We can all feel it, right? It's time to change the status quo. Take on new traditions. Be more thoughtful about where we spend our money. Well, just in time for the holidays, I wanted to share a personal round-up of Black-owned businesses that deserve your attention.
If you're like me, you've spent the past few months trying to be more actively involved in the ongoing fight against racism. I'm late to the party and I know it, but I'm here now and I'm in it for the long-haul. Among the many actions I'm adding to my repertoire, one is thinking twice about spending my money at major retailers and instead shopping from small, Black-owned businesses. Finding those businesses can be overwhelming, I know, so I wanted to write this post to get you all started and hopefully inspire you to do your own search.
There are several resources online for finding Black-owned businesses. In this post, I'll share a few that really caught my eye, but keep in mind this is by no means an exhaustive list! I hope you have fun exploring these links and find some lovely products to treat yourselves or your loved ones with, if spending money is an accessible option to you. If it's not, it's okay. There are other actions you can take, like sharing links to businesses on social media or asking loved ones to donate to Black organizations in lieu of getting you a gift. If there are other businesses you'd like me to add to this list, please reach out!!
All photos are hyperlinked.
Online Black-Owned Businesses for Holiday Shopping
Eco Vibe
I don't even have words. This brand has everything. Eco Vibe Style reminds me of one of those eclectic stores you stumble upon that is filled with things you didn't know you needed but suddenly can't imagine living without. Below I've included just a few of their great items. They also have apparel for all genders!
Rec-Room
Athleisure. Need I say more? See below for some favorites from Rec-Room:
Iconi
I am in love with the athleticwear at Iconi. Apparently, Oprah, is too! I just bought myself this set below:
If you're in the market for athleticwear, it's also worth visiting Culture Fit. They have super cute yoga mats, too!
Aya Paper Co.
If you love stationary or want to stock up on some cards, I was drooling over the products at Aya Paper Co.
Ruby
Ever heard of Thinx period underwear? Well, they're not the only players in the game. Meet Ruby: leak-proof underwear and swimwear. For women and men young and old. Yes, you read that right.
Linoto
I am 100% on the linen train right now and Linoto is where it's at for linen home goods!
Little Likes Kids
If you've got a cute kiddo in your life and you want to invest in some screen-free entertainment for them, Little Likes Kids has adorable, inclusive, and educational activities. DJ and I just bought a couple items for our nephew! (BTW- you can buy these items on Amazon!)
Show & Tell
Black, Queer, Womxn-owned business based in Durham, NC and Oakland, CA (amazing because I live next to Durham and was raised near Oakland!). The Show & Tell concept shop has an eclectic collection of items ranging from apparel to stationary to home goods.
Mie
If you have the means to splurge, please do so on the gorgeous pieces by Mie. Each item from this Nigeria-based brand is made by local seamstresses and artisans.
Goodee
Goodee is a curated marketplace of lifestyle products for the home from responsible, sustainable brands.
Listen. There is seriously no shortage of amazing businesses to explore. This is such a small list, but I hope it gets you started and inspires you to shop small this year. Even if not, you can still find Black-owned businesses through larger companies like Etsy and Amazon. For example, Etsy has an editor's pick of Black-owned shops. I was particularly excited by Kingsley Leather and The EverydayPrintCo.
I know we hate Amazon, but in case you can't quite give it up, here is a list of Black-owned businesses on Amazon. Two products that caught my eye are: Blk & Bold Coffee and Buttah Skincare for melanin-rich skin.
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