In Celina, women are not just building businesses, they are shaping the heart of the community. From storefronts to service-based ventures, these entrepreneurs are leading with purpose, passion, and a deep commitment to those they serve. We had the opportunity to sit down with a group of inspiring local women to learn what sparked their journey, what keeps them going, and the impact they hope to leave right here at home.
DR. KIMBERLY MCNEAL
McNeal Orthodontics
Can you share the story behind how your business began?
I own the only privately owned, female-led orthodontic specialty practice in Celina and have been a specialist in the field for 37 years. After completing my residency, I knew I wanted to be of service. I strongly believe in privately owned practices and have continued with that approach throughout my career.
What has been one of the most rewarding moments in your career so far?
The most rewarding moment in my career was the day I finished my residency after 15 years of college education and opened my first private practice, serving a community. Seeing the look in my dad’s eyes meant everything, especially after we lost my mom during my last year of residency.
What advice would you give other women who are starting or growing a business?
My advice for all women is to choose your path with love and passion that keep you moving forward with grace. Know that there will always be difficult moments, but you have the power and ability to find what you need to succeed.
Who has been a mentor or influence in your journey?
My mentor was my dad. He was a WWII veteran and a businessman. He taught me the importance of self-sacrifice, humility, and the boldness to persevere through challenging times.
McNealOrtho.com
TAMMIE D. WALKER
Private Wealth Advisor, Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC
Tell us a little about your business and what inspired you to start it.
I founded my business in 1992, bringing more than three decades of experience to our clients today. We are an all-female practice with offices in Celina and Plano, led by three fully licensed advisors. Our team is deeply committed to guiding clients through every aspect of their financial lives, helping them define and achieve their goals with confidence.
What has been one of the most rewarding moments in your career so far?
One of the greatest honors in my career has been receiving the Hall of Fame award. It represents a pinnacle achievement, and I am incredibly proud of that recognition.
That said, the most meaningful moments come from the relationships we build with our clients. Hearing how we have made a positive impact in their lives and how much they value our guidance is truly rewarding. We are also honored to celebrate life’s major milestones alongside them, from retirements and children heading to college to 20 and 30-year client anniversaries. Those shared moments are what make this work so fulfilling.
What advice would you give other women who are starting or growing a business?
Lean on your village. Surrounding yourself with a strong, supportive network is invaluable. I encourage women to get involved in organizations such as the Celina Chamber of Commerce and CLOI (Celina Ladies of Influence).
There is something powerful about women supporting women, and that spirit is especially strong here in Celina. We lift one another up, build meaningful connections, and share ideas that help each of us grow. Being part of that kind of community is truly impactful.
Tammie.D.Walker@ampf.com
DR. BLAIR THWAITES
Sagewood Primary Care
Tell us a little about your business and what inspired you to start it.
Sagewood Primary Care is a patient-focused, physician-owned family medicine clinic. I started Sagewood Primary Care with the intention of changing how patients interact with their primary care physician. The healthcare system has become very cold and sterile, with patients often treated like a number and rushed through 10-minute appointments to drive revenue. It was time for a change. I wanted to get back to the roots of family medicine by creating a warm, home-like environment where patients feel heard and truly cared for.
What has been one of the most rewarding moments in your career so far?
Building relationships with patients and their families has been incredibly rewarding. Being able to care for families through every stage of life is something I truly value.
When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?
I have two little girls, so spending time with them brings me so much joy. As a family, we love taking our Jeeps off-roading and going camping.
What advice would you give to other women starting or growing a business?
There is never going to be the perfect time to start a business or take the next step, so take the leap of faith. Do it scared, do it unprepared, and be bold. It is worth the risk.
SagewoodPrimaryCare.com
ANGELA KELLEY
Unlimited Spirit
Tell us a little about your business and what inspired you to start it.
We started with cheer bows and gifts, but quickly expanded into custom apparel, accessories, and, more recently, mum supplies. We love partnering with teams and communities to provide quality products that show their team spirit.
This business began small out of my home while I was working a corporate job, and it quickly took off. I really enjoyed working with people and seeing their reactions to a truly custom product, so I decided to take a leap and go all in.
What do you love most about serving the Celina community?
Even with all the growth, Celina still has a small-town feel, and the people here truly show strong support for their community, which is amazing.
Who has been a mentor or influence in your journey?
I’ve had a lot of friends, partners, and supporters along the way, which I’m very grateful for. Having a small business isn’t easy, but when you have other business owners who want to see you succeed and are willing to invest time in your journey, it’s amazing.
Stacia with My Vinyl Craft in McKinney has been that for me. We collaborate, talk through plans and ideas, and push each other forward. She’s great.
When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?
I focus that time on family. I have two older kids, and we are really close, so dinners, games, going out, and just being together are all really important to me.
UnlimitedSpirit.com
KIMBERLY DENT
The Pin Cushion
What sparked the idea for your business, and how did it come to life?
The Pin Cushion is a family-friendly body piercing studio with an all-female staff. We specialize in top trending ear and body piercings and offer implant grade titanium, 14k solid gold, and lab-created diamond jewelry.
I was inspired to start The Pin Cushion when my daughter was 6 years old. I wanted to create a safe and friendly space for her and her friends to get their ears pierced. Over the years, it has been so rewarding for me and my team to watch our clients grow up and become adults, and many of them still stop by to visit us.
What advice would you give other women who are starting or growing a business?
My advice would be to never give up on your dreams and to trust your gut instincts. Life will throw you curveballs, but you have to stay on your path. Be patient, be kind, and nurture your business. It will always give that love back.
When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?
When I’m not at the shop, I always try to stay busy. I’m in my third year of wine school at Texas Tech University for viticulture and wine production, and I’m also learning Italian.
BodyPiercingsCelina.com
My advice for all women is to choose your path with love and passion that keep you moving forward with grace.
There is something powerful about women supporting women, and that spirit is especially strong here in Celina.
I wanted to get back to the roots of family medicine by creating a warm, home-like environment where patients feel heard and truly cared for.
We love partnering with teams and communities to provide quality products that show their team spirit.