If you feel like spending money today, I highly suggest donating to Black Lives Matter or any other anti-racist organization. That said, we know times are stressful right now, so if you want a moment to partake in some retail therapy, it’s perfectly understandable—that said, supporting Black-owned lifestyle brands is a must. Black entrepreneurs are struggling right now as a result of the tragic racial injustice happening across the country, and placing an order is a small gesture that shows your support and respect for their livelihoods.
Need some new candles to help you unwind? Kintsugi Candle Co. has you covered. Maybe some crystals to help you find clarity in these complicated, disparaging times—Chakra Zulu is the move. Maybe you’re home social distancing and want to jazz up your space with some beautiful pillows from Rochelle Porter Designs, linens from Linoto or wall art from Don’t Sleep Interiors? Whatever it is that you’d like to buy this week, there’s a pretty good chance you can find a Black-owned business to support while doing so.
If you’d rather go shopping for clothes or accessories, check out our list of Black-owned fashion brands that will pique your interests. If you’re trying to save money and don’t plan on shopping at all, don’t fret. Following small businesses on social media, liking their posts and sharing them with friends is another amazing way to show support. It isn’t all about placing orders!
With that, read on for ten Black-owned businesses you’ll most definitely want to start following and shopping from.
1. Kintsugi Candle Co.
Kintsugi Candle Co. is a brand founded on the belief that “Broken is beautiful.” Founder Allison Jones was inspired by the Japanese practice of kintsugi, or repairing broken pottery with gold lacquer to turn the cracks into art. She believes the same is true of people, and that they are beautiful because of their flaws, not in spite of them.
2. Don’t Sleep Interiors
Don’t Sleep Interiors.
Etsy is an amazing place to discover new Black-owned businesses, and Don’t Sleep Interiors is a favorite for all things home decor. Check out their array of coffee mugs, wall art and pillows, all of which are designed with historical Black figures and locations in mind.
3. Linoto
If it’s time to upgrade your linens, look no further than Linoto, founded by Jason Evege, who is also the creative director. Specializing in 100% linen, the brand offers sheets, curtains, towels, napkins, table cloths—even linen boxers!
4. The Lam Label
For a sustainable option, consider shopping vintage via The Lam Label. Home to vintage ceramic treasures, The Lam Label will help you find the perfect finishing touch to any space, guaranteed to garner compliments and serve as your favorite conversation piece.
5. Malene Barnett
The insanely talented Malene Barnett creates ceramic sculptures and contemporary fine art paintings, the latter of which can also be purchased as prints for under $200. Barnett herself has made it her mission to educate others on the traditions and practices of art in the African diaspora.
6. BLK MKT Vintage
Another great way to shop sustainably is via BLK MKT Vintage Besides their brick-and-mortar shop in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, you can shop this collection of Black-curated collectibles via the store’s website. Enjoy tiny pieces of Black History from comic books to pins to trading cards and more.
7. Saint Flora
Love flowers? TBH, who doesn’t. If you’re California-based, consider ordering your next bouquet from Saint Flora. They specialize in stunning, unique floral arrangements and are currently accepting orders for Oakland, Berkeley and Emeryville. If you don’t live in these areas, do some research and find another Black florist from whom you can get some beautiful blooms.
8. Rochelle Porter Design
Turn to Rochelle Porter Design for beautiful textiles you can shop on pillows, cloth face masks and even activewear pieces. All the textiles are inspired by Rochelle’s original artwork, and support the slogan “designed for abundant living.”
9. Chakra Zulu Crystals
Pretty much everyone loves crystals these days, so when it’s time to buy a new rose quartz or rainbow fluorite palm stone, turn to Chakra Zulu Crystals. They carry everything from your favorite gemstones to candles, jewelry, healing sets, chakra sets, incense, smudge sticks and more.
10. Harriet’s Bookshop
Support a Black-owned bookshop! Harriet’s Bookshop, named for Harriet Tubman, is a wonderful option that celebrates female authors and activists in particular. Visit the shop itself if you’re Philly-based, or shop a selection online and have your books shipped right to you.
