Celebrate Black History Month In Support of Black-Owned Businesses
This February in celebration of Black History Month, I’m highlighting Black-owned businesses. This list of 10 businesses is just a small sampling of outstanding entrepreneurs who make the world a richer place.
National Black-Owned Businesses
A House Called Hue
A boutique custom patch-making company, owner Destiny Brewton’s goal for A House Called Hue is to help businesses of all sizes elevate their brand in new ways through creating customized products and marketing strategies.
Apostrophe Puzzles
Owner and founder Mandi Masden’s vision for Apostrophe is two-fold. She creates puzzles that speak to her interests culture, and aesthetic as a Black woman, combined with using puzzles as an interactive way to engage with fine art. Rooted in her fundamental commitment to diversity, puzzles support the creative voices of artists of color.
Bailan
Founder Lenora Ebule’s passion for sharing the rich tastes and African flavors began over 30 years ago in her grandmother’s kitchen in Cameroon. From that love and passion came Bailan. The company’s mission is to make delicious, African-inspired culinary adventures accessible to diners throughout the United States and across the globe.
Flora and Noor Skincare
Founded in 2020 by Jordan Karim, a former chemist, the aim of Flora and Noor is to provide inclusive, luxury skincare made from organic ingredients.
PPGJ Press and Bookstore
Founder Dr. Artika Tyner is committed to elevating books that promote literacy, cultural awareness and leadership development. PPGJ Press publishes six to eight new titles per year. The online bookstore offers a constantly growing list of books for both children and adults. I have read of number of books sold by PPGJ and learn something with each one.
Sassy Jones Fashion and Beauty
CEO and Chief Designer Charis Jones oversees Sassy Jones, the fastest-growing privately held retailer in the nation (Inc 5000). A self-taught designer with a combination of grit and glamour, she leads women across the globe to celebrate their brilliance with stunning jewelry, accessories, and clothing.
The Black Bread Company
The firm is owned and operated by three longtime friends from the southside of Chicago; Mark Edmond (Founder, CEO), Jamel Lewis (Co-Founder, President), and Charles Alexander (Co-Founder, COO). The company is the first Black-owned gourmet sliced bread company. I discovered The Black Bread Company through an investment opportunity.
The McBride Sisters Wine Company
Sisters Robin and Andrea McBride begam making their wines in 2005. Since then, their mission has been to transform the industry, lead by example, and cultivate community, one delicious glass of wine at a time. I love their Black Girl Magic wines and book club which pairs wines with books penned by Black female authors.
Under Her Empire
Founder, Chief Executive and Creative Ryen Williams developed Under Her Empire as a production house and global network of collectively conscious creatives focused on authentic storytelling.
Vontelle
Co-founders Nancey Harris and Tracey V. Green provide well-fitting and fashion-forward eyewear. Vontelle glasses are designed to pay homage to their African ancestry with traditional colors and patterns. The idea came when friends Nancey and Tracey both lost their expensive eyewear in the same year.