Let’s talk about one way we can support our Black brothers and sisters: buy from and share their businesses.
Before we jump in, can I offer a massive caveat? I am not an expert on this. No way. I’m just another white girl who has been suddenly, painfully reminded of how much privilege I have. I realize that I have been not paying attention, that I have stayed quiet when I should have spoken up, and that I am part of the problem.
Over the past week, I have been keeping quiet here and attempting to listen to the experiences of Black people. I have a whole lot more listening to do. And I’m realizing that if I claim to care about justice, I can’t just post on social media – I have to do something.
If I want to take action to help disrupt centuries of discrimination and systemic racism, buying from Black-owned businesses is one place to start.
Black families have historically generated less wealth than white families, and that trend continues today. The unemployment rate is also higher for Black people than white, including those with college degrees, and Black people are far less likely to be granted loans. By supporting Black-owned businesses, our dollars send a message, saying that Black entrepreneurs are valuable and that their businesses are worthy of investment. Plus, we support jobs and income generation for Black families.
If you have discretionary income right now, here are some products from Black-owned businesses that I personally can’t wait to try.
Black-Owned Businesses to Support
Bath & Body
This body oil from Klur sounds incredibly luxurious.
The shea body butter from hanahana beauty looks phenomenal.
PiperWai natural deodorant is supposed to be excellent – it’s available at Target! They also make underarm masks if you’re still adjusting to natural deodorant.
If you’re into natural skincare, the BLK + GRN marketplace is full of amazing finds.
I’ve been wanting to try Briogeo’s clean scalp scrub for a long time – it’s also available at Dermstore (my favorite skincare site) and Sephora.
The Honey Pot sells all-natural feminine care products on their website and at Target.
Beauty
KNC Beauty’s clean lip and eye masks have won tons of beauty awards and look so cute!
Beauty Bakerie’s Lip Whips are a matte liquid lipstick with legendary staying power and fun, poppy colors.
While Rihanna isn’t exactly a small business owner, her Fenty Beauty line is inclusive of a wide array of skin tones and carries a phenomenal highlighter (I have and love Lightning Dust/Fire Crystal) and a fantastically reviewed lip gloss.
Accessories & Clothes
I love these delicate star earrings and can’t wait for these tortoiseshell earrings from Lola Ade to come back in stock.
The Tiny Tassel has the cheeriest earrings. I love them all, but especially these. (Her Instagram is also amazing!)
If your hair’s got volume, these headbands from Wrap Life would be adorable.
If you’ve got a young girl in your life, please buy her this Phenomenal Girl shirt from Phenomenal Women.
Home
When I finish my current notebook, I’m grabbing one from Greer. Notebook enthusiasts, take note (pun definitely intended) – you can filter by dots, grids, or lines! They have cute cards and stationery, too.
I’m in love with this print (and the other adorable artwork) from the LovelyEarthlings Etsy shop.
Etsy also has a page for Black-owned shops here.
Food
Coffee lovers, check out these blends from BLK + Bold, available on Amazon!
If you’re gluten-free or looking for a fun treat for those who are, Partake cookies look delicious and are available at Target.
When you’re grabbing takeout or looking for a new restaurant patio, Google Black-owned restaurants in your area. Someone has likely made a list!
Books
Check out these Black-owned bookstores, sorted by state. If you purchase from the Bookshop, a website supporting indie bookstores, you can designate one of these stores to receive a commission for your purchase.
Black Creators & Influencers to Follow
If you don’t have lots of spare change for shopping right now, another way to support Black creators and businesses is to follow them on social media. The few weeks have revealed to me just how little diversity I see in my feed, and I’m determined to do better. Below are some of my favorite accounts run by Black creators. Give them a follow, like, or share! (Btw, these are not anti-racism education accounts. Please do not message these women to tell them about your new awareness or ask them what you should do about racism. Instead, share and enjoy their work!)
Lifestyle
@venitaaspen – such cute, colorful style!
@adriennenicholexo – fun style (and the BEST memes in her stories)
@prepfordwife – preppy style and home decor
@cristalaisha – she lives on a beach. Enough said.
Home Inspiration
@cococozy – clean and cozy home decor. I would like to move in to her feed.
@madamedelamaison – the most beautiful Parisian tablescapes
@madebycarli – classic farmhouse renovation + home decor
@onceupona1912 – fresh, light renovation + home decor
@hillhousevintage – the chicest garden party of a feed
Art
@vashtiharrison – love love love her imaginative illustrations
@ladarafineart – gorgeous abstract art
@morganharpernichols – the beautiful poetry + art that you’ve probably seen shared by everyone
@aspoonfuloffaith – charming illustrations and art
@nikkolas_smith – striking paintings
Here’s to seeing Black brothers and sisters represented in our feeds and in our purchases!