If you’re anything like me, you may have a *slight* penchant for retail therapy. Seriously though, what’s better than spending half of your paycheck on a pair of boots after an especially terrible week of classes? Although much of my spending can’t exactly be the most justifiable, I definitely feel like shopping at small businesses ameliorates the blow just a little bit.
During the month of February, especially, I think that it’s important to give special attention to black-owned businesses as a way to celebrate and support our black brothers and sisters. In honor of Black History Month, I decided to compile a list of Black and female-owned online businesses that will have you swiping your credit card with a smile! This list contains 10 businesses started by 10 badass, female CEOs with products ranging from vintage to beauty supplies to unique kitchenwares, and adorable crafts and trinkets. Trust me, there’s something on this list for everyone.
- The Honey Pot: feminine care products
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CEO Bea Dixon specializes in plant-based feminine hygiene products from, her words, “my kitchen to your hands!” The Honey Pot products range from menstrual products, anti-itch products, and daily vaginal health products. Honey Pot products can be easily bought online or even at Target, for your convenience!
- The Lip Bar: makeup products
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Famously featured on Shark Tank, Melissa Butler didn’t let the sharks’ rejection set her back. Now, Melissa specializes in far more than just lip products and sells everything from brushes to concealers to powders!
- EMPWR by ME: resin art
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From keychains, to earrings, to pins and the like, Michelle, founder of EMPWR by ME has a passion for spreading awareness about racial inequality through her art. Currently, all of the proceeds from the “flower power” pins are going to the #hateisavirus foundation against Asian hate.
- Mielle Organics: beauty products
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A little birdie told me that their rosemary oil was to die for! CEO Monique Rodriguez founded Mielle back in 2014, and since then, they have expanded their product line to spam over 10 collections! They also have a vast array of styling gels, soaps, serums, shampoos, and conditioners!
- Estelle Colored Glass: kitchen products
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Stephanie Hall specializes in everything from vibrant cake stands to all kinds of glasses for the *seasoned* beverage consumer! Seriously though, her glassware makes me happy — just look at the colors!
- Camera Clothing: vintage
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This Black-owned vintage and resale business has amassed nearly 33k on TikTok and 6k+ on Instagram! Their super cute website sports curated vintage clothing, accessories, and the like!
- Made By Rheal: homeware and decor
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If functional art is your thing, then you should totally check out Made by Rheal! This Oakland-based Black-owned business handcrafts coasters, ceramics, trinkets, and more! With over 250 products on Rheal’s Etsy store, there’s something for everybody!
- SkylarJas: Depop shop
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Skylar’s verified Depop shop showcases her talent for knitting and crocheting through upcycled and handmade products! All of her pieces are reasonably priced, and super stylish, too!
- Kuration: Depop shop
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Personally, Depop sellers are my favorite because of their love and dedication to their work, despite not having a large studio or workplace. Kuration Collective’s shop curates (obviously) second-hand and vintage pieces that are all so adorable and well thought out!
- Bread: beauty products
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Founder Maeva Heim’s Bread Beauty Supply has expanded its products to be found on the shelves of Ulta, Sephora, and more! They specialize in products for natural hair, and they have, arguably, the best packaging I’ve ever seen!