By Alex Gushard-Edwards, Karen Kalantzis and Karlys Kline
In celebration of International Women’s History Month, Downtown Frederick Partnership is proud to present this special edition of Voices of Downtown Frederick. This month, we highlight three inspiring women who contribute to the vibrancy of Downtown Frederick. Through their leadership and community service they enrich our community, fostering an environment where women support and inspire one another. Join us as we explore their experiences and perspectives on what makes Downtown Frederick such a dynamic and welcoming place for women.
Alex Gushard-Edwards is the owner of Marie Rose Photography, specializing in portrait, branding and lifestyle photography. She is also the Development and Marketing lead for Woman to Woman Mentoring and serves on the board of SOUL Street, advocating for Black businesses in Frederick. Alex is a proud graduate of Leadership Frederick Class of 2024.
Karen Kalantzis is a Frederick resident and serves as the Senior Business Consultant for the Maryland Women’s Business Center supporting Frederick County. With a strong track record in small business development, she is dedicated to fostering a thriving community, especially for women entrepreneurs. Karen previously was a partner in a technology business that was listed in the Inc. 5000 for several years. She is a graduate of Leadership Frederick Class of 2023.
Karlys Kline is a devoted community leader and philanthropist. After a successful career in fashion and manufacturing, she shifted her focus to community service, founding the Women’s Giving Circle to support women and children in Frederick County. She has served on over 42 nonprofit and business boards, working to connect resources and strengthen the community.
What makes Downtown Frederick a great place for women to live and work?
Alex: “For a long time, I didn’t fully embrace or celebrate Frederick because I grew up here. But in the past few years, I’ve immersed myself in the business and nonprofit communities and found an incredible network of women who lift each other up. Downtown Frederick is an amazing place for women to grow, thrive, and create meaningful change.”
Karen: “Downtown Frederick is a vibrant and exciting place to be! Being here has allowed me to connect with so many women in business through consulting services, networking events, and community projects. Having a downtown office in the ROOT building, right in the heart of the county, enhances our organization’s professionalism and helps us support more business owners.”
Karlys: “Living downtown gives you such a strong sense of community. My days are truly filled with joy as I watch the town come alive. Whether it’s grabbing coffee with friends, attending events, or simply walking along Carroll Creek, I feel connected and empowered by the people around me.”
How have women in Downtown Frederick supported and uplifted each other?
Alex: “Last year, Woman to Woman Mentoring participated in the Women’s History Month Proclamation at Winchester Hall, and soon after, we were nominated for Organization of the Year by the Frederick County Commission for Women. This community continually works together to support and uplift one another.”
Karen: “Women in this community understand that collaboration is key to success. I see women forming business partnerships to create events like girls’ nights out, wellness experiences, and book clubs. A great example is Tina Harper of Dream Free Art partnering with Crystal at Crash and Catharsis Rage Factory to bring unique experiences to the community.”
Karlys: “We thrive on fun events like Galentine’s Day and Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but we also make sure to support female-owned businesses and causes. Women have a commanding presence in Downtown Frederick, and we make it a priority to lift each other up.”
What advice would you give to other women considering making Downtown Frederick their home or workplace?
Alex: “Step out and make a new connection. Attend networking events and don’t be afraid to try. This community will welcome you with open arms.”
Karen: “I always encourage my clients to explore ways to establish themselves here if it aligns with their mission and client base. Downtown offers so many opportunities for women in business and the community is incredibly supportive.”
Karlys: “As Nike says… ‘Just do it.’ It’s fun, safe, connected, embracing, lively, and, most of all, kind. What’s not to love?”
What can be done to continue making Downtown Frederick a welcoming and inclusive space for all women?
Alex: “We need to continue discussing diversity in all conversations and celebrating the many different women who make up Downtown Frederick. Representation matters, and we have to keep ensuring this remains a safe and thriving place for all women.”
Karen: “By creating more opportunities to showcase women-owned businesses through partnerships, encouraging larger companies to buy from women entrepreneurs, and providing affordable and accessible real estate leasing options.”
Karlys: “Women are included at every level of business and government in Frederick. You can’t help but feel empowered here, and I don’t see that changing.”
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Downtown Frederick in the upcoming blog series.