The Women's History Month 2026 theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future”. This theme recognizes women who are reimagining and rebuilding systems to ensure long-term sustainability across environmental, economic, social, and educational sectors.
Every March, Women’s History Month arrives like a tide—steady, powerful, and full of stories that deserve to be heard. But on Miami Beach, this month is more than a national observance. It’s a mirror held up to the city’s soul, reflecting the women who have shaped its culture, powered its economy, and infused its streets with creativity, resilience, and ambition. For Miami Beach businesses, honoring Women’s History Month is not just a gesture. It is a responsibility. It is an opportunity. And, more than anything, it is a celebration of the people who make this city extraordinary.
Walk down Collins Avenue, Española Way, 41st Street, 71st Street, Washington Avenue, Ocean Drive, or Lincoln Road, and you will feel it, the pulse of a city built on entrepreneurship. Women are at the center of that energy. Women are the:
- restaurateurs blending flavors from their heritage into dishes that become local legends;
- boutique owners curating spaces that feel like home;
- hotel managers who turn hospitality into an art form;
- artists, designers, and creators who give Miami Beach its unmistakable aesthetic; and so much more.
Women-owned and run businesses are not a niche in Miami Beach. They are a driving force and when the city supports them, the entire community rises.
Women’s History Month gives Miami Beach businesses a platform to spotlight the women who have shaped their journeys, whether they are founders, employees, mentors, and/or community leaders.
These stories matter because they:
- inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs;
- strengthen community pride; and
- remind us that progress is built by people who dared to push forward.
When a local café shares the story of the grandmother who taught its owner to bake, or a gallery highlights the work of a rising female artist, it creates a connection that goes beyond commerce. It becomes personal, emotional, and human, this is what keeps residents, visitors, and tourist coming back.
Consumers today want to support brands with purpose. They want to know their dollars uplift real people and real stories. In a city where tourism and local culture intertwine, authenticity is currency. Women’s History Month gives businesses a chance to show who they are and what they stand for.
Economic Development sat down with Lili Pons, owner of Toni Pons, to discuss the rationale in opening a flagship store in the United States.
Toni Pons recently opened at 1656 Lenox Avenue, and is a Spanish footwear brand focused on sustainability using natural materials like jute, cotton, linen, and raffia, with over 90% of their collections incorporating these eco-friendly materials. They prioritize craftsmanship, using leather certified by the Leather Working Group and offering recycled fabric options to minimize environmental impact.
With 75+ years of heritage, inspired by craftsmanship, comfort, and timeless design, the brand began as a family business specializing in handcrafted espadrilles, and over the years evolved while staying true to its roots. The brand was inspired to bring a Mediterranean lifestyle of effortless elegance, natural materials, and comfort-first design to a market that appreciates both quality and style.
What makes Toni Pons unique compared to other shoe stores in Miami Beach?
When asked about the Miami Beach competition, Lili shared that Toni Pons stands out with authentic craftsmanship and strong Spanish identity. Every pair reflects a tradition of handmade techniques, specifically the iconic jute soles. Unlike many mass-produced brands, the brand focuses on natural materials, comfort-driven design, and timeless silhouettes that transcend seasonal trends. Toni Pons shoes are designed to feel as good as they look.
What are your signature shoes?
Our signature shoes are handcrafted espadrilles. From classic wedge espadrilles to flat styles, and platform sandals, the designs are at the heart of the brand Our ribbon-tie espadrilles, timeless leather sandals, and comfortable wedges combine elegance with all-day wearability are equally successful. Our shoes transition effortlessly from beachside afternoons to elegant evening outings.
Why did you make the bold move to Miami Beach?
Miami Beach is a natural fit for Toni Pons. The vibrant energy, international audience, and year-round warm climate align perfectly with our Mediterranean spirit. The lifestyle is relaxed, yet sophisticated, and compliments our brand. Miami Beach is dynamic, global, and constantly evolving. It attracts both tourists and residents who appreciate fashion, design, and lifestyle-driven brands. Its strong retail scene, beautiful environment, and cultural diversity make it an exciting place for innovative businesses to thrive.
Can you share your experience opening in Miami Beach?
What advice would you give businesses considering opening their first flagship in the United States?
Understand your market deeply and be clear about your brand identity. The U.S. market is competitive, and it rewards authenticity and strong storytelling. Invest in location, customer experience, and community building. A flagship store should feel like a physical expression of the brand values.
How does Toni Pons engage with the local community?
We plan to collaborate with local creatives, stylists, influencers and community events to create meaningful connections. Toni Pons is about lifestyle, not just footwear. We want to host in-store events, seasonal launches, and styling sessions that celebrate Miami Beach’s vibrant culture and international flair. We are planning special launch events, seasonal promotions, and exclusive previews of new collections. Customers can expect curated experiences that highlight our Mediterranean roots while celebrating Miami’s unique energy.
How will Toni Pons evolve in the next few years?
We see Toni Pons continuing to grow in the US while maintaining an artisanal essence. Innovation in comfort, sustainability, and design will remain central to our evolution. We aim to strengthen our presence in key global markets, expand community-driven experiences, and continue sharing the Mediterranean lifestyle with customers around the world.
Women’s History Month Miami Beach is a call to celebrate, support and elevate. Miami Beach thrives because of its diversity, its creativity, and its relentless forward motion. Women have always been at the center of that story, even when history didn’t write their names down.
This month invites every business—big or small—to help rewrite that narrative. To shine a light. To amplify voices. To honor the women who built this city and those who are shaping its future.
Because when Miami Beach celebrates women, it doesn’t just remember history.
It makes it.
