Friday marked the inauguration of a new addition to Port Chester's business landscape with the opening of Suzanne Claire Studios Photography, a locally owned women-led enterprise.

The event at 14 Willett Ave. was the second launch party that was held in the space. Other women-owned business called B Social Events held its launch party the day before.

Both business owners have really been leaning on each other for support, collaborating on marketing, strategy, and the events.

There are over 14 million women-owned small businesses in the United States. Despite that high number, however, studies show women tend to receive less in investment capital than men.

Port Chester's Chamber of Commerce told News 12 they're thrilled to have these two new female-owned businesses in the area.

For Suzanne Claire, this company was really born out of a need and one that caught her by surprise.

"I was married for a very long time, and after my divorce I found myself, 'oh God what am I going to do now?' and so I just took what I love and turned it into a business," she said.