August marks National Black Business Month, a celebration that commemorates and supports Black-owned businesses and visionary entrepreneurs throughout the United States. For generations, black businesses have been at the forefront of driving innovations in commerce. So, we asked Black Women of Creative Circle, a Creative Circle Employee Resource Group (ERG), to share a list of businesses that they love supporting year-round! Our list is meant to celebrate the Black businesses and entrepreneurs that help share their passions, innovations, and infinite creativity with the larger community. We invite you to support the Black-owned businesses in your communities and check out the organizations below that should be celebrated all year long!
Beauty
Nourished by Latonza
In 2020, Latonza Strickland founded Curated by Latonza, which features essential collections of cuticle oil pens. This all-natural cuticle oil strengthens nails and softens cuticles through a hydrating, gentle-smelling cuticle oil. Latonza’s approach to self-care and nutrition is deeply personal and she aims to provide products that are sustainable and locally sourced.
Mielle
In 2014, Monique Rodriguez created MIELLE after going viral for her healthy tail-bone length hair care routine. MIELLE started with the Advanced Hair Formula and has expanded to 10 collections of products for skin, hair, and kids. These products can be found in over 100,000 US stores like Sally Beauty, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Kroger, JC Penny, and Walmart.
Kaleidoscope
In 2014, New Orleans native Jesseca “Judy” Dupart launched her line Kaleidoscope Hair Products. Jesseca’s vision for her brand is to grow and expand the brand and the ways in which she uses God’s gifts to help others on their health growth journey and in life period.” Today Kaleidoscope can be purchased across the country at Target, Walmart, and Sally Beauty.
Organic Bath Co.
Founders Giane and Jay created Organic Bath Co. inspired by Gianne’s childhood travels and the home remedies used by her Belizean mother. Organic Bath Co. focuses on simple self-care: “Mindful moments, peaceful thoughts, and nurturing your skin from the outside in”. After discovering the marketing of toxic personal care products disproportionately targeted women of color, Giane and Jay developed a unisex natural bath and body line.
IxoraBB
IxoraBB is a botanical Skincare designed to soothe chronic skin conditions like eczema + psoriasis. Their product offerings are gentle enough for all ages to use.
Clothing
Fear of God Essentials
Founded in 2013, Jerry Lorenzo created Fear of God, an independent American luxury fashion label. The brand focuses on crafting timeless, wearable garments, with “the brand’s distinct interpretation of the American expression has become an emblem of contemporary culture”. With a thoughtful and refined blend of high-grade materials and impeccable craftsmanship, this pays homage to its distinctive heritage, creating a sophisticated fusion that celebrates its unique legacy.
Music Sermon
In 2017, Naima Cochrane created Twitter series called #MusicSermon, telling stories about under-appreciated R&B and hip hop. Since then, Naima created an apparel brand to match the uniqueness of #MusicSermon.The Sermon Shop’s mission is to create “merch that reps the culture as hard as you do”. Through the celebration and honor of the foundations and inspirations of the culture,
Jewelry
Jnct.co
Created in 2017, creative Jonnell Chavez started Junction as a brand as an intersection of beautiful art and design. At the heart of Junction lies not only artistic expression but also a profound dedication to empowering women. Chavez passionately advocates for women to embrace their true selves and celebrate their uniqueness. This empowering essence is intricately woven into every piece, forming a compelling theme of strength and self-confidence that deeply resonates with the modern woman.
Check out #BlackBusinessMonth and explore more Black businesses to uplift and support throughout this month.
