulf Coast barbecue A LITTLE BIT OF everything — including the ‘kitchen sink’ (platter)
interesting. Maple Brandy Belly paired smoked maple pork belly with brandy and a Dijon drizzle, bringing sweet and sharp elements to a rich cut. Glazed Pork Coppa featured hand-butchered, marinated pork cooked slowly over smoke. Confit Beef Cheeks took a different route: four hours of smoking followed by 12 hours of confit cooking in tallow, seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic. Each cut gets its own preparation and cooking time. That variety gives you a reason to try each one and discover what you like best. The sausages were equally distinctive. Cane Sugar & Jalapeño combined pork with fresh cane sugar and both roasted and with fresh jalapeños. Apple Butter & Rosemary brought together pork, house-made apple butter, fresh rosemary and mustard seed. The bratwurst used pork, ginger, mace, caraway and heavy cream. Sweetness, heat, herbs and warm spices each had a place in the lineup. UNIQUE TOUCHES, THOUGHTFUL SIDES The Tomato & Cucumber Salad combined smoked tomatoes, cucumbers, lemons and herbs, offering a bright counterpoint to the meats. Steakhouse Mushrooms featured smoked mushrooms with shallots, parsley and herbs. Parmesan Potatoes were smoked scalloped potatoes prepared with Parmesan, cream, herbs, salt, pepper and garlic. It’s comfort food but with the same attention given to the proteins. The Rosemary & Rye Cornbread, finished with a burnt honey glaze and whipped brown butter, was wonderfully flavorful and unique. Pickled carrots, red onions, jalapeños and cucumbers added color and tang, while bread and sauces rounded out the spread.
Photo by Savvy Snapshots
A CREATIVE MENU WITH MANY STANDOUTS TO TRY
The sliced prime brisket started with a house dry rub and 16 hours of smoke, producing that dark exterior barbecue lovers recognize. Smoked pulled pork offered a familiar favorite: dry-rubbed pork butt, pulled by hand. Sliced turkey breast, brined, rubbed and smoked, added another option to a spread that gave every protein its own preparation. Then came the dishes that made this menu especially
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Photo by Savvy Snapshots
You can try Micks’d Up Kitchen at events across the Coast and on select dates at Altered Reality Brewing in Biloxi. Visit mscraftbbq.com and their social pages for the latest menu. Bring an appetite and someone willing to share.
Those fresh, acidic touches helped make such a substantial meal feel surprisingly balanced.
FROM THEIR TABLE TO OURS Kyle “Mick” and Jessica Mickelson established Micks’d Up Kitchen in 2020, but their love of feeding people began with dinner parties and cooking for family and friends. Both are educators, and both still work in schools while building the business around nights, weekends and events. Their approach to barbecue reflects that willingness to keep learning. They study the fundamentals, test recipes, adjust and try again. Everything is cooked exclusively over real wood on traditional offset smokers, with small batches and scratch-made components central to the operation. Their menus change with each service. Familiar barbecue favorites share space with specialty cuts, original sausage recipes and seasonal sides. After trying the Kitchen Sink, I understand the appeal: There is always another combination to look forward to and plenty of reasons to return. For a market lunch, it felt like a chance to sample an entire kitchen’s point of view. There was something familiar to start with, then something unexpected waiting just a few bites away. FIND YOUR NEXT FAVORITE Micks’d Up Kitchen has earned regional recognition for its barbecue and food truck offerings, but what stays with me is the care evident in our meal. Every part of that platter had something to contribute. The meats were the centerpiece, and the sides helped make the whole experience memorable.
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What's new!
DOLLY’S DREAMHOUSE: PARTON-THEMED SUITE READY TO RENT IN THE BAY If you’re worn out from working 9 to 5 and need a fun getaway in the Bay, Lauren Haydel has created just the place. Haydel, the founder of the popular Fleurty Girl brand, offers a Dolly Parton-themed vacation rental on Main Street in Bay St. Louis. The historic Creole cottage she purchased in 2020 features The Dolly Suite: a charming retreat awash in pink and loaded with feminine touches: think a feathered chandelier, floral-patterned walls and a portrait of a smiling Parton above the bed. Dolly would definitely approve! Want to book? You can reserve the rental through Airbnb (The Dolly Suite).
REDLINE HELICOPTER TOURS GIVES PASSENGERS BIRD’S-EYE VIEW OF THE COAST Looking for an unforgettable aerial adventure? Redline Helicopter Tours is now offering flights over the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast shoreline.
Founded in 2022 by father-and-son team Shane and Jax Redline, the company was founded in 2022 but only recently began offering local tours. Prospective passengers can choose from among a variety of packages. Ready to soar above the Mississippi Sound? Learn more at flybiloxi.com.
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Success
CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESSES!
I magine entering your favorite local shop. As you walk through the door, someone flashes you a warm, welcoming smile — perhaps even greets you by name. The atmosphere is cozy, relaxed and familiar. As you scan the offerings, you see items you wouldn’t find anywhere else. Sure, shopping via a screen can be convenient — but it comes at the cost of something invaluable: connection. That’s why the Saturday after Thanksgiving is known as Small Business Saturday, a chance to support the enterprises that form the economic heart of our communities. HERE ARE JUST SOME OF THE GOOD REASONS YOU SHOULD SHOP SMALL THIS SEASON: • You can discover unique and one-of-a-kind gifts — think custom artwork, hand-poured candles or a special skincare line. • It keeps local dollars where you live and work — $68 of every $100 spent compared to just $43 when spent at larger businesses. • Small businesses create jobs and contribute to neighborhood vibrancy. And if you want to uplift women, here’s an additional fact to consider: Approximately 47 percent of all businesses in Mississippi are female owned, according to a study from the U.S. Small Business Administration, and such operations are more likely to be classified as small — on average employing fewer than 10 people. As strong as women entrepreneurs are, they need your support as Women mean BUSINESS
they as they build, grow and strengthen the businesses that their communities count on. Read on to learn which businesses were honored as
DID YOU KNOW? 99.4% of Mississippi businesses are small businesses, and 47.1% of those businesses are owned by women (SOURCE: SBA OFFICE OF ADVOCACY, 2025 SMALL BUSINESS PROFILE)
the Best Women-Owned Businesses on the Coast, and as you plan your holiday budget, we’ll hope you’ll prioritize shopping small and local!
SUPPORT A LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS! VIEW OUR SMALL BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESS!
Inspired by family, fueled by determination and sprinkled with plenty of Southern flavor, Catrina Mitchell created a delicious legacy with her Pascagoula business
Love, served
daily
BY JENNIFER GENTILE
T rina’s Sweet Treats and More is not just a bakery or a restaurant. It’s a place where every bite is infused with love. “What started with desserts has continued to evolve over the years, expanding into breakfast, lunch, dinner, catering, custom cakes, special events and so much more.” says CEO Catrina Mitchell, who founded the Pascagoula-based business in 2015. Before embarking on entrepreneurship, Mitchell earned degrees in early childhood education and healthcare administration and worked in customer service, as well as serving as a case manager with the Mississippi Department of Human Services. Leading a successful company for 11 years, one that has been recognized as the Best Bakery on the Gulf Coast, is a milestone Mitchell is especially proud of reaching. “My background may not have followed a traditional path into the food industry,” she says, “but every chapter of my life has contributed to the businesswoman, mother and leader I am today.” A BUSINESS BORN OF LOVE AND FAMILY TRADITION Owning a bakery was never a future Mitchell imagined for herself. In fact, she admits, she didn’t even know how to bake when she started. “My passion came from simply being a girl who loved her dad,” she recalls. Mitchell’s mom once cooked large dinners on Sundays — including delicious, eagerly anticipated desserts. Her father’s favorites were red velvet cake and pound cake. “When (my mother) suddenly became ill and could no longer do the things she had always done, I didn’t want my dad to go without
This photo of Mitchell’s mom, Earnestine Mitchell hangs in her shop.
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something that had become such a special part of their Sunday tradition,” Mitchell says. Using her grandmother’s recipes, Mitchell set to work trying to recreate those beloved sweet treats. “Every Sunday, I would bring my parents dinner and dessert,” she recalls, “and every Sunday came with a critique. My mom would say, ‘That’s not it,” and my daddy would tell me, ‘Something’s missing, baby.’” Mitchell persevered for six weeks, and then one Sunday, feeling defeated, she presented another dinner and dessert. She was surprised and delighted when her father exclaimed, “This is it! This is better than yours, Bassie!” “From there, something changed in me,” Mitchell says. “I started experimenting with different recipes and letting other people taste what I was making. Before I knew it, people started placing orders — and the orders just kept coming.” ‘SOUTHERN COMFORT WITH A TRINA’S TWIST’ Today, Mitchell serves patrons from all walks of life, from families, working professionals and seniors to young people, travelers and those celebrating some of life’s biggest moments. “I believe we appeal to so many different people because there is something for everyone at Trina’s,” she says. We offer both savory food and desserts, and with more than 150 cake flavors, I love giving people variety while keeping that homemade, Southern feel.” From the moment they step into Trina’s, customers enter a feminine world awash in pink — pink walls, pink flowers and pink and green branding. “It’s bright, fun, welcoming and very much a reflection of me,” Mitchell says. “I’ve never been afraid to stand out, and I think my business reflects that.” The hallmark of her cuisine, she says, is “Southern comfort with a Trina’s twist”; think oxtails and grits, Biscoff desserts and deep-fried velvet cake. From the presentation to the flavors, Mitchell wants “Trina’s touch” to permeate every facet of her operation, leaving no doubt where a dish or dessert came from. However, what truly sets Trina’s apart is that the owner doesn’t view other businesses as her competition. “I only see me,” Mitchell says.
Mitchell’s first building in downtown Pascagoula’s Anchor Square
“My goal is to be better than I was yesterday, better than I was last week, and better than I was last year. I’m constantly asking myself, ‘What can Trina’s do better?’” STRIKING A BALANCE While Mitchell feels fortunate to be based in Pascagoula, the community that has supported her from the start, she’s shipped red velvet cake throughout the United States and as far afield as Japan, Guam and Germany. “On the savory side, our oxtails, Cajun turkey wings and Cajun pasta are some of our most popular dishes,” she says. “Whether you come for the sweets or the Southern comfort food, there’s usually a Trina’s favorite waiting for you.” As pleased as she is to have a thriving business, Mitchell is even prouder of her three children: Xavier Mitchell, 24; Morgan Harris, 13; and Lamonte Harris, 20, who serves as chief financial officer of Trina’s while also pursuing law school. “Being their mother is one of my greatest accomplishments,” she says, “and I’m proud that they have been able to watch me build something from the ground up while also pursuing their own dreams.” Entrepreneurship has shown Mitchell just how capable and strong women truly are. She herself has had to juggle being a mom, a business owner, leader and mentor — while somehow finding room to be just Catrina. Women sometimes must work harder to be taken seriously, Mitchell grants, but she’d rather create her own table than wait for someone else to offer her a seat at theirs. “What makes it most special is
knowing that my daughter and other young women are watching,” she says. “I want them to see that a woman can have a vision, build it from the ground up, lead with confidence and compassion and create something that leaves a legacy.” THE GREATEST REWARD OF ALL As for the future of Trina’s, Mitchell alludes to exciting things happening behind the scenes — namely a second, mobile location in the works in Florida. While she can’t share many details yet, she says she’s eager to introduce her business to a new market. “My biggest goal is expansion, continuing to grow the brand and creating opportunities to make Trina’s a household name while never losing the quality and personal touch that got her here,” Mitchell says. The compliment the business owner cherishes most is when someone says, “It tastes just like something my grandmother or mama would make.” That tells Mitchell that Trina’s is serving more than food; it’s giving people a taste of home. “Watching something I started from love grow into a business that provides for my family, creates jobs, serves my community and inspires others is something I’ll never take for granted,” she says. “Knowing that I built something that can live beyond me is the greatest reward of all.”
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CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESS!
Making every celebration POP!
Sherteres Lofton is growing a balloon business based in creativity, passion and community support
BY JENNIFER GENTILE
W hen Sherteres Lofton signed up for a balloon class with a local decorator, she couldn’t have known where that decision would lead. “I ended up being the only person who paid for the class,” Lofton recalls, “so it turned into a one-on-one session, and the rest is history!” That was in May of 2022, and Lofton leveraged what she learned to start her own business: Pop It Balloons and More. The company, which specializes in creating vibrant balloon designs and providing unique party essentials, was voted the winner of Gulf Coast Woman’s Women-Owned Best Small Business Contest 2026. As a proud Moss Point native, Lofton says that the Best Small Business accolade feels especially personal and proves that all the long days, late nights, learning, practicing and investing in herself have been worth it. “To have the community recognize the work I’ve poured into my business is truly an honor, and I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way,” she says. “Winning this recognition motivates me to keep growing, creating and making the Coast proud.”
OVERALL WINNER
Sherteres Lofton
I became …,” she says. “It’s not necessarily something I always planned to do, but it has become something I truly believe I was meant to do.” Lofton has celebrated many milestones since founding Pop It: Booking her first corporate event with Brick & Spoon, launching DIY balloon kits, creating a large setup for Regions Bank, expanding into larger luxury installations, working with businesses and community organizations and cultivating a strong social media following. Since the start, the entrepreneur has continued investing in classes, practicing her craft and expanding her services — excited to realize Pop
It’s potential. The company serves families, individuals, small businesses, corporations, schools and anyone wanting to make their event stand out. “I think Pop It appeals to them because I offer more than balloons; I offer creativity, quality, and a personal experience,” Lofton says. “I listen to what my clients envision and work hard to bring it to life while making sure every detail feels intentional.” ‘THAT’S POP IT!’ Success for any small business, according to Lofton, begins with consistency, great customer service and a willingness to learn. She
MORE THAN BALLOONS A self-described creative, Lofton loves turning an idea into a something special that people can see and experience. She’s always enjoyed decorating, but she never dreamed that balloons would become such a big part of her life. “When I took my first class, something just clicked for me; I realized I had found something I genuinely enjoyed, and the more I learned, the more passionate
CONTINUED ON PAGE 32
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LEAVE HAPPY. COME HUNGRY.
Some places satisfy your sweet tooth. Trina’s satisfies your whole appetite. From crave-worthy breakfast and Southern comfort favorites to decadent cakes, cupcakes and desserts, Trina’s Sweet Treats & More is serving up the kind of food that makes you start planning your next visit before you’ve finished the first one. Breakfast. Lunch. Something sweet. Whatever you’re craving, there’s something delicious waiting at Trina’s.
2818 MARKET STREET • PASCAGOULA 601-307-3839 GOOD FOOD. SWEET TREATS. ONE DELICIOUS STOP.
www.gcwmultimedia.com Come taste what everybody’s talking about! 29
CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESS!
Women entrepreneurs continue to shape the American economy, creating businesses, jobs and opportunities in communities across the country. Here on the Coast, we received dozens of nominations for our annual Best Women-Owned Small Business Contest. This year’s winners reflect the creativity, determination and community spirit that make South Mississippi’s small-business scene so special. From builders and real estate professionals to restaurateurs, creatives and service providers, these women are showing what’s possible when passion meets purpose. The votes are in! Meet GCW’s Best Women-Owned Small Businesses 2026.
THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS
WINNERS BY AREA
Bay St. Louis Winner: Crane
Gautier Winner: Delo’s Heavenly House of Coffee Runner-Up: O’Pink’s Sweet Treats and More Gulfport Winner: Rise Real Estate Company Runner-Up: Drewes Engineering, PLLC Kiln Winner: La Terre Farms Runner-Up: Taqueria Olvera Long Beach Winner: Studio E
Moss Point Winner: Sugar Beans Cafe Runner-Up: The Magnolia on Homestead Ocean Springs Winner: Spice and Tea Merchants of Ocean Springs Runner-Up: Coast Aesthetics Balloons and More Runner-Up: Top Shelf Espresso Pass Christian Winner: Robin’s Nest in the Pass Runner-Up: Visionary Family Eyecare Pascagoula Winner: Pop It
Saucier Winner: The Precious Pet Professional Pet Sitters Runner-Up: Bees & Seas Vancleave Winner: Star Ruby Cafe Runner-Up: Rolling Stone Pet Spa Waveland Winner: Amur Aesthetics Spa Runner-Up: Sugar Pop Baking Co
Builders LLC MS Runner-Up: Flying Dolly’s Biloxi Winner: BrenMonie Events Runner-Up: Jennuwine Design D’Iberville Winner: Coco Laveau Art Co. Runner-Up: Gemini Luxury Candle Co Diamondhead Winner: Crawfish Max
Runner-Up: The Literacy Lady’s Learning Studio
Runner-Up: Lancaster’s
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www.gcwmultimedia.com
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CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESS!
maintains, too, that reputation matters just as much as the product or service you sell. “Treating people well, doing what you say you’re going to do and taking pride in your work can take you a long way,” Lofton says. “Most importantly, you have to believe in yourself and your business enough to keep showing up, even when things get hard.” Her calling card, she adds, is attention to detail and an artistic flair that makes balloons feel like more than mere decorations. In her experienced hands, they can become a celebration centerpiece, a picture-perfect backdrop or the unforgettable finishing touch. “Whether it’s a simple garland or a full installation, I want my work to have a ‘Pop It” feel — creative, polished, intentional and memorable,” Lofton says. “I want WOMEN-OWNED BEST SMALL BUSINESS WINNER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
people to see a setup and know immediately, ‘That’s Pop It.’”
DOING ALL THINGS IN LOVE The business owner’s biggest goals are to make her business a household name and to one day open her own Coast storefront. In the meantime, she’s eying expansion beyond traditional balloon decor and looking to offer more customized products and creative services. But no matter how high she climbs, Lofton remains rooted in the message of 1 Corinthians 16:14: “Let all that you do be done in love.” “I’d just like to say that I’m incredibly grateful for this journey, and most importantly, I give God all the glory,” she says. “Pop It Balloons and More started with one balloon class and a dream, and it has grown into something I never could have imagined.”
“Most importantly, you have to believe in yourself and your business enough to keep showing up, even when things get hard.” — SHERTERES LOFTON
DO YOU HAVE THIS MUCH FUN AT YOUR MEETINGS?!?!
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Credit: Dawson Love Photography
Location credit: Ground Zero Blues Club
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This Holiday LEAVE THE COOKING TO Chef Chelle!
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Whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering, an elegant holiday dinner or a festive office celebration, Chef Chelle brings bold Southern flavors, Cajun-Creole flair and unforgettable food to your table. From the first bite to the last, make this holiday gathering one your guests will rave about! THE GUEST LIST. WE ' LL HANDLE THE MENU. Book Your Holiday Catering Today! YOU HANDLE THE CHEF CHELLE EXPERIENCE www.TheChefChelleExperience.com 228-547-0379
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UNIQUE JEWELRY FOR EVERY STYLE
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CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESS!
‘Growth is not simply about getting bigger’ HOW JOCELYN GAVIN-LANE IS TAKING HER BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Jocelyn Gavin-Lane
B y any measure, Premier Professional Counseling Services is thriving. Since launching in Gulfport in 2013, the practice has opened locations in D’Iberville (2024), Picayune (August 2025) and Moss Point (July 2026) — in addition to hiring many of new staff and providers. Jocelyn Gavin-Lane,
STAYING CONNECTED TO YOUR ‘WHY’ I have learned that what gets you started will not necessarily sustain you as you grow. Scaling requires systems, strong leadership, financial discipline, the right team and a willingness to delegate. One of the best investments you can make is having a good accountant who understands your business, helps you know your numbers and ensures you remain in a positive
the practice’s lead therapist, founder and owner, shares the strategies and
approach she’s taken to guide her business’s expansion. PIVOTING TO MEET CHANGING NEEDS Premier Professional Counseling Services has grown by listening to what our communities need and being willing to evolve to meet those needs. What began in 2013 has expanded into a multidisciplinary mental health practice serving communities across the Coast. We have expanded our locations and grown beyond traditional therapy by adding psychiatric medication management, psychological testing and evaluations, school-based and employee assistance services and community-focused programming. I also have intentionally diversified by investing in commercial real estate and purchasing the building that houses our Gulfport location. This allows me to build equity and long-term wealth outside of the business itself. If I ever decide to sell or transition away from the practice, I still own an asset that can generate lease income or potentially be sold. For me, growth is not simply about getting bigger. It is about increasing access to quality mental health care while creating sustainability and building something of lasting value.
financial position as you grow. I also have learned that not every opportunity is the right opportunity. Growth without proper infrastructure can become overwhelming quickly. My advice is to build intentionally, establish strong processes, hire people who understand the vision and never confuse being busy with being successful. Most importantly, stay connected to your “why.” BUILDING SOMETHING THAT LASTS My vision is for Premier to become a comprehensive, trusted behavioral health organization with an even greater reach throughout Mississippi. I want us to continue expanding access, creating innovative services, developing mental health professionals and building sustainable community partnerships. Ultimately, I want to build something that outlives me — an organization known not simply for its size, but for the quality of its care, the opportunities it created, and the communities it changed.
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