From the origin story of their businesses to the ways they allowed themselves to grow as entrepreneurs, our Female Founders series gives a view into the lives of successful women from a variety of industries. Join us for today’s feature, Toni Miller, offering a behind the scenes look at some of what she has done to succeed so far, advice for those starting off, and plans for the future.
What’s your business and how did you get started?
I am the founder and owner of Mill Pond Estate, an outdoor wedding and events venue in Tampa, Florida. Back in 2019, I was feeling pretty burnt out from my 9-5 and needed a change. That’s when I found this property and started developing it. At first, it was just my sanctuary—a peaceful escape from the chaos of life, surrounded by nature. I never imagined it would grow into something so much bigger. The turning point for Mill Pond came with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As lockdowns disrupted weddings and events everywhere, people began searching for safe, open spaces to gather. I started getting requests from people who were drawn to the tranquility of the property and wanted to host events here. Seeing how much joy and comfort it brought during such a difficult time was so moving. It was incredible to watch the property evolve into a place of connection and happiness. It was my mom who suggested the idea of turning this into a permanent venture. The decision to open up the property to the general public felt like a full circle moment—shifting from wanting to hide away from the world to sharing the beauty of this place with others. My joy of owning the property no longer came from keeping it hidden but instead extending its embrace to those seeking solace, celebration and connection in a serene, natural setting.
What is one thing you’re really proud of that you’ve created or accomplished?
One of the things I’m most proud of is my very first styled shoot as a business owner. When I was new to the industry, I faced a lot of challenges—people didn’t take me seriously, and I felt like I had to prove myself. I decided to take matters into my own hands and pulled off a styled shoot entirely on my own. From planning and designing to coordinating every little detail, I poured my heart into the project. Seeing it all come together was incredibly rewarding, but the real moment of validation came when the shoot was published. It was proof that, with determination and hard work, I could make my vision a reality, even without much support in the beginning. That experience not only boosted my confidence but also taught me to trust my abilities and keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.
What’s your favorite thing about being a business owner?
My favorite thing about being a business owner is serving my clients and making sure they are genuinely happy. I love having the ability to make their special day unforgettable by ensuring everything runs smoothly, not just on the day itself but throughout the entire process. I also value the trust clients place in me. Whether it’s solving last-minute challenges or offering guidance during stressful moments, I find immense purpose in being a steady source of support. Ultimately, knowing we’ve helped create an experience they’ll cherish forever is what makes this work so meaningful to me.
What’s the boldest thing you’ve ever done in business?
The boldest thing I’ve done in business is being completely transparent with our pricing. In an industry where many businesses keep their prices hidden until the last minute, I chose to take a different approach. At Mill Pond Estate, we’re upfront about our costs from the very beginning. I believe it’s important for clients to know whether our services align with their budget before they even reach out. For me, it’s about finding the right fit, not just booking every wedding. It’s a risky move, especially in a competitive market, but it’s one I’m proud of. It helps build trust and sets the tone for open communication with our clients. Plus, it ensures we’re attracting couples who truly value what we offer and align with our vision, which makes the experience more meaningful for everyone involved.
What’s one thing you’re currently excited about for the future of your business?
I’m excited about the future of my business as I continue to integrate more sustainable practices into the industry. The event and floral industries can be surprisingly wasteful, so sustainability is a core value that I’m deeply committed to. I believe sustainability is something consumers are increasingly prioritizing, which inspires me to keep evolving Mill Pond Estate into a model for environmentally conscious events. It’s not just about hosting beautiful weddings and gatherings; it’s about showing that you can celebrate life’s biggest moments in a way that honors and protects the environment for future generations.
What’s your best business advice you would give to other women?
Just take the leap — don’t overthink it or let fear hold you back. There will never be a perfect time to start, so trust yourself and go for it. Mistakes are inevitable, but they’re also invaluable. Each misstep is an opportunity to learn and grow, shaping you into a stronger and more resilient business owner. Embrace the process, believe in your vision and remember that the courage to start is what sets you apart.