Celebrating Black-Owned Businesses

Photo Courtesy of Wix

For Black History Month, we've compiled a list of Black-owned businesses to consider supporting.

1. 44th and 3rd Bookseller

This independent bookstore was founded in 2017 and is located in Atlanta, Georgia. They offer a range of books from the classics to new authors, from fiction and non-fiction, to children's books. You can buy them online, but they also have an in-store location, and keep their community alive with book signings and clubs.

2. Ailey Extension

This program was founded in 2005 and is part of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. The program offers a range of dance classes both in-studio and online, from ballet to hip-hop, from beginner to intermediate. Anyone sixteen-and-over can participate in year-round sessions, but workshops for kids and younger teens are available from January to May 7, 2023.

3. Aya Paper Co.

This stationary business was founded in 2019, inspired by African-American culture and heritage. "Aya" is derived from the Adinkra symbol for endurance and resourcefulness. They offer sustainable products, such as cards and journals, where all of their products are from plastic-free vendors and are made from recycled and sustainable materials, such as FSC-certified paper and soy-based ink. Additionally, they give back to the community through supporting local, national, and international communities, with a focus on black businesses, and education about how to live more sustainably. You can find their products here.

4. Baked Cravings

This family-owned bakery was founded in 2017 and is located in New York City. The bakery offers peanut-free cupcakes, cakes and other baked goods made from high-quality ingredients. Their flavors range from modern to party classics, which you can taste for yourself at their store or order online. Whether you're treating yourself or celebrating a special event, there's something for everyone.

5. Beauty Bakerie

This makeup and skincare brand was founded in 2011 with the purpose of creating high-quality, vegan and cruelty-free products for various skin tones. But this isn't your normal product line! The certified B Corporation creates bakery-inspired packaging and product names that you can find online. They also have a philanthropic arm called the Sugar Homes, which supports orphanages and children's organizations around the world.

6. Good Vibes All Purpose Cleaner

This small business was founded in 2006 by a mother who had an idea to create a non-toxic cleaning product that was eco-friendly after her son sprayed a toxic cleaning product into his mouth. The affordable products are made with natural ingredients, and is plant-based, vegan and cruelty-free. Whether it's a big spill on your carpet or cleaning your counter after dinner, these scented products can help you clean various surfaces. You can find their products here.

7. Jungalow

This furniture and home décor business was founded in 2009, and focuses on producing sustainable and ethical products. They also support the Rainforest Alliance and the ACLU. Their mission is to bring bold and bright colors, and nature, to your home, and you can purchase their products online. From light fixtures to wallpaper, furniture to accessories, there's something for everyone.

8. Three Keys Coffee

This Houston, Texas company was founded in 2019 by a husband-and-wife duo sharing their love for coffee. They offer sustainable and ethical coffee, sourcing their beans from small farms and co-ops across the globe. You can visit their café that also serves a range of pastries, and features local artwork and merchandise, but they also sell their coffee online.

Deanna (or "Nana Barratt") is an MA Creative and Media Enterprises graduate from the University of Warwick. She previously studied Popular Music, but decided to take a different career path into writing. She now writes about music, the TV and film industry, and East-Asian culture, and gives student advice and lifestyle tips.