Did you know that more than 40 percent of Black-owned businesses shut down last year amid the COVID-19 pandemic? The virus made things very hard for business owners to stay afloat. But there was one blessing that Miss Corona provided: being in quarantine lit a fire under a lot of people to start highlighting their hidden talents and getting paid for it. August is Black Business Month, and we’re highlighting eight amazing Black-owned businesses on the East Coast deserving of your money:
Ardent Candle – Richmond, Virginia
The definition of manifestation. Twenty-two-year-old Koby Lomax told his parents he wanted to start a candle business. Not knowing what he was doing, he took his time to test his products before selling them to the world. Then one day, he took a leap of faith and never looked back. Ardent Candle is a unique soy-based wax blend candle company known to make any place smell amazing. Their iconic “cereal candle” will make you wish you were still 8-years-old, watching cartoons on Saturday morning.
Brandon Blackwood – New York, New York
Estelle Colored Glass – Charleston, South Carolina
Culture Clips – Abington, Pennsylvania
Crocs are growing even more in popularity now that people are getting creative with decorating the quirky shoe. And you can thank Culture Clips for making sure Black culture is represented in this space. The Pennsylvania-based company has a Croc charm for every mood. From Greek letters to political statements, it seems like there isn’t a design they don’t have—and they’re affordable. With charms ranging from $1.50 to bundles for $20, you can buy Black and level up your Crocs in the process without breaking the bank.
Springbreak Watches – Charlotte, North Carolina
Nola Skinsentials – Atlanta, Georgia
Finally a skincare line made by a Black woman, for Black people. Knowing the difficulty in finding products that cater to Black skin, Nola Skinsentials owner and creator, Jane, took it upon herself to get it done. This Atlanta-based company provides vegan products for every skin type. Looking for a daily moisturizer and skin feeling a little dry, try their “Rise & Shine” moisturizer. The “Let It Grow” beard butter keeps the brothers in mind. There is even something for a smoother booty, because we know that’s important.
Grindhaus Studios – Charlotte, NC
Can you imagine what it is was like to sit in the studio with Pharrell and Jay-Z? How about Beyonce and Destiny’s Child? You can have that experience at Charlotte’s newest studio, Grindhaus Studios. This state-of-the-art space was created by award-winning recording artist Jason Jet and provides perfect vibes to create the next viral mixtape, record a podcast or mix the next beat of the summer. With membership programs and affordable rates, Grindhaus might just be where the next Kanye creates a classic.
Cecilia’s House – Brooklyn, New York
These pictures from Cecilia’s House will make any house a home. Started by Kadisha Phillips, Cecilia’s House is the first Black woman-owned luxury art decor company. The pieces range from celebrating Black love to Black girl affirmations that everyone needs. And for the homes that are big on matching and aesthetics, some of the printed canvas are color-coordinated to make any room pop.
