Black Owned Business Holiday Guide 2016 (UPDATE: 70+ Businesses!)
get the " Holiday Love"card here!
'Tis the season of giving, and at KLT Art by Kendro, we're encouraging you to give your dollars to Black owned and operated businesses. This list has about 70 businesses listed and includes gifts ranging from art and clothing to toys and shoes! Some may think: "Why only Black owned businesses?" I'll explain below! "Isn't this racist?" No. "Is this only for Black people to support?" While the list includes Black businesses and is for the economic empowerment of the Black community, people of other groups are more than welcome to support these businesses.
It's so important that under served, underrepresented, historically marginalized communities are properly supported and represented through economics. With all of the unjust, systematic racialized murders, tension and drama that has been occurring, it's also important to engage in protest with our dollars by placing money back into Black communities in order to build and sustain a long-lasting economy. Historically speaking, and even in current times, many racial and ethnic groups have practiced the art of group economics to create communities, and even political and social organizations. The Nielsen Report states that there is an estimated $1.2 trillion spending power among African Americans. Through the circulation of monies between BOBs, this spending power can be used to create generational wealth for people of color not only in the United States, but across the globe. We have collaborated with national and international Black business owners from different backgrounds, ages, and nationalities all coming together to service you and yours for the holiday season and beyond. Take a look at some of the great businesses we have featured for 2016.
Accessories
AB Artisans by AfroBlueArtisans- Fort Worth, TX
African print attire has become very popular this past year, but let's keep the momentum going in 2017 and in the long-run. Kenyan artist Irene of AB Artisans by AfroBlueArtisans creates African inspired clothing and accessories for everyone in the family as well as African fabric.
BOABW by K. Noir Designs- Tallahassee, FL
Since 2008, Khadijah Noir-Unity has been killin' the game with her amazing, hand painted earrings. These earrings are like no other and they tell stories of Black history, culture, and love through the artistry of BOABW.
Kelele Beads- New York, U.S.
The mission of Kelele Beads is to promote "self love and great health igniting the goddess within every wombman". These beautiful, handmade waist beads make great gifts for the special lady in your life.
Custom Crowns by Levi Wilkins- Chicago, IL
Custom Crowns by Levi Wilkins make the perfect present for the king or queen that you love. Treat your loved ones like royalty this season!
"Say cheese!" Whoever receives a Dyna Smiles cosmetic bag is sure to smile after opening this present. Give good vibes this holiday season with bright and joyful accessories and stationery gifts.
Ethnic Earrings- CA, U.S.
Embrace your African roots with Ethnic Earrings. This company is ran by a husband and wife duo who wish make Afrocentric jewelry and accessories mainstream. Ethnic Earrings would make perfect presents for Kwanzaa, "ujamaa"!
IMBA Jewelry- Philadelphia, PA
Show off your African pride with IMBA Jewelry. Artist and designer Cierra specializes in hand crafting these spectacular pieces of jewelry made of glass beads, wooden beads, and other fine material.
Kimchi Socks- Korea
Fellas, rep Black pride from your fist in the air to your feet with Kimchi Black Power socks. You can get a pair for your home boy and a pair for yourself!
Le Gendre- Queens, NY
These stylish handbags are inspired by Afro-Caribbean culture and are designed and hand-sewn by the lovely Khadeidre Le Gendre. Your girlfriend will look amazing rocking a bold Le Gendre clutch at the New Year's Eve parties.
Lunaversoul Jewelry- Seattle, WA
Lunaversoul embraces individuality! These handmade pieces of fashion jewelry are crafted by designer Camisha Jackson are perfect for your bold, fashionista bestie.
Grab a few accessories for friends and grab something for YOU! At The You Store, the customer is top priority and can even request items.
Vicki Be Wicked- Durham, NC
Vicki Be Wicked's kawaii and geek inspired accessories and art are fabulous gift ideas for the alternative Black girl in your life. With a cool combination of "cute and creepy", Vicki's art would make an excellent present for your edgy and eclectic auntie.
Virtuous Creations- Atlanta, GA
Art
Byootifulee Hueman- Denver, CO.
Let's embrace the beauty of melanin! Byootifuleee Hueman does not only offer visual art, but also other artsy goodies like the melanin gift set which includes a stylish tee, hat, and super cute mug for tea sippin' this winter. Your daughter's melanin' will most definitely be poppin' thanks to Byootifulee Hueman!
DeAnna Furr Artistry- Maryland, U.S.
DeAnna Furr Artistry provides drawings, paintings, and photography for your art collector dad. He'll absolutely love these vintage inspired pieces to hang up in his office!
Illavision Photography- Chicago, IL
There are so many events happening this season! If you're in the Chicago area, contact Illavision Photography to to snap some photos at your Kwanzaa event, Christmas pageant, or New Years Eve party.
Kadija's Paint and Sip Session- Chicago, IL
Paint and sip parties are great for the holidays. From holiday office parties to Christmas Eve functions, paint and sip classes are sure to bring everyone together to enjoy themselves over good music, fine wine, and a calming paint session.
KLT Art by Kendro- Chicago, IL
Of course I had to plug myself in! Head on over to my online shop and grab some of my colorful, unique paintings and prints for your office walls, request custom artwork or my handmade jewelry.
La'Ebony Arts- UK
Key chains, bookmarks, and cosmetic bags, oh my! La'Ebony Arts specializes in creating art to give confidence to Black women and destroys the negative stereotypes surrounding them.
Washington Cuts- Alexandria, VA
Washington Cuts creates amazing silhouette paper art representing #blackgirlmagic, culture, heritage, self-love, and pride. These paper cut images are simple, yet powerful. Celebrate the holidays with these amazing stationery sets and paper cut art!
Babies & Children
"A is for Africa!" ABC Me Flashcards will teach your young nephew about the beauty of African American accomplishment, history and culture. These flashcards prove representation is important with the colorful imagery showing Black excellence from the past the present.
Darlyng & Co.- Brooklyn, NY
Have you ever heard of the "Yummy Mitt"? This innovative teething toy was created by husband and wife duo Carl and Tara Daryley and even featured on the Steve Harvey show!
Give your little princess the gift of girl power with My Muse Dolls! Choose between 18 multicultural dolls that can be customized to look just like the doll in your life. At My Muse Dolls, the wish of the founders is: "For every girl to see her beauty. For every girl to seize her dream."
Nia Ballerina- Birmingham, UK
"Nia Ballerina is the inspiration of my beautiful daughter who just wanted to dance, and her love for ballet. Frustrated at not being able to find a musical jewellery box with a black ballerina anywhere in the world I created my own! Shipping to USA, Canada, UK and other countries within the European Union."- Sharon, Owner
Princess Planet is a brand of children’s entertainment that helps promote princess characters with diverse hair textures, skin tones, and cultural backgrounds. Your little cousin will adore making art in the Princess Planet coloring book while drinking a cup of hot cocoa during the cozy winter evenings.
Bath, Body, & Hair Products
Beautifully Chaste Perfume- Capitol Heights, MD
Beautifully Chaste Enterprises wants you to "embrace your God-given identity" with their sweet-smelling perfume. These fragrances will have your mom feeling at her best with the luxurious scent combinations of flowers and fruits.
Chubby Curls-Denver, CO
My fellow naturalistas, we all know how critical it is to get that perfect braid out, twist out, or bantu knot-out! Give yourself a jar of Chubby Curls to keep your hair poppin' for the holidays.
Dope Naturals- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Created by Shanita Walker and Zorree Harden, these ladies strive for excellence and wish to provide the best products for your skin. There's even a men's collection called "King's Consciousness" to keep your man's beard smelling and feeling amazing in the winter weather.
Inspired by grandmother Hazel Whitman and Philippians 4:13, Hazel's Soapery carries the legacy of chemical free, essential skincare. Your loved ones don't have to worry about harsh products because Hazel's is all natural with products ranging from soaps to lip balms.
Give the gift of white smiles with Jassy Tasty Pasty chemical-free, organic toothpaste. Tasty flavors like All-Spice Cinnamon, Cool Ice-Peppermint, and Lemony Bright- Lemon Lime are refreshing and great to give to the entire family.
K&N Body Butter- Fort Lauderdale, FL
K&N Body Butter is "custom made for a custom soul". The body and bath sets are made with natural products like shea butter, jojoba oil, aloe vera, and lavendar
Melaku Aromatherapy- New York, U.S.
Is your hubby apart of the #beardgang? The Beard Care Kit from Melaku Aromatherapy is sure to keep his bead so fresh and so clean . This company produces handcrafted vegan, organic products and believes "the natural way is the vital way".
T-Roots- Brooklyn, NY
"Handcrafted line of hair and beauty products made from the very best nature has to offer." is the motto at T-Roots. Your mom's roots are sure to be feeling smooth and moisturized with the creme brulee conditioning masque or the butter brew pomade.
The Delicate Fox- Phoneix, AZ.
Shimmer and shine like New Year's fireworks with the Oatmeal Body Scrub from The Delicate Fox. Founder of this company is Kaelin, a 19 year old college student who decided to create her own vegan products. Her luxury products will have your skin glowing all winter long!
Three Strand Cord Co.- Chambersburg, PA
All natural soaps and candles made of ingredients like goats milk, and oatmeal. You can even grab a super cute gift basket for yourself or your loved one!
What On Earth Cosmetics- Little Rock, AR
What On Earth promotes "peace, plants, prosperity". This all-natural, vegan, plant based body butter will have your family's skin feeling silky, smooth, and healthy. Grab some mango butter or kokum butter for stocking stuffers!
Zandra Beauty- Buffalo, NY
This line of natural lip balms, body butters, and other scrumptious body products is owned by the lovely Ms. Zandra Cunningham who is 16 years old! Not only does Zandra promote health through her products, but also confidence, empowerment, and inspiring her fellow youth!
Beauty
Blot Beauty Cosmetics- Houston, TX
Raise your hand if you're a make-up lover! Blot Beauty Cosmetics are "bold, edgy, fun" and are excellent for your make-up enthusiast niece. She can beat her face with cruelty-free liquid lipsticks and keep those #eyebrowsonfleek with waterproof brow cream.
Heirs Cosmetics- Honolulu, HI
Treat that special lady like the royalty she is with Heirs Cosmetics. Her eyes will be sure to sparkle like the lights on the Christmas tree with loose mineral shimmer shadows. Lips will be poppin' with the lipstay liquid lipsticks.
Naya Franklin Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant- Chicago, IL
Naya Franklin will get your skin feeling fresh and fabulous with Mary Kay skin care products. You can even contact Naya to book a facial appointment for you and your homie. Treat yourself this holiday season!
Nubian Crown Hair- CA, U.S.
Bundles, inches, and frontals, oh yes! Nubian Crown sells Indian, Brazilian, and Peruvian hair extensions with varying lengths. Their motto is to provide "luxury hair that illuminates the royalty in you!"
"TRENIQUE BEAUTY is a cosmetic brand that was created to acknowledge the beauty in every woman. We provide quality, professional products that will intensify a woman's beauty. Giving women the confidence to embrace their true essence."- Founder
Books
Memoirs of A Forgotten Child by Author Vie Cine- Boston, MA
"Memoirs of A Forgotten Child" is a story of survival, resilience, and healing from sexual abuse and trauma. This empowering autobiographical story told by Author Vie Cine is a story of tragedy to survival and proves that there is healing through the power of peace.
Clothing
Adorned by Chi- Dallas, TX
Adorned by Chi clothing and accessories are oozing with cuteness! I mean, peep the "Black & Proud" Barbie inspired crop top! That would make a perfect present for your color pink loving, "girly girl" cousin.
Asil Nworb Designs- Chicago, IL
SAIC grad Jelisa Brown is keeping the fashion game funky with her "haute couture meets street fashion" designs. Ladies, order a uniquely designed, hand sewn ensemble for your fashion-fresh fella from Asil Nworb Designs.
Bessie Marie Loft- Hollandale, MS
"Bessie Marie is online store that specializes in vintage pieces. Our ultimate goal is to supply frugal fashionistas worldwide with the most unique, second-hand and thrifted fashion finds."- Bessie Marie, Founder
Focsi was started by husband and wife duo Jamaul and Erica in 2007 and they keep keepin' on with these afro-licious tees and vivid accessories. "Focsi is DOPE AF!" and a superb company to support this holiday season. Purchase an "unapologetically" focsi tee for your super confident sister-in law !
Hye Maintenance Fashions- Atlanta, GA.
Does your sister "slay"? Is your good girlfriend in formation? Hye Maintenance Fashions' "I Slay" shirts are great for your "Bey Hive" reppin' bestie. You can find more pop culture accessories and shirts on the shop.
Makeba Designs tees will keep your sisters motivated! Designed by Makeba Griffin, these faith inspired tops, mugs, and pillows are great for Christians, naturalistas, women of color, and there's even a section for the kiddies!
Nubian Hueman- 1231 Good Hope Rd, SE Washington D.C. 20020
This beautiful cultural shop promotes "fashion, art, beauty" with their beautiful African inspired pieces. You can stop by if you're in the DMV area, or order online.
KLT Vintage & Retro- Chicago, IL
Calling all vintage lovers! Grab authentic fashions, accessories, and toys from the 70's-00's eras for the vintage-retro chic honey or Barbie doll collector in your life.
Shop for your whole family this holiday season at Liverpool Private Reserve. From children's clothing for your kids, to men's clothing for your hubby, this company has you covered so everyone will be satisfied.
Love Doll Shoppe- Jacksonville, FL
"Retro style with a modern day twist" is the motto at Love Doll Shoppe. This handpicked retro fashion company was started by Ashley Tamarra in 2011 and has turned into an international destination for fashionistas with sassy street swagger.
Rozie Katore Beach Babe- Brooklyn, NY
Thriftgasms- Massapequa, NY
Get your thrift on! We all have that friend who loves to shop at thrift stores, so what better way to make them feel special this holiday season than to get them a vintage statement piece from Thriftgasms? Christina's colorful pieces will be sure to put a smile on your friends's face, plus there's always free shipping!
Tribes of Kin- Brooklyn, NY
Kente cloth derives from the Akan people of Ghana and is a symbol of royalty. Each color within the pattern has a specific meaning as well. Tribes of Kin will bring out the queen in your special someone with their regal and magnificent clothing.
Entertainment
Funk Trunk Records- Chicago, IL
We want the funk! Dig in the crates and find some funky, classic vinyl tunes for your old school uncle and granddad at Funk Trunk Records.
Food
For my Chicagoans, give grandma the gift of relaxing by contacting Kim's Kitchen to cater for your next holiday dinner. This catering service is even beneficial for those upcoming holiday events for your church or organization.
Sweetz by Dior- Charlotte, NC
Savor the tastes of sweet, Southern delights with Sweetz By Dior this season. Although this company is based in Charlotte, NC, customers from across the nation can enjoy cupcakes, pies and more with their nationwide shipping.
Tee's Cakes & Confections- Chicago, IL
Tee's Cakes & Confections will have your sweet tooth poppin' this holiday season. If you're in the Chicago area, contact Taryn Harmon to cater your upcoming holiday dessert menu with tasty cakes and scrumptious cupcakes.
Health and Fitness
ABC Health & Fitness- Chicago, IL
Chicago people, allow personal trainer Alisia Countain of ABC Fitness help you get your body right after those holiday dinners! Book a session for yourself and a friend right in time for your New Year's Resolution. #bodygoals2017!
Body Beauty Massage- Oakland, CA
"Coming to Body Beauty Massage is a great way to achieve the body you want from inside out. Teaching women and individuals how to keep your body beautiful by having a healthy diet, by fitness, and by learning how getting regular massages is a great and feel good way to help you get to your body goals."- Janika McDaniel, Founder
Naturally Fine- Schererville, Indiana
This company will keep your personal trainer "naturally fine" with their fit-tastic tees, tote bags, and water bottles. There are even bundles available for your gym buddies to enjoy when they break a sweat during a workout session.
Sistren and Seed- Washington D.C.
Through natural, organic ingredients, Tia and Umi advocate self care and healing through their products. Show some love and how much you care with Sistren and Seed's natural teas and elixirs.
Home Goods
Nyemay's Collectibles- Lawrenceville, GA
Looking to add a taste of the Motherland in your bathroom? Nyemay's Collectibles towels has you covered, pun intended! Since 1998, this company has been "spicing up bathrooms" with these one of a kind towels. From towels with the African continent to the andinkra symbol, Nyemay's towels make perfect gifts, especially for Kwanzaa!
Scents From Heaven- Birmingham, AL
Light up the room with luxurious smells with Scents From Heaven candles. These all-natural, soy wax candles are hand-poured and can even be used as massage oil. Great for romantic winter evenings with bae!
Southern Elegance- Raeford, NC
A touch of Southern heritage with these North Carolinian crafted candles with scents inspired by citites of the South. Scents like "Durham: Vanilla & Tobacco" and "Memphis: Cherry & Whiskey" are excellent stocking stuffers for your Southern belle cousin. Special fragrances for the holiday season are also available
Created by designer and founder Terina Nicole, Jypsea Leathergoods are sure to add character and elegance to any room. Have mom's living room make a statement with these amazingly crafted home goods.
Footwear
Tawia Designs- Chicago, IL
Tawia Designs are handcrafted in the African countries Kenya, Ghana, and Morocco. Since 2013, this shoe brand has created beautifully cultural shoes like sandals, boots, and sneakers.
Magazines
Nubian Impulse is on a mission on "transforming the way the world sees people of color." This a platform for artists of different backgrounds and celebrates Black culture, achievement, and artistry. You can even grab fashionable Afrocentric cultural clothing in their online shop for your favorite aunties.
Miscellaneous
TJ's and More- Houston, TX
Baskets are always sweet options for gifts, especially when you can customize them. Choose fruit baskets, spa baskets, and even kids gift baskets for everyone in the family!
Stationery
LADIECLOTHart- Hyde Park, NY
Looking for some super cute note cards to give to your trendy neighbor? Check out LADIECLOTHart! These fashion inspired gifts will bring out the runway model in anyone who receives them!
Travel
Khonsu Travel Planning Services- Chicago, IL
Everyone loves a great vacation during the holiday season & beyond! Contact Kemi Oshimokun to plan a baecation for you and your boo or for the family.
I started this project in August of this year and I'm so excited to see how far it has come. I want to give a special thank you to each business who is apart of this project, everyone who shared the posts requesting businesses, and everyone who will support these businesses this season. There are so many more Black owned businesses out there, both in the U.S. and International! If you know of any businesses, please share them in the comment section below! Which BOBs from this list will you support this year and beyond?
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