I make it a point to support small businesses on a regular basis: whether it be where I’m shopping, eating or experiencing. Especially living in a small town like Charleston that’s built off the backs of small business owners {many of whom have become dear friends}, seeing that impact on your local community hits close to home.
In light of recent events this past week, I want to use my platform {small as it may be in the grand scheme} to spread joy and support for the black community. One way that feels natural for me is to share a collection black-owned business {some of which are new-to-me brands, while others I’ve loved + supported for years}. I share these brands + fellow creatives with you not just because they’re black-owned businesses, but because their work is incredible and should be recognized!
Style Brands
Oma The Label | chic gold jewelry for everyday wear; officially launching June 6th. Love these French inspired beauties! {image left*}
Retro Rhapsody | amazingly curated collection of silk camisoles, vintage earrings, and clothing.
Rebecca Allen | heels is all shades of nudes, because everyone’s perfect nude is not the same.
Sika Designs | founded in 2005, Sika has some stunning garments that are ethically crafted in Ghana.
LemLem | beautiful, ethically made, African fashions; I’ve been a fan of the brand for several years, since discovering at The Skinny Dip. Seen wearing one of their maxi dresses in the highlight image.
Paper Goods, Celebrations, etc.
Polly Ann Collection | found via my girl Poor Little It Girl, and I loveeeee. Custom wood signs; perfect for business logos, bridal/baby showers, weddings, nursery, etc.
Three Little Teepees | kids sleepover sets; oh my goodness, what I would give to have had this set-up growing up!
aya paper co. | fun, creative + chic greeting cards and paper goods; this affirmation card is my favorite.
Love, Kenedie | beautifully crafted custom stationary for weddings, graduations and life’s celebrations!
Beauty Brands
The Lip Bar | great variety of affordable lip products + hues, available at Target!
Briogeo Hair Care | have used their hair mask for years actually! It’s magical.
mented cosmetics| short for ‘pigmented’, this vegan makeup line {founded by two amazing women} makes nudes available for women of all hues.
Base Butter | as someone with oily to combination skin, I need to try this balancing moisturizer stat.
For the Home
Diane Hill | the most beautiful, custom chinoiserie art panels – also available in prints! Love her work for an office, nursery or entry. Until I find the perfect nook for one of her pieces in my house, I’ve got a cell phone case in my cart! {image left*}
Estelle Colored Glass | woman after my own heart, Stephanie has created the most beautiful rainbow colored brand names after her Grandmother. A lovely selection of tabletop glassware + glass cake stands perfect for any tablescape or special occasion.
Ron Nicole | I was stopped in my tracks when I first saw Ronnie’s work. Firstly…flowers. Match made in heaven. But more so, the way she pulls together organic foliage in a way that truly highlights every little detail of their beauty is truly breathtaking! Can’t wait to see new works of her’s later this summer!
bolé road textiles | Brooklyn based textiles, with an organic feel. Haven’t gotten my hands on Hana’s product myself, but I’ve been told the quality is impeccable. {image below*}
Melarie Odelusi | Dallas based illustrator, Melarie specializes in portrait, fashion + event art in several mediums: sketches, paintings + digital prints. Love her use of color + hard lines.
Harlem Candle Company | haven’t smelled in person, but these NY based candles are beautiful! Love their artfully crafted labels, which would make for a perfect bedside addition.
Charleston Based Black-Owned Small Businesses
The Tiny Tassel | Mimi’s collection is full of colorful, statement making jewelry that just oozes cheer. Also includes a handful of darling dresses + skirts, made locally by her Momma! {second image up top*}
Cannonborough Collective | co-owned by Mimi {mentioned above} this little happy corner of Charleston is my go-to stop for balloons + celebratory goodies.
Salt & Stem Flower Co. | a wandering flower truck right here in Charleston! Tune into their instagram for up to date schedule!
BR Design Co | beautifully crafted clay earrings – full of color, texture + fun shapes! Available online + locally at Cannonborough Collective.
Graft Wine Shop | a neighborhood favorite of ours; co-owned by Charleston native Femi, Graft has a fantastic selection of grab + go natural wine, as well as a great spot to grab a glass {or 3} with friends.
Crabbing With Tia | if you’re visiting the Holy City {or you’re local!} spending an afternoon crabbing with Tia is an absolute MUST. Sterling and I have done it ourselves, and refer all of our friends + family who visit to do the same. Tia is a gem to be around, her energy is just infectious, and she’s such a gifted teachers – great activity for kiddos too!
In addition to supporting these businesses with your pocketbook, I encourage you to look for ways you can get involved within your local communities. Because at the end of the day, those actions from the heart are what’s going to make a difference in people’s lives and ultimately shift the divide.
Perfection is not a prerequisite to participation.
Love this reminder from Dani, encouraging those that are nervous to speak out for fear of not saying or doing the right thing. Give yourself grace! Every positive step is a step forward. Let’s keep that the focus.
As a long-time reader, and a Black blogger, this is a wonderful post to see. I hope the support of Black owned businesses continues to grow exponentially.