19 Black Owned Business You Can Shop in 2020

Photo Cred: Jen Jean Pierre and Jermaine Maull; Dresses: Carly Cushnie (available at Target)

Hi Curl Friends!! Today is July 7, 2020 and officially Blackout Day where not one black person spends a dollar in solidarity of the impact of American racism on the Black community. Did you know there are nearly 50 million Black people in the United States with Black consumers spending more that $1 trillion a year (yes, you read that right) (Nielsen, 2019). In June, my friend, Jen Jean Pierre and I, co-wrote a newsletter sharing 19 Black business you can shop beyond Juneteenth (if you’re a subscriber, you received this newsletter). Today’s blog is a repeat of June’s newsletter since I never put in on the blog. Now you can share with your friends and continue to spend your black dollars with black businesses.

One fun fact about me is that I have my Masters in Science, Health Science, with a concentration in quality improvement in health care and research methods. Basically, research is my thing. So, in addition to the list of black businesses below, I’ve included a MUST read article by Nielsen; Nielsen, provides analytical insights about the habits of consumers, released an in-depth look at Black Buying Power to document the trends associated with that tremendously reliable level of spending. Please read it as I found it extremely helpful to continue intentionally shop in support of black businesses.

Alright, thats enough. Carry on!

Hair & Beauty

2•4•1 Cosmetics (@241cosmetics)

In a world full of trends co-founders and identical twin sisters, Helena and Feven Yohannes, dare to create a classic cosmetic brand designed to enhance a woman’s beauty, not conceal it. Jen and I both prefer a natural soft glam beat which is why we want to highlight 241 Cosmetics. If you’re looking to wear makeup that instills confidence and doesn’t wear you, check out 241 Cosmetics here: https://241cosmetics.com/

2. Curl Theory (@curltheoryproducts)

Jen and I at the ribbon cutting of Black owned, Gangster Vegan located in Riverdale, Maryland. Photo Cred: @aboogie301

To know me (Shauniece) is to know that I love Curl Theory and have collaborated on multiple campaigns. I love Curl Theory products for two reasons, performance and clean ingredients. The collection comes equipped to take you completely through your routine from wash to styling. Next time you’re in Target, pick-up some Curl Theory to keep your curls popping. Shop Curl Theory here: https://curltheoryproducts.com/



3. Ginen Wrap(@ginenwrap)

Sophie Patel is a proud Haitian and Founder of Ginen Wrap, a bold and vibrant headwrap collection inspired by Haitian fashion and culture. Ginen Wraps are designed to make everyday feel like a dream. Whether you need a protective style or headed to the beach, Ginen Wrap has you covered. Shop Ginen Wrap here: https://ginenwrap.com/)

4. It’s Yours Healthy Hair Care (@itsyourshaircare)

In 2001, Shawne Morgan founded It’s Yours, a natural hair brand providing healthy hair care products for the whole family to care and maintain their tresses. It’s Yours has an extensive product offering of sample bundles, hair and body butters, conditioners, and styling products. I’m sure you’ll find something to love. Shop It’s Yours Healthy Hair Care here: https://www.itsyours.net/

5. Mented Cosmetics (@mentedcosmetics)

I’m sure Mented Cosmetics is a brand you’ve heard of or probably have purchased products from, but did you know the brand originally started because the founders, KJ Miller and Amanda E. Johnson, felt like there were no nude lipsticks that matched Black women’s skin? Since starting, the company has expanded beyond lipsticks offering nail polish and eyeshadows perfect for melanin skin. Shop Mented Cosmetics here: https://www.mentedcosmetics.com/

6. Zen In A Jar (@zeninajar)

Zen In A Jar, doesn’t the name just say it all? As women we are always looking for ways to relax, relieve stress, and keep our skin radiant. Well, Zen In Jar creates luxury body products that will leave both your mind and body refreshed. My favorite product (this is Shauniece) is the Pink Cashmere shea butter; it's truly zen in a jar. You can shop directly at https://www.zeninajar.com/. 

Apparel and Accessories

7. Hanifa (@hanifaofficial)

When spring Fashion Week was being shut down due to COVID-19 stay at home orders, the Baltimore based brand, Hanifa, was busy planning a revolutionary digital fashion show using 3D models, which has never been done before. In true Black Girl Magic, Hanifa took the fashion industry by storm debuting a virtual spring collection paying homage to Founder and CEO’s, Anifa Mvuemba’s, homeland Congo. You can read all about the first digital fashion show over at Essence. Meanwhile, I cannot wait to receive my new lime green skirt set...y’all ain't ready! Shop Hanifa here: https://hanifa.co/ 

8. Shop Amber Richele (@shopamberrichele)

Owner and designer, Amber Richele, is a San Francisco based influencer and economist who shares her love of mixing high end and affordable fashion pieces. Shop Amber Richele designs custom on trend pieces for the modern stylish woman. The collection features custom pieces including short sets, tanks, sweatshirts, maternity, and even scrub sets so medical professionals can stay fly while treating patients. Shop Amber Richele here: https://www.shopamberrichele.com/ 

9. Shop Caribbean Cowgirl (@shopcaribbeancowgirl)

Owner and highly sought after fashion influencer, LaNatria Renee Brackett Ellis, created Shop Caribbean Cowgirl for women desiring luxe for less. Shop Caribbean Cowgirl has been featured on XO Necole, a lifestyle community for fly and fearless women. The collection features some of the hottest and trendiest fashion at affordable prices. You’ll find a range of pieces from casual, dressy, and even beachwear. Head over to Shop Caribbean Cowgirl to get your summer style popping! Shop Caribbean Cowgirl here: https://shopcaribbeancowgirl.com/

10. Shop MDOTROSS (@shopmdotross)

Monique Ross is the owner and creative director behind Shop MDOTROSS, an online contemporary women’s boutique curating timeless, affordable, and effortless closet capsules. This collection is perfect for women who want to incorporate quality pieces into their everyday wardrobe as well women who want a minimalist closet. We shop the line because we love how versatile each piece of clothing is. Jennifer and I enjoy creating multiple looks with a signature dress or top. Shop MDOTROSS here: https://mdotross.com/pages/the-shop-mdotross-experience 

11. Shades of Shades (@shadesofshadesofficial)

Nothing says summer like a pair of sexy sunglasses. Jennifer and I actually have a little sunglasses obsession owning over 50 pairs between the two of us. That’s why we’re happy to share Shade of Shades, a luxury brand dedicated to nude eyewear for all skin types. Founder and CEO Marsha Douglas-Sydnor, shares that her brand was “developed out of  frustration with the lack of full representation of the shade of nude, within the fashion eyewear industry.” Shades of Shades has five distinct nude eyewear collections ranging in price from $225 to $325. Shop Shades of Shades here: https://www.shades-of-shades.com/ 

12. Uniquely Irregular (@uniqely_irregular)

If you love bold statement earrings, necklaces, and watches, Uniquely Irregular is where you need to shop. No two earrings are the same with Uniquely Irregular. Our favorite part about Uniquely Irregular are the prices with options ranging from $30 to $100. Making a bold statement doesn’t have to break the bank. Shop Uniquely Irregular here: https://uniquelyirregular.com/ 

Black Owned Business: Houey’s , Upper Marlboro, Maryland; Photo Cred: Jen Jean Pierre and Jermain Maull

Motherhood & Children

13. MOMish (@keelay_carter)

MOMish is a lifestyle, parenting, and marriage podcast and apparel business founded by Keelay Carter. When it comes to keeping it real in motherhood, Keelay holds nothing back from sharing the joys and challenges of motherhood. Even better, MOMish creates comfy and casual tees, tanks, hats, hoodies, and even shot glasses for both mom and dad to enjoy. Shop MOMish here: https://momish-podcast.com/shop

14. Play Pits (@playpits)

Play Pits is a natural deodorant made by a Mother’s love, and perfect for the entire family. Now Jennifer and I know how much you love your babies, but real talk, when they get to be about 9 years, that funk is out of control! Now you have a natural deodorant to stop the stench without harmful chemicals. Shop Play Pits here: https://playpits.com/

15. Puzzle Huddle (@puzzlehuddle)

When it comes to raising children, especially black children, representation matters. That’s why Puzzle Huddle creates jigsaw puzzles for children from diverse backgrounds. Power couple, Matthew and Marnel, believe all children should be reflected in a variety of products and the results are Puzzle Huddle. The puzzles are great for a children ages 2 to 9 with the largest puzzle being 100 pieces. Shop for your kids, nieces, and nephews, here: https://puzzlehuddle.com/

16. The Learning Cove (@the.learning.cove)

The Learning Cove, formerly known as Momi Swap, has a simple mission to educate, elevate, and empower families in creating a fun and engaging home learning experience. Majidah Muhammad, Founder and CEO, creates custom interactive learning binders perfect for preschoolers and early elementary students. The Learning Cove is the perfect resource for summer enriched learning. You can order yours online  at https://www.ourlearningcove.com/.

Technology and Branding Services

17. Chic Diva Geek (@chicdivageek)

Adrian, Founder and President, is your go-to for all things tech. Adrian is an expert and highly sought after website designer in the Washington, DC area who has worked with large and small businesses to bring their business to life with a beautiful and comprehensive website. The Momference, Play Pits, and District Motherhued are a few of her clients.  If you’re looking to transform or start a business, consider hiring Adrian for a bomb website design and branding services. You can view Adrian’s full list of services here: https://chicdivageek.com/

18. Shorttakes LLC (@theshorttakes)

We all remember the infamous IG Live with Babyface and Uncle Teddy Riley where Teddy’s technology was an epic fail. Well, Danielle D. Shortt, Founder and President, created Shorttakes LLC because she was tired of seeing business host events with subpar social media coverage, or even none at all. Shorttakes helps businesses create a real-time strategy for community engagement through behind-the-scenes, real time video, real time postings, and much more. You can see a full list of services here: https://www.theshorttakes.com/

19. Wilson Avenue (@thewilsonavenue)

Wilson Avenue is a creative design agency led by Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Africa C. Wilson. 

Wilson Avenue designs picturesque experiences to showcase the individuality of each client through branding, couture stationer and venue styling. Africa Wilson is passionate about creating turnkey branding solutions and customized event stationare that will leave your customers speechless. You can view a full list of services and schedule a consultation here: https://www.thewilsonave.com/