March is Women’s History Month—a time to celebrate the achievements, creativity, and resilience of women across every industry. Here in Winter Park, Florida, Emily Williams, owner and designer at Be on Park, represents the spirit of women’s entrepreneurship. Through her leadership, Emily has redefined what it means to succeed in the traditionally old-fashioned jewelry business—doing so with authenticity, passion, and a clear eye for design.

For decades, the fine jewelry businesses have been rooted in tradition—often with a history of industry practices that can feel rigid or slow to evolve. Emily quickly realized that thinking outside the box was crucial to standing out in this established arena. She pursued fresh ideas, from diversifying price points to encouraging women to buy jewelry “for themselves” and “just because,” rather than waiting for a special occasion.

But forging that new path wasn’t easy. As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated sector, she faced assumptions about her credibility, taste, and business judgment. The key, Emily says, is staying authentic and trusting your gut. She didn’t see the jewelry experience she wanted in the marketplace, so she created it herself—adding vibrant color palettes, handpicked designs and a welcoming philosophy that emphasizes daily wear and enjoyment of her pieces.

It’s no secret that entering a long-established industry can be challenging for a woman. For those looking to start their own ventures, Emily advises trusting your instincts, shaping your vision without waiting for external validation, never underestimating your worth, and surrounding yourself with partners who believe in your goals. This led Emily to form a strong relationship with key partners, such as Cogent Bank, who mirror her values and understand the needs of her growing business.

Cogent Bank’s partnership with Be on Park goes far beyond transactional banking—it’s a collaboration grounded in trust, shared values, and a mutual passion for fostering women-empowered enterprises. From providing flexible financing options to offering personalized guidance at every stage of business growth, Cogent Bank has proven instrumental in helping Emily navigate the unique challenges of the jewelry industry. The dedicated banking center that supports Emily is comprised entirely of women, further reinforcing Cogent’s commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs. By prioritizing open communication and proactively identifying solutions tailored to Be on Park’s evolving needs, Cogent Bank has become a supportive ally that empowers Emily to take risks, innovate, and keep her focus on delivering an exceptional experience for her customers.

“Cogent Bank’s unwavering support has been invaluable,” Emily says. “They’ve provided me with not just flexible financing but also the encouragement and expertise needed to thrive in a competitive industry. Working with a financial partner that genuinely invests in women-owned businesses has made all the difference.”

As we celebrate Women’s History Month and reflect on Emily’s journey, it becomes clear that innovation, collaboration, and self-belief can truly transform an industry. Emily’s success at Be on Park is a testament to the power of trusting your instincts, forging strong partnerships, and creating a welcoming environment where customers and team members alike feel inspired. By banking with partners like Cogent Bank—who understand the unique needs of women-owned businesses—women entrepreneurs everywhere can empower their ambitions and spark meaningful change in their teams and communities daily.

For more information on Be on Park, please visit: https://beonpark.com/

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational/educational purposes only.  The views and opinions expressed in this document may be those of the individuals and may not necessarily reflect those of Cogent Bancorp and its subsidiaries and affiliates, or the entities they may represent. Content contained herein may be used in connection with the advertising and/or marketing of products offered by Cogent Bank or Cogent Private Wealth. The material is not intended to provide or substitute for legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any Cogent Bank product or service. You should consult with a legal, financial, tax, or other appropriate professional(s) for your specific needs and/or objectives before making any decisions.