This year has been hard on everyone especially small businesses. That’s why I want to spread holiday cheer to others. When I say others, I mean black-owned business owners. And what better time than the season for giving. If you agree, read on for 13 black-owned businesses to support this holiday season.
1. She’s Facing Freedom
Did you really think I would create this list and not include myself? Listen, I don’t have anything to sell you. Right now, all I have are my stories, my words and my honesty. But, I’d be lying if I said I don’t want this blog to one day to become my full-time job. Scratch that. One day, this blog will be a black-owned business.
If a blog post speaks to you, let me know. As much as I write to let you know that you’re not in your situations alone, sometimes, I need that, too. I LOVE hearing how my blog posts changed your perspective or inspired you. But far too often, I’m hearing months (and sometimes years) later. I have no shame; I like instant gratification.
So, comment below my blog posts and on my captions on social media. If you’re shy, email me at yasmein@shesfacingfreedom.com. Also, help me grow by sharing my blog posts with your friends and loved ones. And if you want me to write about something, I’m down for that, too.
With that said, let’s make our friendship official on Instagram and Facebook. Also, have you so that you won’t miss a blog post?
2. The Shine App
To my loved ones, I’m going to sound like a broken record. But, meditation changed my life. I don’t mean to sound dramatic, but at the time when I needed a change, I realized that I had to first start with my mindset. Meditation has helped with that and so much more. I’m more intuned with my emotions, I’m calmer, I’m more confident and I’m more optimistic. What’s more, I no longer feel guilty for taking time for myself. That has been a game-changer for me and I’m sure many of you need that, too.
Recently, I signed up for a premium account on The Shine App. It includes daily meditation, mood and gratitude check-ins as well as articles about self-care. But what I like the most about the app is that Black women guide the meditations. I didn’t know how much I needed to hear Black voices until now. I find joy in knowing that there’s a self-care app that caters to me as a minority and Black woman.
3. Invigorating Heart Training and Wellness Center
It goes without saying that I’m an advocate for self-care. For me, yes, that means the occasional bubble bath, but that also means taking care of my health. The Invigorating Heart Training and Wellness Center sells all-natural herbs. So think immune defense tea, sea moss capsule, essential oils and so much more. You can learn more about the invigorating Heart Training and Wellness Center here.
4. Yoga with Jasmine Allen
If you’re like most people, you have some type of fitness resolution for the New Year. There’s no need to overdo it and try to bench 150 pounds. You can start slow and still reach your goals. So, focus on your breath, stretch out your body and do it with a trauma-informed consultant. Jasmine does affordable virtual courses and sells mats and props to get you started. You can find learn more on Instagram and on YouTube.
5. Farever Art
I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me feel better about exercising than a cute outfit. If you’re like me, than you have to head to Farever Art. Founded by Faren Collins, the brand “transforms positive energetic painting and designs into wearable art.” You can find matching leggings, yoga shorts, sports bras, T-shirts and bodysuits here.
6. 4th Ave Market
I’m sure I don’t have to tell you this, but the hardest part about working out as a black woman is the hair situation. It’s hard enough keeping protective styles cute without working out. Add as little as 10 minutes of cardio and your roots look like you don’t love yourself.
Well, regardless of how you choose to style your hair, 4th Ave Market has you covered. In the shop, you can find all your favorite black-owned products and more.
7. James Marie Boutique
For comfy chic, which is everyone’s favorite RN, head to the James Marie Boutique. I’m eyeing the “Strong Shoulder Top” in charcoal and olive. Also, I can’t seem to buy enough tights so the “So Cozy Jogger” set is looking real good, too. For cozy essentials, check out the JM shop, here.
8. The Brand Label
Some day real soon, we’ll be able to get cute again. And when we do, I want to be ready. That’s why I recently purchased the “Crop it Like It’s Hot” shirt from The Brand Label. I love, love the exaggerated sleeves on what would be just a simple white shirt. To learn more about The Brand Label, visit the website here.
9. G+Co. Apparel
I used to think about G+Co Apparel as the one-stop show for the dapper man (hello, handsome). But, it’s that and SO much more. For the men, there’s neckties, lapel pins, pocket squares as well as cuff links. The apparel also includes onesies for babies and t-shirts and cropped hoodies for the ladies. To get your fix on everything well-dressed regardless if you WFH or still commute to the office, check out the shop here.
10. A Brown Girl and Her Buttons
Make a statement this holiday season and all 2021 by supporting A Brown Girl and Her Buttons. The shop includes buttons with phrases like “She persisted,” “High. Fucking. Standards,” and “Black and Proud AF,” and so much more. I’m eyeing one that reads “Freedom and Free” in cursive because that’s all I’ve ever wanted. Hence the name of this blog. To check out what’s in stock, head to Instagram.
11. Community Financial
Need a reminder to invest? Whether it’s in yourself, community, or even retirement, you’ll find what you need in the shop. The Community Financial shop includes hoodies, t-shirts, totes, and more. Visit the shop here.
12. Lamda Vodka
Whether you’re staying home or keeping up with traditions this year, a cocktail has never hurt. If you agree, why not support a black-owned vodka brand? That’s right. Black. Owned. Vodka. The owners are partners in business and in life. To learn more about Lamda, visit the website here.
13. Esrever Wines
You know what they say? Good things happen when friends link. That couldn’t be more true with Esrever Wines. Created in Queens, New York, the brand was born from conversations and endless pours. From that bubbled up a wine that is as flavorful as well…bubbly. I like the Pinot Grigio/Moscato sparkling wine. To try your own bottle (or two), you can find yours here.
